Answers to the questions we hear most often about bespoke tailoring, custom suits, alterations and the Sicily & Savile process. Still have a question? Book a free consultation or call +27 84 798 0359.
How much does a bespoke suit cost in South Africa?
A bespoke two-piece suit in South Africa typically ranges from R12,000 to R45,000, depending on cloth, construction and complexity. At Sicily & Savile in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, our entry bespoke suits start in the mid-range and rise with finer worsteds, super-numbered wools, and added details like working button-holes, hand-padded lapels and full canvas. We share an exact quote during your first consultation, with no obligation.
What is the difference between bespoke, made-to-measure, and off-the-peg suits?
Off-the-peg suits are pre-made in standard sizes. Made-to-measure adjusts a pre-existing pattern to your measurements. Bespoke is built from scratch: a fresh paper pattern, multiple fittings, full canvas construction, and hand-finished details. Bespoke fits you specifically — no other body in the world. Sicily & Savile specialises in true bespoke at our Johannesburg atelier.
How long does it take to make a bespoke suit?
A Sicily & Savile bespoke suit takes 4 to 8 weeks from first measurement to final fitting. The process includes initial consultation, cloth selection, pattern drafting, a baste fitting, a forward fitting, and final delivery. We can accommodate rush orders for weddings and special occasions — call us early to discuss timelines.
How many fittings are needed for a bespoke suit?
A traditional bespoke suit usually involves three to four fittings: an initial measurement and consultation, a baste fitting (where the suit is loosely sewn for evaluation), a forward fitting for fine adjustments, and a final delivery fitting. Each fitting takes 30 to 60 minutes at our Parkhurst atelier.
Do you tailor suits for women?
Yes. Sicily & Savile offers fully bespoke tailoring for women, including suits, blazers, trousers and dresses. Female customers can request a consultation with a female stylist for additional comfort during measurements and fittings.
Do you do alterations on suits I bought elsewhere?
Yes. We offer expert alterations on suits, jackets, trousers, shirts and dresses — whether purchased from us or anywhere else. Typical alterations include taking in or letting out the waist, shortening sleeves, hemming trousers, and reshaping shoulders. Most alterations are returned within 7 to 14 days.
Where is Sicily & Savile located?
Our atelier is at 70 12th Street, Parkhurst, 2193, Johannesburg, South Africa. We’re a short drive from Rosebank, Sandton, Randburg, Northcliff and the wider Johannesburg northern suburbs. Free street parking is available. Call +27 84 798 0359 or email info@sicilyandsavile.co.za to book.
Can I order groomsmen suits and a wedding suit together?
Absolutely — wedding parties are one of our specialities. We co-ordinate the groom’s bespoke suit with matching or complementary groomsmen pieces, ensuring fabric, colour and silhouette are consistent across the party. Book at least 3 months ahead of the wedding to allow for fittings.
What fabrics do you use for bespoke suits?
We work with the finest pure wools, wool blends, cottons, linens and chinos — sourced from leading international mills. During your consultation we show you a curated swatch book and recommend cloth based on climate, occasion and your personal preference. Heavier wools for winter, lighter weights and linens for the Johannesburg summer.
Do you offer matric dance suits?
Yes. Matric dance suits are part of our packages range. We help matrics design a suit that’s distinctive without being over-the-top, in fabrics and colours that suit the occasion. Book at least 6 weeks before your dance to ensure on-time delivery.
Do you offer corporate or bulk tailoring for businesses?
Yes. We offer corporate tailoring packages for executives, sales teams and businesses requiring co-ordinated business wardrobes. Bulk pricing is available depending on order volume. Contact us to schedule an on-site consultation for your team.
How do I book a consultation?
You can book online through our booking page, call +27 84 798 0359, WhatsApp us via the chat button on this site, or email info@sicilyandsavile.co.za. Initial consultations are free and take about 45 minutes — they include cloth selection, style discussion and full measurements.
Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
Walk-ins are welcome during opening hours, but we strongly recommend booking an appointment so a master tailor can give you their full attention. Appointments guarantee no waiting and a more thorough consultation.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, all major credit and debit cards, and EFT (electronic funds transfer). For bespoke orders, a 50% deposit is typically required at consultation, with the balance due on final delivery.
Can a bespoke suit be altered later if my body changes?
Yes — this is one of the great advantages of true bespoke. Our suits are constructed with extra cloth in the seams (called ‘inlays’) so they can be let out or taken in to accommodate changes in weight or shape, often by several centimetres. Bring your suit back to us at any time.
How should I care for a bespoke suit?
Hang on a sturdy wooden hanger after wear, brush gently with a clothes brush, rest the suit at least 24 hours between wears, and dry clean only when truly necessary — every 6 to 8 wears at most. Steam to remove creases rather than ironing directly. We provide full care instructions with every garment.
Do you offer guarantees on your bespoke work?
Yes. We guarantee the fit and craftsmanship of every garment we make. If you’re not satisfied at the final fitting, we’ll continue adjusting until you are. Our construction is built to last decades with proper care.
Why is Sicily & Savile different from a regular tailor?
We’re not a shop that sends measurements offshore — every Sicily & Savile commission is crafted on-site in our Parkhurst atelier by master tailors with 30+ years’ experience. We use traditional techniques: full canvas construction, hand-padded lapels, basted fittings. The result is a suit that fits, drapes and ages the way a true bespoke garment should.