Blog

Beyond the Hashtag: What Supporting Small Really Looks Like.
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Beyond the Hashtag: What Supporting Small Really Looks Like.

Support small businesses with intention this holiday season. Shopping local strengthens communities, builds real human connections, and keeps our favorite Main Street shops alive. Choose small makers over big-box convenience and let your dollar reflect the world you want to live in. Shop small, shop with purpose.

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The Hidden Craft Behind Custom Clothing: The Art of Pattern Making
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

The Hidden Craft Behind Custom Clothing: The Art of Pattern Making

Discover the true meaning of pattern making in custom clothing. Learn why personalized patterns create superior fit, how menswear preserves this craft, and why it’s rare, but essential, in womenswear. Explore how individual patterns honor your unique shape and elevate slow, intentional, American-made garments.

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Better Isn’t Always Best: Rethinking Quality in the Clothing World
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Better Isn’t Always Best: Rethinking Quality in the Clothing World

Discover why “better” isn’t always best in custom clothing. Learn the truth about wool fabrics, full canvas vs. half canvas construction, and the real meaning of bespoke vs. made-to-measure. Understand how to choose the right garment for your lifestyle with expert insights on craftsmanship, fit, and American-made quality.

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Muslin Fitting Garments: Origins, Materials, Purpose, and Modern Relevance
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Muslin Fitting Garments: Origins, Materials, Purpose, and Modern Relevance

A muslin fitting garment, is a test version of your custom piece, allowing the tailor to perfect fit, drape, and design before the final fabric is cut. Whether for men or women, this step ensures your garment moves with you, fits your body perfectly, and captures your personal style with precision and craftsmanship.

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Bards Clothing x Connecticut Foodshare
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Bards Clothing x Connecticut Foodshare

This November, we’re giving back to the community that’s built us.
20% of every purchase this month will be donated in full to Connecticut FoodShare to help families in need.

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🎃 Halloween: A History of Costumes and the Stories They Tell
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

🎃 Halloween: A History of Costumes and the Stories They Tell

Discover the history of Halloween costumes, from ancient Celtic disguises to pop culture icons. Explore how what we wear each October reflects identity, rebellion, and imagination through the ages. Because every costume, from ghost sheets to superheroes, tells a story.

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The Year-Round Magic of Wool: From Flannel to Hopsack and Everything In Between
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

The Year-Round Magic of Wool: From Flannel to Hopsack and Everything In Between

Wool is a living fiber, literally. Each strand of wool is made up of proteins that react to the environment around you. When it’s cold, those fibers trap warm air close to your body, acting as a natural insulator. When it’s hot, wool wicks moisture away from your skin and allows air to circulate, keeping you dry and cool.

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Buffalo Check: The Fabric of American Grit and Style
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Buffalo Check: The Fabric of American Grit and Style

Buffalo check is the essence of classic Americana style, rugged, timeless, and full of heritage. From 1850s workwear to modern American-made flannels, it symbolizes craftsmanship, authenticity, and the enduring spirit of slow fashion. At Bards Clothing, we tailor buffalo check shirts that let you wear your story, built to last in the USA.

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Flannel vs Tweed vs Brushed Cotton
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Flannel vs Tweed vs Brushed Cotton

Fabric 101: Flannel, Tweed, Brushed Cotton, and Year-Round Wool. Flannel is brushed soft and cozy, Tweed is rugged and heritage-rich, Brushed Cotton is breathable comfort, and Year-Round Wool is polished versatility. Learn the differences and choose timeless, American-made fabrics for your custom wardrobe.

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Bards Clothing just got a Face Lift
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Bards Clothing just got a Face Lift

We’re proud to unveil the new Bards Clothing website, a true reflection of our brand, our clients, and the stories stitched into every custom garment. Designed by Evelyn Alejandro of Agape Design, the site celebrates American-made clothing, timeless craftsmanship, and individuality. Explore how we’re reviving heritage through custom suits, shirts, flannels, and more.

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5 Year Anniversary
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

5 Year Anniversary

5 Year Anniversary

This week we celebrate Bards Clothing 5th year in business!

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Spoken For: A History of Bespoke
Matthew Banever Matthew Banever

Spoken For: A History of Bespoke

Imagine this: it’s the 13th century. You’re a nobleman in England, and your calves have never looked better. Why? Because your tailor knows you. Not like “he follows you on Instagram” knows you—but he knows your measurements, your taste, your station in society. This is the birth of bespoke.

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