Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzales took over Smith’s Men’s Store in Lake Forest—an 88-year-old institution—in 2019. Though neither came from a retail background, both brought valuable experience and a passion for preserving the legacy of a long-standing local business while making it their own. Helverson had spent over three decades in the software industry, working at companies like Oracle, SAP, and two startups. Gonzales came from the interior design industry, where he developed a strong foundation in customer service and operations. Together, they refreshed the store with a new layout and modern approach while maintaining the traditions that loyal customers have cherished for generations.
In 2024, they opened a second location in Winnetka in response to growing demand from customers who lived or worked on the southern end of the North Shore. “We are a traditional men’s store and haberdashery,” says co-owner Kip Helverson. “We offer a wide variety of casual attire and sportswear, as well as a full-service clothing department with both ready-to-wear and custom clothing. Our focus has always been on relationships, fit and consistency.” While the storefronts may boast a more modernized look today—complete with a bourbon bar for shopping parties and groomsmen fittings—Smith’s continues to honor its long legacy by catering to gentlemen (and the women who love them) across the North Shore looking for a shopping experience that’s as top-notch as the clothing. We caught up with Helverson to learn more.
Bespoke Garments
“We work with master tailors to take measurements and create the pattern. Gentlemen can pick the fabric and finishes and then we’ll cut and craft the suit in the shop completely by hand with three to four fittings to make sure everything is perfect.”
Made-to-Measure
“We provide custom tailoring and made-to-measure options from brands like Jack Victor, Southern Tide, Samuelsohn, Oxxford Clothes and Stantt. These suits and jackets are manufactured offsite, but we provide alterations as needed with our tailors.”
Ready-to-Wear
“We offer a variety of ready-to-wear shirts, trousers, sport coats, suits, shoes and casual wear.Brands include Johnnie-O, Peter Millar, Alan Paine and Martin Dingman.
Belts, Bowties & More
“Our customers enjoy rounding out their wardrobe with the perfect belt, tie, bow tie or shoes. We also offer leather goods such as wallets and shaving kits as well as socks and other everyday essentials or gifts.”
Our focus has always been on relationships, fit and consistency