Unstitched vs Ready to Wear: Which One Saves You More Money?

In Pakistan, clothes are more than just fabric. They're part of our identity, culture, and daily routine. When shopping for clothes, many women face the same question: should I buy unstitched or go for ready to wear? While both options have their benefits, today we're focusing on which one saves you more money.

What is Unstitched Clothing?

Unstitched clothing means buying fabric that hasn’t been stitched yet. These usually come as 2-piece or 3-piece suits, and you need to get them stitched yourself. Some women sew their clothes at home, while others take them to a tailor. Unstitched suits are widely available in local markets, designer shops, and online stores, especially during lawn season.

What is Ready to Wear?

Ready to wear, also known as pret, includes clothes that are already stitched and ready to use. These are available in all sizes and styles, from casual kurtis to formal suits. You can buy them from clothing brands, boutiques, or online. The idea is simple: buy, wear, and go—no need for tailoring or adjustments.

Cost Comparison: Unstitched vs Ready to Wear

When it comes to saving money, both unstitched and ready to wear have their own advantages and hidden costs.

Unstitched clothing often has a lower starting price. A 3-piece unstitched suit can cost anywhere between Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 8,000, depending on the brand and quality. However, the real cost comes after you buy the fabric. Tailoring charges can range from Rs. 800 to Rs. 2,500. If you choose special designs, laces, or lining, the price goes up even more. Delays and poor stitching from tailors can also be a hassle.

Ready to wear clothing has a higher upfront cost, but you pay one price for everything. A basic 2-piece can cost around Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 5,000, while formal 3-piece suits may go up to Rs. 10,000 or more. But since it’s already stitched and styled, you don’t need to spend extra on tailoring or accessories. Plus, you can often find great deals during sales, making ready to wear more affordable than it looks at first.

Which Option Saves More in the Long Run?

Let’s look at a simple example. If you buy a 3-piece unstitched suit for Rs. 3,500 and pay Rs. 1,500 for stitching, the total becomes Rs. 5,000. If you add Rs. 500 worth of lace, buttons, or lining, the final cost can go up to Rs. 5,500 or more.

On the other hand, a ready to wear suit during a mid-season sale may cost Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 4,500. It’s fully stitched, ready to use, and you don’t need to worry about tailors or extra shopping.

In this case, ready to wear actually saves you money and time, especially if you shop smartly.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing?

Your decision depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.

If you like customizing your clothes and have a good tailor, unstitched may work better for you. It also gives you more control over design and fitting.

If you’re a working woman, a student, or just someone with a busy schedule, ready to wear can be a lifesaver. It’s quick, simple, and often comes in trendy designs without the extra work.

It’s also worth checking sales and promotions. Many brands like Khaadi, Sapphire, Gul Ahmed, and Limelight offer ready to wear suits at discounted prices throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

Unstitched and ready to wear both have their place in a Pakistani woman’s wardrobe. If saving money is your top concern, the choice depends on how you manage tailoring, time, and seasonal sales.

Unstitched suits might seem cheaper at first, but by the time they’re stitched and styled, the cost can add up. Ready to wear can look expensive at first glance, but when bought during a sale, it often turns out to be more economical.

In the end, the smartest choice may be to mix both. Use unstitched for special occasions or personalized designs, and go for ready to wear when you need something quick and affordable.