What a day! Today I started off my morning getting to know the inter workings of the shop. I was given a run down on the process of custom orders and how all of the inventory works. I got to see how everything is kept organized and prepared before it goes on the shelf. Today I had an awesome time talking with “Z” who runs the whole back area of the shop. He showed me how order forms worked, what he does when they get new clothes, and many more logistics of the business. After that we talked for a really long time about the retail world and what is good/bad for business and even ways that their own business could improve. I learned about what they call “dum-dum proof” items. Apparently a store should be 80% dum dum proof clothes, or clothes that anyone would wear. So in the case of Liles, black/navy suits, white/light blue shirts, and neutral colored pants. Sure these items can have variety, but if 80% of the clientele are looking for a versatile piece, then that’s how many of your pieces should be versatile. The other 20% can be anything that is more adventurous or stand-out in nature. Z says that in the case of custom suits, typically the people who wan’t a suit that is more of a statement will buy it custom, and not off the rack. Therefore if they have too many “different” items on the racks, there will be lots left over after the season which translates to lost money. Anyways that was today, tomorrow I was told we will be messing around with custom fabrics and showing me everything that goes on when making a custom suit. Also here’s a table of ties for viewing pleasure: