We had the good fortune of connecting with Andre’ McLaughlin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andre’, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I’ve owned businesses with partners in the past, from personal training facility to a restaurant, and now this Custom Suit business. I’ve always had a keen interest for fashion since I was kid playing the drums/piano in church. Growing up in a baptist church, I was forced to wear a suit weekly. The passion for suits, looking good, and feeling good progressed greatly as I graduated college and progressed through my career as a business owner in multiple industries. I always had an issue wearing off the rack suits due to my build. Therefore, I figured why not launch my very own brand, “Andre’ Julius.” I was able to make connections with two of the BEST tailors in the world, and with that I taught myself how to be a clothier/fashion designer.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Andre’ Julius, a “Bespoke” small, collective customized suit company, was founded by Andre’ J. McLaughlin. Andre’, a native of Williamsburg, VA has been an active member of his community in many ways: as an athlete, a musician, coach, and an entrepreneur. Growing up in the church, Andre’ has loved wearing suits for as long as he can remember.
As Andre grew into an adult, he struggled to find suits “Off-The- Rack” that fit well. The suit jacket was generally too tight in the chest area and biceps, but then loose in the waist.Pants fit too tight in the thigh and seat areas but too loose elsewhere. In other words, “off-the-rack’ just wasn’t cutting it.
After finishing college, Andre’ decided to pursue his dual passion for business and law enforcement. He initiated several business ventures which required him to “dress the part” for formal meetings and events; he needed new suits- and ones that not only worked for his body but that left him feeling “cool and confident.”
Whether you are looking to invest in your first suit or are frustrated with suits that no longer fit right, Andre’ understands. It is exactly why he started Andre’ Julius- Men’s Custom Suits & Accessories. He, Like you, knows from experience that the likelihood of getting a fit off-the-rack that is flattering is slim to none. If you do find a suit in the store, you often have to get additional alterations and, after investing more money you could have easily bought a suit custom-made just for you.
Andre’ Julius is going to change the way you think of suits! They design every stitch, button, and millimeter of quality fabric based on your measurements. Your suit will fit so perfectly, it will feel like it is in tune with your body.
Don’t go through the same disappointing process year after year…having to replace your off-the-rack suit due to ripping, color fading, or it no longer fitting. Book an appointment with Andre’ Julius to create your first bespoke suit. Once you invest in a custom suit, you will never want to go back to a store again!
Quality: Every detail counts when your garment is made bespoke. It starts with the fabric. We offer exclusive fabrics from Mills across the world. We design every stitch, every button, and every inch based on an analytical body scan of your measurements. Never have to worry about poor quality fabrics, ripped seams, or garment construction.
All inclusive: There is no extra charge for design options such as buttons, monogram, pockets, stitching, and more. Your Suit, Tuxedo, Shirt, Overcoat, Trenchcoat and more are personalized down to the smallest detail. The result is a bespoke garment without the hassle and expense of traveling out of state.
Exclusive: Yours and yours alone. Our suits are made from scratch with the finest materials and trimmings. Each piece is individually cut and constructed using patterns you chose to perfectly fit your form. Experience what it’s like to wear Custom-fitted, custom-made, uniquely special — once you go bespoke, you never go back.
Unlike other Custom Suit/Bespoke Companies we conclude our process with a Complimentary Professional Photoshoot. We thought it was important that clients are able to show off their garments, and feel good on their new LinkedIn or Facebook profile.
I am most proud of the quality of product we have and the ability to literally create everything. We have the ability to create Denim Garments, Leather Garments, and we just recently launched our Women’s line, Juliet by Andre’ Julius- Women’s Custom Suits and Dresses.
Nothing is easy in life, but everything is worth trying. Ive learned that time is one of the most valuable things we have in life. I also learned that you cant trust everyone!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to acknowledge my lord and savior first, Jesus Christ! GOD! Without him, nothing I’ve done would be possible. Launching Andre’ Julius was a major leap of faith. I have to acknowledge my wife, Nina and my kids for being huge supporters! My mother (Carles), my father (Olanda), my big brother & Sister (Alvin & Danielle), Friend (Toine), Aunt (Crystal), and God Parent (Aunte Rema). They have been with me throughout my whole life, and understand the things I’ve had to overcome to see where I am today.
My Mentor, Bryan Hill, he has given me an abundance of knowledge and has been a huge supporter. Last but not least, Ryan Clark, my Brand Ambassador. Since day one, Ryan and I clicked. Me being a Pittsburgh Steelers fan has always looked up to Ryan as one of the GOATS. I remember the days, my brother and I used to sit down and watch the Steelers game and admire Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. God allowed me to connect with Ryan, and now he is like a friend. Not only is he my brand ambassador, but I can rely on him for advice. He is like a big brother too me.
Website: andrejulius.com
Instagram: instagram.com/andrejuliusofficial
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-mclaughlin-4273a55a
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/andrejulius1987
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrejuliusofficial
Other: julietbyandrejulius.com Our women’s custom suits and dresses line.