There was much to celebrate on 515 Madison Avenue last night. The high-end shopping hub is welcoming Alan David Customs as he opens his spacious 9,000-square-foot showroom. Brightly lit mirrors and walnut cutting tables adorned the space, allowing master tailors to meticulously execute all 40 of their measurements.
An additional exciting change is heading Alan David’s way with the new collaboration with Oxxford Clothes. Customers cherish both brands for their use of hand-stitching, talented artisans, and old-world craftsmanship. Together, they are pairing up to offer the last 100% hand-sewn garment (in the world)! Alan Horowitz, founder of Alan David, echoed the sentiment during his speech, driving home all the points that set this brand apart.
Brand History
Five generations later, Alan David is keeping the family business alive and thriving. In 1913, his great-grandfather, Jacob Ginsburg, left Russia and headed for the United States, landing in New York City. It was during the golden age of tailoring in the 1920s that Ginsburg opened Kingsbury Clothing, a tailor and retail store. Throughout the decades, the torch was passed to his grandfather, uncle, and eventually Alan in the 90s.
Only just introducing custom, he started under the name “Alan David” and opened a shop in Lower Manhattan. What was once mostly off-the-rack suiting transitioned to custom suiting after the 9/11 attacks, when access to the downtown area was restricted. The tragedy prompted Alan to think outside the box, leading him to the idea of bringing tailoring to customers’ doorsteps. Measuring in people’s homes and offices for a few years, he switched to fully custom suits in 2005. This is when the Alan David Custom we know today was born.
What sets Alan David apart?
The family business places great emphasis on legacy and tradition, while also centering the customer at the heart of everything they do. Alan David expressed to XOXO that it is the company’s mission to “make customers’ lives as stress-free as possible.”
“We are crazy here,” Alan said about his brand. “Whatever needs to get done for the customer, it will be done. I will do more than the next guy. The only time I can sleep at night is when I know I gave it my all.”
Truth be told, customers rave about their experiences at Alan David, with the brand accumulating over 500 5-star reviews on Google. To further prove their dedication to the customer, they offer top-notch wedding attire. There is no busier season for the brand than wedding season, which spans from February to September. Anything you can think of can be custom-made, from tiny buttons and suspenders to wedding vests and tuxedo jackets.
Fitting Process
The fitting process for a bespoke suit can span up to 6 weeks. When necessary, the process can be completed within a week (for the customer’s convenience). Upon first appointment, master tailors will take the customer’s measurements and have a throwaway suit made up by Oxxford. Due to Oxxford’s close proximity in Chicago, suits are able to have quick turnaround times of 1-2 weeks. To achieve the most detailed, precise, and high-quality garment possible, a throwaway suit is constructed. This allows tailors to make additional adjustments, and invites the customer to have a say before Oxxford hand-sews the final product.
The extra steps Alan David takes ensure that the customer’s big day, specifically for weddings, is enhanced by the wonders of a hand-stitched suit.
“We only want the best, and nothing else will do” is a genuine motto that Alan David Customs stands by. To visit their new showroom or schedule an appointment for a custom Oxxford Suit, click here.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
