Southwick / MTM Flusser

[whnay.]

I noticed that Alan Flusser has recently opened a MTM operation out of his custom shop in NYC. He mentions the use of American firm Southwick for his MTM. Prices range from $1,400 to $1,900.

Anyone have experience with this firm and/or Mr. Flusser's custom program?

Thanks.

 

[aportnoy]

Originally Posted by whnay.

I noticed that Alan Flusser has recently opened a MTM operation out of his custom shop in NYC. He mentions the use of American firm Southwick for his MTM. Prices range from $1,400 to $1,900.

Anyone have experience with this firm and/or Mr. Flusser's custom program?

Thanks.

Bill

I had a few MTM pieces done by Flusser several years ago via Saks but they were made by M. Greenfield, I believe. Quite nice and still holding up well.

As for Southwick, they used to be Paul Stuart's suitmaker of choice, prior to the work being farmed out to Canada's Samuelsohn. The garments are fully canvassed ala Hickey Freeman, Golden Fleece and Norman Hilton. The prices seem to be in line for MTM.

 

[whnay.]

Andrew, can you describe the fit, the shoulder, etc?

I'm much more inclined toward a natural shoulder, a narrowed waist, and tapered trousers. I've found this style in most of my RLPL garments that I favor but the cost (close to Savile Row bespoke) is killing me. I need a lower cost alternative to fill in some gaps while I save up for A&S, Charvet or Rubinacci.

 

[borace]

Here's a link to Southwick showing some of their current suit styles:

http://www.southwickclothing.com/currentModels.asp

 

[whnay.]

Originally Posted by borace

Here's a link to Southwick showing some of their current suit styles:

http://www.southwickclothing.com/currentModels.asp
Somewhat uninspiring...

 

[aportnoy]

I don't think Southwick is going to give you what you're looking for, unless Flusser has developed a model that meets these criteria.

Honestly Bill, I think that Isaia, Belvest and Corneliani on sale or from Ebay are your best bet.

 

[borace]

Originally Posted by whnay.

Somewhat uninspiring...

I tend to agree, someone on SF had a natural shouldered slim cut suit made by Izzy at LS, maybe if they see this they may comment:


http://www.lsmensclothing.com/

 

[whnay.]

Originally Posted by aportnoy

I don't think Southwick is going to give you what you're looking for, unless Flusser has developed a model that meets these criteria.

Honestly Bill, I think that Isaia, Belvest and Corneliani on sale or from Ebay are your best bet.
True enough, I believe RLBL MTM is still made by Corneliani. Not a bad alternative to its higher priced cousin.

 

[aportnoy]

Originally Posted by whnay.

True enough, I believe RLBL MTM is still made by Corneliani. Not a bad alternative to its higher priced cousin.

Spot-on Bill. I've seen some wonderful examples from this program including three piece models that are exquisite. The next RL MTM event will save you upcharges too.

 

[whnay.]

Originally Posted by aportnoy

Spot-on Bill. I've seen some wonderful examples from this program including three piece models that are exquisite. The next RL MTM event will save you upcharges too.
Yeah I've taken advantage of it for my RLPL suitings.

 

[AlanC]

Bill, what I know will tip the balance in favor of Southwick for you: John Kerry wears them.

 

[whnay.]

Originally Posted by AlanC

Bill, what I know will tip the balance in favor of Southwick for you: John Kerry wears them.
well ****, I've GOT to purchase a couple now....and wear the hell did I put that Vineyard Vines catalogue!!!

 

[j]

Do you think Flusser might have different specs for his suits from Southwick? He's never seemed to espouse their traditional cut. In any case, the construction will be quite good, and the fabrics reasonably good as well.

 

[AlanC]

I'm sure he probably has his own cut, specs and fabrics, probably in much the same way that Paul Stuart uses Samuelsohn.

 

[norcaltransplant]

Bill FYI,
I was in the Rhinelander Mansion last week checking to see what they stocked in lil' people sizes, and noticed a Blue Label, Corneliani-made, fully-canvassed, athletic cut suit that broke the $2000 mark! I asked the salesman about the huge sticker shock, and he replied that Polo recently released a few "Presidential" models or something of the like, from the Blue Label. They are priced at a premium and sit somewhere between the stock Corneliani and St Andrews PL. As a MTM project, this might be the perfect fit for you.

I also recommend contacting a senior member of this board who previously held, or still maintain ties to Polo RL.

nct

Edit: please excuse the lack of grammar