In the heart of La Jolla, a coastal gem in San Diego County, stands a venerable institution that has welcomed generations of customers through its double dutch doors. The Ascot Shop, located on the elegant Girard Avenue, has been a steadfast presence in this seaside community since its establishment in 1950. While the sands of time have shifted, the store’s unerring fashion sense and unwavering commitment to its clientele remain unchanged.
65 Years of Excellence: La Jolla’s Premier Men’s Apparel Destination
Celebrating an impressive 65 years in business, The Ascot Shop has earned its reputation as La Jolla’s “it” place to purchase that new suit, crisp dress shirt, or comfortable pair of slacks. Over the decades, it has become a beloved cornerstone of the community, catering to the sartorial needs of discerning gentlemen from all walks of life. But what truly sets this establishment apart are the ten unique and exceptional features that lie beneath its surface, waiting to be discovered by those who step through its doors.
1. A Journey Rooted in Tradition
The Ascot Shop’s journey began in the early 1950s under the watchful eye of a man named Jack Matzinger. Jack, a visionary in the world of men’s fashion, laid the foundation for what would become an enduring legacy. Bill White, who now runs the shop alongside his three children, became part of this legacy while he was attending San Diego State University. Jack recognized Bill’s passion and dedication, and he began grooming Bill to eventually take over the store. When Jack retired, Bill White assumed the reins, ensuring the continuity of the Ascot Shop’s commitment to excellence.
2. A Regal Connection
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the shop’s distinctive name? The Ascot Shop is, in fact, named after the Ascot Thoroughbred horse races in England. These prestigious races take place annually over the course of 26 days at the Ascot Racecourse in Ascot, England. It stands as one of the leading racecourses in the United Kingdom and is closely associated with the British Royal Family, situated just six miles from the historic Windsor Castle. The shop’s name pays homage to the elegance and tradition that characterize the Ascot races.
3. Unmatched Selection
One of the hallmarks of The Ascot Shop is its diverse and comprehensive selection. From full suit sets to dress shirts, polo shirts, and an array of accessories, this establishment caters to every facet of a man’s wardrobe. Whether you’re in search of a classic ensemble for a formal event or a more relaxed outfit for a casual occasion, The Ascot Shop offers an extensive range of choices. Their collection even extends to men’s watches and, surprisingly, underwear, ensuring that every detail of a gentleman’s attire can be sourced from this one-stop destination.
4. Tailoring Perfection
At The Ascot Shop, the journey to sartorial excellence doesn’t end with the selection of the perfect garment. Every purchase at the shop includes a complimentary custom tailoring session. This thoughtful addition ensures that your chosen attire fits you impeccably, enhancing your comfort and style. The skilled tailors at The Ascot Shop take precise measurements and make necessary adjustments to ensure that your clothing fits like a second skin, allowing you to move with ease and confidence.
5. Ultimate Customization
If there’s one word that encapsulates the essence of The Ascot Shop’s approach to fashion, it’s customization. The shop takes personalization to an unparalleled extreme. From the buttons on your suit (with the luxurious option of mother of pearl) to the cuffs, stitching, and liners (both inside and out), you have the freedom to tailor every detail of your attire. Imagine inscribing a meaningful message on the back of your shirt collar or choosing pockets that accommodate tickets or pocket watches. Your garments can be as unique as your personality. Whether you prefer a slim fit, a regular fit, or something in between that complements your body type, The Ascot Shop has you covered. Even dress shirts can bear custom embroidery, adding a personal touch to your wardrobe. The best part? Your customized pieces are ready for delivery in just 4-6 weeks, allowing you to express your individuality with minimal delay.
