What is Sartoriale: A Tale of Tailoring

August 30, 2023

Welcome, fellow fashion enthusiasts!

Today, we’re diving into the world of sartoriale. Now, you might be wondering, “What the heck is that?” Well, buckle up, because we’re about to take a wild ride through the land of high-end tailoring.

Photographer: Chiara Giliberto

Models:

Martina Bortone – Wearing Brunello Cucinelli Donna.

Akash – Dark Curly hair and grey eyes in the Double-breasted suit. The suit is a Brunello Cucinelli.

Davide – In the red double-breasted blazer and white trousers. Cesare Attolini Blazer and Kiton Sneakers.

Alessandro Mancini – In the red and blue blazer wearing Cesare Attolini.

The Basics

So, what is Sartoriale (or Sartorial in English)? In the simplest terms, it’s the Italian word for “tailoring.” But oh, it is so much more than that. It’s an art form, a tradition, a way of life. It’s the fine art of crafting the perfect suit, a skill that has been passed down through generations of Italian families.

The Crème de la Crème

When it comes to Sartoriale, two names stand out from the crowd: Kiton and Cesare Attolini. These aren’t just brands; they’re institutions, the epitome of Sartoriale. They represent the pinnacle of Italian tailoring, blending centuries-old techniques with modern fashion trends.

The Kiton Way

Kiton is more than just a brand; it’s a philosophy. It represents the pursuit of perfection, with each piece meticulously crafted by hand. Every stitch, every seam, every button is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Kiton tailors.

The Attolini Approach

Cesare Attolini is another fantastic Neapolitan Sartoriale designer. They were some of the first to push the “second-skin” suit approach, and also the infamous Neapolitan shoulder. Both of these companies are obsessed with quality, and the end result shows this.

The Process

The process of creating a Sartoriale suit is a lengthy one, involving numerous steps. Here’s a brief rundown:

Designing: This is where the magic starts. The tailor sketches out the design, taking into account the client’s measurements and preferences.
Cutting: The tailor then cuts the fabric according to the design. This requires a steady hand and a keen eye for detail.
Sewing: Next, the tailor sews the pieces together. This is a laborious process, requiring a high level of skill and precision.
Fitting: The client tries on the suit, and the tailor makes any necessary adjustments.
Finishing: Finally, the tailor adds the finishing touches, such as buttons and linings.

The Fabric

The choice of fabric is crucial in sartoriale. Kiton and Cesare Attolini both source their fabrics from the finest mills in Italy. They favor natural materials, such as wool, cotton, and silk, which are known for their durability and comfort.

The Fit

A well-fitted suit is the hallmark of Sartoriale. The aim is to create a suit that fits like a second skin, highlighting the wearer’s best features while hiding any flaws. The result is a suit that not only looks great but also feels great.

The Details

In Sartoriale, it’s all about the details. From the hand-stitched lapels to the perfectly aligned buttons, every element is carefully considered and executed. It’s these little touches that set Sartoriale suits apart from their mass-produced counterparts.

The Price

Now, I won’t beat around the bush; Sartoriale suits don’t come cheap. But as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. And in the case of Kiton and Cesare Attolini, you’re paying for the best.

The Expansion

Although originally known for a long time as a suiting tradition, more recently these brands have moved into many other things. For example, they have moved into sneakers, sweaters, and much more.

Each piece is still stitched together one stitch at a time, but the end result is something a bit younger and sportier.

The Verdict

So, what’s the verdict on Sartoriale? Is it worth the hype (and the hefty price tag)? Well, if you value craftsmanship, quality, and style, then the answer is a resounding yes.

The Takeaway

In conclusion, Sartoriale is more than just tailoring; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship and tradition. It’s about creating something unique and personal, a garment that tells a story. And in the hands of master tailors like Kiton and Cesare Attolini, that story is one of elegance, sophistication, and style.