"But possibly I am something more than I suppose myself to be."
— René Descartes
"I am not patient by nature... I must try to practice all the virtues I would have my little girls possess."
- Marmee in the beloved classic Little Women
We hear so much these days about 'dressing for success' which is indeed a noble concept. After all, Thomas Fuller, aka 'The Fuller brush man', is known for saying that 'good clothes open all doors'. We all want doors to open for us, we all want to meet the opportunities that come our way head on, with open arms and eager hearts. But what if we begin to dress from the inside out, working first and foremost on the inner man/woman who resides within?
Someone who arduously and diligently worked on improving himself on the inside was one of America's founding father's, the irrascible Benjamin Franklin. In his autobiography, Franklin outlines a plan for 'arriving at moral perfection'. He himself called it a 'bold and arduous project'. In his own words,
"I made a little book, in which I allotted a page for each of the virtues. I rul'd each page with red ink, so as to have seven columns, one for each day of the week marking each column with a letter for the day. I cross'd these columns with thirteen red lines, marking the beginning of each line with the first letter of one of the virtues, on which line, and in its proper column, I might mark, by a little black spot, every fault I found upon examination to have been committed respecting that virtue upon that day."
The thirteen virtues that Franklin chose to work on were the following: Temperance; Silence; Order; Resolution; Frugality; Industry; Sincerity;Justice ;Moderation;
Cleanliness; Tranquility; Chastity; and Humility.
Giving a week's strict attention to each of the virtues successively, he completed the cycle of thirteen virtues in thirteen weeks. When completed, he would start over again. Hence, he was able to go through his chart 4 times in a year.
A modern day American who shines from the inside out is the singer Taylor Swift. In a recent interview in Vogue magazine, she is given high praise from the designer Prabal Gurung. Gurung comments, "I love your music. It's really beautiful - but you know that. But... more than anything, it's the way that you have conducted yourself. Really. The way you handle youself is incredible." Swift gushes in response, "That kind of made my day. People don't usually compliment your character."
Like dressing on the outside, dressing on the inside takes work. I once heard a sermon in a little Baptist Church on Bourbon Street on New Orleans. After jamming on the drums, the minister gets up and gives a marvelous sermon on discipline. The close was the question, "How does one get discipline?" The answer, "By being disciplined".
With work, with a plan, with a wing and a prayer - Like Benjamin Franklin of long ago and Taylor Swift of the here and now, we, too, can work on the inner, which in turn will enhance and make more radiant the outer. When the outer and the inner meet, we can achieve a measure of true harmony.
Love and peace-
Lydia
Friday, May 25, 2012
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Dressing from the inside out!
"L' essentiel est invisible pour les yeux." (What is essential is invisible to the eyes.) - The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
"One of our chief jobs in life, it seems to me, is to realize how rare and valuable each one of us really is - that each of us has something which no one else has - or ever will have - something inside which is unique to all time." - Fred Rogers in Life's Journeys According to Mister Rogers
You may have seen the actress Ashley Judd in television interviews last week commenting on some unpleasant and unflattering critiques of her appearance. While she has enjoyed a thriving career spanning over two decades, recently she had to take some prescription steroids for a sinus infection. The results of this treatment included a puffy face which made comments she called "nasty" and "viotrolic" come her way. She was angry, lashing out against what many see as a world of hypersexualization and a society which often unfairly scrutinizes a woman's appearance. How many of us can relate to her feelings of frustration and inadequacy? All too many of us, I'm afraid.
For every confident person who walks through the doors of FL Crooks & Co, I would say there are at least ten or twenty who sell themselves way too short when it comes to matters of personal dress and style. And why not? We must constantly be on guard to combat an unhealthy obsession with body image that can greet and tease us on a daily basis and make unrealistic demands on us.
To look and feel good, the popular actress Diane Keaton states, "I keep it simple and chic. A gorgeous jacket. A fabulous belt. Then I add character, and that's when a look becomes a signature." Character is bringing the inside out for a personal style rich with depth that is uniquely you.
