An anachronist, we might say, is a person who does not fit the modern world. This is accurate, but metaphorical. Yet there is an important sense in which the modern world–mass produced for mythical “average people”–literally does not fit. This problem shows up in many domains, but nowhere is it felt more personally than in the case of clothing. The Anachronist wrote previously about the benefits of tailoring, and now, dear reader, he will share with you his first experience with budget bespoke.

Modern Tailor is one of several websites which offer custom clothing at prices rivaling those of quality off-the-rack articles. As far as we were able to determine, Modern Tailor in fact offers the best prices for this service. The fact that this is a no-frills operation is apparent by their unpolished web presence. Yet the site does everything it needs to do, and customer support has been admirably responsive. The relevant factor is not, after all, the quality of the storefront, but of the merchandise.

Process

One begins the process by registering an account, selecting the “Measurements” tab of “My Account,” and creating a dress shirt profile. Modern Tailor accepts two types of measurements: of a customer’s body, or of a known-to-fit shirt. The second method is the one recommended, and since the Anachronist is, regrettably, not a master of the paper-tape, he decided to follow this advice. Yet, isn’t the purpose of this exercise to obtain a shirt that fits better than any we already own? Certainly, and one may achieve this end by combining the measurements from articles which fit correctly in various dimensions (sleeve-length from one shirt, waist size from another), using one’s judgments to ‘bend’ the measurements in the direction of perfection. (Be careful when combining interdependent measurements from multiple shirts, i.e. shoulder width and sleeve length, or you may end up with sleeves that are the wrong length.)

Once the measurement profile is completed, one proceeds to design one’s shirt, starting with the choice of fabric. The Anachronist enjoys heavier fabrics, so he searched for two-ply options, finally settling on a “pure cotton 80s two-ply orange and brown rust twill”. The selected options were a classic stiff collar, round cuffs, an angle-cut breast pocket, and mother of pearl buttons ($2 extra), for the very reasonable total of $51.95.

Results

Tailored Shirt

The shirt arrived in about ten days. It matched the specifications exactly, and the fit was superb. The quality of the fabric was quite nice: medium weight, rich in color, and pleasing to touch. The quality of the stitching was fine, though not excellent. There were a few loose threads here and there (mostly on the inside), but these were easily removed with a scissors. The buttons and buttonholes seemed to be the weak point in terms of the stitching, but they were probably as good as anything you would get for the same price in a department store.

You may notice that the sleeves in this photograph appear slightly long, which is correct, so that they will extend the traditional 1/4 inch beyond the jacket-sleeve when the elbow is bent. This is most gratifying to your author, since it is a sartorial detail he was never before able to satisfy.

Keeping the Price Down

Those who want to keep costs to a minimum should keep in mind that the main factor affecting price is the fabric selected. The fabric price is the price of a basic shirt, including one’s choice of details. Additional costs apply for various “extras” like monograms or contrasting collars. It is worth examining the weekly sales which can greatly reduce the total cost.

There is a shipping charge of $10, although this can be offset with the coupons that Modern Tailor send out regularly. If you email sales@moderntailor.com and ask for a coupon, they will usually oblige you as a new customer.

Following the Anachronist’s first order, Modern Tailor sent him several coupon codes which can only be used by others, not by himself. So if you would like a $20-off coupon, be one of the first three people to comment on this post and politely ask for one (don’t forget to enter a valid email address).

Conclusion

Tailored clothing is something that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Given that it is now so affordable, the Anachronist heartily recommends that you try it. Those who have never had a tailored shirt before may find themselves elated with the result. Any favored piece of clothing can make one feel good while wearing it, but there is a singular pleasure in having an article made for oneself alone, both in the knowledge of the fact, and in the vestiary accord which accompanies it.

In the future, the Anachronist hopes to review other tailors, both the online and in-person varieties. But for the time being, he is quite satisfied with his Modern Tailor. They may be a little rough around the edges, but for the service they provide, they are truly a bargain.