Going to Italy in May! Could I Save Money Placing Orders Now for Bespoke Clothes Since I Could Pick

[sdsurfer]

I'm going to Italy this May and definitely want to shop for clothes/shoes/belts while I'm there. One thought I had is would it be cheaper to send measurements over now, order some clothes, and then pick up in person. I'll definitely be in Rome, Venice, and Florence but could travel outside of here. I would love some really nice dress attire and shoes that could work in a casual setting or something fancy. I am a Kiton fan but have no idea if it would be any cheaper over there than here.

 

[ThomGault]



I'm going to Italy this May and definitely want to shop for clothes/shoes/belts while I'm there. One thought I had is would it be cheaper to send measurements over now, order some clothes, and then pick up in person.

That's not bespoke, that's made-to-measure. Good bespoke involves creating garments from scratch and multiple fittings at various stages of construction. You could probably do what you suggested, but it will never be the same as bespoke. Additionally, it will only be as good as the person taking the measurements, i.e. you'll need a good tailor who has experience and understanding of the process, in which case you may as well just have them craft the garments for you.

 

[maxalex]

You should indeed be doing some advance work, but not measurements. Instead, research tailors and shoemakers in Florence and Rome (forget Venice), look at their styles, learn what you like. Then when you arrive you will be able to zero in on your favorites and, depending on how much time you have, get some really nice things made. I buy most of my clothes in Italy. It is not a place for bargains. Also not everything expensive there is well made. There's a lot of brand chasing. Are you non-EU? If so you will at least get a hefty VAT refund. Lots to know before you go but you have time. Good luck!

 

[sdsurfer]



You should indeed be doing some advance work, but not measurements. Instead, research tailors and shoemakers in Florence and Rome (forget Venice), look at their styles, learn what you like. Then when you arrive you will be able to zero in on your favorites and, depending on how much time you have, get some really nice things made. I buy most of my clothes in Italy. It is not a place for bargains. Also not everything expensive there is well made. There's a lot of brand chasing. Are you non-EU? If so you will at least get a hefty VAT refund. Lots to know before you go but you have time. Good luck!

Thanks for the advice. I am in the USA so could I get the VAT refund? I don't care so much about the brand. Really what's most important is quality and if I can get that at a lower price or bargain I'm all for it (in fact please mention suggestions as I have zero clues where to start).

 

[maxalex]

Yes, the USA is not in the EU and unlikely to be under Trump, so you get the VAT refund. There are so many Italian brands and bespoke makers, too big a subject to address in a single post. Scroll around SF and you will find a lot, then you can perhaps refine your questions and be more specific.