Custom-made fashion, for the longest time, was reserved for the “royalty” of society, but in recent years, the service has become more accessible to style enthusiasts, as many notable fashion houses have taken to this form of creation. From the clothes we wear to our accessories, we have become savvy aesthetes who look for customization and tailor-made pieces, in a bid to be unique and achieve individuality.

The term, usually synonymous with superior craftsmanship and perfection, does not only have its roots in clothing – from the gorgeous atelier’s in Italy to London’s famed Savile Row – but extends onto handbags, shoes, luggage sets and even stationery.

Non-conformability to the Fashion Industry’s Ideals

Style enthusiasts are switching their interests to custom-made fashion designs and slowly drifting away from the pre-defined runway looks and those shared during the month-long, multi-city fashion weeks.

This “new luxury” is especially coveted by many who do not conform to the fashion industry’s ideals in terms of height, body shape, etc. and have become disillusioned to shopping “off the rack”.

Ultimate Personal Style Upgrade

The fast fashion industry, which produces clothes and accessories at rapid speeds, making them accessible to the public very quickly, adds another element to why custom-made fashion is viewed as the ultimate personal style upgrade, especially due to its “slow fashion” practices.

Custom-made Fashion is More Sustainable

According to a recent study carried out by the Global web index, sustainability and the impulse to “go green” are continuing to gain traction. Many digital consumers say that environmental concerns impact their purchasing decisions. Over 60% of millennials in the UK and US (aged 22-35) said they are more likely to pay extra for eco-friendly products and although custom-made fashion items don’t directly equate to “environmentally sensitive”, it does sometimes ensure that sustainable production practices – less energy and stock waste – are being put into use. It also tends to curb the “throwaway culture” which is an effect of fast fashion.

And Readily Available

Luxury e-commerce businesses such as Alberto Sartori have also helped fuel this recent market boom, by making this resource readily available to whoever may desire it. Up to date with the latest technology, clients no longer have to undertake the tedious tasks of personally meeting with selected traditional outfitters with their limited offers, when these outlets now offer people a vast number of style combinations at the tip of their fingers, making the order process as effortless as buying any other thing online.

While the concept of custom-made fashion on this scale would have been nearly impossible about 20 years ago, the forces behind retail evolution are equipping fashion houses with the right tools to better offer this service. However, studies show the real bespoke adventure will start in the next couple of years when retailers are able to expertly combine consumer data, artificial intelligence, and customization as part of the unique experience.

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Finally…

Even as this service has successfully targeted the areas of exclusivity, creativity, quality, and timelessness, businesses will need to continue to push the boundaries and up the ante on what is possible, while making sure to keep its clients at the center of all strategies in regard to custom-made fashion, especially as the demand grows.

About the Author

Barbara Cortelazzi is the creative director of Alberto Sartori. Her vision was to create an accessory that epitomizes the fashion sensibility of its holder – a handbag that brings together sophisticated classic design and innovation through research and dedication. Made for the chic and elegant woman with an individual sense of style, Cortelazzi says her brand opens doors to high-end product customization, making every woman feel unique with her Alberto Sartori handcrafted piece.