John DeBoise / Castle Tailors

[Badden]

Would anyone on the LL have experience with John DeBoise of Castle Tailors (the older brother of Edwin DeBoise)?

His pedigree is impressive (Sexton / Nutters, Kilgour), but I remain surprised at his prices, which are meaningfully lower than the other independents (and much lower than the bigger SR prices).

Thanks,
Badden

[Badden]

Anyone?

[Man at C&A]

Yes, but in his capacity as Head Cutter for Cad And The Dandy rather than under his own steam. How the Chinese Walls work between the 2 firms I have no idea, but I'm a happy CATD repeat customer.

[Badden]

Thank you for the reply. Could you please elaborate on his cut (hard/soft?), and receptiveness to client input and multiple fittings.

In particular, I'm also curious to learn how he is so much cheaper than the rest of the Row. I assume there's a trade-off somewhere (eg - cheaper fabrics, less handwork that is outsourced overseas etc.)

[Man at C&A]

The CATD house cut is quite structured, but I have discussed a softer approach with their talented apprentice. It's probably not something I'll go for due to my body shape but I suspect it woudn't be something to cause issues if requested. I've had 2 bespoke orders through the firm (and a hacking jacket in the works).

Both times the coat has been nailed with just the 1 fitting, but with a few tweaks needed on the trousers. I'll find out how ameniable John is to customer input in a couple of weeks when the hacking is ready for basting and we move away from the standard tick-list of features, but so far I've felt to be in the driving seat when ordering and being given sensible advice when I've been reading too much in to opinions I've pick up on internet forums

As for price.... I suspect a degree of 'sending away to warmer climes' may be involved as with CATD, but if the work is skillfully executed (and it is) then what's the problem. I also suspect that the rents, even in EC3, are lower than for the 'Row.

[Badden]

Thanks - the above was very helpful. Please do keep us updated as you receive your hacking jacket.