WELL SUITED

Meet Boozer McClure. Yes, Boozer. He is a staple in the community and is bringing uptown style to downtown Marietta with his new shop, Square Threads.

So we sat down with this ever-entertaining, sometimes surprising, man about town. We poured a martini, he loosened his tie, and we caught up as he tickled the ivories and told us why everyone should be crazy about a sharp-dressed man.

You know our first question, right? What’s with the name?
It’s funny. People find it hard to believe, but Boozer is actually my real name. It’s on my birth certificate.

There’s more to that, right?
My father was born in 1919, and the doctor that delivered him was named Dr. Boozer. My grandparents named my father after him. When I was born, my parents wanted to pass on my father’s name to me. Hence, Boozer McClure.

Interesting. And you have an interesting profession. You’re a custom clothier. That’s still a thing?
Yes, it is. And yes, I am. I have been in the custom clothing business for 27 years. Last year I decided since there hadn’t been a men’s clothing shop on the Marietta Square since 1992, I would give it a shot. I still travel with my custom business to my clients, but I also offer custom clothing by appointment in my shop.

And the shop is doing well, yes?
Yes, I have been fortunate. The shop has been met with a great deal of support. I knew the need was there, and I have been pleasantly surprised to see how many folks are happy to have a locally owned clothing source that caters exclusively to men. We offer everything from upscale suits to pajamas. From college game day to the board room, we believe style is something that you own, and it needs to be reflected in every setting.

A lot of folks around here know you as a musician. Tell us about that.
I love music and have a Master’s Degree in Music. Piano is the instrument I studied in college, and it remains my first musical love. I enjoy playing for myself, but occassionally I play with – and for – others. Several of my musician friends have joined me at the Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art for Martinis and Music nights. It’s a fun gig, and we enjoy playing for the community.

Any chance you’ll hang up your clothing business and take your act on the road?
I play for fun. That’s how I intend to keep it. Recently I have enjoyed learning to play the accordion. Many aspects of it are similar to the piano, but the differences are very interesting and challenging.

How do you like your martinis?
I am a basic guy when it comes to martinis. Using great vodkas and gins makes for a great martini.

If you could tell the modern man one thing about style, what would it be?
If I was going to suggest one thing to the man in today’s world about style, it would be to not settle for “just getting by.” Invest in your wardrobe by purchasing classic items that have enduring quality. In a few years you will be glad you have something that still looks and wears well.

photograph by HADLEY(s) Photography