Menswear Maestro

Wilfred Newman

Ask custom clothier Ryan Newman what five wardrobe essentials every well-dressed gent should invest in, and he’ll answer: tuxedo, overcoat, sharp navy suit, killer blazer and a nice pair of shoes. You’ll have to find the shoes elsewhere, but everything else is well within Newman’s repertoire, as both his experience in the manufacturing business and his high-profile clientele (from professional athletes to bankers and band members) will firmly attest to. After a few years spent coordinating by-appointment-only customer fittings from a rented River North penthouse, Newman opened a permanent shop in November, at long last landing a brick and mortar storefront for his signature, hand-tailored apparel.

Upon your first meeting, you’ll begin a lengthy discussion on the purpose of your needs, answer a barrage of questions on personal preferences, and sample a hundred fabrics and styles all while he carefully gauges your reaction, so that the end result is a quality crafted piece that ticks all your boxes. In addition to customised 3-piece suits and French cuff monogram shirts, you’ll also find a small selection of ready-to-wear, as January saw the launch of WN’s line of casual shirts, in view of Newman’s hope to expand the line beyond bespoke and into RTW and accessories. Perhaps, before long, you’ll be able to find that last wardrobe essential within these walls as well.