Confessions of a tailor

As seen in the South Wales Echo

How long have you been a tailor?
I have been in the retail industry for 22 years.

How did you become a tailor?
I started in 1988 for the original Hawkes, which was based in the West Country. It was founded by the regional manager of the long gone Harry Fentons. It was very much an old school service back then.

What inspired you to chose this career?
I fell into the job really. I had tried university, watersking, cheffing, hotel work and fisheries management, which was all part of growing up. However, being a tailor was in my blood. My uncle owned Fosters and is now with Adams and my mother used to work in Harrods for Charles Jordan.

Have you always been interested in clothes and style?
I was actually a late developer when it came to fashion. I never had the money as an adolescent to be in with the ‘cool crew’, but I bet I could give them a run for their money now!

Is there a lot of training involved?
Yes! A lot. Being a tailor is not just about stocking the shelves. Every customer is gold! It's taken me 10 years to harness the skills to get a fit just right, and I'd like to think that customers satisfaction is also of the highest standard.

Do you learn on the job?
Mistakes are made in all businesses, it is how you fix them that is paramount. I learn somthing new every day and hopefully will continue to do so.

What are the best and worst things about it, the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the job?
Watching a garment being designed for the shop, then seeing a customer love it and consequently buy it is the best thing about the job. Thieves are my pet hate! I also dislike being on my feet all day and on average, I’d say I clock up about 60miles a week.

Do you have a favourite item of clothing?
I really like Jeffery West shoes in general, but my favourite item at home is my Without Prejudice grey suit.

What do you think makes an outfit?
A combination of things make a great outfit. Fit, colour contrasting, style and you have to make sure it doesn’t look dated! An outfit should make you feel great, look great and therefore ooze confidence.

What's so special about your job?
That would have to be my client base. I can say, without question, that they have supported me through thick and thin and they are the reason I am still in business today.

What qualities do you need to be a tailor, why does it suit you so well?
 The main qualities you need is a an eye for detail and a sense of style, that is why it suits me so well. I write columns on style and fashion, so I need to know my stuff.

What advice do you have for anyone who wants to become a tailor?
The best advice I can give to someone who wants to be a tailor is to get a job in an independent store to start off with. Listen, watch and learn and a good mentor will teach you all you need to know. You only get smarter by learning from a smarter opponent.

 

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