STYLE STEWARD

Trey Gonzales, co-owner and creative force behind Smith’s Men’s Store, shares a glimpse of life in his adopted Lake Forest community.

Known about town for having a keen eye for design, genuine hospitality, and talent for artfully blending classic menswear, Trey Gonzales has made a name for himself since moving to Lake Forest with husband, Kip Helverson, in 2017. A historic Lake Forest residence designed by architect Stanley D. Anderson lured the couple up from the city after being wowed by the community’s architecture, history, and strong sense of tradition. Little did they know then that in 2019, they’d be taking ownership of Smith’s Men’s Store—one of the North Shore’s most established menswear institutions—with a commitment to continue what generations of customers had always loved about it. “Rather than reinventing Smith’s, we’ve focused on thoughtfully stewarding its evolution,” explains Gonzales, who also serves as the creative force behind that vision. “We have thoughtfully expanded the business with our Winnetka location and we’re excited to soon launch our digital commerce platform—all while preserving the heritage that has defined Smith’s since 1937.” Raised in Texas among oil fields, cattle ranches, and wide-open skies, Gonzales grew up in a culture that valued hard work, strong relationships, and showing up well for others. Those early influences continue to shape both his leadership style and his appreciation for craftsmanship, tradition, and timeless design. When he’s not at work, he enjoys down time at home with Helverson and the couple’s beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels—Trip and Dorenn. You’ll also find him playing tennis, pickleball, or working on his golf game. “And I never pass up an excuse to put on a tuxedo,” he adds. We caught up with this busy tastemaker recently to learn more about his favorite things.

Designer, from fashion or interiors, who has always inspired you? For fashion, Ralph Lauren. For interiors: Frances Elkins, Billy Baldwin, and Holly Hunt. Drink of choice? I’m always up for a creative mocktail. I stay away from the hard stuff. Favorite place in the world to escape and unplug? Zona Romántica in Puerto Vallarta. Favorite way to pamper your dogs? Long walks, followed by an even longer afternoon nap on the sofa together. What’s next on your travel bucket list? A “Castles along the Rhine” river cruise in Europe. Unpack once, then wake up somewhere new every morning.

Favorite bingeworthy TV show or podcast? I’m all over the board—Succession, Mad Men, and The White Lotus. Best interior design hack or secret? I always bring home an objet, a piece of art, or something with character from my travels. Over time, it makes our home feel collected rather than decorated, and every piece carries a story. The best mornings start with? A hot cup of coffee waiting on my nightstand every morning when I wake up. I married well. Favorite thing about living in a historic home? The character is already there. We simply have the privilege of being its caretaker. Favorite summer indulgence? Roasted corn at the Lake Forest Day carnival. What’s at the top of your playlist right now? RAYE, Chris Stapleton, Brandon Lake, and Tina Turner.

Quote that inspires you? “Good is the enemy of great,” by Jim Collins. What are your dogs’ favorite places in town, and why? The trails at Lake Forest Open Lands. Every walk feels like a new adventure, and they have the best snores on the drive home. Your ideal summer weekend in the city includes? It starts with checking into the Union League Club of Chicago, lamb chops at RL Restaurant for dinner, and an evening performance by Giordano Dance Chicago, followed by dessert and taking in the city lights from the rooftop of LondonHouse Chicago. The next morning: breakfast in bed, a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, then lunch on the terrace at Gibsons Italia for one of the best skyline views in the city before heading back to Lake Forest.