Brooks Brothers
Perhaps only a company that is approaching its 200th Anniversary could have been formed on faithful friendships alone. That is exactly what Brooks Brothers’ founder, Henry Sands Brooks, proclaimed as the basis of his successful men’s clothier which through today, has dressed such prominent types as presidents, actors and artists. In 1818, New York City-headquartered Brooks Brothers created the first ready-to-wear suit and the iconic button-down Polo shirt, which are still best-sellers at this American institution. Clothing categories include both dress and casual Shirts, Polos, Sweaters and Vests, Trousers, Suits, Ties, Formalwear, Outerwear, Accessories, Watches and Footwear, as well as Sleepwear and Fragrance.
While typically known as a traditional menswear company, Brooks Brothers was actually a pioneer of early-on trends that have emerged into timeless classics. From the ready-to-wear suit and button-down Polo collar shirt to the Repp tie which in the 1920s was initially inspired by British club ties and soon became the “Ivy League Look” emulated by many. Brooks Brothers mainly caters to Men and Boys, but there is also a Women’s collection, which first appeared in Vogue magazine in 1949 featuring a pink button-down shirt that, according to the company, became “an overnight fashion sensation.” A fresh and classic selection for Boys is also available.
With on-site Master Tailors and selections that feature fine Sea Island cotton, genuine shell buttons, soft Saxxon wool, pure silk satin, Brooks Brothers offers luxury that rivals its European competitors. Custom work is popular with Made-to-Measure Shirts and other various clothing. Special Order selections are available for the client seeking a more personalized selection of fabrics, textures and hues.
For those who think of Brooks Brothers as stuffy, think again. With the recent introduction of its Black Fleece collection, looks are edgy, modern and give a clever nod to British flair while keeping with the Brooks Brothers American identity. At the helm of this endeavor is Thom Browne, the company’s first guest designer and recipient of the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Menswear Designer of the Year award and Smithsonian Cooper-Hewitt National Design Award finalist. Under the auspices of a new “design laboratory”, Browne has drawn from Brooks Brothers’ archives to create this men’s and women’s specialty line.
Brooks Brothers displays a strong sense of philanthropy with its own charity, The Golden Fleece Foundation, as well as supports The Make-A-Wish Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a plethora of other local organizations, taking a grassroots approach.
With its heritage, quality craftsmanship, solid values and innovation-not to mention notable following-Brooks Brothers has made its mark on American style.
For more information about Brooks Brothers, visit www.brooksbrothers.com
