The Haberdasher.

Wetzel experiencing the rodeo called "life."

In addition to being Hall Vice-President, John Wetzel, Texan and Steds junior, is the Steds Haberdasher. Designing fall and spring apparel offerings for the Hall, Wetzel is the Gentleman responsible for making the Hall’s Gentlemen look sharp and smartly dressed for any occasion. When Wetzel was taking a break from his various Hall offices, I was able to ask him a few questions.

St. Ed: What was the inspiration for your Steds’ fall collection this year?

Wetzel: I draw inspiration for from all over. Wherever I can find it really, and I would say:

10% Zoolander

30% St. Ed’s personal clothing selection 

20% Old photos of the Hall

30% 2013 Yacht Dance

10% GQ

10% The rodeo called “Life”

St. Ed: Ah, yes, but that equals 110%.

Wetzel: That’s what I give… I am dedicated to fashion and to the men wearing my designs, the Gentlemen.

St. Ed: What are some of the challenges in turning your fashion vision into everyday, working "haute couture"? 

Wetzel: It’s a challenge. It’s always difficult to find a maker of garments that can produce a product up to par with the quality that the Gentlemen expect and need for their active lifestyles.

St. Ed: Is there anything in your collections that you are particularly fond of?

Wetzel: I am a huge fan of the ash grey crewneck sweatshirt with “ST.ED'S” spelled out in felt block letters on the front that we offered this fall. This designed was inspired directly from the Steds archives.

St. Ed: Can you give us any hints about what we might see in the spring?

Wetzel: The only thing I can say about the spring is that there will be fewer sleeves so the Gentlemen will be ready for Spring Break.

There you have it... the Steds Haberdasher.