Formal Wear Store Helps Clients Look Sharp This Prom, Wedding Season

This Patch article is sponsored by Advance Formal Wear.

Advance Formal Wear is a family-run establishment that has been helping the Village of Rockville Centre and surrounding communities with formal attire. We own all of our inventory and can do alterations on the premises for last minute adjustments or needs for special events.

Patch had a chance to talk with Advance Formal Wear’s Owner, Brian Upton and Manager, Kevin Upton.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town, or how long has your organization been around in the community?

Brian: The store has been in operation for 80 years. As a family-owned business, I purchased the store over 12 years ago and trained my younger brother Kevin in the formal wear industry.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Kevin: All thanks to my brother, Brian, who worked here during his high school years, and later took over the business.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Brian and Kevin: Where Tradition and Style Meet.

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Brian and Kevin: The closing of catering halls, wedding and prom cancellations and limited black-tie gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Brian and Kevin: The joy when customers return saying that they were the best dressed at their event. Also, being a part of these monumental events in our customers’ lives.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Brian and Kevin: We are open seven days a week and own and tailor all of our own inventory. If any last minute alterations are needed, we can accommodate that as well. We try to go above and beyond in customer service to make sure you are happy within the rental item.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Kevin: That would be from my brother Brian: “Follow up, follow through and do it again.”

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Brian and Kevin: We recently relocated to Merrick Road (Rockville Centre) and are excited about the new space and continuing to help the Village of Rockville Centre and the surrounding communities with their formal wear needs.

Patch: Do you have any events coming up in your community? If so, tell us about them.

Brian and Kevin: Prom and wedding season is here! We greatly look forward to helping our customers look sharp for their big events.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Brian and Kevin: Patch readers can learn more about us at advanceformalwear.com. They can also find us on Instagram and Facebook.