At Pursuit, we set out to make a great suit-buying experience centered around you, without the luxury price tag. From a fit that is uniquely yours to the ability to design every element to match your unique vision, Pursuit Custom allows us to guide you through the process of creating the right look for your biggest moments.
But Pursuit’s true success comes from making genuine connections with our customers and communities. We pride ourselves in suiting our customers for life’s biggest moments. Along the way, we get energy from hearing your story and the milestone moments while wearing your suit—today, we’re excited for you to meet Kyle Asperger, owner of his very own Pursuit Custom Suit. Read more about why Kyle chose Pursuit Custom, which design options he chose, the story behind the suit and more.
1. Why did you ultimately choose Pursuit Custom over our in-stock choices? Was there a special event you bought it for?
Don’t get me wrong, Pursuit’s in-stock items are fresh. But not as fresh as a custom, Burgundy double-breasted. It was a birthday present, and at the time, there were a few weddings on the radar, but past that, I needed a suit that rocked. Suit first, and events will just fall in line accordingly.
2. Tell us a little more about your suit—the color, the buttons or any other noteworthy details you feel like mentioning. Were the details inspired by something you saw, or did you go with your gut throughout the entire process?
As a ginger fella, I look good in red—it’s a tough color to pull off, but if your skin tone and vibe fit, roll with it. That was my thought process, at least. I’d known Tyler Philips for a while at that point and he was the one that helped piece it together. I appreciate an expert’s perspective, and that’s just what he was (and still is), so I would lead a general conversation, then Ty would chime in accordingly. Our goal was to create a suit that popped loudly with a modest undertone.
3. Any advice you could give to someone looking to create their very own custom suit?
Don’t go overboard. Same concept as in design or arguably an art form—don’t over do it. There are always rules, adhere to them but then with the help of an expert, understand when it’s cool to break some of the rules. After all, that’s what they’re there for, am I right?
4. Tell us a little more about the process. Were there any steps that surprised you? Any stories worth mentioning?
Ty kicked a**. It was an incredibly in-depth process (such as any fully custom treatment, though). Down to button styling, how many buttons, etc, things I’d never even considered before. Easy-peasy overall. We kicked it in the shop, then by the end of it, we had a well-crafted suit ready to send off to the factory.
5. What was your favorite part of the process?
Seeing the suit for the first time. It was almost shocking…in a way. Admittedly, it was a large step out of my norm, so there was a bit of “warming up to it” that had to be done. That process was kicked the first time I wore it out, however. Turns out, compliments really helped.
6. Favorite style icon. Go!
I’ve never pinpointed one specific individual in the past or present (and this is true in all areas of my life, art, music, etc). I see what’s out there, some a bit more edgy than others, and I work up a fit that fits…well, me. I’m a compilation album, if that makes sense.
7. Last, but certainly not least, what are you in pursuit of? In other words, what’s most meaningful to you?
Growth. The community’s, mine personally, my family’s, talents and skills, always pushing those around me to grow, as they would do the same for me. I’ve even helped some people by taking them out shopping, giving them the “straight eye for the straight guy” touch. Same concept applies. Doesn’t have to be lavish and outlandishly different, just leveling up one’s personal standards for themselves.
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*All photos by Kyle Asperger, founder of 301 Original.
A huge thank you to Kyle for taking the time to answer our questions. If you have any other questions for Kyle, leave a comment below! In the meantime, if you’re interested in creating your own custom suit, book your appointment at our Columbus or Cincinnati stores today!