For Men Only

Fits Like a (White) Glove Worth Avenue retailers offer unparalleled concierge services

Worth Avenue has long been known for its impeccable attention to personal service. And Michael Maus is a perfect example; part of his family’s company since he was 12 years old, he recalls riding his bike around Palm Beach to hand-deliver orders to customers. That personal touch has remained a signature of Maus & Hoffman’s, as Michael, now in his 30s, helps run the third-generation menswear brand, a staple of classic island luxury for six decades.

“A lot of what we do, we did before COVID,” he says. “We’ve been a service-oriented business...We’ve always done local delivery and curbside pickup—much to the chagrin of the town of Palm Beach Police prior to the pandemic!

“All of that stems from our familiarity and relationships with clients. Knowing them personally and their buying histories, tastes, sizes, measurements…. A lot of that information on the client has allowed us to serve them better.”

Maus says even when the lockdown closed the doors of Maus & Hoffman for part of 2020, customers were “rattling our doors,” seeking custom, hand-tailored shirts, sport coats and trousers. “Consistency is our key; we’re trying to do what we know how to do. That’s our safety blanket,” Maus says. “Even remotely we’re trying to provide that store experience.”

Marley Herring, owner and operator of the women’s-wear retailer Marley’s Palm Beach Collection, also offers curbside and in-home deliveries, part of her shop’s increased concierge offerings. She has also enhanced—and personalized—her store’s internet presence.

“We provide our clients with FaceTime, or email them photos of what’s new, so that they can shop from the comfort of their home,” Herring says. “We utilize social media and e-blasts to keep our clients up to date on special sales and new merchandise, and follow up with a personal phone call. We also pride ourselves on special ordering a particular size or style for them with very fast turnaround time.

“For those who come to the store to shop for a one-on-one personal experience, we have taken all the necessary precautions to keep our clientele as well as our staff safe and well. We validate parking for the Apollo lot so that our customers can comfortably park without circling around. I have found this service to be extremely appreciated by our clientele. “And, of course, there is always a glass of champagne available for those who wish to linger a little longer.” The Gucci retailer on 150 Worth has also gone above and beyond to ensure that safety and luxury combine for an elevated customer experience. For those who prefer to shop at home, its convenient, revamped website offers a “virtual walk-through” of the store, and its client advisors are on hand to take orders via phone or video chat, and to coordinate a contactless curbside pickup experience. Shoppers interested in experiencing Gucci in-store will discover a fastidiously sanitized environment and the ability to book a private appointment days or weeks in advance—the ultimate way to ensure social distancing. Once a purchase is made, Gucci’s signature packaging and gift-wrapping serve as an iconic reminder of this 100-year-old brand’s staying power.