The London Lounge

Is it poor form or does it make a tailor/ artisan roll his eyes to see a client come in with a physical list of things he wants to remember to bring up during a fitting or initial discussion?

Assuming that I am not demanding or too nit-picky, will the simple act of bringing a list set us off on the wrong foot?

Much preferable to forgetting key specifications. I have always been using lists and pictures and whatever. However, it may depend on what you write on your piece of paper...

It's a good idea so that all of your concerns and specs can be noted at the ordering.

It's for both sides. First, you leave nothing to chance. Second, the tailor has a clear idea of what you want.

For what it's worth, Poole was very happy that I brought a list went I went to see them for the first time. But they themselves are big fans of lists, having a preprinted form that starts at the head and goes down to the cuffs. The cutter carefully noted down what I wanted, remarking that he wished every new customer were as thorough, as it ensures the customer's wishes are clear at the outset and prevents possible future disappointment -- for example, I like a very long lapel button hole, which Poole ordinarily doesn't make, but will if you ask. My guess is that most tailors probably would welcome a customer's list of things like that, for the same reason as Poole. What tailors don't like is when customers ask them to deviate widely from a house style.

CollarMelton,

Although I am in theory, a student of human behavior, how are you supposed to know that deviation from the House Style is viewed with contempt, if you don't get the "roll of the eyes" or expletives when you articulate or enumerate your requirements to a Master Tailor?

I have come to the conclusion that unwillingness to deviate from a House Style should be posted on the door, business cards, linings, and so on, since it will trump any list, verbal or written.

Terry Teplitz

Terry --

Given your efforts to find a tailor who will make the sack suits you prefer, I don't disagree that a tailor's upfront warning - with or without facial gestures - that he won't deviate from his house style would be most helpful. I think A & S folks practice a special wince for customers who ask for anything non–A & S.

But for the things that do not necessarily pain a tailor to do, a list of specifics provided at the outset surely would help prevent a disgruntled customer when everything's cut and sewn.

CollarMelton,

So, if may paraphrase, "the House always wins."