It’s time to stop settling for suits that almost fit

For many men, the idea of commissioning a suit still feels like stepping into a world reserved for bankers, aristocrats, or characters from a period drama. Nowhere embodies that perception more than the historic heart of British tailoring, Savile Row. With its centuries of heritage and its intimidating reputation for perfection, the famous street can feel daunting to anyone simply looking for a suit that fits properly.

For a long time, that was enough to keep me away from exploring made-to-measure tailoring. But the reality, as I recently discovered at Jack Davison Bespoke, is far more approachable.

Located in the City of London, friends Jack Stammers and Will Davison offer a contemporary take on traditional British tailoring. With a combined 29 years of experience in the industry, the atelier was created with the modern professional in mind. Those navigating the City’s fast pace without sacrificing craft and precision.

“I think some people are fed up with being dressed down,” Stammers tells me, reflecting on the lockdown years of COVID and the rise of WFH culture. While my day-to-day doesn’t necessarily require tailoring on a daily basis, I met with the founders to understand where someone like me – new to the world of tailoring and not quite sure where to start – might fit in.

For someone under 5’10”, finding a well-fitting suit off the rack has always been a challenge. Sleeves too long, jackets slightly boxy, trousers needing endless alterations results in comprise being the norm. Made-to-measure, however, begins where ready-to-wear falls short. “You don’t have to wear a suit everyday, which makes it more important that when you do it should be a special one”, explains Davison.

The process started with swatches. The team laid out dozens of fabrics, each showcasing its own texture, weight, and personality. From classic worsted wools to softer, more contemporary cloths, the choice was both overwhelming and exciting. It’s the moment where the suit begins to become personal. I opt for classic black in a wool – cashmere blend from Loro Piana – the same manufacturer used by many Italian tailoring houses.

Then comes the cut. Jack Davison Bespoke crafts its signature House Cut to balance traditional tailoring with modern proportions. The design structures the suit while keeping it comfortable, flattering the wearer without feeling overly rigid or dated.

“In the past everyone was been looking for a slimmer suit but wider fits have definitely taken over”, says Stammers. And he’s right, from Armani to Saint Laurent, the pillars of designer Italian tailoring have reverted back to the roomy 80s silhouettes. Something which the duo are more than happy to accommodate based on preference. “Styles have changed but fundamentals should have stayed the same”

Measurements were taken with precision but without fuss, and each detail was discussed: lapel width, pocket style, lining, buttons. What struck me most was how collaborative the process felt. Rather than dictating style, the tailors guide you toward choices that suit both your build and your lifestyle.

The process continued over three weeks, culminating in my first fitting for a double-breasted suit. The trousers fit perfectly, but the jacket needed a bit more attention -adjustments to accommodate my chest, shortening the length, and taking in the waist after I reconsidered just how roomy I wanted it.

The process was relaxed, like catching up with two mates (the only thing missing was a pint). We talked about our menswear inspirations, from Marlon Brando to Steve McQueen, and musicians like Marvin Gaye and Sammy Davis Jr.

As a novice to the world of tailoring, I had to ask what the worst faux pas are. “Doing up the bottom button on a jacket. I can’t handle that,” Stammers says, with Davison nodding in agreement. It’s up there alongside keeping the vent sewn up and the labels intact.

Perhaps that’s the biggest misconception about made-to-measure tailoring – that it’s inaccessible or overly serious. In reality, it’s simply about clothing that fits properly, crafted with care from some of the finest fabrics available.

“If it’s not right, we’ll do it again,” Stammers says. With their name above the door, every customer has to leave happy. “It’s just the two of us,” he adds, “and we don’t want one bad suit leaving here”.

And once you experience that difference, it’s hard to go back. My suit fit perfectly yet felt relaxed – sharp enough for dinner, but effortless enough to wear with a white tee and blue jeans. For the first time I understood the reverence for made-to-measure tailoring.

Discover Jack Davison Bespoke at 43 Bow Ln, London EC4M 9DT and jack-davison.co.uk.