Hanging Out

I suppose it is only more evidence that I am a clothing geek, but I am quite content to hang out at a tailor's shop. Years ago, it was common for idle dandies to while away their afternoons drinking port and talking flannel at Rubinacci or Poole before moving on to the theater or the gaming tables. We have less time for that today, but our small world is not paid much attention to by media of any sort and the premises of a well connected tailor remain the best way to hear the gossip and learn about what is new.

For example, had I not wandered around Davies for a bit I would never have learned that one of the great old names in tweed, Hunter's of Brora, is weaving once more, seven years after closing. I saw books of keeper's tweed, as well as more wearable 16 ounce/480 gram cloth in patterns that have not been available for a couple of decades. I am uncertain whether Hunters can remain alive with offerings at that weight when so much of the market has moved to 14 ounces (420 grams) but those swatches got me thinking of tweed again. And I never would have known about them any other way.

That said, it is a shame that few of the tailors I know have much of a facility for customer interaction. The customers are the enthusiasts after all - it is they who will talk each other into an extra jacket or one more pair of slipons. Hanging out takes little more than two wing chairs and a bottle of refreshments, and it should be encouraged.

Photo by Chloë Lederman