Tailored fit vs slim fit - Man in a suit being measured with a tape across his chest to determine the perfect fit

Tailored fit vs slim fit: What's the right fit for you?

Comparing tailored fit and slim fit based on silhouette, formality, comfort, and more.

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Key Facts

  • Tailored fit refers to clothing that is designed to closely follow the body's contours while providing a structured and polished look. It typically features a narrower cut through the chest, waist, and sleeves.

  • Slim fit is a style of clothing that is designed to hug the body closely, offering a sleek and modern appearance. It is characterised by a tapered cut throughout the torso and limbs.


Looking sharp and professional for events or meetings can be a challenging process for many. While some find joy in the process, even treating it as art, others struggle to find the perfect fit. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the distinctions between tailored fit vs slim fit garments, examine which styles complement different body types, and discuss how they fare when it comes to tailoring and alterations.

What is a tailored fit garment? 

Tailored fit vs slim fit - Two persons in a clothing store, one of whom is trying on a tailored fit blue suit jacket

Tailored fit garments are apparel with proportions that fit closer to the body than regular fit clothing. This type of fit typically features precise and narrow cuts through the chest, waist, and sleeves, enhancing your shape and resulting in a more refined appearance.

While they offer a tailored look, they are generally more affordable and can be easily found in stores. With some professional alterations, tailored fit garments can have the same flair as custom ones.

What is a slim fit garment? 

Tailored fit vs slim fit - A well-dressed person in a slim fit navy blue suit standing in a tailor's showroom

Slim fit garments are designed to closely hug the body's shape. They have a tighter fit overall, characterised by a tapered cut throughout the torso and limbs. The clothing is snug to the body but highlights the natural contours of whoever wears it. Despite its close-fitting proportions, the slim fit still has room for alterations to fit your body type even better.

Slim vs tailored fit: What's the right fit for your style?

Experts agree that well-fitting garments affect how a person is perceived professionally and casually. And it’s also proven that clothes with a proper fit help with the mobility and comfortability of the wearer. 

Here, let’s discover the difference between slim fit and tailor fit so your next set of threads can be comfy but also look stylish!

In terms of silhouette

Tailored fit vs slim fit - A happy smiling person posing in a formal business attire

Slim fit has a tighter silhouette than tailored fit and will fit snuggly on the body. As mentioned above, this fit typically has a tapered waist and hem with narrower sleeves designed to accentuate the wearer’s proportions.

On the other hand, a tailored fit is more loose without looking baggy on the wearer. It can still accentuate the wearer’s silhouette but not as tightly as a slim fit. Local seamstresses even describe the tailored fit as a Goldilocks fit compared to slim and regular fit garments. 

Recommendation: Slim fit garments accentuate the silhouette the most.

In terms of body type

Slim fit suits have the tightest proportions. This also means they’re restrictive regarding body type—mainly limited to slimmer figures. 

On the other hand, tailored fit suits are looser in all measurements, allowing more body types to fit without delving into suit alteration. Generally speaking, tailored suits are designed to fit people with larger builds but still want a fitted look.

Recommendation: Tailored fit is better in accommodating more body types.

In terms of formality

Tailored fit vs slim fit - A couple attending a party in a formal wear

There are notable differences when it comes to formality regarding slim fit and tailored fit garments. For example, tailored fit can exude a level of refinement often associated with sophistication and professionalism. This is because of the level of customisation and attention to detail in areas like shoulder padding and waist suppression.

A  slim fit garment can also serve as a formal piece of clothing. However, compared to tailored fit garments, it may not always convey the same level of sophistication as tailored fit garments. The tightness of slim fit can sometimes be perceived as too casual or trendy, particularly in formal settings where a more classic silhouette is preferred.

Recommendation: Tailored-fit garments are more ideal for formal events.

In terms of comfort

Regarding mobility and comfort, it’ll matter more how well the suit or garment is made. However, there are some very notable differences that some folks may or may not prefer.

Slim fit garments are typically less comfortable due to having a tighter fit around the body. It can restrict movements and overall be less breathable. For people with active lifestyles, wearing slim fit garments may be a hindrance.

Tailored fit clothing, on the other hand, typically has a more relaxed fit which will be able to cater to more movement, breathability, and comfortability. Plus, it caters to a wider range of body types.

Recommendation: Tailored fit is more comfortable.

In terms of fabric

Tailored fit vs slim fit - A tailor measuring jacket on a client standing at the studio 

Tailored fit focuses on fitting a wider variety of body types while being breathable and comfortable. Due to this, it often uses fabrics that allow the skin to breathe underneath while being soft to reduce fatigue when wearing it for long periods of time.

On the other hand, slim fit garments mostly utilise fabrics with stretchier materials to accommodate fitting around the body’s contours. This means the use of spandex or elastane which are not typically known for breathability, comfort, or quality. But to compensate for those, many modern fabrics now combine stretch with natural fibres to provide both comfort and flexibility.

Recommendation: Tailored fit uses more breathable and comfortable fabric.

In terms of tailoring and alterations

The tailored fit has better options for alteration due to its greater fabric allowance and design to fit a broader range of body types. But worry not, as slim fit garments can still be professionally altered, although not as flexibly as the tailored fit ones. 

Meanwhile, the cost of alteration and tailoring for both fits will depend greatly on the wearer’s preference. When assessing the overall cost, you’ll also need to consider the materials added or subtracted and the complexity of adjustment.

Recommendation: Tailored fit uses more breathable and comfortable fabric.

Enhance your fit: Find an expert for tailored or slim fit alterations on Airtasker

Choosing between tailored fit and slim fit depends on your body shape, personal style, and the event. The right fit should make you feel confident and comfortable, reflecting your unique preferences.

Ready to elevate your wardrobe and achieve a more stylish look? Book professional alteration services through Airtasker! Nearby tailors and seamstresses can help you create expertly tailored garments, ensuring you look and feel your best.

Tailored fit vs slim fit


Tailored Fit Slim Fit
Silhouette
Can accentuate body silhouette but not as tightly
Tight-fitting and accentuates body silhouettes
Body Type
Fits more body types
Fits slimmer profiles

Formality

Perfect for formal events
Versatile enough for both formal and casual events
Comfort
Breathable with a higher range of movement
Fits tightly around the body and can restrict movement
Fabric
Uses higher-quality and more comfortable fabric
Typically uses spandex and elastane
Tailoring and Alterations
Ideal for tailoring and alterations with much fabric allowance
Less suitable for tailoring due to minimal fabric allowance

FAQs on tailored fit and slim fit

Regular fit garments are looser in proportions than tailored fit garments, which allows them to be worn by all body types. However, due to their broad compatibility, regular fit garments may appear baggy to others.

Yes! Many off-the-shelf suits have room for adjustments to fit different body types. It’s good practice to find a suit that fits close to your body proportions and have it tailored to fit you appropriately.

The answer will ultimately depend on your preference. Both styles have their pros and cons, including stylistic design choices. An excellent way to check if one is better for you is to determine your comfort wearing it, fit, range of movement, and overall look.

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