A guide to Indochino's advanced options and customizations - Pt. I

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Updated: July 2016

Indochino is constantly updating and improving their "more options" menu so I thought it would be worth it to take the time and describe a bit more in detail what the advanced options are. I'll link this article to the Indochino Guide, so basically all the important information for first-time users is easily accessible. Just as the Guide, this article will be updated regularly.

The link to advanced options, labelled "MORE CUSTOMIZATIONS" can be found during the first step of the suit configuration process, in the top right corner (see screenshot below). 


Indochino suit customization options



By default, only the belt loops and the pen pocket are chosen. Other options such as pick stitching, waist pockets etc. are available to choose from. Indochino has recently reduced the available options by deleting the following choices from this menu. 

  • Slanted Pockets
  • No Pocket Flaps
They are not gone, they just come in a later step during the configuration. 


Please remember that sometimes less is more, there is quite a lot to choose from, but especially if it's your first (or one of your first) suit, I'd recommend to stick to the basics. A couple of the options offered are discussed rather controversially within the Indochino community. Some like the pick stitching, but many others say it looks like done by a machine and doesn't look good.


Indochino suit customization options
Old option menu

Indochino suit customization options
New option menu
Below please find all the advanced options including the description taken from the Indochino website:


ADVANCED JACKET DETAILS


Pick Stitching
A visible stitching that follows the edge of your lapels and other key features of your jacket. A visible sign of custom clothing.


Indochino Review opinion
I have it on one of my Indochino suits and think it looks ok. Still, I probably wouldn't choose it again. 


Slanted Pockets
An additional option to traditional suit pockets, slanted pockets are common on Italian designer suits.


Indochino Review opinion: 
Only works on fashion forward suits - don't go for this if you are getting your first basic Charcoal or Navy suit


Waist Pocket
Also known as a ‘Ticket Pocket’. Traditionally used for opera tickets, it is the ideal size for an iPhone or iPod.


Indochino Review opinion: 
I actually think that's a pretty cool option, especially for you guys with MP3 Players or smartphones.


No Pocket Flaps
For a sleeker, more fashion forward suit, opt to remove the pocket flaps


Indochino Review opinion: 
I usually get careful if I read "fashion forward", because my suits are for work and not for play. Might be an interesting option - opinions are welcome!


Pen Pocket
Need we say more, you may also consider putting you iPad stylus here.


Functional Sleeve Buttonholes
Having working button holes on your suit sleeves is the quintessential symbol of a custom made suit. Unbutton the first button to display this feature stylishly in public.


Indochino Review opinion:
Description says it all and I consider this a must-have too. Careful, you can't have it on your first suit, because it would make altering the sleeve length much more difficult. Use it on your next suits once you are sure your measurements are correct. 

Functional Boutonniere
Make the standard button hole on your left suit lapel functional, a true sign of custom suiting and a great place to insert a small flower on special occasions.

Indochino Review opinion:
This is a pretty standard feature. There has been some discussion on the shape of that button hole - it used to look like a real button hole (which the style experts say is wrong) and it seems it is now simply a neutral slit.


Contrasting Color Felt (new as of July 2012)

Add a subtle touch of panache by having a contrasting color felt. While being functional to hold your collar's form, the touch of colour can make other's take notice.

Indochino Review opinion:
Now a standard option on all suits, this originally comes from Etro I believe. The question is, who really pops up the collar to reveal the felt? But it somehow is a tempting extra. The color will be matched to the chosen lining.


Contrasting Buttonholes (new as of July 2012)
Add a pop of color to the last cuff buttonhole and boutonniere that will coordinate with your selected jacket lining color.

Indochino Review opinion:
Go for it. A pretty cool feature, personalizing your suit in a fun way that stands out and yet looks classy. Be careful when choosing the lining, the contrasting color will be chosen according to the the lining.

Pants Details:

Suspender Buttons
Replace belt loops with European style suspender buttons for a unique look, or have both options for a pair a pants ready for all occasions.

Indochino Review opinion:
This is a pretty standard feature. There has been some discussion on the shape of that button hole - it used to look like a real button hole (which the style experts say is wrong) and it seems it is now simply a neutral slit.

Belt Loops
A sleek look for those that would rather not sport suspenders.

Indochino Review opinion:
Only go without the belt loops if you are very slim and you are sure you like the look without the loops.   I tried it on one of my suits, but I personally prefer the look with belt loops and belt.

Side Tabs
An adjustable tab located in the pant's inner-waist band; one can adjust them to have a range of waist size.

Indochino Review opinion:
Quality on those has improved recently, but if you know your waist size there is no real reason for getting those.

1.5" Pant Cuffs

  • With 1.5" Pant Cuffs, the bottom of each pant leg is folded onto itself and then sewn and pressed into place. Pant Cuffs are good for taller gentlemen as they help break the body up into sections.


Indochino Review opinion:
I like them, especially on heavier fabrics like tweed - they help the trousers drape nicer. As said in the Indochino description, it looks better if you are tall or have long legs. Not necessarily recommended for shorter guys!

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