For one Greenville custom clothier, the business is personal
Scott Hughes works with some of the most successful people in the Carolinas. On occasion, he even organizes their closets or packs their travel bags.
As a personal clothier for Tom James, Hughes helps people build wardrobes around their lifestyle. The company has specialized in bespoke clothing for men and women since it was founded by American businessman Spencer Hays in Nashville in 1966.
Tom James typically brings its clothing services to clients’ homes or workplaces, but I met Hughes at their Greenville office, where he’s worked since 2015. He is dressed in an impeccably tailored brown suit. Courteous, yet calm, he asks if I’d like a beverage before ushering me to the showroom.
Before he started working with clients, Hughes went through a rigorous apprenticeship and months of training. His consulting services begin by giving me an in-depth survey.
We sit at a table while Hughes asks questions that go way beyond my favorite color and waist size. Where do I typically go? Who do I see? Where do I shop? What does my upcoming travel schedule look like? Do I tend to get hot or cold? What kinds of shoes do I usually wear? “I need to know everything you’re going to be doing in your clothing,” he says.
Most clients who use Tom James end up commissioning an entire wardrobe, ranging from suits and business casual clothes to custom jeans, polos, raincoats, shoes, and accessories. “That’s really where people start enjoying what we do,” says Hughes.
Tom James clothing levels
Clothing options are divided into five levels based on fabric quality and construction. Hughes points to the top tier on his tablet. “This is 100 percent handmade in the last hand-stitched tailoring shop in the US, in Chicago.” Tom James owns the mills and the shops where the garments are cut. This means Hughes can access the entire inventory in real time.
Clients also see the full cost of their clothing up front. “Our pricing is exactly the same for men and women,” Hughes says.
I select the Royal Classic line that Hughes often personally wears. These garments are 80 percent handmade in Maryland.
Books of fabric swatches have now landed on the table in a parade of colors and styles. My eyes are drawn to a slate-blue wool jacket. Hughes shows me how several different outfits could be built around it. Even the white shirt he recommends is elevated beyond a standard dress shirt by its fine texture.
While taking my measurements, Hughes lands a few well-timed jokes. He stresses the importance of staying relaxed during fittings to ensure the best results. Once an order is placed, the wardrobe will be hand-delivered in six to eight weeks. Two on-site tailors can make additional alterations if needed.
This service isn’t for everyone, and Hughes is the first to acknowledge that. Yet his client list is broader than the expected attorneys, business owners, and executives. “I have a client who has a woodworking business,” Hughes says. “He’s obviously not wearing the clothes to work, but he does social events and wants to look nice.”
Hughes’ favorite part of his job is getting to know his clients and being able to help them. “We make judgments within seconds of seeing someone,” he says. “If I can give someone an advantage in that area, I love doing that.”
Team Colors
Tom James partners with more than 30 universities to offer custom suits, blazers, and sport coats with an officially licensed lining. Clemson University, University of Georgia, and North Carolina State are among the options for this upscale way to show your school spirit.
Tom James of Greenville, 68 Pointe Cir., Ste. 2103, Greenville
tomjames.com
