Personal Clothier, Roanoke, VA

[StevenRocks]

I do some freelance writing for a local newspaper. Â When I went out to dinner one night, I saw a store next to the restaurant with a large Lacoste sign (a rarity out here in Bugtustle) and decided to check it out the next time I was out that way so I could report on it for the paper. Â That store was called Personal Clothier and I got a chance to meet Maynard & Kim Reynolds, the proprieters. Â We talked for three hours and unfortunately I wasn't able to convince them to let me write about them for the paper, but I will tell you guys about them becvuse apparently Maynard doesn't mind word of mouth advertising. Anyway, Personal Clothier carries a large line of Lacoste sportswear for both men and women and has access to some special order items you can't find at the mall. Â Maynard is very passionate about the brand, having grown up in the business, and is comitted to seling it whether it's as trendy as it is now or falls out of favor.he suggested that I read up on Lacoste starting with their 2002 book before I even attempted to write about it. My coulmn runs in the entertainment section and only has 500 words max. I guess that was lost on him. Â But I digress... They also sells Vineyard Vines, one of the few places I've ever sen that stocked it in any amount of depth, and does custom tailoring and wardrobe consulting. Â He hinted that there is some big announcement he plans to make in a few weeks abou the store but was very cryptic. Maynard & Kim Reynolds are very committed to their store and upholding those traditons of dress wihich could be considered American Trad. Â The whole '50s/'60s Ivy league era left its mark on fashion and Maynard believes its coming back around. Â While I don't agree with many of Maynard's opinions, their store's selection is immaculate and his prices are fair, and overall the Reynoldses are very nice people. If you're interested in seeing one of the last fire-breathing independent clothing retailers, their store is located in The Corners Shopping Center at 5207 Bernard Drive in Roanoke, Virginia. the number is 540-772-1247, and the email is [email protected]