Kilgour Entry-Level Bespoke

[kirsch]

Hello all,

Could anyone provide me some feedback on Kilgour's entry-level bespoke suits?

Thanks,

Chris

[Concordia]

It's a good service, and worth the money-- especially if you save by not getting the basted fitting. I would recommend paying up for at least the first suit, BTW, until you are confident that they have your pattern nailed.

Can't compare directly to full bespoke, as my only winter suit made in London by Kilgour is about 8 years old. My pattern's changed a bit, and so might have some of their methods. But overall workmanship is pretty good. Certainly better than anything from HK. And the cut is echt-Kilgour.

If I have a nagging doubt, it is that perhaps the innards of the jacket are stiffer than they need to be. Also, the belt loops look a little cheesy (get brace tops to avoid them), and the lapel buttonhole (not standard on entry level) is not up to the quality of the London boutonniere.

Still, it is a great service, well-priced. If you're tempted, you will probably like what they do.

[masterfred]

Kirsch, do a search on AAAC and SF under the keywords "kilgour" or under forum member name "whoopee," who also posts here at LL. He has used the made in Shanghai service at least once, I believe. He has a post comparing the Hong Kong tailors Chan and A-Man that has a couple of pics with his Kilgour suit.

EDIT: I forgot Concordia also used them!

[jklu]

I'm the "whoopee" masterfred referred to. Concordia's comments are spot-on. All I would change is that the basted fitting on the first suit should be mandatory. The cutters/fitters in London are excellent, but the chances of a near perfect suit without a fitting or a tried and true pattern are very small. If I liked the style I'd probably still use them.

[masterfred]

Ah, I was waiting for you to jump in. Kirsch, I don't remember exactly what Kilgour charges for the entry-level service, but if IMMSMC, you may be better off trying out one of the independent tailors - I believe their prices for full bespoke are within shouting range of young Mr. Hitchcock or indeed, Desmond Merrion's services.

You may, of course, be interested in trying the Kilgour style on at a reduced price, which they would be glad for you to do.