It's comforting and reassuring to hear the fabulous designer Michael Kors comment on a simple equation to enable one to look and feel optimal. "My designs are inspired by customers, the women I see on a day-to-day basis carrying my bags and wearing my clothes. Figure out what works for you and stick to it. That's what is always going to look the best and make you stand out. Confidence makes you the one that everyone notices. Know yourself, and you will always look great." Michael Kors draws his ideas from you!
Afterall, confidence to meet and greet the world truly comes from the inside out. A favorite author, Anne LaMotte writes, "To love yourself as you are is a miracle, and to seek yourself is to have found yourself, for now. And now is all we have, and love is who we are."
May we realize that the outsides of life are important but the insides are what gives us the sparkle and the shine. May we realize with ever expanding confidence our own worth. May we cultivate our own unique inner beauty and our capacity to love ourself and others. Dressing from the inside out will add radiance and joy to our appearance in this grand adventure of life and living.
"One of our chief jobs in life, it seems to me, is to realize how rare and valuable each one of us really is - that each of us has something which no one else has - or ever will have - something inside which is unique to all time." - Fred Rogers in Life's Journeys According to Mister Rogers
You may have seen the actress Ashley Judd in television interviews last week commenting on some unpleasant and unflattering critiques of her appearance. While she has enjoyed a thriving career spanning over two decades, recently she had to take some prescription steroids for a sinus infection. The results of this treatment included a puffy face which made comments she called "nasty" and "viotrolic" come her way. She was angry, lashing out against what many see as a world of hypersexualization and a society which often unfairly scrutinizes a woman's appearance. How many of us can relate to her feelings of frustration and inadequacy? All too many of us, I'm afraid.
For every confident person who walks through the doors of FL Crooks & Co, I would say there are at least ten or twenty who sell themselves way too short when it comes to matters of personal dress and style. And why not? We must constantly be on guard to combat an unhealthy obsession with body image that can greet and tease us on a daily basis and make unrealistic demands on us.
To look and feel good, the popular actress Diane Keaton states, "I keep it simple and chic. A gorgeous jacket. A fabulous belt. Then I add character, and that's when a look becomes a signature." Character is bringing the inside out for a personal style rich with depth that is uniquely you.
It's comforting and reassuring to hear the fabulous designer Michael Kors comment on a simple equation to enable one to look and feel optimal. "My designs are inspired by customers, the women I see on a day-to-day basis carrying my bags and wearing my clothes. Figure out what works for you and stick to it. That's what is always going to look the best and make you stand out. Confidence makes you the one that everyone notices. Know yourself, and you will always look great." Michael Kors draws his ideas from you!
Afterall, confidence to meet and greet the world truly comes from the inside out. A favorite author, Anne LaMotte writes, "To love yourself as you are is a miracle, and to seek yourself is to have found yourself, for now. And now is all we have, and love is who we are."
May we realize that the outsides of life are important but the insides are what gives us the sparkle and the shine. May we realize with ever expanding confidence our own worth. May we cultivate our own unique inner beauty and our capacity to love ourself and others. Dressing from the inside out will add radiance and joy to our appearance in this grand adventure of life and living.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile!
"Hey, hobo man, Hey, Dapper Dan, You both got your style,
But brother, You're never fully dressed without a smile!
Your clothes may be "Beau Brumelly," They stand out a mile,
But brother, You're never fully dressed without a smile!"
So goes the lyrics from the beloved Broadway Musical "Annie" by Martin Charnin and Charles Strouse celebrating the virtue of the smile. From infancy on, a smile is something magical, something we love to gaze upon. While there are 43 muscles in the face, there is discussion as to just how many muscles it takes to smile. According to Dr. David Song of the University of Chicago Medical Center, the average frown requires 11 muscles while an average smile requires 12. Others claim it takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile. Nonetheless, it is believed that it takes less effort to smile than to frown because people tend to smile more, keeping those muscles required to smile in better shape. And, ladies, what better way to showcase your radiant smile than with a new Spring woman's top from FL Crooks & Co.
Our garden of clothing on our sales floor features tops in a myriad of shapes and designs - soft and breezy, flattering fits, fluttering sleeves.
