Many men hesitate to invest in premium clothing, opting instead for cheaper options that do not last. A custom-made suit is more than just a garment—it is a symbol of respect for your own image. A lack of understanding of the work behind these pieces can make it easy to underestimate their value.
In this article, we’ll explore the investment every self-respecting man should make in his wardrobe. We will explain how much work goes into each piece, from jackets to trousers, coats, and shoes, and what that effort is truly worth in monetary terms. Discover why choosing quality is worthwhile!
The Jacket
The jacket is the centerpiece of a premium wardrobe. Its price varies depending on the brand or tailor’s reputation. Generally, a proper jacket costs about three times more than the matching trousers. Investing in a quality jacket is more than just a financial calculation; it is a sustainable choice.
Buying two premium suits every six years, while initially more expensive, will last longer than buying two cheap suits per year. This is reflected in the cost-per-wear (CPW), a pragmatic measure of a garment’s true value.
For example, investing 5,000 RON in two premium suits once every six years totals 10,000 RON. Assuming each suit is worn around 25 times per year, you reach 150 wears per suit over that period, yielding a CPW of 33.3 RON. Comparatively, buying two 1,000 RON suits per year totals 12,000 RON over six years. With each suit worn about 10 times per year, the CPW is 100 RON.
Beyond cost savings, premium suits offer superior appearance, better tailoring, and long-lasting durability. Production time for a semi-automated jacket (human and machine) can take three to four weeks due to multiple steps and machinery required for different operations (basting, stitching, pressing, etc.).
Trousers
Trousers can vary widely in complexity. Tailors can create simple or sophisticated models, with high waistlines, thick waistbands, and optional pleats. Some trousers include a rear vent (after-dinner split), hidden ticket pockets, and cuffed hems.
The more intricate the trousers, the less likely they can be produced industrially. As with jackets, the cost-per-wear principle makes the choice easier: buying one made-to-measure pair every three years is often better than buying three ready-to-wear pairs annually. This comparison helps illustrate the real value of quality garments.
The Coat
Anyone who has invested in a quality coat knows it is not a small expense. The reasons are straightforward: a coat, often knee-length or longer, requires substantial material; thick fabrics made from natural fibers (wool, cashmere, blends) are usually expensive; and reinforcements (such as shoulder pads) or fine silk linings add to the cost.
Execution time may span several weeks depending on design complexity—a fulgarin coat, for example, requires longer production than a simpler loden coat. A quality coat intended to last decades should cost roughly the same as the suit you wear. For enthusiasts on a budget, second-hand or vintage stores—especially abroad—can offer hidden gems. Networking with tailors or industry insiders can also provide valuable tips.
Shoes
Quality shoes are essential in a premium wardrobe. As Cary Grant said, a man who respects himself spends as much on his shoes as on his suit.
Quality shoes typically mean Goodyear-welted construction, which allows resoling once the soles wear out. In a disposable culture, it may seem easier to throw away worn shoes, but a refined man understands the long-term aesthetic and economic benefits of investing in shoes that carry style and personality.
Most Goodyear-welted shoemakers, both in Europe and the U.S., offer post-sale resoling services, typically at one-third the original price. A made-to-order pair takes around 45 days, as the entire production line is paused to accommodate the bespoke process: stitching the upper, last fitting, welt stitching, and more.
Every premium piece reflects meticulous work and carefully chosen materials. Production times vary depending on complexity, and prices reflect both effort and quality. Choosing these pieces and wearing them confidently communicates a flattering story about you. Investing in premium clothing is, therefore, advantageous in the long term. Want to learn more? Check it out HERE.
