Bourgeois
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Why should "bourgeois" be such a dirty word? Playing 18 holes in a natty blue jacquard polo shirt. Meeting your banker wearing a fine striped wool suit. Sitting down with the Journal in a merino wool sweater vest. It's all perfectly civilized. In 1899 Jacob Freeman and Jeremiah Hickey set out to clothe the respectable class with quality suits somewhere between bespoke and cheap off-the-rack versions. Now with a robust sportswear line, the company also offers made-to-measure suits for customers angling to spend their bonuses.
When the gentleman sales help says, "I'd like you to try this on," customers enthusiastically comply. Opened in October 2001, the only freestanding Hickey Freeman location specializes in well-finished wardrobes for the boardroom and the links. The sport coats, sweaters and trousers, in forest shades, are dapper without being swish. The sportswear ensures golfers look good, no matter what their handicap.