Indochino “Traveling Tailor” Brings Custom Made Menswear to the Masses

Fabric selections at Indochino
Fabric selections at Indochino "Traveling Tailor" pop-up
By GLAMOROSI

This week, Indochino - the Vancouver-based, made-to-measure, internet-based, men’s fashion salon - began its Philadelphia journey. Their goal: to take what company co-founders Kyle Vucko and Heikal Gani revolutionized in regard to connecting e-buyers with custom-made suits, shirts and chinos fashioned from only the finest materials, into a more personal realm. With that, Indochino introduces the “Traveling Tailor,” offering online buyers the opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with the brand by customizing that experience with stylists and fitters. In Philly, Indochino’s “Traveling Tailor” has settled into the grand space at 1518 Walnut with a pop-up shop from May 10-27.

Suits at Indochino pop-up
Suits at Indochino pop-up
The first thing you notice about the Indochino “Traveling Tailor” experience is how attentive its on-site fitters and stylists are in serving one’s needs. Men rarely get the feel of having their clothing hand-made, and their experience with luxury usually doesn’t extend to their shirts and suits (instead focusing on gadgets and cars). The second thing you notice is that despite the obvious luxury of having a suit custom made, the snobby or stuffy atmosphere often associated with high-end shopping doesn’t exist at Indochino; their vibe is elegant and high-tech, welcoming and accommodating.

Indochino's online app for menswear
Indochino's online app for menswear
There is a level of comfort Indochino’s experts instill in buyers as they guide them through each step: from the fitting where one’s measurements are kept in an online app for future buying experiences, to the selection of fine fabrics in three categories (Essentials, Premium and Exclusives), to the particulars of styling.

Collar selections at Indochino
Collar selections at Indochino
Every aspect of a suit from the lining to the color of the finishing thread is up for customization. Do you want your suit to be single or double breasted? Would you like notched or peaked lapels? Do you prefer your pockets angled or straight across? Are you interested in having a touch-sensitive smartphone pocket inside the jacket? Where do you want your pants to break? Would you like a French cuff for your shirt? These choices are presented in stations positioned around the shop, and entered into a database as the client creates his perfect suit. Once an order is placed, it takes about four weeks for the buyer to receive their hand-tailored suit.

Sleeves marked with pattern numbers
Sleeves marked with pattern numbers
Since the Indochino team’s arrival in Philadelphia, their pop-up has received visits from longtime online clients as well as new shoppers looking to further personalize their wardrobe, and brand manager Crystal Walton claims they have been decisive in their styling. These are good signs where Walton is concerned: “Philadelphia men know what they want.”

During the run of the Indochino pop-up, clients who book a fitting and purchase a suit will receive a free custom dress shirt and gift set (value $160). For more info: www.Indochino.com

Dressing
Dressing rooms at Indochino pop-up in Philadelphia
All photos ©Glamorosi 2013