We have boutique-look tunics and chic layering pieces. Lace, chiffon, and crocheted items present a romantic flavor for the season. Ruffles abound as do tops with just the right amount of 'bling'. Bright colors pop but which color it is that takes center stage is a matter of personal opinion. Some are leaning toward the coral and orange and tangerine and bright pinks and blues. Prints are prettier than ever.
New for Spring 2012 are the following lines for women's tops: AnM, Belldini, BCBG Generation, Clara Sunwoo, Ciel de Juno, Sunset Rd., and Sisters. Continuing on with popular favorites are Angie, Kanvas, Kersh, Kische, Michael Stars, Renuar, Sno Skins, Sugar Lips, Tresics, Violet & Claire and Ya.
Oversized tops bring a sense of fun and imagination. Nobody does it better than Tresics Cloud Nine and Tresics Femme.
The tops of Spring 2012 feature various necklines - crewneck, scoop neck as well as V-neck. With a scarf and just the right jewelry, these tops will offer you the perfect showcase for your smile, your best feature.
The prolific architect, Zaha Hadid, stated, "I'm interested in fasion because it's the immediate thing that shows you the temper of a particular moment." Spring 2012 is reflected in our collection of gorgeous women's tops.
What these beautiful tops need is you! Stop by 539 Main Street in Clarion and let us take you on an aesthetic journey. We'll offer you a warm, personal touch as you seek out that perfect top for your wardrobe needs. We'll give you something to smile about!
With a smile,
Lydia Crooks
But brother, You're never fully dressed without a smile!
Your clothes may be "Beau Brumelly," They stand out a mile,
But brother, You're never fully dressed without a smile!"
So goes the lyrics from the beloved Broadway Musical "Annie" by Martin Charnin and Charles Strouse celebrating the virtue of the smile. From infancy on, a smile is something magical, something we love to gaze upon. While there are 43 muscles in the face, there is discussion as to just how many muscles it takes to smile. According to Dr. David Song of the University of Chicago Medical Center, the average frown requires 11 muscles while an average smile requires 12. Others claim it takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile. Nonetheless, it is believed that it takes less effort to smile than to frown because people tend to smile more, keeping those muscles required to smile in better shape. And, ladies, what better way to showcase your radiant smile than with a new Spring woman's top from FL Crooks & Co.
Our garden of clothing on our sales floor features tops in a myriad of shapes and designs - soft and breezy, flattering fits, fluttering sleeves.
We have boutique-look tunics and chic layering pieces. Lace, chiffon, and crocheted items present a romantic flavor for the season. Ruffles abound as do tops with just the right amount of 'bling'. Bright colors pop but which color it is that takes center stage is a matter of personal opinion. Some are leaning toward the coral and orange and tangerine and bright pinks and blues. Prints are prettier than ever.
New for Spring 2012 are the following lines for women's tops: AnM, Belldini, BCBG Generation, Clara Sunwoo, Ciel de Juno, Sunset Rd., and Sisters. Continuing on with popular favorites are Angie, Kanvas, Kersh, Kische, Michael Stars, Renuar, Sno Skins, Sugar Lips, Tresics, Violet & Claire and Ya.
Oversized tops bring a sense of fun and imagination. Nobody does it better than Tresics Cloud Nine and Tresics Femme.
The tops of Spring 2012 feature various necklines - crewneck, scoop neck as well as V-neck. With a scarf and just the right jewelry, these tops will offer you the perfect showcase for your smile, your best feature.
The prolific architect, Zaha Hadid, stated, "I'm interested in fasion because it's the immediate thing that shows you the temper of a particular moment." Spring 2012 is reflected in our collection of gorgeous women's tops.
What these beautiful tops need is you! Stop by 539 Main Street in Clarion and let us take you on an aesthetic journey. We'll offer you a warm, personal touch as you seek out that perfect top for your wardrobe needs. We'll give you something to smile about!
With a smile,
Lydia Crooks
Monday, February 27, 2012
TUXEDO TIME!
In the spring, a young lady's fancy turns to ice cream (or is it love?) while a young man's fancy turns to...tuxedos! For your formal wear needs this Spring 2012 and beyond, look no further than FL Crooks & Co, located at 539 Main Street in Clarion. FL Crooks & Co has been working with Jim's Formal Wear for 6 years now to offer the very best in tuxedo wear rental. The collection includes styles designed by Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Jean Yves, Stephen Geoffrey, Andrew Fezza and new for this season, another award winning fashion designer, Tony Bowls.
