A New York suit maker has found a niche in the intensely competitive business.
Charles Brunold started Louis Purple, a made-to-measure store, in Nolita in 2011, and quickly found high-profile customers from Wall Street, the entertainment industry, law and advertising. MadonÂna’s son Rocco is a fan, as is actor John Leguizamo.
Brunold invested $100,000 to set up the store, and had roughly $1 million in sales last year. This year he expects to double that and is eyeing franchise opportunities.
Clients coming to Brunold for made-to-measure suits starting at $1,290 are fitted in the store.
Customers select fabrics and are guided through an array of options, including types of buttons, liner, pockets and stitching.
He has just opened a by-appointment studio on 30th Street and Second Avenue, where men can come with their entire wedding party. Some clients spend $2.000 per suit for 10 groomsmen.