You’ve been there. Nodding and shifting mechanically as the tailor measures, marks, and pins, without really having a clue as to what he’s doing or saying. And while the tailor probably knows best, it can’t hurt to actually know the terms. Here are a few to make part of your vocab, stat.

Bespoke
Rooted in London’s Savile Row, call this a fancy British word for custom-made.

Hem
Simply put, this raw edge of your pant needs to be sewn to prevent unraveling.

Inseam
This is the seam that runs along the inner pant leg, from crotch to ankle.

Taper
Usually in reference to the pant leg, it means that the cut of the fabric narrows toward the ankle.

Vent
That center or double-slit cut in the back of your jacket? This is the name for it.

Looking to step up your tailored look? Our Rue Trunk Show: Men’s Suiting Edition Boutique opened Wednesday, July 23, at 11AM ET.

By Chrissy Makkas, Staff Writer

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