We just got back from a quick visit to Toronto, but not before stopping by Sydney’s — a contemporary men’s boutique that carries a mix of fine denim, tailored basics and high-end suiting, including its own namesake shirt and bespoke suiting line. If we could outfit our dream closet, it would most likely look like the store, from its simple palette of blacks, blues and grays, right down to its distressed hardwood floors and copper ceilings.
Here in a Corduroy web exclusive, owner Sydney Mamane talks about the concept behind the store, his unique clientele and the five pieces that every man should own.
Where did the name of the store come from?
I did not want an ironic or witty name so I just decided to name it after myself. I guess I romanticize the names of old when there used to be shops called Harry the Tailor or Bob’s Garage.
What is the concept behind the store?
I started making custom jeans and suits out of a small studio and the shop was a way of giving the custom business a face. I also wanted to create a platform for what I consider some of the best design the world has to offer. The design of the store reflects some of the earlier values I embraced, including well-made modern classics that transcend time. The shop is modeled after turn-of-the-century bars, saloons and cigar shops with some modern elements. In essence, the clothing reflects the space and vice versa.
Who would you say your clientele is?
Men between the age of 25 and 50, professionals who want a bit more style in their wardrobe and a couple of gay priests (laughs).
What are some of your most popular items that you sell? How do you select what labels/items get carried in the store?
Dries Van Noten, Rick Owens and Band of Outsiders all sell very well, not necessarily to the same customer. We select brands based on the integrity of the cut, design, fabric, and always with an eye for value.
Tell us about your shirting line and bespoke service.
For the shirting, I wanted to have a really clean basic that we could do in multiple fabrics, short sleeve and long sleeve, at a reasonable price. The quality is excellent and we worked hard to achieve a slim, wearable cut with no darts. We will have a complete line for Fall/Winter 09 available at the shop only. The over-arching idea of the bespoke suiting is a contemporary silhouette constructed using old-world tailoring techniques. Our suits feature fabrics from Holland & Sherry based in Saville Row, a narrow lapel with a high notch and high cutaway. The trousers are narrow and high-waisted to acheive a long silhouette. Every suit is made from scratch and is constructed by hand, including all the button-holes, lining, collar and finishing.
How does men’s fashion in Toronto compare to that of other cities?
I don’t think there is much of a difference between Toronto, New York, Hong Kong, Tokyo, etc. The main difference would be the volume attainable of the particular style someone would be looking for. In this age of technology, different styles are communicated via blogs, e-commerce sites, mags, etc.
What makes Sydney’s unique from other stores?
Our silouette is quite narrow, with a stark grey scale palette and simple with a twist.
What are some items of clothing that every man should own?
A pair of dark raw denim jeans, a Rick Owens t-shirt, a Dries Van Noten button-down shirt and cardigan, and one of our bespoke suits.
What’s in your personal closet right now?
Stop by the store to say hi to Sydney or Frank and tell them Corduroy sent you. Sydney’s is located in Toronto at 795 Queen Street West. Store hours and info at shopsydneys.com
- TC
