Here's some context for my review: I had 2 bespoke and 2 made to measure (M2M) suits as well as about 10 bespoke and 5 M2M shirts prior to trying Bespoke Edge. I'm on the tall side with a thin neck and long, slender arms so I find it impossible to get an off the rack shirt or suit that fits well, so M2M is a requirement for me. I primary wear dress clothing for a conservative line of work plus some evening social events.
I considered some of the online M2M options, and I have family and friends who have tried them with variable success, but I've never used them myself because it's important for me to 1) handle fabric samples in person, 2) discuss all options in person and 3) get the perfect fit from the outset. Despite the trendy look of their website (concerned me a little), BE is capable of making well-cut formal/business attire.
The process starts by setting up an appointment with Ron Wagner, who is available to meet at work, home, or other location. He comes to Denver regularly, and it was always easy to meet, but sometimes traffic or other delays have the potential to affect the exact timing. We first discussed my interests (shirts and a suit plus my style ideas), and with that information, Ron was able to select appropriate swatch books. He has several suitcases full of shirt and suit swatches, the vast majority aren't on his website. I imagine it took about 90 min for me to look through all his shirt and suit fabrics and narrow down my choices.
Next we discussed construction details. I wanted my shirts cut to fit without pleats or darts, with semi-spread collars that are a little higher, angled to fit my stance, and long enough so the points are always under the lapel of my suit coat--no problem. His website shows many creative options for contrasting fabrics under the placket, collar and cuffs, but Ron was fine with me skipping all that for a more conservative/understated/formal look. His shirt pricing is set up to start at an entry level, so some things (mother of pear buttons) that are standard on better-made shirts will cost extra. The shirts are made by a custom shirtmaker in the New Jersey area, and Ron's pricing is fair. More importantly, his ability to take shirt measurements is very good and yielded an excellent fit. My only style issue is that the BE signature barrel cuff is an angled/mitered design whereas I prefer a graceful arc. That said, Ron can easily replicate any cuff style--barrel or French plus some more unusual ones.
My prior suits were made from fabrics sourced from European mills but I went with an Australian mill for my BE suit. While most fine wool is grown in Australia and New Zealand, their mills aren't as well known, so I was a little nervous about this aspect. My choice of fabric felt slightly rougher than those used in my other suits (all are 120's), but the important thing was that I found several patterns that I absolutely loved, and I tend to be particular.
I think the real strength of BE is the quality and amount of customization of their suits. Ron offered more options than I have seen with any other M2M maker. I asked him to do several things that he hadn't done previously, and he made them happen at no additional cost. I got the impression that he was willing to accommodate any design idea. For example: flower loop behind the lapel; hidden loop of lining to prevent the vents from opening too far in windy conditions; extensive pick stitching on jacket and pants; full canvas construction; small, hidden waistband pocket on pants; specific lapel width; trim fit with high arm scythes--all no problem. He also offers many great button options, customizable linings, well-designed interior pockets, etc. The sleeves have working button holes which I requested, but a standard finishing touch that I didn't request but that impressed me was the angle on the sleeve ends. They were cut at a slight slant that results in the ends being perpendicular when bending at the elbow and extending my arm to shake someone's hand. With arms at my side, they slope slightly to the pinky side of my hand--it's subtle but elegant. This is a nice refinement over the standard square sleeve ends that look comparatively boxy.
In terms of fit, the pants were perfect without any modifications. The jacket needed a minor adjustment behind the collar, and one of the sleeve heads (where the sleeve meets the shoulder) had excess fabric that needed alteration. Apparently this sometimes happens with Ron's M2M suit maker though he's working on nailing down why. The point-to-point was very close to dead on. Ron took care of these issues via his local tailor. The entire process took about 3 months.
Overall, I'm very happy with the results and service and plan to use BE again for future M2M clothing. They offer a high-quality product that fits perfectly. read more
