Newly opened on Magazine Street, Kilby Suiting Atelier may be a new name in custom menswear, but it’s steeped in the rich culture of New Orleans. Founded by James Collier and Kristen Engelsen, this boutique brand is the embodiment of their love for the city and their dedication to the art of fine tailoring.
James, a true New Orleanian, has spent over a decade perfecting his craft in menswear. He’s dressed some of Louisiana’s biggest names—Drew Brees, Eli Manning, Daniel Cormier, and Jayden Daniels—but for James, it’s never been just about the high-profile clients.
“There’s something incredibly special about creating a one-of-a-kind suit for someone,” James says. “It’s not just about the fit; it’s about the connection we build with the person wearing it. That’s where the magic really happens.”
This connection is the heart of Kilby Suiting Atelier. Every client who steps through their doors is treated to a deeply personalized experience. It all starts with a thoughtful consultation where James dives into each client’s style, preferences, and needs. He takes meticulous measurements and carefully studies body posture to ensure a fit that’s nothing short of perfect, creating a custom pattern for each individual—no off-the-rack shortcuts.
Next comes the fun part: choosing fabrics. Clients are invited to explore Kilby’s curated collection of the finest materials, sourced from prestigious mills in Italy, England, and France. From Super 150s wool to cashmere and luxurious linens, every option is top-tier. Custom-designed linings, often featuring unique patterns or personalized monograms, add that extra touch of exclusivity. And after a series of fittings, clients leave with more than just a suit—they leave with a piece of art, crafted to last a lifetime.
“In a world dominated by fast fashion, we want to slow things down,” Kristen explains. “We’re all about taking the time to thoughtfully design garments that are truly one-of-a-kind, appreciating the handcrafted details, and creating clothing that you’ll love and cherish for life’s most special moments.”
The name Kilby is a tribute to James’ grandfather, James Kilby Collier, a man known for his impeccable style. The brand captures the timeless elegance of its namesake while embracing the laid-back, vibrant spirit of New Orleans.
“New Orleans has a unique energy,” James says. “It’s relaxed yet sophisticated, vibrant yet grounded. That’s what we aim to reflect in our designs.”
This philosophy is woven into Kilby’s house style, which emphasizes laid-back elegance through lightweight fabrics, half-lined and half-canvassed construction, deconstructed shoulders, and a refined drape.
“Our goal is to create suits that not only look incredible but feel incredible too,” James says. “We use the best materials, but we also make sure our suits are comfortable and easy to wear. New Orleans is hot, after all!”
This shared vision and dedication are evident in every detail of Kilby Suiting Atelier. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed into a warm, inviting space that feels more like visiting a friend’s historic Uptown home than a typical retail shop. The atelier’s design, with its antique furnishings, local artwork, and a touch of Southern hospitality, reflects the character and charm of New Orleans.
“There’s nothing like seeing someone put on a custom garment we’ve made for them and watching their face light up,” says James. “That’s why we do what we do.”
Kilby Suiting Atelier is now open at 3955 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70115. Visit KilbySuits.com to schedule an appointment and start your custom-suiting journey today.
KILBY | kilbysuits.com | 3955 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 406-1418
