The Parks of B&Tailor and Mr. Ha of The Finery Company have a new trick up their sleeves, and I was lucky enough to check it for myself.
The sharp-dressed team hopped into another Hong Kong trunk show the last two days, before making their first trip to Mainland China in Shanghai. As usual, they set up shop at Admiralty’s JW Marriott, suits, ties, and other accessories in tow. But this time, the valet rack had a welcome addition: eight blocks of MTM suits for a new program. After a bit of catching up, Joe asked if I’d like to take the measuring process for a spin. Now, how can you say no to that?
I noticed that all the blocks were of the same pinstripe cloth. Joe explained that decision was steered by the four-season thickness of the fabric, a reliable base for whatever type the client ultimately decided. In addition, the evenly spaced pinstripes serves as visual cues for any fit issues if, say, the two sides didn’t meet parallel at the button. Half jacket, half graph paper.
But, the fitting!
The gentlemen eyeballed me at a 42 jacket to start, but over the course of their work, I ended up at 48. Bear in mind that B&Tailor uses house measurements; besides, you’re in good hands with Sr. Park and sons.
Even with these basted jackets serving as measuring blocks, the fit, feel, and form were superb. The proportions from top to bottom were flattering, the waist ever-so nipped while keeping masculinity, and just clean throughout.
The spotlight feature, however, must be the high armholes. As Joe helped me demonstrate, they maintain a large range of motion without disrupting the collar from the body. Crossing my arms or flaring my elbows, the drape held without so much as a ripple.
While I was entertaining myself channeling Mr. Roboto, Sr. and Jr. Park fluidly pinched and pinned where necessary. The swift silence of their teamwork – rooted in glances, nods, and brief utterances – edged on telepathy. Before too long, they turned the block in my size turned into my jacket.
Had I went ahead for an order (and believe me, I’m pinching pennies until next spring), the turnaround time for a suit to me would be six to nine weeks, compared to a nine-month bespoke commission. Between patch or jetted pockets, there are additional options, though it didn’t occur to me to ask. I was busy geeking about.
Altogether, the B&Tailor MTM program is a well-thought and more accessible option for those with geographic, time, or budget limitations. And as per their standards, everything must pass with Mr. Park’s seal of approval. It’s the B&Tailor way.
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For MTM inquiries, please contact Mr. Joe Ha: joe.ha@thefinerycompany.au
