re: Perlis Suits

Perlis carries traditional conservative suits catering to an uptown New Orleans clientele. They have some designer labels. They were especially known for poplin, seersucker and linen. I have found Perlis to be overpriced and lacking quality of similarly priced suits. Not long ago, Perlis purchased Cohn Turner in Baton Rouge. Supposedly, Perlis intended to update its styles in an attempt to attract a younger and more fashion forward customer. Over the years, Perlis had some good salesmen who actually knew about construction and fabric. The last time I went to the New Orleans location I was unimpressed from the standpoint of quality, value and knowledge. The salesman did not know fused vs. unfused, canvassing, types of lining, where the fabric originated, stitching, what country the suit was constructed, etc. He told me a certain suit was fully canvassed that was clearly fused. He obviously did not know what canvassing was. Personally, I think there are much better suits in terms of price and quality to be had in New Orleans, and if you are willing to order online and have tailored, then there are even much better options. Perhaps Perlis has changed for the better since it has been about a year since I have been there. Having said the above, if you are willing to buy a traditional, off the rack suit constructed in China for $200 to $250 more than what you should, then Perlis is fine. Some people are willing to pay more for the convenience of the location. Finally, the alterations are not "free"; you are paying for them in the price of the suit plus some. I bring my suits to a master tailor who gives them back to me perfectly in three days or less.