This evening I attended a concert at Walt Disney Hall featuring LA Philharmonic players performing the String Quartets Nos. 10-12 by Shostakovich. The program notes describe these pieces as works of “philosophical lyricism”. I agree completely. These quartets combine a remarkably vibrant lyricism shot through with a sense of fracture and alienation that is quintessentially […]
Two works of lyrical modernity Read More »
There are two gaps actually: generational and geographical. The first gap is generational because the tailoring tradition has remained largely with the older generation as jobs and skills have migrated to “softer” more cognitive skills. Tailors are getting older and their replacements are virtually nowhere to be found. The second issue – the importing of
The human resources gap in men’s tailoring Read More »
There is an odd quixotic character to blogging. On the one hand, it seems to have revolutionized the very idea of publishing – think easy, accessible self-publishing anytime and anywhere. Think about a world in which every competitor, every customer or every partner could publish whatever he or she wants about your business and more
Why blogs will change your business – and why they may not Read More »
Today I listened to an interview and profile of Rafe Esquith in an NPR broadcast. Mr. Esquith is a Los Angeles public school teacher with remarkable passion and dedication for instilling excellence in his students. His goal is to create a “culture of excellence” and the results are remarkable. A great story and lesson for
The best measure to live by – the standard of “excellence” Read More »
A recent and informative StyleForum discussion thread takes a look at the in’s and out’s menswear shopping in Florence – primarily from the consumer’s point of view of course. I’ve never been to Florence (just to Milan). Florence, Rome and Milan, are considered the premier destinations for men’s clothing in Italy. For my next visit
The Italian influence and shopping in Florence Read More »
Here’s a merry statistic behind the buzz of blogs and the business they can potentially generate. According to fellow blogger Red Couch, Tom Mahon’s English Cut blog has created a 300% increase in new business in 10 weeks since posting his first blog entry at the beginning of 2005. The English Cut, if I’m not
The business behind blogging: Bespoke tailor sees sales lift Read More »
After I had posted my advice on StyleForum, I received a very nice complimentary message from Alexander Kabbaz. I haven’t had the privilege of wearing one of his shirts but many consider Mr. Kabbaz to make the finest bespoke shirts in the US. Needless to say, I was flattered.
Followup to web marketing 101 Read More »
A few weeks ago I posted some advice to Darren Beaman, an independent tailor on Savile Row, on the StyleForum website. Mr. Beaman was seeking advice and help on improving his website. Here’s my advice in full form: I’ve done some internet/technology consulting and I find a common myth about websites is that you just
Web marketing 101 for bespoke tailors Read More »
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