Once upon a time, all clothing was made specifically to fit its owner; every detail was customized.
Made to measure was the standard as ready-to-wear items were not yet available. Every item of clothing was hand stitched until the year 1790, when the sewing machine was invented. Even then, mass production of clothing items was not a necessity until the tailoring industry was faced with producing military uniforms on a large scale. This forced the industry to seek more efficient methods of production. Enterprising individuals started producing ready-to-wear clothing and department store warehouses full of tailors working long hours started to dwindle.
By the 1900s, tailoring was a niche industry and by the 1970s, demand was waning with the stylistic changes of the time leaning more toward casual and unencumbered.
However...
There is no such thing as on-size-fits-all.
Body type is one element of differentiation, and perhaps the most well-known. Shoulders, torso, legs and seat are all parts of a person’s figuration or posture and tailoring specifically to these elements is what creates a truly custom fit that is set apart.
Although bespoke tailoring is coming back into fashion, Rutledge’s has been on board since 1967.
Jerry Rutledge came to Colorado to study Nuclear Physics and upon assessing the forecast in that field at the time, made the pivot into the clothing industry. Colorado Springs was where he landed and opened Rutledge’s clothier in a 700-square-foot space next to Florsheim Shoe Company. After four expansions and finally a move to their current downtown location, Rutledge’s has a unique offering of the highest quality garments in six different price points, including brands found nowhere else in the state.
Suits for Every Occasion
From the onset, Rutledge committed to offer the finest. The finest quality, finest value, finest fit and finest service. The Rutledge’s team consistently evaluates the market and its offerings to ensure they carry the best value for their customers for the spend. Each client has their measurements kept on file as well as their purchase history. This allows Rutledge’s staff to get a feel for the client’s style and preferences for future purchases.
Clientele at Rutledge’s range from someone buying his first suit for a wedding or interview to the seasoned professional growing his wardrobe after years of accumulation. Staff is educated on fit, color theory, important details, and overall message. Suits are to men’s fashion as black shoes are to women’s fashion. They are staples and there is one for every occasion, mood, and season.
Building a Relationship
The relationship starts out as many others, with questions to get to know you better. Any number of these questions will give Rutledge’s staff the foundation they need to walk with you through the decision-making process. Jerry Rutledge comments that they are there to give the clients what they want. He goes on to explain the goal is not simply to sell a bespoke suit, a Robert Graham button down, a 20-year shoe, or a Grenadine tie—it is to make their clientele effective. Effectiveness in business or in fun, Rutledge’s believes fashion is intentional, down to the button and the stitch.
Whether searching for a gift or a truly special piece for your personal wardrobe, Rutledge’s is now serving you at its downtown Colorado Springs location as well as its newest location, The Broadmoor. When the details matter, Rutledge’s is the right shop.
Website: https://www.rutledges.com/
Facebook: @RutledgesClothingStore
Instagram: @rutledges_co