In Conversation with David Rigby

At Private White V.C., we're renowned for our commitment to craft and quality, having produced clothing here at our own factory in Manchester for over 150 years. But what many may not know is that we also offer a bespoke made-to-measure service, allowing our customers to create one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to their exact specifications. With access to an archive of over 15,000 garments dating back to the 1920s and the unparalleled expertise of our makers, we work alongside our bespoke clients to bring their vision to life.

What did you enjoy most about your made to measure experience?

When I came in to discuss my ideas I was made to feel at ease and as though my views mattered. I also loved the fact that there were so many people offering their input and expertise about the design, fit, type and colour of fabric, hardware, etc.

My jacket was inspired by one I bought on eBay from the early 1970s. Instead of merely replicating it, the experts at Private White offered some fantastic suggestions that truly elevated the piece. They made sure every detail was carefully considered, and when I left after placing my order, I had complete confidence that the team would deliver exactly what I wanted with the highest level of quality. That confidence was well-founded. The communication throughout the process was excellent, and the day I picked it up in person was just as satisfying.

One of my absolute favourite pieces is my Crombie Greatcoat, which I’ve had for nearly 20 years and still looks brand new. I actually wore it earlier this year during a visit to Private White, and James was quite impressed with it, even asking one of your colleagues to take some photos.

How do you feel when you wear your bespoke jacket?

Confident and at ease in my own skin. I'm fairly certain that I'm not going to see anyone else wearing something that looks even vaguely like my jacket and I love that feeling.

Back in September, we had the pleasure of meeting David, who was introduced to us by a friend who knew of his passion for unique, heritage clothing. Since then, David has become a regular and welcome visitor at the Private White V.C. headquarters. When the idea of crafting a bespoke suede jacket for him arose, we saw it as the perfect opportunity to document his journey and highlight this often-overlooked service we provide. After filming a short walk through video on the creation of his bespoke jacket (which you can watch above), we sat down with David in our design studio to learn more about his thoughts on the process.

What do you consider most important when purchasing a new garment?

Fit and quality. I don’t buy many pieces, but the ones I do, I want to wear for years. I have overcoats that I’ve owned for over 20 years, and my favourite suit is still the one I bought for my daughter’s communion in 2001. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more conscious of how the clothes I wear fit me. Although I had never commissioned a bespoke piece until I discovered Private White, I always aim to choose clothes that look like they were made for me, not like I’ve borrowed them from someone else’s wardrobe.

What did you enjoy most about your made to measure experience?

When I came in to discuss my ideas I was made to feel at ease and as though my views mattered. I also loved the fact that there were so many people offering their input and expertise about the design, fit, type and colour of fabric, hardware, etc.

My jacket was inspired by one I bought on eBay from the early 1970s. Instead of merely replicating it, the experts at Private White offered some fantastic suggestions that truly elevated the piece. They made sure every detail was carefully considered, and when I left after placing my order, I had complete confidence that the team would deliver exactly what I wanted with the highest level of quality. That confidence was well-founded. The communication throughout the process was excellent, and the day I picked it up in person was just as satisfying.

You mentioned that the design for your bespoke jacket was based off a 1970s eBay find. Are you a collector of archival fashion and could you share with us a favourite piece?
 
I wouldn’t call myself a collector of archival fashion, and I rarely buy items from eBay. However, I do have an appreciation for certain styles from the early 70s, many of which haven’t really made a comeback. What I love about purchasing something from that era is the uniqueness—knowing I’m unlikely to see anyone else wearing anything similar. This sense of individuality partly inspired my bespoke piece, where I requested that the large teardrop-shaped collar be further accentuated.

One of my absolute favourite pieces is my Crombie Greatcoat, which I’ve had for nearly 20 years and still looks brand new. I actually wore it earlier this year during a visit to Private White, and James was quite impressed with it, even asking one of your colleagues to take some photos.

Who’s your biggest style icon?

Cary Grant. He exuded a timeless elegance and wore beautifully made clothes with confidence and elan. Not that I'm saying that I'm in any way like him, but at least I can shoot for the stars!

What would you say is your greatest achievement?

An interesting question... Until recently, I would say one of the things I was most proud of was gaining my first class honours degree in mathematics but that changed once I walked both of my daughters down the aisle.

How do you feel when you wear your bespoke jacket?

Confident and at ease in my own skin. I'm fairly certain that I'm not going to see anyone else wearing something that looks even vaguely like my jacket and I love that feeling.