Months later we have the samples, which we then like or sometimes don’t like (as in “what were we thinking?”) or remove from consideration because they seem redundant with something similar we like more. Then we pair the samples – jackets with shirts, shirts with neckwear and pocket squares, trousers with jackets. We photograph the product combinations aesthetically, pairing with our incredibly talented photographer, who has worked with us since 1998. After the product shots are complete, we prepare for our model shots. We create our “story” for the season, adding in all the items we will continue to offer seasonally and writing the copy and headlines that will tell the story. Meanwhile we have ordered all the selected fabrics and have had them sent to our cutting rooms.

While we work with our own “raw materials” for tailored clothing, we do buy finished goods for products that we select from makers. While we look for new ideas for finished goods, at Pitti Uomo in Florence and The Collective in Chicago, we have longstanding relationships with the highest quality makers for styles that are uniquely available from us: shoes from Crockett & Jones, or cashmere from Hawico, for example. Our selection of finished goods is always curated to our taste in color and style, from socks to outerwear. A perfect example of this is our relationship with Lafont of Paris, with whom we have partnered for over 25 years in producing our unique demi-blond tortoise eyeglass frame.

Preparing for a new season is a period of intense creativity and excitement. When the collection is complete and finds its way into our catalog we are thrilled with anticipation of our customers’ response.

— Sue Prenner