Today I’m chatting with Dan Harkin of Oscar Hunt Tailors, a made-to-measure tailoring service located in Norwood, who have recently expanded into Adelaide from the eastern states.
I haven’t known Dan for long, but his vision for Oscar Hunt and his commitment to service aligns so closely with my own that I immediately knew I had to share his talents with you. Enjoy!
Tell us a bit about yourself and Oscar Hunt Tailors -
My name’s Dan, I’m the managing partner of Oscar Hunt Adelaide and we are a made to measure tailoring company founded in 2010. We have showrooms in Melbourne, Adelaide & Sydney.
What do you love most about your job? -
The biggest enjoyment I have in this business is really getting to know and meet such a broad scope of people. I spend at least 1-2 hours with a client initially and a large part of what we wear comes down to who we are and our sensibilities. So really spending so much time with people and being of service to that is what I enjoy the most.
Talk us through your process when creating a suit for a groom -
Suiting and clothing in general is all about communication, expressing your relationship to an event, a job or just everyday life we transmit this message before we even begin to speak.
So initially I honestly want the groom and the people I meet to get the chance to relax and feel comfortable. It’s then really important for me to get to know who they are and what they do to help me scratch past the surface of just a wedding. This can guide me in helping them decide what they may want to wear, if they’re unsure, or recommend variations to their initial ideas to make it more personal.
The fitting and measuring process is functional and has a variation based on some preferences but largely it’s the most straight forward part.
What are your top tips for choosing your wedding outfit? -
Go with your gut and be as honest about your ideal outfit as possible. I know that sounds obvious but I think wedding outfits can often become overly designed or multi-layered to feel distinct from others, but less is often much much more.
Are there any trends that you absolutely love, or would like to see couples leave behind? -
No not really, everyone has their own expression and if what I help them make and wear feels perfect for them I don’t stand in their way. I may test the waters occasionally with suggestions but it’s your outfit!
What tailored item is most worth splurging on? -
The Jacket without a doubt. A well tailored and considered jacket can ultimately be very versatile and be worn in a multitude of ways.
What has been your most rewarding creative project to date? -
Opening and designing the Adelaide showroom. It’s been a labour of love and I’m extremely proud of being able to bring our incredible showroom experience to SA.
What one song or album could you listen to on repeat? -
A Tribe called Quest - Midnight Marauders
What do you do to take time out and relax? -
I frequently meditate and exercise at home and I often meet friends at an indoor climbing gym in Norwood a couple times a week.
If you had a choice between two superpowers, being invisible or flying, which would you choose and why? -
Flying without a doubt, the views would be stunning and imagine being able to travel anywhere in the world without being on a plane!
Thanks so much Dan! It’s such a treat to visit and experience the Oscar Hunt showroom, I hope you’ll all make time to visit and get to know Dan yourselves. Appointments can be made at www.oscarhunt.com.au and you’ll find them on the socials at -
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