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Benedetto Haberdashery's Kevin Scott, mentor Doug Kaplan, "Mel" Atkinson, and Chief Ed Fox at the Marriott Waterfront Hotel on Friday. Scott's preparing for the opening of his newest location at 324 Park Avenue, an establishment that will offer "something for men from all walks of life."

The Evolution of Kevin Scott

 (BALTIMORE – June 28, 2008) – “When I think of Kevin Scott, I think of custom styling, I think distinctive … unique … elegant,” says Doug Kaplan.

A clothier with more than 25 years experience in the industry and connections across the globe, Kaplan is a mentor – and more importantly, a friend to one of the hottest people in the fashion industry: Kevin Scott.

Mels adds, “Kevin’s got pop. He’s hot!”

Scott, about to open the doors for business at 324 Park Avenue, is about to lift the standard with his Benedetto Haberdashery II.

Kaplan, who visited Baltimore from his native New York City on Friday, joined Scott and others to discuss the opening of Scott’s newest location. There, during a magnificent dinner at Oceanaire Seafood Room that included 2-pound lobsters and spring water, Kaplan explained why Scott is so important, so critical, so key to the industry.

“Kevin has a way of taking ready-to-wear items and making them his own,” Kaplan articulated. “He sees it, he mixes it up, and what you have is a premier stylist customizing an arsenal for individuals who want to stand out in the crowd.”

Kaplan is the man behind the Monte Tayion Holland Collection. According to experts, it is the clothing product line that has gotten several retailers through the downtrend in the economy.

“It gives the retailer the opportunity to make money and ‘mad’ margin in a soft market – and in an expedient fashion,” adds Kaplan. 

The Tayion Collection is available in markets across the United states.

“Kevin has a God-given and innate gift of looking at a person, sizing them up, and ultimately creating a style of dress for them that puts them at the top of their game,” said Kaplan.“You get your own personal customized look.” 

Assisted by Imelda “Mel” Atkinson, his merchandising director who was born in the Philippine Islands, Kaplan travels the globe in search of fashion perfection. And in his words, Scott will only expand his expertise in the Baltimore area with his newest location.

Scott began about six years ago at 2901 Druid Park Drive and has made a name for himself, in particular, by some of the meanest fashion demonstrations and presentations in the region featuring some of the hottest furs available.

The ever-sartorial Scott, according to Kaplan, “has a flair about him.” Kaplan, President of Global Apparel Resources, said that Kevin’s designs are “for the guy who’s not afraid to be on the cutting-edge and the guy who wants something special and unique. He wants to be different.”

And, to say the least, Scott is indeed different. From manicured nails to custom cuffs, every day is a fashion statement for the otherwise street-hip cat from Baltimore City. He knows his product, he knows his market, and – by the grace and mercy of the Lord, he is putting his skills and talents to use to make a living and take care of his family.

Mels adds, “Kevin’s got pop. He’s hot!”

She stated, “He is the guy who can bring elegance to jogging suits.”

And, with a litany of clients, including Attorney Warren Brown, he is clearly making his impression on the world of fashion.

Who taught Rev. Jamal Harrison Bryant about the fat knot he is known for?

Why, Scott, of course!

Kaplan said that it is critical to understand that when Scott shows up at a trade show, he’ll do things others haven’t even thought of.

“Kevin actually works as a consultant for other retail operations,” said Kaplan.

Mel agrees. “Kevin’s words are taken highly.”

Kaplan, for the uninitiated, has his own list of high-profile clients including Leon Washington of the Jets, the Minnesota Vikings’ Adrian Peterson, gospel singer Byron Cage, gospel singer Bishop Paul S. Martin, Christian comedian Jonathan Slocum, and actor Sean Blakemore. Other clients include gospel singer Warren Sapp and the New England Patriots' Kenny Smith.

As it relates to Scott, Kaplan suggests that the Men’s Apparel Guild In California [MAGIC] – an entity that meets twice a year (in February and August) – is always eager for Scott’s presence.

“They look forward to seeing how Kevin will present their garments as he wears them to the shows – particularly because of his unique and innovative styling process,” said Kaplan. “Kevin transcends barriers – from the boardroom to the ballroom. He can twist a suit any number of ways – whether one is going to the club or a business meeting. However you put it, Kevin is a purveyor of men’s fashions. He takes ready-to-wear to another level. He is all about the etiquette of properly wearing clothing.”

He continued, “There are a lot of times when Kevin will take a garment and recreate it, yielding a custom piece. In the end, it all speaks to who’s wearing the product – as well as Kevin’s interpretation and evaluation of who they are … and what they are.”    

Tags: clothing, fashion