Larrimor’s With Tom Michael

By Gemma Gurcak

Larrimor’s is a 3rd generation family-run business founded in 1939 by Harry Slesinger and Larry Morris. Today, the family-owned luxury retail store sits on Fifth Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh. Tom Michael is an owner and entrepreneurial executive manager with more than 20 years of management experience.

In a world where the retail space has become generalized and automated, Larrimor’s makes it a point to know your name and more importantly, remember it. Tom explained the mission statement formed by the founders was to “build relationships with people and take care of their clothing needs.” This remains true to today’s mission statement and work ethic held up by Larrimor’s hard-working staff.   

A first-time customer should expect warm, engaging, and helpful service. You will be personally greeted at the door and welcomed in. Tom described the shopping experience to be “different for everyone, but the same in service.” He continued, “We are trying to treat every customer the same. It does not matter if you are a long-time customer or a new customer.” Whether you are coming into the store for a reason, like retail therapy, or just need to clear your head, the beauty of Larrimor’s is the ultimate fix with over 70 designers to choose from.   

This past year and every year prior, Larrimor’s partnered up with and supported numerous local charity organizations. Organizations like The Homeless Children's Education Fund (HCEF) and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are two of many charities the retail store put their focus on in 2022. “There is so much hurt and pain. We are all about being involved in aiding it. It is in our DNA.” If a charity would like to reach out, Larrimor's is open for conversations and discussions with them.  

The fast pace and always-changing e-commerce world is a shark tank. Larrimor’s took the jump around five years ago and has been successfully swimming ever since. Tom depicted the retail industry to be online first and in-store second for the average consumer. He explained, “No one comes into your store anymore without looking at your website.” The first impression the luxury store gives is just that, luxury and eye-catching. Their head-turning e-commerce site is accompanied by their social media presence across platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. You can check out YouTube videos of co-owner Lisa Slesinger illustrating new arrivals of the seasons. https://www.youtube.com/@Larrimors

Whether it is jeans, shirts, sports shirts, sports coats, outerwear, shoes, or anything else you could think of, the experts in custom men's wear at Larrimor’s can create it. In Tom Michael’s words: “Custom men’s wear is the future.” He continued, “It is a truly powerful way to dress.” This long-standing practice at Larrimor’s creates many custom items every year. Tom explained that wedding suits are a staple item to get custom-ordered. If you or a man in your life are looking to create a custom clothing item visit: https://larrimors.com/custom-menswear.html.  

Larrimor’s also offers a personalized shopping experience. Tom begged the question: “When was the last time your clothes made you feel invincible?” Mr. Michael stated that people should not be intimidated by it. This easy and all-encompassing way of shopping is perfect for those looking to change their style, or for those who simply want to put the work of styling in someone else's hands.  

For students looking to grow their knowledge of the fashion business, Larrimor’s internship program has a variety of ways to learn and grow. The store holds two intern positions at a time, and they are always looking for the next fashion or e-commerce intern. “We have a very robust e-commerce site that would be a great springboard for anyone looking to get into that business. In a smaller local business, you get more responsibility than you would at a bigger organization.” Tom explained some of the internship opportunities including working with the buyers, merchandisers, and tailors. “Some of the interns will come and make a custom piece start to finish with one of Larrimor’s master tailors.” If you would like to get more information about Larrimor’s internship opportunities, please visit: https://app.joinhandshake.com/stu/employers/20488