A few months back, we asked our Calgary readers a question: Who is your town’s best tailor? We heard from a few of you, but we know that we’ve only begun to scratch the surface in our quest for sartorial excellence. Today, we’ll present three of the tailors we’ve learned about. But before we declare Calgary’s finest – and build a map celebrating them – please, tell us who we’ve omitted.
Umberto’s Custom Tailors
Umberto is decidedly old-school, and he won’t shy away from offering his opinion. Luckily, his opinion tends to align well with the principles of classic tailoring, steering you clear from trend-driven suiting and straight toward timeless style.
Our reader says: “Umberto is a king among men!” (Chris F.)
321 6 Avenue SW, 403-269-6955.
The Tailor Shop
Giovanni Nicoletti hand stitches each bespoke suit he makes, using the finest Italian fabrics. And though the quality is as high-end as it comes, the price, blessedly, is not.
Our reader says: “Without a doubt, he is a world class tailor. Calgary is very fortunate to have him.” (Adam T.)
1906 37th St. SW, 403-246-2735.
Arthur’s Bespoke Tailors & Shirt Makers
This visiting Montreal-based tailor is so Calgary-friendly that he’s got a 403 area code. The craftsmanship is matched only by the fabrics – Loro Piano, Scabal – and the materials – horn, mother of pearl.
Our reader says: “I am truly amazed at the level of craftsmanship, the consistently perfect fit…and their capability to understand my needs.” (T. Nourse)
Next visit: November 15-17. International Hotel Suites, 220 4th Ave. SW., 403-668-6866.
Image courtesy of hamron.
Arthur’s is nice but I find them overpriced. Never heard of the Tailor Shop, and have good things to say about Umberto’s. 2 other outfits in Calgary is Giovanni- with less selection than I would like but good service, and Look Good Fashion House which I am amazed at their selection – not sure they have a storefront but one of their girls dresses a few our management team.
I’ve been working with Arthur’s for the past year and a half. My business partner and I have been extremely pleased with the quality of their goods. The fit is perfect EVERY TIME and they make it so easy to work with, despite the distance. If you’re looking for the best quality a Canadian tailor has to offer, try them out…but don’t expect to pay $50/shirt or $500/suit for this level of service and quality. You have to pay to get the best. They started out visiting Calgary twice a year, now they’re in town 6 times a year…they must be doing something right!
Any further updates to this one? I am interested.
I actually met up with Arthur I believe in April. I actually had some prior experience doing custom-made but these guys were definitely different, they take the experience to a different level. The others didn’t even come close in terms of personal service, fabric selection, fit, these guys are true tailors, not just salesmen or agents. They are the actual makers of your garments so they KNOW what they’re talking about. THey blew my mind with the amount of details that they consider in regards to my needs. They took like 25 measurements for my shirts alone. I started with an order of 6 shirts and was extremely satisfied. They prepared for me a try on shirt during their next trip which they pinned up and adjusted to perfection, then they made my first shirt and sent it to me…tried it out a few times and it was perfect! Then they sent me the rest of the order once they knew I was completely happy with it. Next time they’re in town, which is in a couple of weeks, I will look into a couple of suits or sports jackets. Check them out http://www.arthurinc.ca/calgary.