The charm of handmade lies in its "roundness" and comfort.

YumaToday, I'd like to learn about Ralph Lauren's made-to-measure service. First, which lines can be ordered here?

Regarding Purple Label, we just received four new fabric sample books from New York the other day.

YumaFor example, with Purple Label, what kind of difference in wearing feel is there between machine-made and handmade orders?

SPMany customers who order handmade say, "The roundness is different." It conforms perfectly to the body, and there's a warmth from the human touch that machines can't replicate. We who take orders also feel that's a significant difference from machine-made.

The shoulder movement is also well-accommodated, and handmade garments appear to blend more seamlessly with the wearer's physique. Furthermore, those who prefer the comfort of handmade often opt for handmade again in subsequent orders.

YumaWhat specific processes or techniques create that "roundness"?

The tension of the thread in hand-sewing by artisans is entirely different from that of a machine, allowing for maximum stretch in response to the body's movements. Combined with these factors, handmade garments are said to achieve a comfort distinct from machine-sewn, or machine-made, items.

YumaEven in this era of AI, machine-made cannot surpass handmade, is that right? So, in terms of the ordering process, when you visit the store, you choose the design you want, correct? Do the available designs differ between handmade and machine-made?

SPYes. For jackets, the machine-made option includes a model called "Anthony," which has square shoulders and a slightly British construction. It's a basic two-button, side-vent design with a not-too-high gorge line – a truly authentic style.

Based on this "Anthony," you can change the collar shape, opt for a double-breasted front, or even create a one-button shawl-collar tuxedo. For handmade, we have the "Drake," a classic British style, and the "Kent," which incorporates a touch of Italian flair.



SPThat's precisely why we highly recommend made-to-measure. How does it feel?

YumaThe "Drake" has a fitted body and feels very British.

SPThen, could you please try on the "Kent"? This one is made with a shawl collar and a double-breasted front.

YumaThis is incredibly comfortable. The "Drake," being so classic, might be a bit too tight for me. The "Kent" feels very relaxed to wear.

SPThe "Kent" is popular not only with our Japanese customers but also with international clients.

YumaIs it possible to order individual items like just a vest or just trousers, not only full suits or jackets?

Twice a year, the Omotesando store hosts a trunk show (order event) with experts from our headquarters, during which prices are discounted by 10%. This makes them comparable to, and sometimes even cheaper than, ready-to-wear items, so it's a great opportunity.

YumaThat's a fantastic deal! In that case, it's definitely better to order!

SPWe apologize for the three-month wait from order to completion, but it's very gratifying for us that many customers feel the excitement of their purchase continues throughout the waiting period.

Experience the joy of creating your "one-of-a-kind" garment.

Yuma(Touching a vintage fabric) I've seen photos of Mr. Ralph Lauren wearing a suit tailored from this fabric. He paired it with a black turtleneck sweater, and it looked incredibly stylish.

SPSome customers order only navy every season. They only order solid colors, but they seem to enjoy the collection of different shades of blue in their closets.

YumaOnly wearing solid navy reminds me of Kazuhiko Kato in a certain era. He was a stylish and sophisticated man.

SPWe also have many clients who are presidents of major companies, lawyers, and doctors. Doctors, in particular, often come to us to create personalized garments for speaking at academic conferences.

YumaIndeed, one needs to look sharp when presenting to others to be persuasive.

SPI understand you've also experienced many orders, Mr. Yuma. Personally, what kind of fabrics do you favor?

For spring and summer, I like linen, but I feel I haven't quite mastered it yet. I've made a few, but they often don't feel quite right.

SPRegarding linen, we had a customer who ordered an unlined coat. Nowadays, women often wear unlined linen coats, and I would recommend linen as a material for lighter coats. The fabric selections here are ultimately chosen only after receiving approval from Ralph Lauren himself.

YumaAfter the ordered item is completed in three months, do I come back to the store for a final fitting?

SPThat's correct. For both machine-made and handmade items, the hems and sleeves arrive here unfinished. When the customer returns for a second fitting, we make minor adjustments. Then, the artisans in our workshop on the third floor perform the final finishing before completion and handover.

YumaSo the finishing is done here at the store. Everything is indeed about meticulous detail. That's why the communication between us is so important; it's a made-to-measure service that truly feels bespoke.



SPWe receive many such requests from customers, and we are considering it, but unfortunately, we haven't reached that point yet... We also offer custom orders for shoes and bags, all made in our Italian workshops. For shoes, you can choose hardware and medallions, and change the upper material.

YumaThe shoe trees are also very stylish. Hearing all this, it feels like quite an order paradise. Has Ralph Lauren always offered made-to-measure for nearly all items like this?

SPNo, it feels like the system has been significantly refined in just the last few years. Many other brands are also focusing on made-to-measure now, so we are keen to further enhance Ralph Lauren's unique made-to-measure service.

YumaLastly, I have one question: from the maker's perspective, how would you summarize the essence of made-to-measure in one word?

SPI believe it ultimately comes down to "one-of-a-kind in the world." It's about providing a personal garment, unique to that individual. We take pride in being able to offer such personalized items.

YumaI completely agree. In that case, perhaps I'll indulge and order two "world's only" creations (laughs).



^{*All Ralph Lauren Purple Label items are made in Italy.}