M Penner: Houston Winter Black Book 2015

M penner

houston winter BLACK BOOK

2015

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WHATEVER SUIT YOU MAY WEAR… SIX CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 8793 GAYLORD ST 713-468-6262 6401 WOODWAY DR 713-266-1096 5750 WOODWAY DR 713-789-8871 3917 SAN FELIPE 713-622-1823 3949 RICHMOND AVE 713-629-6530 2611 S. SHEPHERD 713-522-8157

FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY 713-924-8200 WWW.TWINOAKSCLEANERS.NET FROM ALL OF US AT TWIN OAKS CLEANERS… MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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CONTENTS

Holiday 2015

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FEATURES What Lies Beneath Photographer Michael David Adams submerges himself in his craft— literally. 10

The Art of Wine Take a cue from these collectors of fine wine and make the object of your passion an integral part of your decor. 16

That’s the Spirit!

The holiday season is for good friends and good times.

Here’s to looking and feeling our best. Cheers! 24

Destination: Morocco

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Enchantment awaits with these must-do activities throughout Africa’s northern treasure. 38

The Charm of Cheese For holiday entertaining, nothing matches its easy elegance. 46

10 departments Invitation to Style Thanks to you!

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A Family Affair Experience a world of men’s fashion at Fortezza da Basso in Florence, Italy. 8 SPiriTs

Cocktails & Cure-alls Here, we offer five tempting tipples to try—even if a cure isn’t what you’re after. 50

Service Directory Your guide to the M PENNER experience. 60

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ANTIQUES•VINTAGE•MODERN

CARLMOOREANTIQUES.COM PHONE 713.524.2502 • 877.916.2497 MAIL@CARLMOOREANTIQUES.COM

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invitation to style

M PENNER 1180-06 UPTOWN PARK BLVD. HOUSTON, TX 77056 713.527.8200 mpenner .com Store Hours

Monday to FRIDAY: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

thanks to you! sneak peeks

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s the days grow shorter and not as hot, we’re giving thanks for a very successful year. Our gratitude begins with you, our loyal customers. It’s a pleasure to know you, see you, serve you and spend time with you in our Houston store. We appreciate your support!

Next we thank our designers and suppliers, who keep us stocked with some of the most elegant, luxurious, flattering, sexy clothing, footwear and accessories the world has to offer.

Third—and we can never say this enough—we thank our staff.

Our style experts chose to work at M PENNER because they have a passion for fashion, and they derive a lot of satisfaction from helping people look and feel their best. We chose them, in turn, because we love that attitude!

Kudos also go to our Old World tailoring staff. They love a challenge, whether it’s a complicated alteration or a lightning-fast turnaround. Our tailors are driven by an innate sense of pride of workmanship. This pride is something that can’t be taught. Either you have it or you don’t, and our tailors have it in spades.

Please enjoy this holiday issue as a small token of our appreciation.

More than a gift guide, it’s a special issue of our regular magazine, with features on holiday travel, food and drink, as well as artful layouts on photography and home design.

Do stop by the store and see us next time you’re near Uptown Park.

In the meantime, we wish you and yours a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a joyous holiday season.

—Murry and Karen Penner

Editorial Director karen penner Editor

Mark Dowden

Art Director

stephen M. vitarbo

Executive Editor

rita guarna

Managing Editor

Carol Bialkowski

Senior Editor

Timothy Kelley

Contributing Photographer Cody bess Publishing staff

Publisher Shae Marcus

Senior Advertising Account Executive jodi bruker Advertising Account Executive monica delli santi Director of Production and Circulation Christine Hamel Advertising Services Manager jacquelynn fischer Senior Art Director, Agency Services Kijoo Kim Production/Art Assistant Alanna Giannantonio Accounting agnes alves, MEgan Frank Published by Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President Mark Dowden Senior Vice Presidents shae marcus, Carl Olsen Vice Presidents Rita Guarna, christine hamel M PENNER Magazine is published twice a year by Wainscot Media, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645, in association with M PENNER. This is volume 9, number 2. Copyright © 2015 by Wainscot Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

E d i to r i a l C o n t r i b u ti o n s : Write to Editor, M PENNER, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.782.5730; email mark.dowden@wainscotmedia.com. The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions.