Tailored in Super 100's fabric, the tuxedos feature two, three, or four button fronts. Most are single breasted in styling, while double breasted styles are available as well. As far as color is concerned, Ben, from the Men's Department at FL Crooks & Co, states "We did a lot of whites and ivory for a recent fashion show." There are over 385 tie styles and 175 full back vests available in a rainbow of colors.
Ben commented that "the newest looks are the slim fit styles which feature a narrow lapel and a slimmer waistline". Creating a flattering V-shaped silhouette, this style is the ideal choice for an athletic-built gentleman looking for a fitted styling in a tuxedo.
Available April 15th are the new flat front formal trousers. Sized from a Boys 18 through a Men's 65, these pants are tailored with a unique beaded stripe down the pant leg. An adjustable waist gives maximum comfort.
Shirts to complement the tuxedo are fitted and styled from microfiber.
The starting price point for tuxedo rental is $69.95. Beginning at $84.95, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond collection bundle rental pricing includes the tuxedo, a shirt with nickel-plated jewelry, any tie, and any vest or cummerbund. A pocket square can be included for an additional $8. Nearly every vest and cummerbund has a pocket square to match its color.
Fedora hats are available in black and in white.
A pair of black shoes is included in the price of the tuxedo rental. Upgrades are available for $20 more.
To see a pocket square folding video or to learn how to tie a self-tie bow tie, check out the following e-mail address: jimsformalwear.com/tagvideos.htm
Create a perfect color combination; create a perfect look for you. Stop in FL Crooks & Co for all your tuxedo needs.
Tailored in Super 100's fabric, the tuxedos feature two, three, or four button fronts. Most are single breasted in styling, while double breasted styles are available as well. As far as color is concerned, Ben, from the Men's Department at FL Crooks & Co, states "We did a lot of whites and ivory for a recent fashion show." There are over 385 tie styles and 175 full back vests available in a rainbow of colors.
Ben commented that "the newest looks are the slim fit styles which feature a narrow lapel and a slimmer waistline". Creating a flattering V-shaped silhouette, this style is the ideal choice for an athletic-built gentleman looking for a fitted styling in a tuxedo.
Available April 15th are the new flat front formal trousers. Sized from a Boys 18 through a Men's 65, these pants are tailored with a unique beaded stripe down the pant leg. An adjustable waist gives maximum comfort.
Shirts to complement the tuxedo are fitted and styled from microfiber.
The starting price point for tuxedo rental is $69.95. Beginning at $84.95, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond collection bundle rental pricing includes the tuxedo, a shirt with nickel-plated jewelry, any tie, and any vest or cummerbund. A pocket square can be included for an additional $8. Nearly every vest and cummerbund has a pocket square to match its color.
Fedora hats are available in black and in white.
A pair of black shoes is included in the price of the tuxedo rental. Upgrades are available for $20 more.
To see a pocket square folding video or to learn how to tie a self-tie bow tie, check out the following e-mail address: jimsformalwear.com/tagvideos.htm
Create a perfect color combination; create a perfect look for you. Stop in FL Crooks & Co for all your tuxedo needs.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
January 2012
We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time. -T.S. Eliot
Since our beginnings in 1905, FL Crooks & Co has been on a mission to serve our community with quality men's and women's clothing, shoes, and accessories. Fashion counts as does value and substance. And we are working hard to make 2012 the best year yet! Honoring our heritage in the retail environent requires a fine balance between representing the 'tried and true' and introducing new products to our valued customers.
One of our favorite 'tried and true' labels, Hart Schaffner Marx, turns 125 years old this year. To mark the milestone, its parent company, HMX Group, is creating a capsule collection. "There are six or seven men's pieces that make up this collection," said Joseph Abboud, president and chief creative officer. "I looked back at the last 70 to 80 years at what have been the most iconic pieces," he stated. "Things that are antifashion, beautiful, simple and just great style. These are pieces that are found in every guy's wardrobe, but updated to be appropriate today." The anniversary allows the company to tout its long-standing Made in America posture. The brand produces 200,000 units domestically every year with distinct American styling.
