Hawkins Tailors on Cavendish Row closes forever and Dublin loses another traditional business.
Tailors Des Leech and Patrick Murphy have been working from an 18th century building in Cavendish Row in Dublin for most of their working lives. Hawkins Tailors was set up in 1916 by William Hawkins and was owned by his son Michael Hawkins when Des Leech began training as a tailor in 1952. Patrick Murphy joined the company in 1959. The two tailors continued working together at Cavendish Row after Michael Hawkins retired in 1992.
Patrick Murphy sums up the fashions of today,
You never see anyone elegantly dressed, there's no such thing as style anymore.
Des Leech has tailored for generations of the same family. He styles clothing according to individual lifestyle requirements,
That’s probably the beauty of what we do.
Patrick Cooney is one of a new generation of customers to recognise the value of bespoke tailoring. Customer satisfaction is always a priority for Des Leech who advises,
This is our suit and your suit so be careful of it, we take pride in what you are wearing.
Over the years, the proximity of Hawkins Tailors to The Gate Theatre has assisted both parties. Joy Gleeson of The Gate’s wardrobe department outlines the benefit Des Leech’s knowledge and tailoring skills bring to theatrical productions,
They’re invaluable, really invaluable.
Des Leech and Patrick Murphy have spent more time together in Cavendish Row than they have at home with their wives. The sale of the building sees their shop closing forever and brings their time working together to an end,
It’s a sad occasion really.
At the age of 86, Patrick Murphy is reluctant to make plans for his retirement,
Sure I don’t know if I’ll be alive tomorrow, no point tempting providence.
He might get around to making himself some garments as he notes a working tailor has no clothes.
A 'Nationwide’ report broadcast on 11 March 2002. The reporter is Valerie Waters.
