The 1950s were a time of prosperity, elegance and class. People knew life was good then, and they dressed the part. It was during that era that Joseph’s Formal Wear opened its doors for the first time at 194 Wellington Street in London, Ontario.
Joseph’s specialized in weddings, proms and formal events, ensuring that any man who walked out of their store would walk into an event with confidence and style. The boutique men’s shop has continued to be an iconic landmark for area residents to find high-quality and custom-made menswear for over fifty years.
In the same 1950s tradition of style, loyalty and family, first-cousins Jeff Da Costa and Jason Cabral now own the menswear boutique. Having purchased Joseph’s Formal Wear in 2001, they continue to build upon its legacy in London today.
Changing Trends in Men’s Fashion
In the mid-two-thousands, there were a growing number of men becoming more fashion conscious again. Men started looking for ways to bring the style and confidence they feel at formal events to their day-to-day lives. It was on that notion that Jeff and Jason rebranded Joseph’s Formal Wear to Joseph’s Clothiers in 2010.
They introduced a trendy clothing line to their existing formal wear including fashion-forward suits, shirts, ties, shoes, socks, belts and other accessories for both young men and the young at heart. Brands such as Jack Victor and Ted Baker are just a couple of the popular name brands they have brought to their retail lineup.
Sensing a resurgence in men’s tailored clothing, they also introduced Bespoke Shirts, now one of the stores most sought after products. This line allows customers to purchase shirts made to their specific measurements and allows them to personally select the desired material, colour and styles they like best. Joseph’s business line also offers custom-made suits cut from some of the finest materials in the world, including Ermenegildo Zegna, Vitale Barberis Canonico, Loro Piana and much more.
“What people appreciate is this is an owner operated business,” Jeff says. “Both Jason and I have over 17 years’ experience in the industry and are familiar with all aspects of the business, products, materials, clothing lines and fashion which allows us to help our customers both on the rental side and the retail side.”
New Year, New Store
With a New Year on the horizon, Jeff and Jason decided that it’s time the shop itself experienced a makeover too. With the store undergoing exciting renovations, the upcoming year will see Joseph’s looking as stylish and up-to-date as the product lines they sell.
“At Joseph’s, we’re proud to be in the business of dressing men since 1957. How they look is more important and where they go to for advice is most important.” With new products and a new look, Joseph’s Clothiers is, and will always be, London’s number one destination for menswear.
For more information, follow Joseph’s Clothiers on Facebook or visit Joseph’s store online.
Written by Lin Parkin