Right before the holidays, we set up shop in the midwest, determined to make waves in the land of 10,000 lakes. To our delight, hundreds of Minnesotans welcomed our groundbreaking made to measure experience at our new Mall of America location on opening weekend. Showroom Manager Miguel Aguilar tells us why we’re a perfect fit for Minneapolis and fills us in on the city’s peak style, endearing catch phrases and world-class restaurants.
Where are you from?
I recently moved to Minneapolis from San Francisco but I’ve lived in a bunch of major cities mostly on the West Coast. I would say I’m a California boy at heart. My family currently lives in Central California so whenever I get a chance, I fly back for some home cooked Mexican food.
What do you love about Minneapolis?
I really love the seasons in Minneapolis, even the wickedly cold winters. When I was living in San Francisco, I would visit Minneapolis in the fall because it’s one of the most beautiful cities around then. I also love the music scene here. People are always surprised when I tell them that, but there are so many amazing venues so any chance I get, I’m at a show.
How have showroom guests been reacting to our custom products and overall experience?
The response so far has been really incredible. The team and I have enjoyed hearing people come in and say, “I’m so excited you’re here!” There’s no one else doing what we’re doing and delivering this kind of experience, so it’s a nice addition to those visiting MOA.
Mall of America is probably one of the most recognized shopping destinations in the world. But what are some of your other favorite landmarks in the area?
I live a few blocks away from the Walker Art Center so I find myself there a lot. I also love Minnehaha Park if it’s not too cold out. I’m a huge foodie so Eat Street (it’s a stretch of restaurants on Nicollet Avenue) is a regular destination.
How would you describe the style of Minnesotans?
I would say Minnesotans dress with intention and purpose—function and utility play strong roles in their general sense of style. So it’s perfect that we deliver them sophisticated apparel that they can customize to their personalities and lifestyles.
What are some great watering holes that our customers can enjoy in the area?
MOA has a lot of really great restaurants. My favorites are FireLake Grill House and Cantina #1. Outside of the mall I spend the majority of my time in Uptown. I recommend Chino Latino or Nightingale.
Describe your ideal day in the city.
It starts with a quick jog around Lake Calhoun. Then I’d make my way to the Green Way and walk down to Glam Doll Donuts to reward myself for the jog! I’d follow that up with a little shopping in the North Loop—Filson is my favorite shop. I’d grab some lunch at Red Cow and then read for a bit in Loring Park. After that, it’s onto happy hour with some friends at the Up Down for drinks and arcade games. Then I would quickly go back home to change into something a little more Indochino before treating myself to dinner at Chino Latino. I’d finish the night with a show at First Ave and maybe grab a nightcap at Nightingale.
So apparently, the line “Holy cow” originated from Minnesotan baseball commentator, Halsey Hal. What are a couple of your favorite local catch phrases?
My favorite phrases I’ve heard are “dontcha know,” “and uff-da.” I also didn’t know what a “hot dish” was until living here—now I know it’s a variation of a casserole! I initially thought it was something that described a person.
