I have a lot to learn when it comes to men’s clothing. I can’t wait to go to market in January in Chicago (I mean, I am a proud Midwesterner, and that is basically our capital city) and bring in more brands and a wider selection. I have a long list of potential additions to Yellow Jacket and can’t wait to check them out in showrooms.

But I am proud of what we got together quickly for our fall pop-up - I think it represents the casual but put-together vibe we want for Yellow Jacket. Nothing too fussy, but quality clothes that are easy to wear for the life we are all living these days.

As I learn about men’s clothing, I have called on one of my friends and an expert in the field, Rachel Edwards. Rachel has had her own styling business since 2018 and is currently working on her MBA at the University of Virginia. She’s pretty impressive if you ask me. She started at Trunk Club, which began as a men’s styling business. Rachel has literally worked with hundreds of men, helping them find clothes that fit their bodies correctly and match their lifestyles.

I asked her if she would help teach everyone working at Yellow Jacket a little about menswear and if she would even come in and work the floor and take appointments to help some customers get a kick start on their wardrobe needs. So, on Small Business Saturday, Yellow Jacket will be hosting Rachel in-store from 2:30pm to 6:30pm for styling appointments for men. Click below to sign up for a time.

I realize it is mostly women reading this post and you will be the ones doing the actual signing-up. With that in mind, we came up with an idea just for you and just in time for the holidays. It’s a Yellow Jacket Box. It is a great holiday gift! It’s also a great way to encourage someone that might not like shopping (most men) to make their life a little easier and their style a whole lot better.

Here is how it will work:

1. Have the man in your life (husband, friend, son, partner, dad, or anyone that needs to up their getting-dressed game) fill out this questionnaire. We also have copies at Yellow Jacket.

2. Email it to me at elizabeth@theshoehive.com or drop it off at the store.

3. Tell us how much you would like to spend and how often you would like the recipient to receive a box. The rest is up to us.

4. We will ship a box with a return label. If you are local, we will deliver and pick up the box. Keep what works and return what doesn’t.

To help you get started, I’ve compiled a few ideas for the men in my life. I think they’ll be pleasantly surprised with my choices!