S u b s c r i pti o n S e r vi c e s : To change an address or request a subscription, write to Subscriptions, M PENNER, Circulation Department, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.573.5541; email christine.hamel@wainscotmedia. com.

A dve r ti s i n g I n q u i r i e s : Contact Shae Marcus at 856.797.2227 or shae. marcus@wainscotmedia.com.

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A FAMILY AFFAIR

In the world of men’s fashion, the pièce de résistance of shows for buyers occurs twice a year at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence, italy. Pitti Uomo is where designers bring their best and is reputed as the leading fashion fair in the world. From product to parties to people watching, Pitti stands in a league of its own. With great delight, we were joined on our most recent trip by our three sons, Ryan, Josh, and Jeremy. And, yes, we had a ball!

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Left to right, from top: The Eton party. Opening ceremony with Florentine football in Piazza Santa Croce. We call these the Pitti Posers—the models and bloggers who sit around waiting to be photographed. Salute! from the Penners! This “tie blanket” is from Marzullo, one of the finest tie makers in the world.

Marzullo debuts at M PENNER next spring. Great parties. Brunello Cucinelli exhibit. Gianetto Portofino shirtmakers.

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. e imerse themselves in their work l p peo e m s avid Adam So D l e photographer Micha submerges him self in hi s cra ft—Literally.

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hen he’s not busy shooting fashion and beauty features for magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Glamour, photographer Michael David Adams often can be found underwater, capturing surreal, ethereal, magical images. “Shooting underwater is incredibly complicated and challenging,” the New York City-based artist has said. “[But] the results, when done well, are simply astonishing. It’s very rewarding, after all the hard work of being submerged for eight hours, to see the captured images. I love it!” We do too. Take a look at the photos on the following pages and see if you agree.

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Reprinted from Living with Wine by Samantha Nestor and Alice Feiring. Copyright Š2009. Published by Clarkson Potter/Publishers, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC.

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why relegate your best bordeaux to the basement? Take a cue from these Collectors of fine wine and mAke the object of your passion an integral part of your decor.

the art of

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Previous page, a dazzling “wall of wine� fashioned from recycled bottles marks the entrance to this cellar. This page, a deep, rich chocolate stain on the doors and shelving, coupled with a neutral heavy-pile rug, warm up this wine cellar and adjacent tasting room. Opposite, an original, hand-crafted mosaic of marble, limestone and onyx welcomes oenophiles at the entrance to another cellar.

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This page, a “cathedral of wine” features soaring 12-foot ceilings, graceful plaster arches and brick-like tumbled limestone floors.

Notice how the bottles are displayed horizontally to show their labels clearly.

Opposite, homeowners and their guests can relax, play a game of pool or enjoy a tasting in this wine-centered “entertainment complex.”

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A wall of glass separates this masculine cellar from the equally handsome living room, allowing guests to gaze at the 3,500 bottles while kicking back in a comfy chair. Take note of the brick columns, the floor made of 2,000-year-old Jerusalem limestone and the koa breakfront housing a collection of whiskey and other liquor.

Left, the perfect accessory for a cellar: a tall vase containing used corks rather than flowers.

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Power brands Up & Comers New Discoveries They’re all part of the new

FALL FASHION

Photography by Cody Bess Photographed at Hotel Granduca Houston, www.granducahouston.com

The stunning Hotel Granduca proved the perfect setting for models Suzie Ford and Landon Wassem to showcase some of our favorite fall/winter looks from (in order of appearance) Hugo Boss, Kiton, Ermenegildo Zegna, Altea, Brunello Cucinelli, Isaia, W. Kleinberg, Maui Jim, Etro, Corneliani, Gianetto Portofino, Mason’s, Gravati, Herno, Majestic Filatures, AG Jeans, Colombo, Veronica Beard, Henry Beguelin, Eton, Fabiana Filippi, Peter Millar, Culturata, Hiltl, Gigi Handbags, Samuelsohn, Fuzzi, Finamore, Moore & Giles, Tumi, L’Agence, Boglioli, Alberto, Charvet, Pam & Gela, Hudson, and Peserico. Jewelry throughout is from Metalli 925, Chan Luu, Tateossian, The Antique Jewel Box, Robindira Unsworth, Margo Morrison, Fig Tree, and Uno de 50.

