David M. Watkins: June 2009

TRENDS: Fall / Winter - Part #2 "The Double Breasted Suit"

Double Breasted Suits

If there's one thing I'm excited about buying this Fall / Winter it's a modern, double-breasted suit. Slim cut is the direction. Broad shouldered with a slim waist, 2009's double-breasted suits trump most that current generations will be familiar with; they're no longer about hiding a plump figure but are now tailored to highlight the perfect masculine shape: the V-shaped, well worked body. This is not to say that my "larger" customers cannot go down this road. Some of my best work has been on bigger guy's...there is something about the double breasted suit that separates you from the herd, shows an air of confidence. With my suit packages, clients get 3 suits...and I expect many to rotate the double breasted option into the wardrobe.

Pictures speak much better than I...so here are two examples of what to be looking for.

Congrats!

My man David Schottenstein, the fearless leader of A&B was named a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award...an insider told me this AM we won! Nice. Here is the Press Release from a few days ago...

David Schottenstein of Astor & Black Named Finalist for Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year

David Schottenstein of Astor & Black Named Finalist for Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Columbus, OH, June 24, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Astor & Black’s founder and CEO David Schottenstein has been named a finalist for the 2009 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Mr. Schottenstein will be honored at the awards gala in Cincinnati tomorrow evening.

Founded in 2004, Mr. Schottenstein quickly grew Astor & Black into an international organization, featuring representatives across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Mr. Schottenstein is a nominee in the Emerging Business category selected by a regional and national panel of judges, which include entrepreneurs and prominent leaders from academia, business, and the media.

“I feel very honored to be considered for this prestigious award,” Schottenstein said. “I think it is a testament to all the hard work that my team of dedicated employees and representatives have done since I founded this company five years ago.”

About Astor & Black
The suit makes the man. With an unwavering focus on quality and value Astor & Black Custom Clothiers has provided distinguished men throughout the world with fine custom suiting since its establishment in 2004. They provide fully canvassed, handmade suits, jackets, pants and shirts that are second to none in craftsmanship and quality.

Astor & Black is committed to providing customers with true excellence and innovation in fine suiting.

Trends: Fall / Winter - Part #1 "The Cut"

Hard to believe but it's that time of year to begin planning Fall/Winter. July will be a busy month as clients begin to prepare for their looks this coming season. I wanted to touch on a few "trends" that I think you should know about as we move forward. With the likes of the economic downturn, classics will stay at the front as clients look to "invest" in pieces that will keep them looking sharp for seasons to come.

The Cut

We are seeing more designers moving away from the "skinny" suit - but slim is still in. Classic tailoring, classic looks and the modern masculine silhouette. Broad shoulders, slim waist, slim trousers, and attention to custom detailing...all of which I can provide.

This will be a several part series, but for now, be thinking of the cut of your new suits and over coats for Fall / Winter.

Client Testimonial: Jay Flowe

"I have been wearing custom clothing for the better part of ten years. During that time I have tried many purveyors of clothes and never have seen anyone come close to the quality, choice, style options and value that A&B can provide. As an ambassador to the brand, David Watkins keeps me up to date with the options that I may want to know about. Having someone that knows your preference in your corner makes the shopping experience both efficient and fun. I have found a partner with Astor & Black and Astor & Black has found a long lasting home in my closet."

Jay Flowe - Strategic Management Consultant, Transamerica

Here is Jay in action sporting a Super 150's vanilla pinstripe gray two button suit. Slanted pockets with vanilla stitching on 1st button hole and lapel. Astor & Black tie and custom shirt as well. Perfect amount of cuff showing for me. SHARP! He also has the vest...I expect to see that debut this fall.

Words From: Lapo Elkann

"To be independent means to write your own story everyday” - Lapo Elkann

Custom Golf Pants

I have been making quite a few of these lately with excellent results. I am waiting on a few more pair now and will post those pics when they arrive. Remember you have total control over the design of these. From the stitching color, to special pockets, you want it, I will make it. Keep it in the short grass.