Quality counts. That’s the philosophy behind men’s luxury fashion brand Peter Millar. The company prides itself on top-quality materials and classic looks. On Nov. 17, St. Louisans will have greater local access to the brand when Mister Guy Men’s boutique becomes only the second store in the country to house two Peter Millar boutiques. We spoke with Peter Millar president Scott Ruerup about the philosophy behind the brand.
T&S | How long have you been with the company?
Scott Ruerup | Four years. I’ve been in the fashion industry since 1995, always in men’s fashion.
T&S | The brand is all about sophistication. How does that translate to what’s offered?
SR | We strive to offer a cohesive, well thought-out collection so that a man can go into his closet and wear everything Peter Millar, from his shoes, socks and belt to his sweater and outerwear. We want every single item to be great, and our design team is extensive and does an amazing job with this. We stay classic and can reach a wide audience this way. A lot of times people think, Only men in places like New York can wear that. But even in the smallest towns in America, people want to dress well.
T&S | How important is it for men to be stylish and comfortable?
SR | Being comfortable is very important, and fit is a huge part of that. We don’t chase trends. But we’re always relevant. Around the world, the trend is to go ‘trim,’ but we shy away from that.
T&S | Are there any trends in men’s fashion that are changing or new?
SR | I think there is a shift toward cleaner looks and more elegant sportswear. Tailored suits are diminishing a little and men understand how to wear sportswear now. They have a sensibility on how to put it all together, plus we guide them on how to do that in our stores. For example, wearing a cashmere sweater underneath a beautiful, soft, elegant coat. Even a polished collegiate look is popular now. Young college guys don’t want to dress in just a rugged T-shirt, so we offer nice woven shirts with school logos. And women love the brand for their husbands and boyfriends because of the beautiful colors.
T&S | Any way men can spice up their look for the holidays?
SR | Men should really embrace beautiful outerwear. A lot of gentlemen will wear the same jacket or coat throughout fall, and they should invest in various pieces, including nice vests. Outerwear can transform your entire look.
T&S | Tell me about Mister Guy’s Collection boutique.
SR | Mister Guy will be one of only two retailers in the country that has two Peter Millar boutiques (Crown and Collection). It’s exciting to see, and it turned out beautifully. The Collection boutique opening this month is the only one in the Midwest and features more of a European flair; the colors are more tonal and not as vibrant. And everything in the Collection is made in Europe.
Mister Guy Men’s hosts a grand opening celebration for the Peter Millar Collection boutique from 3 to 7 p.m. Nov. 17 at the store. Scott Ruerup and others from Peter Millar will be in attendance.