The London Lounge

I am going to start in the City come September and I would like to buy my first proper suit. Can anyone tell me whether bespoke prices can be negotiated (possibly on the grounds that although I’m currently just a poor student, my impecunious situation will rapidly resolve itself...)?

Some of the bigger houses are alarmingly easy with credit, although you will certainly need a deposit for a first-time purchase. If you're planning this route, get your first suit shipped to arrive at the end of August and pay the invoice end of September.

There might be a summer sale or other promotion if the dollar keeps collapsing. If you bargain too aggressively, though, you will likely end up with the tailor you deserve.

d.laurence wrote:I am going to start in the City come September and I would like to buy my first proper suit. Can anyone tell me whether bespoke prices can be negotiated (possibly on the grounds that although I’m currently just a poor student, my impecunious situation will rapidly resolve itself...)?

Generally not - you might extract a couple of months credit - or with some use your credit card (can you persuade your Bank Manager t help?) but there is little scope.

I would suggest that you look at the likes of George (if he is taking new customers) or a provincial tailor. There again Merrion who was quoting £1300 or so for a bespoke suit suddenly discovered that increased trade led to the imposition of VAT (add 17.5%) and that he needed more staff etc (he has just merged) and suddenly cane up to close to the low end of Row prices. Just goes to show that some will move up and UK prices do not compare with either Chan or Yao in Hong Kong. the difference in quality is imperceptible - the price less than 40%..

A very sad state of affairs.