Another new year has arrived, and I can't help but think that since Beibei is turning three this year (I spent the last Lunar New Year in a maternity center), this year feels like the beginning of shedding past shadows and starting anew! (Just how dark was the past, anyway?!)
Before the new year, under Attorney Afu's recommendation, I tried custom tailoring for the first time. In the past, my clothing shopping was always casual—I’d try on whatever I liked while out shopping, or I’d splurge on myself with my credit card after my friends hyped something up (haha~). I never considered that custom clothing was even an option for wearing new outfits.
I think the last time I had my measurements taken was when I was fitting my wedding dress with Attorney Afu. After having a child, one-piece dresses became my go-to choice; they’re quick to put on, stylish, and there’s no need to worry about matching. I never imagined I would one day go to a bespoke tailor to have my own suit made.
The initial idea was to accompany Attorney Afu to get a custom suit that he could wear for court or speeches. To my surprise, I found out that James's daughter, the founder of Lide Tailors, was actually following my social media page. We hit it off and ended up discussing my own custom suit, which I could then share with the women on my page. I wanted everyone to know that custom suits have many advantages that ready-to-wear options don’t offer.
I particularly remember James, the founder of Lide Tailors, saying, “When the clothes are right, confidence and opportunities will follow.” Since I’ve had to attend more formal events for managing my social media page, I’ve come to deeply realize that wearing a good outfit can sometimes change a person’s aura.
Most people still think that suits are primarily for men, but in this era of female empowerment, suits are no longer exclusive to gentlemen. Recently, many workplace dramas have featured more and more female executives wearing suits. In today’s fashion, blazers have become essential wardrobe staples. However, the women around me still have limited exposure to the fashion of custom suits. So, I really wanted to take this opportunity to promote it. I still remember the moment I tried on the newly completed blazer; the look of amazement in Attorney Afu’s eyes was like the admiration one feels when gazing at a goddess in love (even if it has been quite a while since then).
From the initial communication, selection, and measurements, James, the founder of Lide Tailors, was incredibly patient. Unlike Attorney Afu, who knew exactly what kind of suit he wanted from the start (just as he always knows what he wants in life), I had no concept of body shape, colors, or fabrics. James explained everything to me step by step. In the end, we decided on a lavender linen fabric from Italy, known for being lightweight and breathable—perfect for Taiwan’s spring, summer, and fall weather, especially the hot summer days. This material and color had never appeared in my wardrobe before, and it was the first time I realized that I could actually pull off such a youthful color!
The advantage of custom tailoring is that every cut is designed specifically for you. Whether it's the shoulder seam, waistline, or bust line, everything is in the right place to highlight your strengths and minimize your flaws. As someone who is petite with narrow shoulders, ready-to-wear blazers often make me look like a child wearing adult clothes. Only custom suits can perfectly match my measurements, presenting a professional yet feminine image without any awkwardness. It truly shows that you are defined by your attire!
I’m really happy to have the opportunity to experience the custom tailoring process for a bespoke suit. I’m also very grateful to Lide Tailors for giving Attorney Afu and me a little date during the busy time before the new year. Treating myself to something special is truly a wonderful feeling. As the new year begins, why not prepare a gift for yourself as well?
I’d like to share the custom suit process from Lide Tailors (sourced from their official website). You can get everything tailored, from shirts to full suits, and they even offer suits for kids!
STEP 1: Call to Make an Appointment
To provide a premium experience, they operate on an appointment basis, so please reserve half an hour to an hour of your time.
STEP 2: Choose Your Fabric
They offer a selection of thousands of high-quality wool fabrics for customers to choose from.
STEP 3: Design Your Style
Based on the occasion, personal preferences, body type, and fashion trends, a stylist will design a custom suit to create your unique style.
STEP 4: Measurements
A master tailor will take precise measurements to accurately record your size and shape.
STEP 5: Schedule a Fitting and Pay a Deposit
It takes about a week from measurements to completion of the prototype. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the fitting and have the tailor go straight to sewing the final product.
STEP 6: Fitting
You’ll try on the prototype, and adjustments will be made based on how the fabric looks on you to ensure a perfect fit.
STEP 7: Completion
Once the suit is finished, you’ll receive a message to come in for a fitting and pickup, or it can be delivered to your home if needed.
For those who have never tried custom clothing, I highly recommend giving it a shot!