Along with Hart Schaffner Marx, other prominent labels that FL Crooks & Co offers to our valued customers are Alberto pants, Haupt shirts, Spiewak coats, Wigens caps, Tommy Bahama men's clothing as well as Mountain Khakis and Bill's Khakis.
Sportswear continues to play an integral role in the business generated at FL Crooks & Co. The North Face, Patagonia, Ibex and SmartWool are the major players featured in our 10,000 feet of retail space.
FL Crooks & Co will be introducing "Beija-Flor" this spring, a new jean line. Targeting the modern woman, these jeans, designed by the mother-daughter team of Kathy Moca and Emilie Whitaker, are designed for women who want stylish, unique jeans that fit great as well. "Beija-Flor" will complement our extensive inventory of the popular Not Your Daughter's Jeans, as well as Mavi, Miss Me, and Silver jeans.
Our strong emphasis on footwear includes UGGs, Keen, Merrell, NAOT, Dansko, Kenneth Cole, Johnston & Murphy, Timberland and Crocs. New additions in the shoe department for Spring 2012 will include 9West and BCBG shoes in the women's department.
In the accessories department Brighton continues to sparkle brightly. The Brighton shop has expanded greatly and is better than ever, featuring fanciful necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Our staff is excited about an upcoming Pandora promotion for four days in March. Spend $100 and receive a Pandora clasp bracelet with a retail value of $65. The Pandora collection has recently added 8 new silver beads, $25 each. Our Pandora collection features bracelets as well as necklaces, earrings and rings. The jewelery line, Kameleon, has recently been added to further enhance our extensive accessories collection.
To a degree, everything in this world is judged by how long it has lasted. FL Crooks & Co is celebrating 107 years in business in 2012, cherishing the past and allowing the new to propel our company into the future.
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time. -T.S. Eliot
Since our beginnings in 1905, FL Crooks & Co has been on a mission to serve our community with quality men's and women's clothing, shoes, and accessories. Fashion counts as does value and substance. And we are working hard to make 2012 the best year yet! Honoring our heritage in the retail environent requires a fine balance between representing the 'tried and true' and introducing new products to our valued customers.
One of our favorite 'tried and true' labels, Hart Schaffner Marx, turns 125 years old this year. To mark the milestone, its parent company, HMX Group, is creating a capsule collection. "There are six or seven men's pieces that make up this collection," said Joseph Abboud, president and chief creative officer. "I looked back at the last 70 to 80 years at what have been the most iconic pieces," he stated. "Things that are antifashion, beautiful, simple and just great style. These are pieces that are found in every guy's wardrobe, but updated to be appropriate today." The anniversary allows the company to tout its long-standing Made in America posture. The brand produces 200,000 units domestically every year with distinct American styling.
Along with Hart Schaffner Marx, other prominent labels that FL Crooks & Co offers to our valued customers are Alberto pants, Haupt shirts, Spiewak coats, Wigens caps, Tommy Bahama men's clothing as well as Mountain Khakis and Bill's Khakis.
Sportswear continues to play an integral role in the business generated at FL Crooks & Co. The North Face, Patagonia, Ibex and SmartWool are the major players featured in our 10,000 feet of retail space.
FL Crooks & Co will be introducing "Beija-Flor" this spring, a new jean line. Targeting the modern woman, these jeans, designed by the mother-daughter team of Kathy Moca and Emilie Whitaker, are designed for women who want stylish, unique jeans that fit great as well. "Beija-Flor" will complement our extensive inventory of the popular Not Your Daughter's Jeans, as well as Mavi, Miss Me, and Silver jeans.
Our strong emphasis on footwear includes UGGs, Keen, Merrell, NAOT, Dansko, Kenneth Cole, Johnston & Murphy, Timberland and Crocs. New additions in the shoe department for Spring 2012 will include 9West and BCBG shoes in the women's department.
In the accessories department Brighton continues to sparkle brightly. The Brighton shop has expanded greatly and is better than ever, featuring fanciful necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Our staff is excited about an upcoming Pandora promotion for four days in March. Spend $100 and receive a Pandora clasp bracelet with a retail value of $65. The Pandora collection has recently added 8 new silver beads, $25 each. Our Pandora collection features bracelets as well as necklaces, earrings and rings. The jewelery line, Kameleon, has recently been added to further enhance our extensive accessories collection.
