Tom Ford's refined little world

When Tom Ford left Gucci with Domenico De Sole, the fashion industry and its followers were completely astonished. Although most assumed that Ford's taste for perfectionism and immense talent would lead him to a life of personal success, no one knew precisely what would happen with his career, not even him.

At one point it seemed that he would be going straight to Hollywood; then others thought that he might dedicate exclusively to fragrances and eye wear development - after the fact that he had signed multi-million dollar deals with firms like Marcolin and Estee Lauder. Nevertheless, none of those premises were accurate, and Tom Ford finally unveiled his "little" secret and announced the opening of one of the most amazing stores New York - and therefore the world - has ever seen.

The perfectionist he is, Tom Ford conceived the idea of creating a marvelously crafted collection in which the concepts of "uniqueness" and refined luxury would clash together to give birth to extremely personal garments. From soft cashmere-like underwear to custom-made tailored suits, in any given fabric and color at their disposal, everything can be nicely obtained at Ford's gigantic store in New York.

As you set a mere foot on his uber atelier/store, your perception of time and space is blown away and you find yourself entering into a place way apart from earth. The three-story flagship store was first conceived by Tom Ford himself and it was designed by, his long time friend and collaborator, architect William Sofield. Located in the epitome of American fashion today:upper Madison Avenue, the store represents Tom Ford's vision of menswear couture - an expression that does not fit any real category in mens fashion nowadays, but it's perfect to describe the ambient and atmosphere of such a luxe and chic store.

Another name that should be included when speaking of developments such as this is Thom Browne. He had previously envisioned a similar menswear label concept, but it was Tom Ford's refined taste for luxury and, above all, his fame and name that helps him gross about $700k a week. Thom had his moment, but now he is fading into the past and leaving Tom Ford with less competition for him to worry about.