HOW DID YOU GET INTO MENSWEAR?

I think my first big influence was the movies - at 9 years old I saw Dick Tracy, Batman, and Who Framed Roger Rabbit and was instantly infatuated with all of the visuals of that era. So when I decided to get a job in high school, I started looking for something in fashion, specifically menswear. I really wanted to learn more about these kinds of clothes, and how they change the way men present themselves.

Can you imagine Dick Tracy in acid-wash jeans and flannel? The strength of his character was enhanced by his black suit and fedora. I wanted to explore that part of myself; I wanted my clothes to help me become the man I knew I was. That’s why I started working in clothing stores when I was 16.

SO HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING IN MENSWEAR?

I got my first job at Men’s Wearhouse in 1996. At that time, typical teenage boys wore baggy jeans, backwards baseball caps, and bright t-shirts, but that wasn’t my style.

Working there introduced me to the world of tailored menswear. I realized I didn't have to dress like a Backstreet Boy. Instead, I discovered beautiful fabrics that allowed me to express myself and feel good about my appearance.

Menswear helped me find my identity. Whether I’m playing drums, dancing, or showing fabrics, my clothes tell people who I am and how I feel. I aim to help customers design clothes that reflect their true selves and bring their vision to life.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO CREATE ESTABLISHED SARTORIAL?

I’ve worked in local stores like Dan Ryan’s For Men in Virginia and Capra & Cavelli in Austin, as well as major retailers like Nordstrom, Brooks Brothers, Jos. A. Bank, and Dillard’s. With over 20 years of experience across all price points and trends, it was time for a new challenge.

Established allows me to do more than just take orders for custom suits. I can help my clients build wardrobes that reflect their entire lifestyle—work, hobbies, location, and movement. My wardrobe consultations can transform how a my clients dress.

While I enjoyed working with clients as a salesperson and still value my relationships with my mentors, Established lets me do much more. My goals are to build long-lasting client relationships and help them present their best selves.

HOW DID YOU PICK THE NAME “ESTABLISHED?” HOW DOES IT DESCRIBE THE VISION YOU HAVE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

It's about the feeling a person has when they achieves their dreams. We dress up for life's big occasions—graduations, job interviews, weddings—moments that mark new beginnings. These achievements help establish our identity in others' minds. The name "Established" comes from that feeling of defining who you are. Just like when I went from wanting to learn to dance to becoming a dancer, or from taking music lessons to being a musician, it's about becoming who you are meant to be.

WHAT ABOUT THE BEAR? HOW DOES THE BEAR REPRESENT YOUR BUSINESS?

The bear is named after a famous jazz drummer, “Big Sid” Catlett. He’s one of my musical heroes — a big bear of a man. He was known for his flexible style. He created a critical juncture between the older, more military-style and the bop style that followed. He was also known for the green plaid suits he wore onstage — he was a real showman. He wasn’t trying to hide behind his drums or disappear in the back of the stage.

Sid never really fit into a simple category. He knew he had something to offer, and he wanted people to take him seriously, just like my customers.

SO SID THE BEAR REPRESENTS YOUR CUSTOMER?

Exactly.

Mainstream fashion ads show clean-cut, expressionless guys in their 20s and 30s, but that’s not the typical person. I dress people of all sizes and professions, helping them express their individuality rather than conforming to societal norms.

Many people don't realize the impact a great suit can have. A well-cut suit can broaden shoulders, narrow waists, and enhance the classic “V-shape.” It can highlight physical traits you want to emphasize and downplay those you don’t. Conversely, an ill-fitting suit can make a man look heavier than he is. Good clothes can significantly boost appearance and self-esteem.

I used to be unaware of this too. But I took control and changed my life. I began swing dancing 17 years ago and have organized swing events in Austin for the past decade, including the Austin Lindy Exchange. I started my own band, the Waller Creek Vipers, released an album, and toured the East Coast.

I had to develop the courage to be myself and change how others perceived me. Clothes were a crucial tool in finding my true self.

IS THAT AN IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR PROCESS — CHANGING HOW YOUR CUSTOMERS FEEL?

Absolutely. When a person feels confident, they stand taller and speak differently. Appearance affects interactions, making others take you more seriously. Often, people won't consciously notice a well-cut suit, but they'll sense the leadership it conveys.

Investing in your appearance, like in health, education, or relationships, pays off. The move away from rigid fashion rules to more relaxed guidelines allowed personal freedom in dress, which is great. However, we lost the ability to create custom clothes that fit our lifestyle and personality.

Fast fashion limits our choices. Self-expression through custom pieces offers freedom, allowing you to build a wardrobe that enhances your frame and reflects your personality. This balance gives you the best of both worlds.

I REALLY LOVE HOW YOU TIED YOUR BRAND TO YOUR STORY. SO WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU? WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE ESTABLISHED SARTORIAL?

I want to change how people feel about clothes and self-expression. Suits are often seen as for older men, but other people miss out on the pleasure of dressing up. I’m reaching out to a younger demographic through the Young Men’s Business League and the Austin Under 40 awards.

I’m also exploring the future of custom clothing, recognizing the environmental impact of mass-market fashion. Custom clothing is aligning with the maker movement, with local designers gaining traction. I aim to provide a platform for small-batch runs in unique fabrics. Expect to see custom fabrics at Established soon.

The custom clothing market is shifting. Young people resist conformity, value quality over quantity, and seek self-expression. These trends are creating exciting opportunities in fashion. It’s a thrilling time for Established Sartorial, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.