While Savvy sort of gets why some women love retail direct sales lines like Worth, wild horses couldn’t keep her from hitting her favorite shopping haunts. The same can’t be said for 99 percent of the men she knows, so it’s a wonder a concept like J. Hilburn didn’t exist before now. Offering fully custom shirts and semi-custom trousers as well as cashmere sweaters, polos, outerwear and accessories (cufflinks, belts and scarves), J. Hilburn is a godsend for busy boys who love Zegna-like quality— and want it for about half the price. While the thought of 300-plus fabrics (a core collection of solids, patterns and checks in addition to quarterly seasonal trend offerings) plus collar, cuff, body, placket, pleat and pocket options might overwhelm, the good news is that each client is assigned a personal consultant to guide them through the process. Unlike other direct sales outfits, J.Hilburn doesn’t expect their gentlemen to swill Chardonnay while perusing the performance polos— they bring the goods to your home, office or anywhere else convenient to you. After a few simple measurements, your order is placed (and no minimums, how delightful) and hand-delivered to you three weeks later. Now if only Savvy could get that adorable Zac Posen to pop by with some dresses… J. Hilburn is represented locally by Michelle Desrosiers, 202-580-5706
