Styles have come and gone since Family Britches opened its doors but the business philosophy has remained constant: co-owners Rick Buggee and Barry Mishkin combine the finest names in clothing with a level of personal service that is second-to-none. In the following interview, the two partners discuss what sets Family Britches apart.

What keeps customers coming back to Family Britches?

Barry: When someone comes into our stores, we treat them as if they were part of our family. Over the years, that philosophy has distinguished Family Britches from other retailers. Our longevity in both Chappaqua and New Canaan, has allowed us to develop a relationship with our customers. Many people tell us that we know their wardrobe better than they do. For example, a customer might ask if a certain tie would freshen up a sport jacket he bought from us two years ago. We'll know the exact coat – so not only can we answer the question, we can provide additional options.

How do you make shopping easier?

Rick: it all starts with a professional staff. From our sales associates to our tailors, our people are experts at what they do. We have a good sense of what someone is comfortable with—and what they're not. We'll make recommendations based on what looks best for the occasion and try to expand their horizons and options.

We also recognize the demands on our customers' time. That's why we go out of our way to accommodate their schedules, whether it's setting up early morning appointments or delivering garments to someone's home or office. We also recently upgraded our website to make it easier to shop online for our clothing at anytime.

How do you go about coordinating clothing?

Barry: Putting together different elements of a wardrobe is what we're all about. More often than not, it begins with a specific occasion. Listening to the customer helps us understand what they are looking to achieve. We strive to suggest a complete outfit and help the customer incorporate items from their existing wardrobe if possible.

A suit is an easy solution. In today's environment, the family needs dress, casual elegant and weekend attire. We try to tackle the priorities first and then explain how they might mix and match the combinations across their wardrobe.

We take coordination a step further with our Invisible Valet. This personalized service helps answer the question we often hear, "What goes with what?"

A great gift suggestion is a wardrobe make-over for that individual in your life who seems to need direction.

You've offered women's clothing for almost ten years. What made you enter that part of the business?

Rick: I can't tell you how many women would come in and shop for their husbands and tell us how they wished there was a store like Family Britches for them. So we gave it a try and we've continued to expand our women's department over the years. Today, Carol, Kathy and Julia help our customers choose from hand picked designs from leading manufacturers like MaxMara, Audrey Talbott, Burberry, Agnona, Zanella and Cambio.

Your Boy's Department has been a long standing tradition. Why should someone shop for their son at Family Britches?

Barry: If ever you wanted shopping to be as painless as possible, it is when you are buying clothing for your son. Whether it's sportswear or something for that special event, we make the whole experience hassle free for everyone. Expert alterations are always complimentary.

What's the secret of your success?

Rick: Welcoming people into our family and developing a relationship based on mutual trust. Offering the finest merchandise selected from the premier manufacturers and then coordinating the pieces to fit an individual's needs and lifestyle.