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At Your Service: Martin de Tours Tailoring

By Cator Sparks Dec 21, 2019 5:57 PM

Martin de Tours just proves there is always something in need of tweaking on the internet. I get my fair share of PR people emailing me about my shirt sizing to send samples of their wares to try and (possibly) post about, but even after being asked the question hundreds of times by them and of course when shopping, I often forget neck, waist, arm, chest.

That is where the new tailoring brand, Martin de Tours has found a niche. Launched in the fall of 2013, the brand is combining quality clothing, niche technology and personalized service. Their angle is offering ‘Style Valets’ who can either meet you at your home or office (in certain cities for now) or online via chat. These valets will aid you in getting the proper measurements as well as give advice on what shirt and suit are best for you, which can be a huge help when we forget our measurements or need a measuring 101 session.

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Founded by former Creative Director Jordan Cummings who worked with brands like Paul Smith and Agi & Sam, all the clothing is made in a new factory in Hong Kong and fabrics hail from Italy for now. Once their Kickstarter finishes they hope to expand to British fabrics (Harris Tweed!) as well. They offer made-to-measure suits, shirts and separates (blazers, vests) with loads of customizable options and monogramming.

Another bonus to the brand is that pricing is reasonable since there is no brick and mortar or middle man. Suits range from $495-800 and shirts from $99-130. So no more rummaging through racks and racks of suits to find the one you like and then spending a fortune on tailoring. Now you can have a custom suit, pick the lining, buttons and add a monogram and not break the bank, all delivered to your door in four weeks. Boom, you’re the envy of all of your friends and looking sharp at that.

Oh and the name? Martin of Tours was a soldier in the Roman army. He is best known for using his sword to cut his cloak in two, giving half to a beggar clad only in rags in the depth of winter in what is now modern day France. That’s one to drop over drinks.

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Fortunately, I had the chance to salvage my dignity at another wedding a few weeks later. I rallied like Rocky. Rush alterations. New cuff links. A crisp Marcella shirt. Polished black shoes. I went from disheveled schlub to black-tie stud.

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