To a degree, everything in this world is judged by how long it has lasted. FL Crooks & Co is celebrating 107 years in business in 2012, cherishing the past and allowing the new to propel our company into the future.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
December 2011 - "A Season of Gratitude"
December 2011 - "A Season of Gratitude"
"I will hold Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year through." - Charles Dickens
I was on the elliptical this morning at our local YMCA, and John Stossel from ABC was being interviewed about a recent story he had done. "Hey, people, it's not that bad. There is so much to be thankful for." He pointed out how labor saving devices, like the washing machine, have revolutionized our lives and given us time to pursue other interests. Many of us are no longer hauling water for daily sustenance. He is so right on, I thought. I for one am glad to be living in this time and era.
When I start to count my blessings, my irrascible husband is at the top of my list, along with my 3 really cool grown children and son-in-law, who's all grown up too! I am thankful for health, and electricity and modern conveniences, and the sun by day and moon by night and the incredible natural beauty of the world.
Moreover, I am so thankful for our customers who keep our retail clothing business alive and vibrant and thriving. Customers are always looking for something new to make their lives a bit more exciting, no matter what age or gender, in good times or bad. We will do our utmost to provide superior product and service for them each time they step in the door at 539 Main Street or come to shop with us via the world wide web.
I had a phone call yesterday from a woman in Ohio. I could hear the sparkle in her voice as she ordered a pair of DANKSO shoes and a pair of Kenneth Cole boots. She said that was so happy to have discovered our store. It was a win-win situation for both her and us. We look forward to her return visits.
At FL Crooks & Co, we adhere to the Rotary Club 4-tiered mantra devised by Rotarian Paul Harris, known as the 4 way test:
Is it the Truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build good will and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Here's to you, our friends, with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation: Wishing you all the merriest of Christmases and a happy, healthy and hopeful New Year to follow. As I heard in a profound message recently that struck a cord with me - "Shine; don't whine!" I will hold Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year through.
With grateful expectancy,
Lydia Crooks
"I will hold Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year through." - Charles Dickens
I was on the elliptical this morning at our local YMCA, and John Stossel from ABC was being interviewed about a recent story he had done. "Hey, people, it's not that bad. There is so much to be thankful for." He pointed out how labor saving devices, like the washing machine, have revolutionized our lives and given us time to pursue other interests. Many of us are no longer hauling water for daily sustenance. He is so right on, I thought. I for one am glad to be living in this time and era.
When I start to count my blessings, my irrascible husband is at the top of my list, along with my 3 really cool grown children and son-in-law, who's all grown up too! I am thankful for health, and electricity and modern conveniences, and the sun by day and moon by night and the incredible natural beauty of the world.
Moreover, I am so thankful for our customers who keep our retail clothing business alive and vibrant and thriving. Customers are always looking for something new to make their lives a bit more exciting, no matter what age or gender, in good times or bad. We will do our utmost to provide superior product and service for them each time they step in the door at 539 Main Street or come to shop with us via the world wide web.
I had a phone call yesterday from a woman in Ohio. I could hear the sparkle in her voice as she ordered a pair of DANKSO shoes and a pair of Kenneth Cole boots. She said that was so happy to have discovered our store. It was a win-win situation for both her and us. We look forward to her return visits.
At FL Crooks & Co, we adhere to the Rotary Club 4-tiered mantra devised by Rotarian Paul Harris, known as the 4 way test:
Is it the Truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build good will and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Here's to you, our friends, with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation: Wishing you all the merriest of Christmases and a happy, healthy and hopeful New Year to follow. As I heard in a profound message recently that struck a cord with me - "Shine; don't whine!" I will hold Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year through.
With grateful expectancy,
Lydia Crooks
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
November 2011 - Merry Christmastide!
"Good clothes open all doors." - Thomas Fuller
According to a recent Bottom Line magazine, it appears as though men are dressing for success once again. The men's apparel market grew by 3.3% in 2010 - compared with a growth of 1.9% for the apparel market as a whole and an increase of 2.9% for women's apparel. Sales of tailored clothing, such as suits and jackets, grew by 30% in the three months through February 2011.
