Suit Supply offers better value for ready-to-wear and quick made-to-measure suits with in-store service, while Proper Cloth excels in precise online customization with wider fabric selection for those comfortable ordering remotely.
The suit supply vs proper cloth debate has become one of the most searched comparisons among young professionals entering the corporate world. As more people in their early twenties land their first serious jobs or prepare for major life events, finding the right suit brand matters more than ever. Both brands promise quality tailoring at accessible prices, but they take completely different approaches. This comparison breaks down everything you need to know about suit supply vs proper cloth to make the smartest choice for your wardrobe and budget. You will learn about quality, pricing, fit accuracy, and which brand matches your specific needs.
Brand Background and Expertise – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
History and Brand Authority in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply started in Amsterdam in 2000 with a mission to make high-quality suits affordable by cutting out middlemen. The brand now operates over 100 stores worldwide and has built a reputation for bringing European tailoring to mainstream prices. Proper Cloth launched in 2008 as an online-first custom shirt company before expanding into suits. While Proper Cloth lacks physical stores, it has earned recognition for precise measurements and detailed customization options. The suit supply vs proper cloth comparison shows two different paths to the same goal: making great suits accessible to regular people.
Craftsmanship Philosophy Behind Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply focuses on classic European tailoring with Italian fabrics and construction methods used by luxury brands. Their philosophy centers on offering runway-quality looks at fraction of designer prices. Proper Cloth takes a data-driven approach, using customer measurements and feedback to refine their fitting algorithms. They prioritize precision and repeatability over traditional craftsmanship romance. Both brands commit to quality, but Suit Supply leans traditional while Proper Cloth embraces modern technology.
Suit Customization Options in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Made-to-Measure Experience in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply requires you to visit a physical store where trained staff take your measurements and guide you through fabric and style choices. The process feels personal but limits convenience for those without nearby locations. Proper Cloth operates entirely online using a detailed measurement guide or optional home measurement kit. You input your own measurements or send in a well-fitting garment for them to replicate. The suit supply vs proper cloth measurement experience really comes down to whether you prefer hands-on assistance or the convenience of ordering from your couch.
Fabric and Style Customization in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Proper Cloth offers over 10,000 fabric options from mills like Vitale Barberis Canonico, Loro Piana, and Holland & Sherry. You can customize every detail: lapel width, pocket styles, lining colors, button types, vent options, and more. Suit Supply provides fewer choices but curates their selection carefully, typically offering 50-100 seasonal fabrics. Their in-store stylists help narrow options based on your needs. When comparing suit supply vs proper cloth for customization, Proper Cloth wins on sheer variety while Suit Supply offers guided curation that prevents decision paralysis.
Fabric Quality and Materials Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Fabric Sourcing Standards in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Both brands source from the same prestigious Italian mills that supply luxury brands charging three times more. Suit Supply uses fabrics from Vitale Barberis Canonico, Reda, and Drago, with most suits featuring Super 110s to Super 150s wool. Their entry-level suits use Super 100s wool, which provides excellent durability for everyday wear. Proper Cloth gives access to even higher-end options including Super 180s wool and rare blends like cashmere-silk combinations. They clearly label each fabric’s weight, composition, and seasonal suitability. The quality floor is similar between both brands, but Proper Cloth’s ceiling reaches higher for those willing to pay premium prices.
Durability and Comfort in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Both brands deliver comfortable, breathable suits that hold up well with proper care. Suit Supply construction uses full or half-canvas in their higher-end lines, which molds to your body over time and maintains shape better than fused construction. Proper Cloth offers canvas options across all price points as an upgrade. For young professionals wearing suits regularly, both will last 5-7 years with rotation and maintenance. The suit supply vs proper cloth durability question matters less than choosing the right fabric weight for your climate and wearing occasions.
Fit Accuracy and Tailoring Precision Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Measurement Accuracy in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply’s in-person measuring by trained staff generally produces accurate first-time fits. Their stylists understand how suits should fit and can spot measurement errors immediately. Proper Cloth depends on you measuring yourself correctly or sending a reference garment. First-time customers often need adjustments, though the brand offers free remakes if the fit is off due to their error. In the suit supply vs proper cloth fit debate, Suit Supply has the advantage for first-timers, while Proper Cloth improves dramatically once your profile is established.
Body Type Compatibility in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply offers three main fits: Lazio (slim), Napoli (athletic), and Washington (classic). These work well for average body types but can feel restrictive for very athletic builds or those outside standard proportions. Proper Cloth creates truly custom patterns based on your exact measurements, making them better for unusual proportions, very tall or short builds, or anyone who struggles with off-the-rack fits. Once you place a successful order, reordering becomes effortless as they keep your measurements on file.
Pricing Breakdown and Value for Money – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Entry-Level to Premium Pricing in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
| Category | Suit Supply | Proper Cloth |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Suit | $399-$499 | $500-$600 |
| Mid-Range Suit | $599-$799 | $700-$900 |
| Premium Suit | $999-$1,499 | $1,000-$2,000+ |
| Dress Shirt | $99-$149 | $95-$250 |
Suit Supply offers more accessible entry pricing with their ready-to-wear line. Made-to-measure starts around $599. Proper Cloth begins at $500 for custom suits with basic fabrics. Both include basic alterations, though Suit Supply provides this in-store while Proper Cloth reimburses local tailoring costs up to $75.
