During my recent travels, I have been able to reflect clearly on the value of purchasing custom-made garments compared to the value of purchasing off-the-peg. In specific categories such as our suiting, it clearly stands out how we can offer prestigious Italian fabrics with a sartorial make that Clients register very clearly as an incredible value.
Where this value seems more difficult to comprehend, for both Stylists and Clients, is in our casual offering. As we pave the way in custom-made casual, it may take some time for Clients to appreciate the value, the need and the incredible service we offer at J.Hilburn for the casual side of their wardrobes.
Our current casual product lineup—from 5-pockets and chinos to outerwear, some shirting and knits—is pretty unique to find in a custom-made collection, but these are treated more like common commodity fashion pieces in mall brands and department stores. I am not sure if you, like me, have spent any time in a mall recently, but the effects of the pandemic do not seem to have changed much when it comes to the assortment that is currently available. For example, 5-pockets are focused on “standard” waist sizes such as 32 and 34, and perhaps 36. Anything smaller or larger in a waist size are scarcely available across brands, and of course the lengths most brands offer stop at 32 or 34 inches, meaning most Clients will face alteration costs or simply wear their pants too long or too short. I guess that’s a look you get used to when you buy off the peg?
Personally, I love receiving my 5-pocket pants directly at home, and because of my non-conforming shape, it’s a relief to know that the waist sits exactly where it should, the leg opening is how I wanted it, and guess what? The length is perfect. Not least, I have my discreet monogram above my right-hand pocket in a color I chose at the point of order. By the way, the 4-way stretch, the brushed twill, and the performance fabrics come in an exclusive range of wearable colors that I can wear across all of my outfits. It seems like that value alone against my off-the-peg alternatives should be enough to convince anyone that custom-made casual is a stand-alone upgrade against any off-the-peg brand out there.
When selecting a knit, my options extend even more widely, and I can start by choosing an exclusive fabric in wool, cotton or one of our luxurious blends. I can then decide if I want a polo style, a shirt style, or even a sweater replacement style as a warm layer for fall and winter. I get to pick from multiple collars, cuffs, pockets, a hoodie or a full zip, and so on. Then I get to choose from 27 thread colors for monogramming where I want, and 21 button colors—I truly have the ability to configure a style exactly how I want it. I don’t take this for granted, because where else could I find something like this in the market, let alone in the mall?
At the end of this process, I have built a knit just for me, and it will be cut by expert hands using proprietary technology, and then constructed in a process that is built around my garments’ requirements and not the other way around. I am comforted in knowing that minimal waste occurs compared to mass-produced items, which end up with end-of-season leftover product in endless size runs that must be discarded. This conscious consumption choice is meaningful for me, and why wouldn’t I want to pay a small premium for a unique product that I will wear, probably season after season, due to its targeted fit and thoughtful purchase?
Lastly, as a Client, whether I own one or many J.Hilburn pieces from J.Hilburn, I can call or text my personal Stylist whenever convenient for me, giving them perhaps a heads-up for an upcoming occasion or last-minute advice for outfitting an impromptu vacation. I always know that my Stylist can look into my past purchases to guide me through the ongoing pleasure of building and curating my wardrobe. My Stylist will be on hand to refit me from time to time, know my preferences and the things I love, and use this information to keep advising me on how to look my very best for all the big and small moments in life.
I hope this helps you prepare for the next time anyone may question the value of a custom-made product, and what makes our product here at J.Hilburn something valuable for every man in America.
