Store

After serving Seattle for nearly three decades, Butch Blum leaves little doubt that it's one of the city's leading clothiers and a favorite of discerning men and women. The downtown store and staff display a dignity and reserved politeness of retail past, while the suits, slacks and sweaters run the gamut from unflinching tradition to contemporary lines. It's the type of place where you'd expect to find The Wall Street Journal hanging on old-fashioned dowel racks, which you will — right beside the latest copy of The Stranger — ready for perusal from plush, deep-seated leather chairs.

While men can still flip through sample books to find the perfect pattern for made-to-order shirts and suits, this European boutique isn't all business as you may think while walking by. Jeans and cords get floor space inside the mahogany-lined walls, along with a limited selection of leisurewear, for when it's time to give that Georgio Armani Black Label suit a vacation.

For a larger choice of weekend options, head to the smaller U Village outpost, which is dedicated entirely to casual sportswear. Whichever location you choose, whether you're looking for casual or black tie, you'll find designers exclusive to Seattle like Luciano Barbera, Yohji Yamamoto and Romeo Gigli — as well as the supplest Italian leathers, finest silks and softest cashmeres.

By Justin Paul
Special to NWsource