I am in New York on business right now and had the chance to walk around Midtown in the swirling snow.
It’s really coming down this evening and though that leads to slippery sidewalks and slower going, for me walking around this city in any weather is a treat.
In particular, I had the chance to stop in at one of my favorite men’s stores, Jay Kos, on Park Avenue. I have not had the chance to visit for a while and was mildly surprised to learn that the original location up on Lexington had been closed. Jay apparently decided to consolidate retail operations in the Park Avenue space – overall, it’s a smart move and a great location.
Jay Kos (Sartorialist.com)
He also moved out of children’s clothing – too bad as I’m expecting my first child. I would have liked a few of those sweaters. Though the high end children’s clothing market in Manhattan is a lucrative one, Kos is again focusing all his attention on his core menswear market.
Jay Kos Packaging
And he knows how to focus. Jay Kos consistently offers some of the most interesting and luxurious clothes; from jewel colored cords to navy cashmere hopsack blazers. I tried on two sport coats – including that cashmere hopsack – and the fit is extraordinary. So are the prices, but that’s neither here nor there. If you go shopping at Jay Kos, accept that you’ll pay a premium and know you’re getting some of the best clothing you’ll find anywhere.
Tommy Hass in Jay Kos (Men’s Vogue)
I’ve been following Kos’ progress since first seeing him profiled as an upstart shop owner in GQ back in 1996. I knew that he was something special; a young guy with excellent taste and little tolerance for men with a weak sartorial backbone. From there he built a cult following and a reputation for top notch Italian and English inspired wares.
Though it has a fairly small footprint, you can cover a lot of ground in the store – custom suits, exceptional footwear, a wall of socks, sport coats, sweaters, handmade hats and hand rolled cigars.
He is not afraid of color either, with bright greens, oranges and reds popping up in unexpected places. So if you want to add a stylish splash to your wardrobe, stop by 475 Park Avenue. It’s not a large store, but it’s one of the best in New York.