In a recent post, I was complaining about the end of summer and the impending winter months that those of us who live in Minnesota must endure. As the temperatures continue to drop, I will likely keep whining about it. In general, however, I try to look on the brighter side of things, and one thing I admit I DO like about the changing seasons is swapping out my wardrobe. I’m talking about packing up the shorts and sandals and getting out the scarves, sweaters and boots. Once I gather my boxes of winterwear from storage, I take inventory and then hit the stores to supplement what I’ve got with a few new items. It’s just really fun to sport a new cold-weather style and it certainly helps me to adjust my attitude.

Hitting the mall is a good way to boost your collection, but lately I’ve been seeking out men’s specialty boutiques where the items and the service are just a little bit more distinctive. And lately I am finding that the Twin Cities have quite a few great unique men’s stores and when I visit, I always leave them feeling like a million bucks!

Guys, if you haven’t been to any of these places, you’ve got to check them out for great clothes and accessories. Ladies, if you’re looking for gifts or if you want to help a special guy in your life discover the fun of men’s fashion, you may also want to check them out. (A few of these stores offer stuff for women too!) Many offer custom tailoring, suits, hats, accessories and even cigars and straight-razor shaving services!! Check out some of my favorite spots:

Elsworth

http://www.elsworthmens.com/

Highland Bank Court
811 LaSalle Avenue, Suite 205A
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-339-0763
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-7; Sat 10-6

s. kuhlman

http://www.skuhlman.com/

420 N. Fifth St., Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-767-2413
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 or by appointment

martinpatrick3

http://www.martinpatrick3.com/

121 N. First St.
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-317-0045
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-7 (until 8 p.m. Thurs.); Sat 10-6; Sun 11-3

StyledLife

http://www.styledlife.com/

Galleria, 3510 W. 70th St.
Edina, MN 55435
Phone: 952-928-8888
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-9; Sat 10 – 8 p.m; Sun 11- 5

Heimie’s Haberdashery

http://www.heimies.com/

400 St. Peter St.
St. Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-224-2354
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-7; Sat 10 – 5 p.m.

BlackBlue

http://www.blakblu.blogspot.com/

614 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55102
Hours: Tue-Sat 12-9

Len Druskin Man

http://www.lendruskinman.com/

Gaviidae Common
651 Nicollet Mall Suite 221
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-455-1660
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-7; Thu 10-8; Fri 8-7; Sat 10-6; Sun 12-6