Finding a good custom tailor is an essential is you own clothing items like suits and tuxedos. Not only will you have a reliable go-to guy when you are having some problems with your formal wear, but you'll also be sure you're getting your money's worth and not just being ripped off. Hemming pants, fixing loosed threads and fine-tuning your formal clothes are just some of the things custom tailors can do for you. And not to mention, give you the perfect formal wear when you need to buy new ones.   But how exactly are you going to do this? What are the things you should look for to get a good custom tailor? Here are just some tips that you should remember:   1. Ask around. Finding a good tailor should start by asking other people, including friends and co-workers who you notice to be sharp and good dressers. From there, try to assemble a list of possible tailors you can go to when you have formal wear needs. Once your list is completed, start doing research.   2. Look for experienced tailors. When interviewing a possible choice of tailor, don't be afraid to ask how long they have been in business. Of course, you don't want the new business on the block as your tailor because there is a big chance that they are still new in the business. Another way to find out if your tailor is experienced is through the list of their previous and present clients. There is no better reference than a satisfied customer.   3. A good tailor should have vision. Find out the tailor's personal take on fashion by asking him about trends and styles. You also want to know if he's strictly old-school, into classic styles or more into trendy and modern stuff. Make sure that your taste in fashion is also the same as his because you don't want to have differences when you are halfway a suit or shirt you are having him make.   4. Ask for samples. The only way you'll know about the quality of a tailor's work is through his work itself. Finished products or even photos of past projects will do and can help you find out how good the tailor is. Judge base on quality, style and craftsmanship. This also includes asking the tailor about his workmanship. This covers how much of the garment will be hand-sewn and how much is machine-made.   5. Check for his availability. This is where the issue of the tailor's process in making one item, and how long it takes him finish one comes in. Make sure that the tailor can meet deadlines as you want him to be able to deliver when you have rush projects for him.   6. Ask how much he charges. This is probably the most important part as you don't want to be ripped off every time you go to tailor. Make sure that he will give you a fair price on everything you will have him make for you. Standard charges for repairs, as well as made-to-order garments should be set and agreed upon.   7. After everything is all set and done, review our options. Make sure you covered everything and missed nothing. Then make informed decision based on all our requirements.     Having hand-tailored clothing may be a bit more expensive that buying them off-the-rack. But consider this: who do you think look better, a guy in a $300 ready-made suit or someone wearing a perfectly fitted $1000 suit? Always remember that clothes are also investments.   These tips are also applicable when looking for a good custom tailor online. Research is also a key.