It's a family affair

Founded 1982 now in its 29th year, formerly known as The London Tailoring Co it is now a third generation family business owned and run by Jim, Sue and Phil Darlaston.

Philip James is a little gem of an independent retailer for any man, or woman buying for her partner, who wants an item of quality but with unique design. Their clothing ranges cover all areas from timeless classic, through contemporary to directional fashion, incorporating lad on the town through to business executive. Product lines include Suits (Daywear and Evening), Jackets, Knitwear, Trousers, Jeans, Shirts, Shoes and accessories such as Belts, Ties, Cufflinks as well as seasonal items including Gloves & Scarves.

A selection of brands offered include Digel, Brook Taverner, Peter Van Holland,Van Kollem, Meyer, Fynch Hatton, Seidensticker, Cottonfield, Camel Active, Loakes, Gucinari and Jimmy Bee. Two new fashion brands arriving for spring included Gabicci Vintage and Drunknmunky.

They also offer a hirewear department with lounge suits, Tailcoats and Frockcoats for the Wedding customer, Dinner suits and Tuxedo’s for the business customer and Prom suits for the school leaver. With added benefits such as personal service, product knowledge, a relaxed shopping experience and free use of the customer car park, this has to be worth a visit in the near future.

Says Phil,

“We are all aware that the general retail industry is in challenging but interesting times.

Towns and cities up and down the country are losing shops due to out of town centres, internet shopping and of course the economic climate. But there will always be a need for a good bricks and mortor independent. Customers travel further today than previously, either to and from work or in the course of work and therefore can spend their money over a larger area. Because of this we may lose some business but it also works in reverse and we pick up good business from outside the local area. A good independent shop can adapt to the varying needs of its customers relatively quickly and this is a key area to focus on.

Most men do not shop for clothes weekly, many not even monthly, so when they find somewhere that fits their needs they tend to be fairly loyal. With the planned development in Hinckley not too far away, it is up to us and other retailers to up their game make sure that Hinckley becomes a shopping destination in the future and so benefit from any recovery as and when it happens”.