Cliff Ransom
I have benefited from bespoke suits for more than fifty years, from exquisite tailors in Baltimore, Manama, Damascus, London, Paris, and Hong Kong. Each has produced wonderful clothing, but my suits from A Man Hing Choeng represent the ultimate in clothing and service.
This shop is not the cheapest, but the product is superlative. As an ex-pulling guard from the single-wing era, it would be charitable to say that I am still built “blockily.” I will never be described as a fashion model. When I wear my favorite suit from A Man Hing Cheong, however, I have been stopped by passers-by who ask, “Wow. Great-looking suit. Where did you buy it?” Three times, twice in New York and once in Boston, sidewalk-sharers have asked, “Is that an A Man Hing Choeng suit?” Clearly improbable, but accurate.
You MUST be fair to these artists and allow for at least one firing. Their suits, fabrics, and craftsmanship will last a lifetime, so time spent at A Man Hing Choeng is time well-spent. And be sure to ask for all your favorites: worked button-holes in sleeves and lapel; pockets for watchs and business card holders; the perfect drape; permanent suspenders buttons; and your favorite leg cuff width.
My only concern is my inability to get them to use truly wild or colorful linings. For those opportunities, I recommend a suit almost as well-made, and about as expensive, as a creation from Martial Artaud at Artling in Paris. Again, show-stopper workmanship and linings worthy of those of us who gravitate to effortless elegance and non-conformity.
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