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TAILOR MADE: T H E A D VA N TA G E O F C U S T O M S U I T S Wearing a suit isn't quite as common as it used to be, but this deficit has created a kind of novelty that is making them special once again because putting on the right suit, whether it's for a job interview or wedding, offers a new level of confidence. For most, this ideal suit can be found on the rack, with certain minor modifications, but for others, the best way to purchase a suit is to buy custom, because then it will be perfect, not only looking good on you, but also reflecting your personality. To learn more about custom suits, we spoke to Ralph Lauretta, the General Manager of Sal Lauretta's for Men in Midland Park, NJ. Sal Lauretta's for Men goes back four decades to the 1930's and across the ocean to Sicily. "My grandfather was a tailor back in the day when they didn't have clothing off the rack, you had the tailor make them for you," Lauretta told me. Ralph's father Sal Lauretta B Y S E B A S T I A N K R A W I E C began working for Ralph's grandfather (also Ralph) when Sal was 12 years of age, eventually immigrating to the US together in the late 1960's. Once in the states, they spent some time working separately in custom tailor shops before opening Lauretta's Dry Cleaners where they would tailor clothing prior to opening Sal Lauretta's for Men in 1974 right next door. In that time, the store has witnessed suit trends change and cycle back. While the current standard for suits nowadays are two button with side vent and flat front pant, Lauretta explained how classic looks are really coming back. "As far as formal goes, we're doing a lot more shawl collars, peak lapels, double breasted suits," he said. "Not on the rack but custom made, we're doing a lot more double breasted again." Custom suits can be the ideal option for those looking for that specific look. More than that though, custom suits W W W. V U E N J . C O M 21

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