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destination:

morocco 10 can’t-miss adventures Enchantment awaits with these must-do activities throughout Africa’s northern treasure.

It’s little wonder the name Morocco comes from the Berber word for “Land of God.” From the Sahara’s golden dunes to the high peaks of the Atlas Mountains, this North African country’s magnificent beauty and exotic culture—a blend of Berber, European and Arab influences—seem touched by the divine.

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This page: A woman and small child stroll the streets of Chefchaouen, a city in northwest Morocco known for its buildings in shades of blue. Opposite: The thread-like red stigmas of the crocus sativus flower are known by another name: saffron.

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This page, from top: Should you decide to stay at the luxurious Royal Mansour Marrakech, the solicitous staff will be happy to arrange exclusive excursions beyond the walled city, such as luxury camping in the desert. The hotel’s magnificent reception building offers a glimpse of the opulence that awaits. Opposite: At the heart of the Royal Mansour Spa is a dramatic white wrought iron atrium, evocative of an elaborate bird cage. In the cool alcoves of this structure spa guests receive their initial consultation with a staff member.

cities, the most expansive ones are in the northern city of Fez, and Marrakech in the southwest. You’ll find narrow, winding streets and alleys lined with vendors—set up much as they were in centuries past. A few tips for your shopping excursion: Don’t be shy about bargaining with the vendors, beware of pickpockets and make sure you have plenty of dirham, Morocco’s official currency.

Climb the Atlas Mountains. Hardy travelers should pack comfy walking shoes to ascend this range, which winds through Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The main trekking season runs from April, when the mountain snow begins to melt, until October.

Those in good physical condition might try reaching Jbel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest point at about 13,670 feet. The hike is challenging, but the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the vast Sahara beyond are well worth the effort.

Tour the palaces. To explore Morocco’s imperial past, stop by some of its grand palaces. In Marrakech, check out the El Badi Palace, a lavish creation of the Saadian dynasty built in the 16th century, and the Bahia Palace from the late 19th century. In the northern town of Meknès, visit Dar Jamai, a former private residence that is now part of

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Morocco is a bit bigger than California, so visiting its high spots requires several hours’ travel. Fortunately, trains here are efficient, comfortable and cheap.

For a Moroccan vacation you’ll never forget, squeeze in as many of these 10 experiences as you possibly can: Browse the markets. Herbal potions, colorful fabrics, pungent spices—you’ll find them all and more in the country’s souks, or urban markets. Though these bazaars are found in many Moroccan

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This page: a colorful alleyway in the Imperial City of Meknès.

Opposite, from top: a traditional Moroccan spice market; teapots and other wares for sale at a souk in Essaouira.

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Dar Jamai Museum, exhibiting local arts. Channel your own royal roots by lodging in one of Morocco’s riads, palaces converted into charming hotels in the historic centers of major cities.

View the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Once ruled by the great Roman Empire, Morocco contains some impressive Roman ruins from the 2nd and 3rd centuries in Volubilis, an ancient city-turned-archaeological site that’s an easy trip from Meknès. The spot is open to visitors from morning to sunset for a fee of about 20 dirham ($5.45).

Hit the beach. With coastlines on its northern and western sides, Morocco features a host of beautiful beaches. On the Atlantic coast, check out the ancient seaside town of Essaouira. Inhabited since prehistoric times, its powerful trade winds now make it a famous windsurfing spot. Asilah is also a must-see on the western shore, with sandy beaches, whitewashed houses and a lively festival held each August. If you’re heading north, check out the picturesque sands of Tangier, a seaside town on the Strait of Gibraltar.

Visit Casablanca’s modern mosque. While Morocco as a whole may evoke images of ancient, exotic cultures, Casablanca most often calls to mind 1940s Hollywood. But this historic locale is actually

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a vibrant, modern city that boasts the country’s largest mosque.

Opened in the early 1990s to commemorate the 60th birthday of a former king, the Hassan II Mosque overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and can hold some 25,000 worshippers—plus another 80,000 in its courtyard. The structure features a retractable roof, a 689-foot minaret that shines a laser beam toward Mecca at night and a vastly ornate CONTINUED...

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This page, from top: bright blue fisherman’s boats in the port city of Essaouira; navigating narrow Medina Street in the northern city of Fez. Opposite: Morocco’s trademark brew, mint tea.

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Ride a camel. While trains and taxis might be the best mode of transportation to most of Morocco’s attractions, there’s no better way to see the Sahara’s dunes than on camelback. You can arrange your trek with various tour companies located in cities bordering the desert, including Merzouga, M’Hamid and Zagora.

Beginners are advised to try a day trip first (long journeys can leave you tired and sore); adventurers might opt for a two or three-day excursion.

Try Moroccan mint tea. Amble the streets long enough and you’ll undoubtedly be offered this trademark brew—especially by shop owners hoping you’ll stop to browse their wares. Mint tea is Morocco’s national drink, and it’s regarded as a way to welcome visitors and relax with family and friends. Served in small crystal tumblers that resemble shot glasses, the tea has earned the nickname “Moroccan whiskey.”

Rock the kasbahs. Drive through the Dades Valley (between the High Atlas Mountains and the Jebel Sahro mountain range) to behold breathtaking views of lush oasis towns and red cliffs lined with kasbahs—ancient North African forts. Indeed, the sheer multitude of these structures makes it clear why the area is known as “The Valley of One Thousand Kasbahs.” For an authentic experience, try lodging in one of the many kasbahs that have been converted into hotels.

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prayer hall adorned with woodcarving, tile work and stucco molding.

Experience the Djemma el-Fna at night. When dusk falls on Marrakech, Djemma el-Fna—the city’s large center square— transforms into a fantastical world of acrobats, dancers, storytellers, musicians and jugglers. When hunger strikes, grab a meal at one of the outdoor food stalls or enjoy a relaxing repast in one of the cafés overlooking the hustle and bustle.

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charm of cheese For holiday entertaining, nothing equals it for easy elegance. In minutes you can create an imaginative grouping from different lands, ranging from mild to tangy, from a hard block to a glorious goo. cheese is bound to please!

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A warm, soft cheese is a sensuous pleasure on the tongue—and deliciously simple to prepare. Bake a round of Camembert (you can leave it in the box) and serve with toasted slices of French bread, sliced pears or grapes and an assortment of nuts. Almonds and walnuts are good choices. What to drink? Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Beaujolais.

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Parmigiano-Reggiano, the “king of cheeses,� is a must on any cheese board. Nutty and creamy, it pairs particularly well with pears, figs, walnuts, hazelnuts, olives, balsamic vinegar and, of course, warm crusty bread. A glass of bubbly Prosecco is the perfect accompaniment.

But if you prefer red wine, Barbera and Lambrusco are outstanding options.

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When assembling your cheese board, aim for a variety of textures and flavors—soft to firm, creamy to crumbly, sweet to pungent, sharp to mellow.

Some tried-and-true suggestions: cheddar or gouda, Brie or Camembert, Parmigiano-Reggiano or Manchego, Gorgonzola or Roquefort. It’s a good idea to vary texture and taste among the carbs too—sliced baguette, bread sticks and “neutral” crackers. (Flavored crackers can overwhelm the flavors of the cheeses.) Thinly sliced fresh fruit, figs, apricots, almonds, walnuts, jams and chutneys all make excellent accompaniments.

