A Day With Jack Taylor

I had the most wonderful and unexpected afternoon. On a whim, we decided to stop by the iconic Jack Taylor of Beverly Hills shop in hopes of simply catching a glimpse of the great tailor himself. Not having an appointment and not being in the market for a bespoke suit myself, what came of our visit was truly awesome.

As with any quality brand that has lasted six decades under the direction of the label’s namesake designer, I expected to fawn over the stunning hand-woven Harris Tweed fabrics that were being brought to life as made-to-measure suits by skilled, hands. I expected to be transported into a world dedicated to the brand and its lifestyle and, thanks to the recent documentary Jack Taylor of Beverly Hills, on this special occasion, I expected to take a brief journey into Hollywood history as I perused through a plenitude of signed photos from famous clients and friends. What I did not fully expect was the outpouring of generosity and the incredibly warm welcome we received from the Taylors themselves.

In their classically authentic style, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor were impeccably dressed. As we entered the shop, we found them sitting in iconic leather Club chairs behind a classic oak desk – working side by side as they have done for over sixty years. Within seconds my cheek was getting a kiss from Mr. Taylor and a round of diet sodas were being poured. Mrs. Taylor opted for hot chocolate.

Both in their nineties (Mr. Taylor is celebrating his 94^th birthday next week), time has been kind. Though they each admit to having shrunk in height, they remain sharp, bright and energetic with a profound wisdom that can only come from life experience. The passion for their business is palpable. Still working full days, they clearly love what they do.

Though they have outlasted (and outlived) most of their friends and clients, business is good. And, while they are quick to quip about the unsightly jeans and sloppy ball caps worn by the group of tourists piling onto a double-decker tour bus outside their shop, they are equally optimistic that the next generation will mature to have a genuine appreciation for well-made, classic clothing that lasts for generations.

It is documented that the Jack Taylor shop used to be the place where all the Hollywood gentlemen would casually convene over a game of billiards and a glass of scotch. Though we weren’t in the company of Frank Sinatra, Jack Lemmon, Elvis Presley and Cary Grant during our visit, the consummate hosts generously entertained us with some of their favorite old time stories. Mrs. Taylor even offered some profound words on life and love.

As a designer and as a human, I respect all that Jack and Bonnie Taylor have accomplished and now know first-hand that their success and longevity is no doubt related to their natural ability to cultivate sincere relationships.

I have a lot to learn from these inspiring folks and I am grateful to have been welcomed into their fascinating world for an afternoon. And now, as Mrs. Taylor did, I will leave you with some words of wisdom.