I was talking to everyone at the store the other day after our Ann Mashburn and Lizzie Fortunato event. It was a really special day in our shop, and you could tell how much everyone enjoyed it. It just felt good - and it has since occurred to me why it did. Yes, they both have amazing lines, and we all love their jewelry and clothing, but that wasn’t it. I mean, it was part of it, but the reason was because of the character of Lizzie, Kathryn, and Ann. Not only are they kind, but they are also generous, and everyone could tell.

All of these women are busy, and don’t have to take the time to come to our store - or any other. They, along with all of us, are stretched thin back home. They have businesses to run and families to care for. But they do show up and their kindness and generosity shines through.

The same is true with Ann’s husband, Sid Mashburn. You probably know by now he is coming to Alexandria to officially open Yellow Jacket. He will be there Thursday, April 21 from 5pm to 8pm, and Friday, April 22 from 9am to 12pm. He is bringing his master tailor, Qadir Amiri, and his Senior Associate, Alex Maiola. I met all three of these men at my first men’s market in Chicago and they were all so gracious. I actually asked them if there was a difference between a seamstress and a tailor and they looked a little alarmed (okay, terrified) that I was asking. But after the shock wore off, they sat and spoke with Rebecca and I and basically said “we are all going to help you figure this store out.” It was a genuine offer; Sid was not going to let me fail if he had anything to do with it. 

So it only makes sense that he is the one helping me launch my store, officially. 

Sid Mashburn is one of the coolest people I have ever met. If you follow him on Instagram @sidmashburn you will see why. In person he is even more charming. You want to have a bourbon with him and just sit down and “visit,” as my grandmother would say. But the other thing you realize is that he is a gentleman, kind of a throwback to when people took pride in appearances (I went to Disney a month ago and I can now confidently attest that America could use some help in getting dressed). Sid reminds me of Oscar De La Renta or Sydney Poitier, always dressed and always polite. 

I am so excited to have him help launch Yellow Jacket. I hope you will come by and meet Sid and his team. We will have an extended selection of Sid Mashburn clothing and we are doing appointments for custom clothing. Click the link below to schedule an appointment. Sid leaves at noon on Friday, but Alex and Qadir will be there to help with custom orders. You can make shirts, pants, sport coats, or suits. I know it has been a long time since a lot of men have shopped and people are excited to get out of their sweats and info beautiful clothing.