Member Article

Leeds tailoring entrepreneurs talk suits and success

Leeds-based tailors Owen Scott is something special. Having this year expanded with a new Leeds shop, the Huddersfield branch launched in 2012 and saw year-on-year growth.

Bdaily spoke to co-founders Scott Hufton and Andy Littlewood about their expertise, their roots and where they want Owen Scott to be in 5 years.

As a complete suit-novice, what are the key features of a good fitting suit?

Key features are quality cloth, quality canvases inside the suit and of course, the cut and style. It’s all to do with the shape, lengths and proportions of the suit.

Why is it even important in business to make sure you’ve got a good suit in your wardrobe?

I think in business, you have to look and feel the part. A good suit gives you that edge and commands respect, and that’s absolutely key for business. It’s proven time and time again in research.

A sharp, well-fitting suit makes everyone sit up and take notice, and that’s good for your confidence and authority in the office environment.

Is there a difference seasonally in what men should look for in a suit?

Yes cloth cuts change by season. For example, a fine worsted 9oz suit works a treat in summer as it’s breathable and drapes well. In winter, a flannel suit is better as it has a wool texture which isn’t as smooth as a worsted, but it still looks the part.

If you want a suit that will see the whole year through, I would recommend an 11oz wool/cashmere suit which is a great weight for all seasons.

The key style at the moment is 1/2 button, single breasted, slim lapels and fitted. But I see double breasted with a twist making a comeback next season.

How did you get into the tailoring business?

I started in the tailoring industry training in a factory making suits when I was 22, before going on to manage a bespoke tailors at 28. After nine years, I was itching to have my own place so I opened my first shop in Huddersfield in 2010, then an office on Savile Row in London and this year we opened in Leeds.

Why did you feel there was a gap in the market for Owen Scott to develop?

I just felt tailoring wasn’t moving in the right direction. There were no modern tailors with a twist doing their own thing, pushing the boundaries. It was very safe and boring, and I knew people were crying out for something new.

That’s why I opened Owen Scott four years ago and why it continues to go from strength to strength. We now make over 10 bespoke suits a week for people across the country, including celebrities.

Where do you think Owen Scott will be in 5 years? What’s your business/expansion plans?

There’ll be many more Owen Scott bespoke tailors in major cities. Each store will have bespoke and ready-to-wear options, hire wear, alterations and male grooming offerings. We’ve built a strong brand and customer base which I’ve every confidence can go much further. Watch this space.

Where does Owen Scott fit in the retail industry?

We’re a high end brand, but we dare to be different. It’s this twist that makes the brand so strong.

We will slowly place tailors throughout Yorkshire with Manchester being next, but of course we already have an office on Savile Row, London, where we measure regularly so who knows where we could end up? It’s exciting.

For more information on Owen Scott or to book an appointment, please visit the website www.owenscott.co.uk or visit the shops: Owen Scott, upstairs in Central Arcade, Leeds (off Briggate) or on King Street in Huddersfield.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .