Your Name: Alex Robinson
Business Name: Alcott Clothier, a custom clothing service for women
Type of Business: Clothing & Accessories
Business Location: New York, New York, United States
Reason for starting
While working in the Men’s custom clothing industry I discovered an immense void in the market for women. Alcott Clothier provides women with luxurious, flattering, and fashion-forward custom clothing. Our clothing models are designed to suit the needs of the modern professional woman – effortlessly transitioning from the boardroom to the bar. Alcott endeavors to make your wardrobe as dynamic and adaptable as you are!
Biggest Success
Alcott’s biggest success has been refining the voice of the company and in turn, giving a voice to our clients. Bespoke clothing allows women to have absolute control over the way their clothing looks, fits, and feels. Seeing the bliss on a client’s face as they put on their custom garment for the first time is by far the most rewarding part.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Alcott’s biggest challenge has been that many women are not only unaware that custom clothing is available, but are also unaware of the personalization and control over the design and fit that custom clothing enables. Bespoke clothing has been availed to male executives for years but most women are not familiar with the process or value of custom clothing. We are challenged with the task of enlightening prospective clients that custom clothing exists, is empowering, and a wise investment before sharing with them how accessible Alcott is making the custom clothing process.
Who is your most important role model?
The primary role model for Alcott is my great-grandmother, Millie “Mimi” Tanner. During the Great Depression Mimi founded Doncaster, the first company to utilize direct sales (“by appointment only”) for high-end fashions. Her company began as a women’s custom clothing company and in the 1950’s transitioned into the ready-to-wear company that it remains today. Her passion for revolutionizing the way we shop and providing women with luxurious, tailored clothing is carried on through Alcott.
Watch Alex’s top choices for the perfect effortless outfit for a pitch meeting.