Getting cheap suits made in Vietnam can be very enjoyable experience. Labour is cheap, turn around is fast and competition is fierce.
These factors makes it a great opportunity for consumers. Just do not set expectations that are too unrealistic!
While there are suits sold at $100 and below. I suggest you do not waste time on those. This will mean you forgo opportunity costs on getting a quality suit that lasts.
Suits are cheap but not dirt cheap if you want quality. Yes, Labour is cheap. But good materials are not that much cheaper!
While it is possible to construct a decent suit in 2-3 days, chances are suits will not be properly made in less than a day.
The more time you have, the more time the tailor or seamstress can sew carefully. The less rush your fittings, the more time the tailor have to make small tweaks. Then you will receive a better fitting suit. Makes sense?
Truth is, most customers are not suit experts. Online reviews can be fake or outdated. Besides, you do not know who’s the faceless person writing that comment.
It is best to take a few recommendations, gather some knowledge. Understand that when buying suits made in Vietnam, you generally get what you pay for (even when being ripped off). Quality suits are cheaper but not dirt cheap. Since you have made your trip to Vietnam, might as well get a great suit at great price.
1.In-House Tailors Good tailors shops do have their own tailors so that they can control the consistency of quality and workmanship. Make sure you physically see tailors working. Otherwise, the shop is just a store front that outsource to sweatshop where the owner is just a salesperson and have no concept of tailoring
2. Construction components This is the BIGGEST difference between a good tailor and a poor one. Do ask for and check personally the components like shoulder pads, canvas, Bemberg lining etc. Many tailors actually charge cheap prices by saving on these components as most customers cannot tell. You can check the link below about how to check:
Aspects of a quality Tailor made Suits
3. Fabrics If you are looking for pure wool, always conduct the burn test. There should not be any plastic smell and the residue should be powdery for pure wool. Most importantly though is that you must like the texture and look for the fabric. If you like what you wear, confidence will come naturally!
4. Service Make sure the tailor is somebody who seems like they care about return business. A tailor that cares about return business is a gem. If the tailor cares, choosing the right style and getting the perfect fit can be a breeze.
A visit to Hoi An or Vietnam is a great opportunity to get custom-made clothes or suits. Know what to look out and you can also check Vanda Tailors in Hoi An which has makes their items in house and procure fabrics from reliable sources.
Kieu Nguyen is the 2nd generation tailor and owner of one of the most reputable tailor brands in Hoi An - Vanda Tailors