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Made-to-Measure Shirts

Made-to-Measure Shirts

A closer look at the craftsmanship and custom possibilities behind every Besnard shirt.

Every man’s build is different, and so should be his shirt. Our made-to-measure and made-to-order services are designed for those who value precise fit, fine materials, and craftsmanship rarely found in ready-to-wear. Below, we outline how each Besnard shirt is made and the custom options available.

Our made-to-measure shirts are crafted in a small workshop in Naples, a region celebrated for its soft tailoring and refined handwork. Whether ordered in-store or online, each shirt reflects the same commitment to quality, fit, and longevity.

A Pattern Cut for You

Each shirt is cut by hand, with patterns precisely matched across the shoulder, sleeves, and placket. Our made-to-measure process includes a full measurement and fit analysis to create a personal pattern shaped to the customer’s build and posture. The made-to-order system allows for fit adjustments to a standard block, including modifications to neck size, sleeve length, and body width.

Shirt being cut by hand

Stitching and Finishing Techniques

Each shirt is sewn with single-needle stitching, also known as French seams. This method creates clean, flat seams with no raw edges. Each shirt is sewn with 18 stitches per inch, a fine gauge that enhances durability and finish.

Hand-Sewn Details

Shirts are cut by hand and constructed with either three or six hand-sewn operations:

  • 3-step shirts: hand-sewn armholes, buttons and gussets
  • 6-step shirts: all of the above, plus hand-attached collar, hand-sewn buttonholes, and hand-sewn bartacks (travetto) at the sleeve placket

These handmade steps give each shirt a natural shape, greater ease of movement, and a refined finish.

Seamstress sewing buttonholes by hand

Style Options

A focused range of options ensures each shirt reflects the wearer’s taste and requirements.

Collar

Options include both formal and informal styles—from structured spread collars to soft one-piece collars. Interlining weights can be specified, and non-fused constructions are available.

Cuffs

We offer both single and double cuffs to complement the chosen collar.

Front

Shirts can be made with a clean (French) front, placket front, or covered front. Pleated fronts are available for eveningwear.

Back

Options include a plain back, box pleat, twin knife pleats, or traditional shirring at the yoke.

Initials

Monogramming is available in either block or cursive script, sewn by hand in a range of thread colours.

Made to measure shirt with handmade initials
Made to measure shirt with button down collar

Fabric Selection and Final Details

We order fabrics cut to length from Thomas Mason, Canclini, and Grandi & Rubinelli, ensuring a broad and regularly updated selection. Choices range from crisp poplins and sturdy oxfords to zephyr, denim, and seasonal weaves.

Each shirt is finished with genuine Australian mother-of-pearl buttons, cut from the inner shell of the pearl oyster. These are harder-wearing than plastic alternatives and possess a subtle, natural lustre.

Mother of pearl buttons

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