“I didn’t start life expecting to be part of my family’s clothing business, but I enjoyed menswear even when I was young,” says Ralph Lauretta, 37. Maybe that’s why he was named best-dressed male by his senior class at Hawthorne High School. Ralph started working at Sal Lauretta for Men part time at age 22 and is now the operations manager and buyer. The Bergen County shop carries made-to-measure and designer menswear, sportswear, formal wear and boys’ clothing. “My father is my best friend and mentor, always guiding me to try new things,” Ralph says.
His dad, Sal Lauretta, 68, is a master tailor who still relies on the skills his father and store founder, Raffaele, taught him in Sicily decades ago. “This is a dream come true for me, to have Ralph manage the business as a third-generation family member and help us renovate the store and keep our inventory current,” says Sal. “My father would have been so happy.” So what’s new this season? “We’re in full spring mode right now with fashion-forward looks,” says Ralph. “Bright blue is very big, as are yellow, aqua and other pastels. Patterns like Glen plaid, paisley and herringbone are back, too.” Sal adds, “We still carry traditional black, gray and navy, but we really enjoy new, updated looks—like colorful Robert Graham shirts, intricately made with fine details. We’ve come a long way since the leisure suits of the ’70s.”
STATEMENT SHIRT: You won’t blend into the crowd with Robert Graham’s signature bold prints and contrasting checked cuffs; $228.
OUT OF THE BLUE: Step into summer with Donald Pliner’s brightly hued casual mesh loafer; $118.
FATHER’S DAY FUN: Surprise Dad with this nontraditional purple paisley bowtie by Dion Neckwear; $78.