This week’s V-O-W works hard to make your groom look (almost) as good as you on the big day! Heimie’s Haberdashery was created in 1921 and has been a leader at making men look and feel their best since then. Heimie’s stands as a sanctuary for men who celebrate their individuality and masculinity through an authentic, immersive experience!
Q: What does Heimie’s Haberdashery specialize in?
A: Our specialties are clothing design and tailoring, but our objective is to create a space for men to enjoy a sense of community through the enhancement of lifestyle and image.
Q: How and when did Heimie’s Haberdashery open and begin?
A: My great-grandfather opened his shop in Saint Paul in 1921 after immigrating from Russia. We’ve expanded on his concept over the decades. While we adhere to timeless principles of classic style, fashion is an ever-evolving art form that introduces new traditions over time.
Q: Where are you located?
A: The corner of the Historic Hamm Building on 6th Street, at 400 Saint Peter Street, Saint Paul, MN 55102. The building itself is a Saint Paul historical milestone; it’s perfect for us, and we have some wonderful neighbors.
Q: What is your favorite part about working in the wedding industry?
A: A wedding is highly expressive by nature. We are passionate about helping a groom represent himself through the creation of a look that expresses his character. It should genuinely manifest that individual’s personality through form and function.
Q: Do you have any fun or memorable stories working with grooms or groomsmen?
A: We once did a groom’s suit for a member of the Queen’s Royal Guard. When they came into town, twelve of the guard pulled up in a limousine for a photo-op in front of the store!
Q: When should grooms and groomsmen commit to their wedding day fashion?
A: At least six months; this allows time to order and assemble all of the elements of dress for 7-10 guys, which is no small task.
Q: What do you think the groom should wear to the rehearsal dinner?
A: Some are dressier than others, depending on the setting. They should dress according to the location and who is invited to attend, matching the bride’s level of formality in dress.
Q: What is the most popular style you are seeing men wear for their wedding?
A: It’s all about the suit. A traditional black or blue with clean lines and tailored fit will always retain its relevance.
Q: What are some options the groom and groomsmen have when shopping at Heimie’s Haberdashery?
A: We have a full custom department that offers cloth from the finest mills available. We also offer five ready-made options for the wedding party at affordable prices, and accessories to coordinate with the wedding’s color scheme.
Q: How do you determine what accessories such as ties and pocket squares work well with a specific suit?
A: With weddings, we consider the colors at play throughout the ceremony and reception. What are the bridesmaids wearing? How about the flowers? Is there an overarching theme? These factors determine which suits we recommend, and the accessories we pair with them.
Q: Anything else you would like grooms to know about Heimie’s Haberdashery?
A: Beyond our wedding program, we are a full-service shop and custom house, with a barbershop and shoeshine stand. We also offer tailoring services for garments procured elsewhere, and emergency fittings for out-of-town travelers. We offer a full array of gifts for groomsmen, including cigars, handmade leather goods, and accessories. Heimie’s stands as a sanctuary for men who celebrate their individuality and masculinity through an authentic, immersive experience. We continue to enrich each other’s lives for years after the wedding date, and this brings us joy and fulfillment.
Lightning round Questions:
Q: Describe Heimie’s Haberdashery in three words.
A: Traditional, Sophisticated, Luxurious.
Q: IPA or EPA?
A: You’d have to ask my associates!
Q: Black, gray or navy?
A: That would depend on the occasion.
Q: Tie or Bow Tie?
A: A tie or a bow tie depends on the facial and structural attributes of the person, and their choice of outfit.
Q: What’s your go-to comfort food?
A: Definitely a nice burger.
Q: If Heimie’s Haberdashery could dress a celebrity client for their wedding, who would it be?
A: We’ve enjoyed the business of our professional athletes, but I would have to say Johnny Depp, à la “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory!”
Photos courtesy of Heimie's Haberdashery