Suits
Off-the-rack vs tailored suits in Accra: what's worth it?
By sneakersInn team · Updated
For most men, an off-the-rack suit that fits well in the shoulders, plus a few alterations, is the best value first suit. Go to a tailor for a made-to-measure or bespoke suit when off-the-rack sizes don't fit your shoulders and body, when you want a specific fabric or style, or for a suit you'll wear for years. Accra has many skilled tailors, which makes the made-to-measure route easier here than in many cities.
| Off the rack | Made to measure | Bespoke | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it's made | Factory sizes | A standard pattern adjusted to your measurements | A pattern drafted only for you |
| Fittings | One, for alterations | One or two | Several |
| Time | Same day to a week with alterations | A few weeks | Several weeks or more |
| Fit | Good if your body matches the size | Very good | Best |
| Fabric choice | What's in stock | Wide | Widest |
| Risk | Low; you see it before buying | Medium; you see it at fitting | Medium; depends on the tailor |
What does off the rack mean?
A suit made in standard sizes, sold ready to wear. You try it on, buy the size that fits your shoulders and chest, then have the sleeves, trouser length and waist adjusted. It is quick and you see exactly what you get before paying.
What is made to measure?
The tailor or brand takes your measurements and adjusts a standard pattern to fit you, then cuts the suit from the fabric you choose. It fits better than off the rack and lets you pick details such as lapels, pockets and lining.
What is bespoke?
A suit cut from a pattern drafted from scratch for your body, with several fittings as it is built. It fits best and lets you choose everything, and takes the longest. Most Accra tailors who make suits work somewhere between made to measure and bespoke.
When is off the rack the right choice?
- Your body fits standard sizes in the shoulders and chest.
- You need a suit within a week.
- It's your first suit and you want low risk.
- You want to see and feel the finished suit before paying.
When should I go to a tailor?
- Off-the-rack shoulders never fit you (very broad, very narrow, or sloping).
- You are very tall, short, muscular or have a larger build.
- You want a fabric or colour that shops don't stock.
- You want a lighter, unlined suit made for Accra's heat.
- You want a suit for a specific event with time to spare.
How do I avoid a bad tailored suit?
- See their work. Ask for photos of finished suits or a recommendation from someone whose suit you like.
- Bring a reference. A photo of the style and a jacket that fits you well.
- Agree on fittings and a date. Allow at least one fitting before the final collection, and plan well ahead of your event.
- Check against a fit list. Use how a suit should fit at each fitting.
- Agree the price and what it includes before work starts.
Our guide on how to work with a tailor in Accra covers this in more detail.
Which is better value?
Value is cost divided by how often you wear it and how long it lasts. A well-made suit that fits perfectly, in a fabric that suits the heat, will be worn more. See why fit matters more than price and what to splurge on vs what to save on.
Questions
Can a tailor fix an off-the-rack suit?
Most of it: sleeves, trouser length, waist and taper. Not shoulders or jacket length.
How early should I order a tailored suit for an event?
At least four to six weeks before, to allow for fittings and fixes. Ask your tailor how busy they are; December is peak season.
What fabric should I choose?
Lightweight wool, linen or cotton for Accra. See suit fabrics explained.