PHOTOS BY WESHOOTFILMS
For over 38 years, Vincent DiGiorgio and One Custom Clothier have been synonymous with exceptional quality and unparalleled service in the world of bespoke tailoring. Celebrating over 505 five-star Google reviews, they are proudly recognized as the number one custom clothier in New York State. From meticulously designed suits and shirts to custom-made shoes and personalized wardrobe consultations, One Custom Clothier’s stunning fabrics and innovative designs have set them apart as the pinnacle of sartorial excellence.
Spanning three generations, One Custom Clothier offers an unforgettable experience, where attention to detail and personalized service are paramount. Their expertise in crafting impeccable garments extends beyond men’s fashion, as they now cater to professional women with custom suits tailored to perfection. Vincent, affectionately known as “Vinny the Suit,” ensures every client leaves with a masterpiece, whether it’s a luxurious suit or a pair of exquisitely designed shoes.
What truly distinguishes Vince and One Custom Clothier is their dedication to creating a unique, indulgent experience. From the rich ambiance of their showroom, where clients can enjoy fine cigars and aged custom beverages, to the intricate details that define each garment, they exemplify the art of bespoke tailoring. Their well-deserved five-star rating is a testament to their commitment to excellence, and we are thrilled to feature them in this special edition. Please join us in welcoming Vincent DiGiorgio and celebrating the legacy of One Custom Clothier.
Can you share a bit about your background and how One Custom Clothier came to be?
My parents and I came to the United States from Italy in the late 1960’s. My father was trained as a master tailor and worked here in Rochester for several factories including the only remaining custom tailor in town. He quickly decided that he had more ambition and went on to open his own tailor shop in the 1970’s.
Once I was old enough to learn the trade, we opened our tailor shop as partners in the mid 1980’s.
How did your family history influence your journey into the world of being a custom clothier?
I guess custom clothing is in my blood. I am the third generation and now the fourth generation, my 22 year old son, also has started his own custom clothing business.
What sets One Custom Clothier apart from other men’s custom clothiers?
It’s the amount of time that we work with each client that sets us apart from everyone else. I only take 2 sales appointments per day. Our new customers turn into clients and eventually into friends. For us it’s not about the quantity of garments we make but about the quality of the garment and it’s the relationship that sets us apart from the local competition.
How does it feel to be recognized as one of the top custom clothiers in your field, with over 500 5-star reviews on Google?
Keeping a 5 star rating with over 500 perfect reviews is pretty miraculous. We were also pleased to find out that were are Googles #1 Rated Custom Clothier in New York State, including Manhattan, which is home to many of the best custom tailors in the world.
We worked very hard and wanted to be ranked the #1 custom clothier in Rochester. The icing on the cake was being ranked the number one custom clothier in NY state too. I am so proud of my team and my clients, for making this amazing milestone come true.
What do you believe is the key to maintaining such high levels of customer satisfaction?
Having an amazing product is absolutely key, but most companies don’t realize that’s not enough. As a matter of fact, it’s the bare minimum. Many companies lose what I call the ONE on ONE difference. They turn to large annual events like fashion shows in order to try and connect with their clients
We do the exact opposite. We spend two hours on an initial consultation and at least one hour each on fittings and deliveries.
What is your favorite aspect of being a custom clothier for men?
Being able to solve a fit issue ,when no other store or custom clothier has been able to help them.
I also like the social aspect of being with my clients and having people appreciate the craft of a custom clothier.
Can you describe some of the additional services or perks you provide to your clients?
I’m not sure perks is a word I would use. One of the things I believe in is not trying to be everything to everyone. For example, we only do what we are the best at.
Amazingly beautiful custom clothing like suits, formalwear, dressy or casual sport coats, slacks as well as casual and beautiful dress shirts.
We do not make custom jeans, sweaters, belts or ties. We spend our time on the things that we do best and less time on trying to sell add on garments.
So, I guess that’s a perk of doing business with us.
How has your family been involved in the business, and what role do they play?
This is a family business. My wife and my children have always been involved in some way and still are.
