Hardy Amies: Grey Fox reviews their made to measure service

Hardy Amies is a name that echoes through the menswear world and has done so since the middle of the last century. From number 14 Savile Row Amies himself declared, "A man should look as if he has bought his clothes with intelligence, put them on with care and then forgotten all about them." A comment that perfectly describes the art of dressing with style. Nowadays the Hardy Amies name is in new ownership, but the determination to allow men to dress with style is as strong as ever. 

I was recently invited to try Hardy Amies made to measure service (link below) and went through the very pleasurable process of being measured and fitted for a new suit. 

Discussing the detail while being measured for the suit

The made-to-measure suit is based on their Brinsley block; a regular suit pattern less slim than their Heddon block. However, this doesn't mean that you're restricted to a narrow range of choices in putting together your made to measure suit. You have over 200 British and Italian fine fabrics to select from, can choose double or single-breasted and have a say in other details such as collar shape, buttons, fullness of cut and so on. The guidance I received from Hardy Amies staff throughout the process was excellent; informed and helpful with knowledgable styling advice if required.

The first fitting - looking good

I selected a Dugdale (made in Yorkshire) dark blue pinstripe cloth, single-breasted with a longer coat, peak lapels (to be a little different), slightly fuller trousers with side adjusters, buttons for braces and turn-ups. All these choice are made at the initial measuring session. This is followed by one or two fittings at which the shape and style can be tweaked to arrive at the perfect fit. 

The first fitting: turn-ups or not? How long should the trousers be?

Made to measure suits cost from £995. For that I've ended up with a superb suit that feels stylish and comfortable to wear. This is a suit to put on and forget about; Hardy Amies himself would have approved. The service guarantees a beautifully made suit with a renowned pedigree at a fair price. See Hardy Amies Made to Measure for more information.

I was paid nothing for this post. This suit was made for me free of charge by Hardy Amies. All views expressed are my own.