Suits you!
A well-crafted shirt is the cornerstone of a gentleman’s wardrobe. Whether you wear one daily for work or reserve it for special occasions, no closet is complete without at least one impeccable shirt — ideally, a bespoke one.
Why go bespoke?
Bespoke tailoring is more than just a luxury; it's a celebration of individuality. Each garment is crafted from scratch to match your precise measurements and personal style. From fabric and linings to collar and cuff styles, bespoke lets you express your personality through craftsmanship that feels — and fits — exceptional.
In today’s tailoring scene, bespoke has evolved into a seamless marriage of personal expression and precision craftsmanship. And few names embody that ethos as consistently as Ascot Chang.
Founded in Hong Kong by master tailor Ascot Chang, who honed his skills in Shanghai, the brand has built a global reputation for excellence. Chang believed that great tailoring should not only reflect a man's lifestyle and taste but also fit flawlessly. “My customers bring their own style to the shirt,” he once said. “I give the style substance.”
Today, the family-run business carries on his legacy, blending the heritage of traditional Shanghai tailoring with modern sensibilities.
Bringing bespoke to Manila
Recently, Justin Chang, Ascot Chang’s grandson and business development manager, flew to Manila for a special three-day Ascot Chang Trunk Show at Rustan’s Makati. It was a milestone event — marking the first visit by the brand’s principal and master tailor Ivan Yik since 2020 — to personally cater to their loyal Philippine clientele.
“One of the highlights of this trip is the introduction of a new collar style — the Ascot Collar,” shared Justin. “This is our response to frequent client requests for a collar that maintains structure and elegance when worn open, without a tie.”
The Ascot Collar is a game-changer. Designed with a unique construction, it features a one-piece collar band that integrates directly into the shirt’s placket, paired with a separate collar leaf. This clever design ensures the collar stands upright and retains its crisp look — no tie or jacket necessary.
“This design addresses the common issue of the ‘collapsing collar’ and ensures a consistently polished appearance,” Justin added.
“For years, the Ascot Collar was a bespoke secret, admired by clients for its ability to elevate an open-collar look,” said Tony Chang, chairman of Ascot Chang, in a press statement. “We’re thrilled to now offer this refined and practical design in our ready-to-wear collection at Rustan’s, allowing more men to enjoy this signature detail.”
A legacy in details
Beyond its innovative collars, Ascot Chang is known for meticulous craftsmanship: hand-turned collars, ultra-fine single-needle French seams (sewn at 22 stitches per inch), and luxurious mother-of-pearl buttons. Each shirt is selected, fitted, and handcrafted with precision in Hong Kong.
And while bespoke might sound intimidating to some, Ascot Chang’s understanding of regional style makes it accessible — even in tropical climates like Manila.
“We always start with the fabric,” Justin noted, showcasing their lightweight Safari Jackets and unstructured blazers. “Clients can choose breathable materials tailored for humid weather. We also reduce shoulder padding or adjust the lining to make garments lighter and more comfortable.”
A smart investment
Contrary to popular belief, going bespoke isn’t prohibitively expensive. Consider this: Instead of spending repeatedly on off-the-rack or fast-fashion pieces that never quite fit, invest in a shirt that’s made for you. The cost may be comparable — and the longevity, style, and comfort far greater. It’s a smart investment you won’t regret.
More than shirts
While shirts remain at the heart of the brand, Ascot Chang offers a full range of high-quality menswear — from silk ties and cashmere sweaters to tailored blazers and hand-embroidered monograms. Whether your style leans towards business, casual, or formal, you’ll find both ready-to-wear and fully bespoke options to suit your wardrobe needs. Yes, suit yourself!
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The Ascot Collar is now available on select ready-to-wear shirts at Rustan’s Manila. It can also be included in all bespoke and made-to-order (MTO) shirts placed through Rustan’s.
