Josh Bozin
Winter. Some enjoy it; some despise it. The overarching factor, however, is how well you are prepared to battle the harsh elements.
Finding appropriate clothing for the winter season can prove quite the arduous task. But one of the first items to consider for braving the cold is a classic overcoat; a timeless staple that every man should own.
Not only stylish and warm, but an overcoat is versatile, pairing well with virtually any outfit in your wardrobe.
But where best to find that perfect overcoat, you ask? Do you scour the interest for overseas sales? Is RTW the best option? After doing some research, we concluded at two pivotal points:
- It’s important to try on your coat in person rather than regretfully purchasing online to find an ill-fitting coat or something that just didn’t fit the brief
- Made-to-measure coats are readily available, and it’s by far a superior way of getting exactly what you want
Without having to look too far, we ventured into Melbourne’s CBD to pay our friends at Saibu No Akuma a visit, in time for the long, chilly winter season.
Saibu No Akuma
Helmed by Geoff Lee – a Melbourne-based tailor and stylist – Saibu No Akuma is a Melbourne lifestyle menswear brand inspired by classic menswear pieces.
Challenging the status quo, Saibu No Akuma has refined the made-to-measure space by empowering ambitious individuals to look and feel their best.
Offering traditional tailoring methods with a modern-day style, we decided to book an appointment to enquire about the brands premium winter overcoat that can be readily made to your exact specifications.
Consultation
We met with Geoff to discuss, ultimately, what we were after. Inspired by classic styles of the past, we decided on a double-breasted, wide notch lapel in a classic dark navy hue, expertly crafted in 100% cashmere.
The informal consultation process is enjoyed over a coffee, where guys can pick every detail of their MTM garment, such as fabrics, lapels, pockets, length, detailing, etc. Geoff offered his expertise and guided us in designing, ultimately, the perfect winter coat.
Fitting
Measurements were precise and easy enough. At Saibu, traditional tailoring methods are used to ensure the perfect fit, whilst factoring in lifestyle and individual requirements.
As overcoats should fit a little more relaxed – to ensure they can easily pair over your mid-layers – we opted for our coat to fit a little roomier. Length was also a consideration; all too often will you see RTW overcoats falling short of the knee. Traditionally, an overcoat should fall just below the knee, as this would protect the wearer better from the elements.
We opted to stick to this traditional. Besides, a coat that falls longer is not only stylish and flattering, it can make its wearer appear taller and slimmer, which is never a bad thing!
Finale
With a 5-6 week turnaround, our overcoat was finally ready. Meeting with Geoff, we knew from his ear-to-ear smile that we had a special piece awaiting for us.
Fitting to a tee, the overcoat draped over the body perfectly.
Geoff will ensure that all clients try on their finished garments in-house to determine whether any minor tailoring or touch-ups are needed – it’s little touches like these that make Saibu No Akuma different to other clothiers.
A versatile, stylish and practical ‘everyday’ piece, our overcoat pairs well with a number of items. Wear over tailored chinos and a fine knit, or team with denim jeans, a t-shirt and sneakers for the weekend. Not to mention that it’s the perfect top layer when wearing a suit, be it for work or that fancy event.
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To make an appointment with Geoff at Saibu No Akuma, head to their website at www.saibunoakuma.com.au.
Saibu No Akuma
2/8 Rankins Ln,
Melbourne VIC