Celebrating a year of Lizandra
One Year On - Checking in with Bespoke Cutter, Lizandra Cardoni
Time flies and it is hard to believe that it is already a year since bespoke cutter, Lizandra Cardoni joined our cutting room team. She has fitted in as well as her shirts fit her customers and is very much part of the company. We had her put down her shears for a few minutes to reflect on the past twelve months.
The most surprising thing about your first year at Budd?
Budd is steeped in heritage, but what surprised me most was the incredible variety of customers. That mix makes the job both fun and creative, as I’m constantly shifting between modern, classic, and youthful styles to create the perfect order for each person.
Most memorable moments this year? Most enjoyable?
Definitely the May Trunk Show to the US. We run the shows as a group, known as the London Collective (Budd, Gaziano Girling, Edward Sexton, E. B. Meyrowitz) and it was such a pleasure to travel as part of a team and never feel isolated - everyone was so welcoming. We connected deeply over our shared passion for beautifully crafted products. Even as the only woman in the group, they made me feel truly special.
Biggest learning of the last year?
It has to be diving deeper into evening wear. Budd has unparalleled knowledge in this area, and I’ve learned so much about Marcella stiff-front shirts and detachable collars. That’s been a real highlight of my development as it is so niche.
Funniest moment?
Mr. Butcher never fails to amaze me with his sharp, witty remarks about everything and everyone. He has been the biggest and most entertaining surprise in the cutting room.
Biggest characters within Budd?
Without a doubt, Mr. Butcher and Darren. I feel very honoured to share a room with both of them.
Reflections on the trunk shows?
Trunk Shows can be intense and tiring, but they’re incredibly rewarding. They allow us to serve our loyal customers on their own turf, giving us a new perspective on their culture and lifestyle. It’s a wonderful way to strengthen relationships.
Favourite Budd products?
Scarves will always be high on my list! I also really like the women’s neckband shirt. It has such a polished, crisp look and works with everything. I also wear our Safari shirts quite a bit too.
Beauty of bespoke?
For me, it’s all about collaboration. Every detail matters - from understanding a customer’s lifestyle and tastes to refining the final 1/8 of an inch. That shared journey makes bespoke very special.
Why shirts? What drew you to shirtmaking?
Even before studying bespoke tailoring, I created a collection of twenty white shirts for businesswomen and men while working in advertising. I sold them from my desk at McErickson Brasil, and it was one of my proudest achievements.
Twenty years later, I find myself at the UK’s most traditional shirtmaker. It feels like I was always meant to build a career in shirtmaking. That said, I still miss making suits and even the thrill of launching advertising campaigns!
Favourite makers and brands?
Beyond Savile Row makers (I admire all of them!), I’m a big admirer of Christophe Lemaire, Miuccia Prada, and Dries Van Noten. I love Lemaire’s minimalist approach. The way Dries and Miuccia play with texture and colours endlessly inspires me. I can’t forget Phoebe Philo either - I was fortunate to work for her early in my tailoring career, and she remains a true master of bringing beauty together.
What are you looking forward to for the Autumn Trunk Show?
I’m especially excited about visiting Palo Alto, meeting new customers, and showcasing fresh fabrics and styles. This trip we’re bringing some 100% merino shirting with us. It feels like a luxurious, superior cotton and launders beautifully. We’re also launching our new Guayabera shirt in collaboration with Kirby Allison and Eddie Sahakian - a project I’ve been joyfully working on with the team over the past year.
Passionate about the world of bespoke and its benefits, watch Lizandra as she talks us through her work.
