Our approach to fit & sizing
Our shirts are made by the same shirtmaker who makes bespoke shirts, so we retain the construction methods and finishing details of traditional shirtmaking. What we simplify is the fitting process. Instead of starting from scratch, we work from established fits and sizes, then adjust where needed.
A simpler way to get a better-fitting shirt
Traditional tailoring or shirtmaking can be a great choice if you want a pattern created specifically for you and have the time for fittings and adjustments.
Second Sons takes a different approach.
We have developed three signature fits and a considered range of sizes to accommodate a broad range of proportions. Where more individual adjustment is often required – particularly shirt and sleeve length – we let you make those changes.
The result is a shirt that retains many of the principles and details of traditional shirtmaking, but with a simpler and more predictable approach to fit.
Why we don’t start from scratch
Through our work with our shirtmaker, we found that most people do not need an entirely new pattern to get a shirt that fits them well. What matters more is starting with the right proportions.
Our three signature fits are designed around different silhouettes and proportions. Each shirt is made in the fit that we think works best for that particular design, and is then offered across a range of sizes.
Once you have found the right size, you can adjust the areas where individual differences tend to matter most: your shirt and sleeve lengths.
How Second Sons compares
| Second Sons | Made-to-measure | Bespoke | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting point | One of our established fits and sizes | An existing pattern adjusted to your measurements | A new pattern developed for you |
| Fit | Based on 11 sizes, with shirt and sleeve length adjusted as needed | Existing pattern is adjusted to your measurements | New pattern is developed around your body |
| Design | Each shirt is already designed | Each shirt is usually highly customisable | Each shirt is usually fully customisable |
| Timeline | 7 to 10 days, as no fittings are required | Up to 1 month, typically involves at least one fitting | Up to 2 months, typically involves at least two fittings |
| Best for | If you want a good shirt without a lengthy fitting process or design trial-and-error | If you want a personalised fit and more control over the shirt | If you want a fit built from scratch and maximum control over fit and design |
Why we do it this way
A fully custom process offers almost limitless possibilities around cut and design. It also means more decisions, fittings and need for trial and error.
We keep the parts of traditional shirtmaking that matter to us – proportion, construction, and finishing – while making the process simpler and more predictable.
Our fits have already been developed, and each shirt has already been designed. You simply choose the one that works for you, then make the adjustments you need.
That makes it easier to know what you are getting the first time, and easier to order again once you know your size.