With the holidays upon us, dress clothing would make a practical as well as an aesthetic Christmas gift for those loved ones on your list. At FL Crooks & Co, we feature a wide assortment of suits in a wide range of prices, beginning at $299. Some of our top lines include Tallia (established in 1893), Hart Schaffner Marx (since 1887), Joseph Abboud, Daniel Hechter and Calvin Klein.
Jim Crooks stated that "the most popular style of suit at the moment is the 2-button double side vent." He added that many people continue to wear the 3 button suit as well. As far as color is concerned, darks continue to be the predomint choice among customers. Navy is coming on strong. Charcoal is often chosen for its versatility. Pin stripes are ever popular.
In addition to the front button closing and the color, other factors to consider when purchasing a suit are whether one prefers flat front or pleated pants and a straight hem or cuffs for the pants.
To go along with your suit purchase, FL Crooks & Co carries Forsyth of Canada dress shirts, made of 100% cotton 80's 2-ply pinpoint oxford cloth. These shirts are wrinkle free and require no ironing.
Accessories to complement the suit and shirt include Brighton belts which range in price from $30 to $90 and an unbeatable assortment of ties. Some tie lines at FL Crooks & Co include Ike Behar, Hart Schaffner Marx and Private Stock. Prices range from $18 to $98.
Our son had a recent job interview, and his dad offered the following advice:"Wear a suit -- shine your shoes -- smile -- give a firm hand shake and look them right in the eye... Pay attention to your shirt and tie -- it makes you look older if you wear a tie and a good fitting suit!"
An awesome suit, a fabulous dress shirt, a remarkable belt, a terrific tie - you can find them all at FL Crooks & Co - where you never looked so good!
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmastide!
"Look forward and be hopeful.
Look backward and be thankful.
Look downward and be helpful.
Look upward and be humble." - Esther Ann Asch
According to a recent Bottom Line magazine, it appears as though men are dressing for success once again. The men's apparel market grew by 3.3% in 2010 - compared with a growth of 1.9% for the apparel market as a whole and an increase of 2.9% for women's apparel. Sales of tailored clothing, such as suits and jackets, grew by 30% in the three months through February 2011.
With the holidays upon us, dress clothing would make a practical as well as an aesthetic Christmas gift for those loved ones on your list. At FL Crooks & Co, we feature a wide assortment of suits in a wide range of prices, beginning at $299. Some of our top lines include Tallia (established in 1893), Hart Schaffner Marx (since 1887), Joseph Abboud, Daniel Hechter and Calvin Klein.
Jim Crooks stated that "the most popular style of suit at the moment is the 2-button double side vent." He added that many people continue to wear the 3 button suit as well. As far as color is concerned, darks continue to be the predomint choice among customers. Navy is coming on strong. Charcoal is often chosen for its versatility. Pin stripes are ever popular.
In addition to the front button closing and the color, other factors to consider when purchasing a suit are whether one prefers flat front or pleated pants and a straight hem or cuffs for the pants.
To go along with your suit purchase, FL Crooks & Co carries Forsyth of Canada dress shirts, made of 100% cotton 80's 2-ply pinpoint oxford cloth. These shirts are wrinkle free and require no ironing.
Accessories to complement the suit and shirt include Brighton belts which range in price from $30 to $90 and an unbeatable assortment of ties. Some tie lines at FL Crooks & Co include Ike Behar, Hart Schaffner Marx and Private Stock. Prices range from $18 to $98.
Our son had a recent job interview, and his dad offered the following advice:"Wear a suit -- shine your shoes -- smile -- give a firm hand shake and look them right in the eye... Pay attention to your shirt and tie -- it makes you look older if you wear a tie and a good fitting suit!"
An awesome suit, a fabulous dress shirt, a remarkable belt, a terrific tie - you can find them all at FL Crooks & Co - where you never looked so good!
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmastide!
"Look forward and be hopeful.
Look backward and be thankful.
Look downward and be helpful.
Look upward and be humble." - Esther Ann Asch
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