Cost-to-Quality Ratio in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
For your first professional suit on a tight budget, Suit Supply delivers better immediate value. You get quality fabric, decent construction, and professional fitting for under $500. Proper Cloth requires a higher upfront investment but pays off long-term if you order multiple suits, as their measurement profile eliminates fitting guesswork. The suit supply vs proper cloth value equation shifts based on your buying pattern: one-off purchases favor Suit Supply, while building a custom wardrobe favors Proper Cloth.
Shopping Experience and Customer Service – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Online Shopping Experience in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Proper Cloth’s website offers extensive filtering by fabric type, color, pattern, weight, and price. Their interface clearly shows fabric details with high-quality photos. The measurement guide is thorough with video tutorials. Suit Supply’s website works better for browsing styles and checking store inventory but lacks the deep customization tools. Most Suit Supply customers complete their purchase in-store rather than online.
In-Store Experience and Support in Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply stores provide a full-service experience with knowledgeable staff who guide you through the entire process. The showrooms display current styles, and you can feel fabrics in person. Alterations happen on-site, usually completed within a week. Proper Cloth has no physical locations, relying entirely on email and phone support. Their customer service responds quickly and handles issues professionally, but you miss the tactile experience of seeing and touching fabrics before buying.
Shipping, Returns, and Alteration Policies – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply produces made-to-measure suits in 4-6 weeks, with in-store pickup or shipping. Returns on custom items are limited, though they will remake suits that do not fit properly due to measurement errors. Proper Cloth takes 3-4 weeks for production and ships worldwide. They offer a Perfect Fit Promise: if your custom suit does not fit correctly and it is their fault, they will remake it free or refund you. They also reimburse up to $75 in local tailoring costs for minor adjustments. The suit supply vs proper cloth policies both protect customers, but Proper Cloth’s remote alteration reimbursement adds flexibility.
Customer Reviews and Brand Trustworthiness – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Both brands maintain strong reputations with mostly positive reviews. Suit Supply customers praise fabric quality and value but sometimes mention inconsistent in-store service depending on location. Common complaints involve pushy upselling or rushed fittings during busy periods. Proper Cloth reviews highlight excellent customer service and precise fits once measurements are dialed in. Complaints typically involve first-order fit issues from incorrect self-measurements. Both brands show transparency about their processes and respond to customer concerns publicly.
Best Use Cases Who Should Choose Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth?
Best for Office Wear and Business Professionals – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Young professionals needing versatile work suits should consider Suit Supply first. The in-store experience helps first-time suit buyers understand fit and style options. Their Napoli fit works well for modern office dress codes, offering a contemporary silhouette without being too trendy. Proper Cloth suits those building a professional wardrobe who want multiple suits in consistent sizing. Once your measurements are established, ordering becomes simple and repeatable. For rotating through suits weekly, Proper Cloth’s easy reordering process saves time and ensures consistent fit across your entire wardrobe.
Best for Weddings and Special Events – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply excels for time-sensitive events like weddings where you need a great-looking suit quickly. Their ready-to-wear options can be altered and ready within days. The in-store stylists help coordinate colors and accessories for wedding parties. Proper Cloth works better when you have 6-8 weeks lead time and want something truly unique. Their extensive fabric library lets you create exactly the look you envision, from classic navy to bold patterns. The suit supply vs proper cloth choice for events depends on your timeline and how specific your vision is.
Pros and Cons Summary – Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Pros and Cons of Suit Supply vs Proper Cloth
Suit Supply Strengths:
- Lower entry prices for quality suits
- In-person fitting eliminates measurement uncertainty
- Faster turnaround with ready-to-wear options
- Physical stores let you see and feel fabrics
Suit Supply Weaknesses:
- Limited customization compared to true made-to-measure
- Inconsistent service quality across locations
- Standard fits may not work for unusual body types
Proper Cloth Strengths:
- Extensive fabric selection from top mills
- True custom sizing for any body type
- Convenient online ordering once profile is set
- Excellent customer service and fit guarantee
Proper Cloth Weaknesses:
- Higher starting prices
- First orders often need adjustments
- Cannot see or feel fabrics before ordering
- Longer production timelines
Conclusion
The suit supply vs proper cloth decision ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and comfort with online shopping. Suit Supply offers better value and convenience for first-time buyers who want guidance through the process. Proper Cloth rewards those willing to invest time in getting measurements right with truly personalized suits and effortless reordering. Both brands deliver quality that rivals suits costing twice as much. Your best choice comes down to whether you value in-person service or maximum customization. Either way, you will end up with a suit that looks professional and lasts for years.
Ready to elevate your professional wardrobe? Whether you choose the hands-on experience of Suit Supply or the customization of Proper Cloth, quality suiting makes a real difference in how you present yourself. For young professionals building careers, investing in well-made suits pays dividends in confidence and credibility. Start with one great suit that fits properly, then expand your wardrobe as your needs and budget grow.