What has been the biggest success for One Custom Clothier thus far?
I believe staying true to the artistry in the business is difficult to do. It’s so easy to chase the money. There are tailors that are willing to make you anything you like, but that’s not us. If it’s going to look costumeish, I will not make it. I will not chase a dollar and make someone look less than amazing.
So, I believe staying true to our core beliefs is an accomplishment that I am very proud of.
On the flip side, what has been the most significant challenge you’ve faced in your journey?
I think that all the custom tailors and clothiers in Rochester face the same issue. Finding master tailors.
We are fortunate that we started making our custom garments all by hand here in Rochester, just my dad and myself. Although with good fortune, came the inability to increase production. So we needed a partner that could help us in increasing our production capabilities. Over the years we have partnered with tailors in Toronto, the Far East and Italy.
Ultimately I believe the tailoring factories in Rochester were doomed many years ago because of the lack of tailors coming up in the ranks. Now that Hickey Freeman is gone, I believe the writing is on the wall. It’s only a matter of time before the last couple of clothing makers are going to meet the same fate and will need to go outside of Rochester or America to have their clothing made.
How do you navigate the balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern trends in menswear?
That may be difficult for other clothiers, but for us it is quite simple.
Like doctors that take an oath to “do no harm”. We do the same. We still make our garments one at a time and while some are partially made by hand we also still make many of our garments completely by hand.
When it comes to things like trends, we are really not interested. Our garments are made to be timeless. While most garments are made to last years, our garments are made to be worn decades.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to break into the custom clothing industry?
First, make sure you are in the right demographic or market. Second, make sure you believe your product is the best. And third keep learning your craft and be hands on if possible .
How do you stay updated on the latest fashion trends and technology in your field?
My mindset has always been to create the garments with timeless techniques, but improve the workflow and behind the scene workings with technology.
Can you share a memorable success story or client experience that stands out to you?
Every day is a success story when you get to do what you love. 4 days into any vacation, I can’t wait to get back to my clients and my work. It’s just fun to me.
What motivates you to continually strive for excellence in your work?
I see a lot of garments made by others and it drives me to do better for them. Most clients don’t know what to look for in a beautifully balanced and tailored garment. I’m driven every day to give them the finest garment available anywhere in the USA.
How do you ensure that each client receives a personalized and unique experience at One Custom Clothier?
That is what we are 100% about. We want our clients to experience the ONE on ONE difference. The difference between every other clothier and ourselves.
How we do that, is classified. You would have an easier time getting my mom’s sauce recipe out of me. LOL
Are there any specific principles or values that guide your business operations?
Absolutely, what drives me is my principles and my faith. I am a Eucharistic minister and place all I do before my God and Lord Jesus.
What do you envision for the future of One Custom Clothier?
Great question! I certainly would love my son to be a part of this business but I also have a plan B.
I had a fun opportunity to meet a custom tailor that had a beautiful shop in Montreal for over 60 years. He was in his mid eighties and was still in business.
He said he would come in everyday for 3 hours and take care of 1 client. He would measure him up for a suit or some shirts. This might take 30 minutes and then they would spend the rest of the time drinking coffee and Cognac. He said it kept him young and connected to all his clients that he had known for decades. He admitted that he didn’t need the business any more, nor did those clients need anymore garments. It was just a great way to get out of the house,not have to listen to his wife.lol
I guess that sounds pretty good to me.
Finally, how do you define success personally and professionally, and how do you strive to achieve it?
I think success to me is pretty simple. It’s a mindset, not a dollar amount.
My definition of success is being healthy enough to get to do the things you want to do, when you want to do them. Overly simple ? Perhaps, but it works for me.
“I believe in combining old-world craft with modern technique to produce custom designed, expertly tailored garments.
My interest is in creating a small number of exceptional garments for individuals who truly have a passion and respect for what bespoke has to offer. At ONE Custom Clothier, you will work exclusively with me every time. I would appreciate the opportunity to show you the best suits in Rochester NY and to become your personal clothier” – Vince DiGiorgio
Please visit their website at www.onecustomclothier.com
