From a finance background to becoming one of the most sought-after custom suit designers in professional sports, Tom Marchitelli’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. His unique approach to tailoring has transformed the way athletes present themselves on and off the field.

Revolutionizing Style: The Power of Personalized Fashion

Navigating the Demands of Professional Athletes

In the fast-paced world of professional sports, timing and organization are paramount. With over 500 clients spanning across NFL, MLB, and NBA, Marchitelli’s ability to manage this extensive roster efficiently is nothing short of remarkable. Each sport has its own schedule, which influences when clients need his services. For instance, football players require suits during OTAs and training camps, while baseball players prepare for spring training post-Super Bowl. Hockey players, who wear suits for all 82 games, start their season in October. This diverse calendar keeps Marchitelli constantly on the move, yet he thrives in this dynamic environment.Marchitelli’s system ensures that returning clients can place remote orders, saving time and allowing him to focus on new designs. Despite juggling numerous requests, he remains committed to delivering personalized service. “I’m dedicated to ensuring each client feels valued and receives a suit that fits perfectly,” he explains. This dedication has earned him a loyal clientele, many of whom return year after year.

Personalized Fittings: Crafting Perfection

For Marchitelli, the fitting process is both an art and a science. When working with athletes, he travels to meet them personally, whether at their homes or team facilities. These sessions can range from 30 minutes to three hours, depending on the complexity of the design and the number of fabrics chosen. Marchitelli takes pride in his meticulous attention to detail, often taking up to 30 measurements to ensure a flawless fit. “Every athlete is built differently, and it’s crucial to tailor each suit to their unique physique,” he emphasizes.One memorable experience involved fitting Rob Gronkowski at a Super Bowl party. Within days, Marchitelli had crafted a custom suit for Gronkowski to wear at the event. Such moments highlight the designer’s adaptability and commitment to meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality. “It’s rewarding to see the transformation when a client tries on a suit that fits them perfectly,” he reflects.

Innovative Designs Inspired by Clients

Marchitelli credits much of his success to collaborations with clients who push boundaries and challenge conventional styles. Travis Kelce’s request for a bomber jacket in 2016 was a pivotal moment, leading to an expansion of Marchitelli’s offerings. Today, bomber jackets have become a significant part of his business, showcasing his willingness to embrace new ideas. “Kelce’s vision opened doors to innovative designs that resonated with other athletes,” he notes.This collaborative spirit extends to every project, as Marchitelli encourages clients to share their fashion preferences. “Athletes know what looks good on them, and I enjoy incorporating their input into the final product,” he says. The result is a collection of suits that not only reflect personal style but also make bold statements. For example, Justin Simmons’ oversized houndstooth check ensemble became an instant hit, demonstrating how tailored pieces can elevate any outfit.

Exclusivity and Originality: A Winning Formula

What sets Marchitelli apart is his commitment to exclusivity. Many athletes, including Dak Prescott, appreciate the uniqueness of his designs. Prescott has worn over 150 different suits in eight seasons, never repeating a look. “The exclusivity appeals to athletes who want to stand out,” Marchitelli explains. He ensures that each piece is one-of-a-kind, maintaining the integrity of his brand and satisfying clients’ desire for originality.Marchitelli’s approach also involves matching accessories like shoes to complete the ensemble. As a self-proclaimed shoe enthusiast, he believes style begins from the ground up. “Many athletes have impressive shoe collections, and pairing the right footwear with a suit enhances the overall look,” he shares. This holistic approach to styling has garnered admiration from players and fans alike.

Influencing Trends: Players Leading the Way

Over the past decade, Marchitelli has witnessed firsthand how players influence fashion trends within their teams and beyond. High-profile events like pre-game tunnel walks have become platforms for showcasing bold outfits. Players are increasingly competitive about their “fit game,” pushing the envelope with unconventional choices. DK Metcalf’s stuffed-animal pants are just one example of athletes embracing creative risks.Marchitelli revels in this trend, using vibrant fabrics and patterns to create eye-catching designs. “Proper tailoring allows you to experiment with any color or pattern, provided the athlete has the confidence to pull it off,” he says. His work continues to inspire others, with some even replicating his signature styles. “It’s flattering to see my designs influencing the industry,” he concludes.