SMITH’S MEN’S STORE RECEIVES A WARM WELCOME IN WINNETKA

For 88 years, Smith’s Men’s Store in Lake Forest has been a pillar of refined men’s apparel. Now, with five successful years notched in their fine Italian leather belts since reopening, owners Trey Gonzales and Kip Helverson are thrilled to bring their carefully curated selections and sophisticated offerings to Winnetka.

When Gonzales and Helverson took ownership of the men’s clothier cornerstone, their goal was clear: to preserve the timeless tradition of a classic men’s store at the heart of the community. Their commitment to offering exceptional products and services, and the positive feedback from local communities and clients, reinforced the idea of expanding to Winnetka to do just the same.

Many customers from the surrounding areas of and in Winnetka were already making regular trips to the Lake Forest men’s shop. “There was clear market demand for a men’s clothing store in that area,” says Helverson. “They often asked when we would open a store closer to their neighborhood, which signaled a strong appetite for what Smith’s has to offer.”

“We’ve also noticed a shared culture and sensibility between Winnetka and Lake Forest,” says Gonzales. “While each community has its own distinct personality, many of the men share similar lifestyles and dress in comparable ways.”

The owners decided to take that next step in polished oxfords, and in November, opened the doors to their Winnetka shop. “The timing felt serendipitous as this expansion aligned with the fifth anniversary of our reopening of the Lake Forest store,” says Gonzales.

Known for classic American style for the modern man, Smith’s styles draw heavily from American and English influences while introducing new Italian lines. The stores feature an extensive range of sportswear and casual attire, as well as sports coats, suits, and tuxedos. Additionally, Smith’s has long been a trusted provider of formalwear rentals. For those seeking a more personalized fit, Smith’s provides made-to-measure programs for shirting, trousers, blazers, and suits.

“We’re particularly proud of our bespoke offerings, crafted by our team of skilled tailors, including a Master Tailor,” says Helverson. “Bespoke clothing is designed, cut, and stitched in our shop for a truly custom experience.”

Customers can expect a mix of their favorite sportswear brands, including Peter Millar, johnnie-O, Alan Paine, and Martin Dingman shoes alongside expertly tailored clothing from Samuelsohn, Oxxford Clothes, and Alden shoes. “Whether shopping for casual clothes or looking for the perfect suit, Smith’s offers a refined, yet approachable style designed for every occasion,” says Gonzales.

Smith’s Men’s Store continues to uphold the tradition of being a true men’s haberdasher, offering clothing and services for every aspect of a man’s wardrobe. As they make their mark in Winnetka, Gonzales and Helverson remain focused on excellence, providing the same high-quality, personalized experience that has defined the Lake Forest location. “A key part of our success in Lake Forest has been hiring employees who are deeply connected to the community. They live and work here, actively participate in local organizations, and many are parents with children attending nearby schools. We aim to continue this approach in Winnetka. When you walk through our doors, you’ll likely be greeted by someone you know or share a connection with, fostering a sense of familiarity and community,” says Gonzales.

Smith’s Men’s Store is located at 839 Elm Street in Winnetka, 847- 881-3380, and 770 N. Western Avenue in Lake Forest, 847-234- 5866, smithsmensstore.com, @smithsmensstore.