In the fall of 2024, Harcourts, Canada’s most trusted source for legal robes, opened a modern showroom in Montreal—the company’s only physical location outside Toronto. “We’re delighted to have a brick-and-mortar footprint in Quebec,” says Brian Weese, the vice-president of Harcourts. “The province plays such an important role in the country’s legal landscape. Our arrival was long overdue.”
After careful consideration, Harcourts moved into a striking historical building in the heart of Old Montreal. “We wanted to be in a convenient spot for the city’s lawyers and judges,” says Weese. “Fortunately, we found a wonderful space that’s only a block away from the city’s main judicial buildings.”
Inside the Montreal showroom, Harcourts sells some of the finest legal attire on the market. Customers can purchase high-quality tabs and dress shirts off the rack. A thoughtful selection of cufflinks is also available. When a lawyer or judge needs a new robe—an outfit that includes a waistcoat and gown, plus either trousers or a skirt—Harcourts hand-stitches each garment. An expert tailor starts by taking the customer’s measurements and sending them to the company’s headquarters in Toronto. That’s where a team of nearly 30 craftspeople will fulfill the order and ship it to Montreal for in-store pickup. “Our fully customized approach allows us to guarantee a perfect fit,” says Weese. For time-sensitive requests, Harcourts has a rush-order option. As Weese explains: “If someone needs a robe for a court date the following week, we can make it happen. We know how to work quickly without sacrificing on craftsmanship.”
Harcourts also manufactures its legal robes out of premium fabrics. Weese is particularly proud to offer tropical wool robes to lawyers and 100-percent silk to judges. “Both materials allow us to make very breathable court attire,” says Weese. “We know that courtrooms can be quite warm, so we want to help our customers stay as cool as possible.”
Customer service is another top priority. Although Harcourts strives to deliver flawlessly tailored court attire, its team is on standby to handle any issues that may arise. If a customer notices the smallest imperfection in a garment, such as a slightly loose button, the company wants to hear about the problem. That way, it can provide an immediate solution.
Before Harcourts opened its Montreal location, it carefully studied the rules that govern court attire in Quebec. To take one example, the company is fully aware that judges of the Superior Court of Quebec must wear gowns with a specific red-pleated rosette sewn at the back into the yoke. “When we decided to set up shop in Montreal, we took on a big responsibility,” says Weese. “We know how important it is to get those small details right.”
Harcourts is located in downtown Montreal at 21, rue Notre-Dame ouest. Visit the showroom today or book an appointment with a tailor.