6. The Robert Talbott Connection
A hidden treasure within The Ascot Shop is its freshly remodeled Robert Talbott shop-within-a-shop. This exclusive enclave showcases one-of-a-kind pieces from the Robert Talbott collection. The shop’s connection with Robert Talbott dates back to its own inception in 1950, mirroring the birth of the Ascot Shop. In those early years, Robert’s wife handcrafted ties for their friends, and he embarked on journeys to Europe in search of the finest fabrics. Upon his return, he set out along the west coast of the United States, seeking seven stores to sell their exquisite wares. The Ascot Shop was among the original seven, and today, it stands as the sole surviving purveyor of Robert Talbott’s remarkable creations from that era.
7. The Talbott Room: A Tribute to Partnership
As a testament to their enduring partnership and friendship with the Robert Talbott brand, The Ascot Shop has dedicated a space known as The Talbott Room. This room is adorned with the original yellow Carmel stone, a material that can be found throughout the picturesque town of Carmel, California. The mini collection housed within The Talbott Room boasts nearly everything one would find in the original Talbott store, including shirts, coats, pants, and more. It’s a fitting tribute to the longstanding relationship between these two iconic establishments.
8. Sip in Style
For those with a taste for the finer things in life, The Ascot Shop offers a delightful surprise – a wine fridge tucked away in the back of the shop. This fridge is home to the specialty Robert Talbott line of wines. The Robert Talbott family owns its vineyard, and each wine is named after one of Robert’s children. As you browse through the exquisite clothing selections, you can also indulge in the rich flavors of these exceptional wines. It’s a unique and elegant touch that adds a touch of luxury to your shopping experience.
9. Unique Specialties
While The Ascot Shop is known for its extensive collection of classic menswear, it also prides itself on offering unique and specialty items. Among these treasures are limited-release Robert Graham shirts. These shirts, adorned with intricate designs and impeccable craftsmanship, are sought after by collectors and fashion connoisseurs alike. Additionally, The Ascot Shop proudly features 7-fold ties, a true rarity in the world of menswear. These ties are unlined and meticulously folded into themselves seven times, resulting in a luxurious and exceptionally crafted accessory that is a testament to both style and craftsmanship.
10. Extravagant Trunk Shows
The Ascot Shop doesn’t merely sell clothing; it curates experiences. At least once every month, the shop hosts trunk shows that are nothing short of extravagant. These events feature live music, a selection of beverages to delight your palate, and delectable catered cuisine to tantalize your taste buds. Each trunk show centers around one of the shop’s main brands, allowing patrons to explore and appreciate the full range of offerings from their favorite designers. It’s a celebration of style, music, and culinary delights, creating an atmosphere that transforms shopping into an unforgettable experience. The next trunk show is scheduled for Saturday, March 28 and will shine a spotlight on the Robert Graham collection, promising a day of sartorial exploration, entertainment, and culinary delights.
Wardrobe Package: Your Complete Style Solution
For those who find themselves overwhelmed by the wealth of choices at The Ascot Shop, there’s a solution that simplifies the process while elevating your style. The Wardrobe Package, a carefully curated ensemble, includes two suits, two dress shirts, and two ties, all priced at just $1495. This exceptional offer encompasses basic alterations, ensuring that your chosen garments fit you like a glove. What’s more, it introduces The Ascot Shop’s brand new selection of slim-fit suits, which are a testament to contemporary style and sophistication. The Wardrobe Package presents an exceptional value, with a retail price exceeding $2,000, making it an enticing proposition for those seeking to elevate their wardrobe with quality and style.
Visit The Ascot Shop: A Destination for Discerning Gentlemen
As you contemplate your next sartorial journey, consider venturing to The Ascot Shop, where tradition, style, and exceptional service converge. You’ll find this venerable establishment at 7750 Girard Avenue in La Jolla, welcoming patrons with its double dutch doors from Monday to Saturday, with operating hours extending from 10 AM to 6 PM. The Ascot Shop isn’t just a store; it’s a haven for those who appreciate the art of dressing well, a place where fashion meets tradition, and where each visit is a celebration of timeless style and impeccable craftsmanship.