Classic is the modern man
The modern man is powered not by his success but by his constant quest for self-improvement and growth. In his search, he always discovers that the road to further success is paved with the classic traits — integrity, trustworthiness, reliability.
His unsullied name becomes his own brand, a legacy he will leave to the next generation. He contents himself not in mediocrity but in excellence. The advancement of time makes him an innovative modern man. That he has a heart that understands the need for distinction is a trait that makes the modern man a classic man.
Sartorially speaking, the modern man with a classic heart can be found in Bergamo. The brand’s aesthetic style since its inception almost 28 years ago has always been rooted on classic menswear tweaked with some minor modern adaptations.
A modern man, according to Bergamo’s style, is one who respects, appreciates and understands the importance and value of both classic and contemporary menswear and one who strikes a good balance between the two.
“We believe that the biggest compliment Bergamo can receive is to be chosen as the tailor of choice for members of such illustrious and highly-regarded sectors such as banking, business, law and public service,†says Roland Magalang, Bergamo’s vice president for operations.
At the recently concluded World Economic Forum in Manila, the brand was selected to provide distinguished guests and delegates a specially designed barong with jeepney and kalesa embroidery.
“We believe that our clients are the best representation of the Bergamo man, individuals who are highly regarded and well-respected in their chosen fields; who live well-balanced and successful lives,†Jetty Razon, the brand’s executive assistant to the president.
The company’s founder and president is himself a classic yet modern man — Mel Meer. Mel lived in Manhattan, New York for 20 years running and managing his own fashion boutique, complemented by his experience as a financial consultant, a CPA and an interior designer. He packed his bags, so to speak, one day and returned to Manila and soon after established the brand Bergamo in December 1986.
Being a tailoring brand operating in the made-to-order or bespoke menswear industry, the company, says Jetty, allows its clients the ability to customize and personalize their clothing to suit their tastes and preferences.
“This allows our clients greater room and leeway to express themselves through their clothing and will likewise give them the peace of mind that their clothes will fit them in their desired way,†says Roland.
The company has forged agreements with well-regarded fabric mills and textile brands such as Ermenegildo Zegna, Loro Piana, Cerruti and Thomas Mason for the use of their fabrics for Bergamo’s bespoke needs. In addition, the brand directly deals with and supports Filipino weavers of the best piña materials and other natural fabrics.
Despite its many accolades, Bergamo still anchors its success on its people. “A large majority of our production and sales staff have been with us since Day One. Over the course of their stay, they display the importance of the quality of their work and the quality of service that they provide. This is probably one of the main reasons behind the staying power of Bergamo in the Philippine fashion business,†reveals Roland.
In a modern world can be found the modern man. There exists a modern man now because in his DNA flows the traditional values of a classic man.
(E-mail me at bumbaki@yahoo.com. I’m also on Twitter @bum_tenorio and Instagram @bumtenorio. Have a blessed Sunday.)
Photography by Filbert Kung • Grooming by Noel Flores • Styling by Roland Magalang • Model: Andrew Rivera • Shot on location at Bergamo Suites & Restaurant, Tagaytay City • For inquiries, please contact Roland Magalang at the BERGAMO flagship store, second level, Greenbelt 5, Makati City. Tel. Nos. 621-5145 or 888-0072.
