I have been to Lew's store (S.J. Crystal's) twice, and on both occasion's, my expectations have…read morebeen exceeded!
Cliff notes--best selection I've seen in a men's store; impeccable and classic styling across a diverse spectrum of product; VERY competitive pricing; customer service that greets you like an old friend, and treats you just as well; unbeatable value overall. I'd happily recommend S.J. Crystal's to anyone!
The longer and more complete analysis--I have lived in communities big and small, and I have visited my fair share of department stores and men's clothing specialists. Normally, I'm met with poor customer service and less than satisfactory selection. But at S. J. Crystal's, I've had an opposite experience.
Where most men's clothing stores seem to me inaccessible and overpriced, with little clothing in my scope of preference, and low quality items outnumbering those of quality, Lew has curated a selection of clothing that is sharp, classic, and diverse. Summer selections include suits, slacks, dress shirts, sport shirts, and active-wear--allowing a man to go from sailboat to supper-club, office to golf course, wedding to family reunion. A recent visit saw a change in inventory--flannels and wools joined the sharp selection of suits and sport-coats for the fall months.
Now a retail store of any kind can hit a product home-run, but a great customer experience comes down to much more than just selection. And this is where S.J. Crystal's shines.
On my first visit, Lew helped me find a new pair of slacks for work. He pointed me in the right direction, and then LISTENED to my preferences. He quickly found a handsome pair of grey slacks that met my criteria. They we clean and classic, with a flat front and no cuff. It was immediately apparent that these pants were of high quality. The fabric was tightly woven, yet soft and supple. They included a gusseted waistband that gives just enough. They weren't just a run-of-the-mill department store pant...and perhaps I've lost you here, but if you have ever spent a single day in a really well engineered pant, then you know exactly what I'm talking about, and you won't ever want to go back!
I came out of the fitting room, and while they were handsome, and well-fit in the waist, there was something about them that just didn't feel right. Previously, in my youth and in my haste, I may have purchased them and then regretted the fact that I had paid for nice slacks that didn't really fit. I told Lew that they weren't quite perfect--that they felt snug in the upper thigh, and that I like to carry keys, a wallet and a cell phone in each of my pockets, from left to right. "No problem," he said. "I'll let the seat out about an inch." He then measured my seat and inseam, asked some questions about how I wanted the hem to break over my shoes, placed some pins, and that was that. No additional charge. My pants were ready by Friday, and they fit like a dream.
On my second visit, I was again blown away by Lew's excellent service. I work in Illinois, and knew I wouldn't return to Kenosha until about 5p. I needed to find a jacket for an upcoming event, and I thought Lew might have what I want. I called the store, and explained that I wanted to come and look at some clothing, but that I wouldn't arrive until about 4:50p, or ten minutes before closing. "No problem," he said again. "I'll be here!"
Upon arriving, I was greeted like an old friend. Once again, I told Lew what I was looking for, and he LISTENED intently. It didn't take long, and he acknowledged that he had "just the thing!" He returned from around the corner with a handsome jacket; somewhere between sports coat and dinner jacket. It was perfect, and it fit like it was made for me.
To sum it all up, I have never had such an enjoyable experience while shopping for my own clothes. Lew's knowledge of style and fabric and fit is outstanding, and it reflects in his inventory. He listens closely to what the customer wants, and delivers great solutions. His customer service is exemplary. Combined with his meticulously curated selection, and his very accessible pricing, I have not found a better value ANYWHERE.
Though his operating hours are shorter than franchise stores closer to the interstate corridor, he was happy to spend a few minutes past closing with me. Give him a call. I'm certain he will extend you the same courtesy.
