Brooks Brothers

Profile

Since its beginnings as a nineteenth-century New York City haberdashery, this brand has grown into an international chain that’s managed to be a popular choice for movie stars and presidents alike. In 2007, the retailer entered a new era with the debut of the more modern Black Fleece line by guest designer Thom Browne. His jackets, trousers, and outerwear—in fabrics like tweed and cashmere—exhibit a slimmer silhouette and sport touches like hand stitching, fur-trim, embroidery, and covered buttons. Shirts and suits can be made to measure; for the house brand, alterations can be made in the store. Though men’s clothing is the major stock-in-trade here, Brooks Brothers also sells business-appropriate wool skirts, oxford blouses, and suit separates for women and an abridged version of the men’s collection for boys. — Andrew Cleary