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Cocktails & cure-alls before there was ALKA-SELTZER or ASpiRIN OR AMBIEN, folks feeling under the weather relied on restorative remedies whipped up by local pharmacists.

Here, we offer five tempting tipples to try—even if a “cure” isn’t what you’re after.

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Recipes reprinted with permission from Apothecary Cocktails by Warren Bobrow. Š 2013 Fair Winds Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing Group

s Corpse Reviver True to its name, a Corpse Reviver is meant to re-animate the dead—or, at least, the vividly hungover. A hearty dose of cognac soothes the pain of the night before, while the fragrant falernum rejuvenates all five aching senses. Falernum gets its name from an ancient Roman wine called falernian, which, legend has it, was so high in alcohol it could be set on fire. n 3 ounces cognac n 2 ounces calvados n 1 ounce gin n 1 ounce sweet vermouth n 1 ounce falernum n Ice

Fill a Boston shaker threequarters with ice. Gently pour the cognac, calvados, gin, vermouth and falernum over the ice, and shake briskly for 30 seconds.

Toss a few ice cubes into a short rocks glass. Strain the mixture into the glass, sit back and slowly sip that hangover away.

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c/o Fair Winds Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing Group

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Absinthe Frappé These days, when we think of frappés, we usually imagine high-octane, sugar-laden, iced-coffee drinks. Traditionally, though, a frappé is simply a liqueur poured over shaved ice. This take on the frappé features absinthe, which has a reputation for alleviating aches due to its high alcohol level. Absinthe frappés have their roots in New Orleans, where these cooling potions could be enjoyed all year. n 2 ounces absinthe n ½ ounce simple syrup n 10 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish) n 3 ounces seltzer water n Crushed, pebble-sized ice

Combine the absinthe, simple syrup and mint leaves in a large martini glass. Add the ice a spoonful at a time as you stir the absinthe mixture gently with a bar spoon, so that the glass becomes frosty. When the glass is nearly full, top with the seltzer water and stir gently. Tear a few mint leaves and strew them over the top of the drink. When nothing else will shift that truly dogged headache, this icy concoction can help.

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Aperol Fizz Historically, the citrusy Italian aperitif Aperol has been enjoyed before, during and after lengthy meals to perk up appetites and ease digestion. It gently raises the spirits too, especially when combined with aromatic bitters and fizzy water. Plus, since it’s relatively low in alcohol, the Aperol Fizz is a sensible drink, so you’ll be less likely to overindulge. n 2 ounces Aperol n Ice cubes n 6 ounces sparkling natural mineral water (preferably one with a strong mineral flavor) n 2 shakes Angostura bitters n Lemon zest twist or lemon slice

Add the Aperol to a Boston shaker and fill the shaker threequarters with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Add a few cubes of ice to a Collins glass; then strain the mixture slowly over the ice. Top the chilled Aperol with the sparkling mineral water; add bitters; garnish with the lemon zest twist; and prepare to be transported to an outdoor cafĂŠ in Italy. The Aperol Fizz is so light and refreshing, you have permission to go ahead and have another!

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Mexican Sleep Cure Alcohol-driven sedatives were originally created to treat individuals who were overwrought with stress. These sedatives relaxed the body and calmed the mind through the combination of hot, strong liquids and even stronger liquors. Here, mezcal—a smoky, agave-based Mexican spirit—is added to a cup of spicy Mexican hot chocolate, and it’s very effective when it comes to chasing the sandman. n 3 ounces mezcal n 1 cup Mexican “spicy” hot chocolate (see below) n ½ tsp. vanilla extract n Dark brown sugar, to taste

Mexican “spicy” hot chocolate n Combine ¾ cup whole milk with ¼ cup heavy cream. n Add ¼ pound grated bittersweet chocolate. n Heat slowly, do not boil, and whisk constantly until smooth. n Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and sugar to taste.

Prepare the hot chocolate. Preheat a mug by pouring boiling water into it; discard the water after a few seconds. Add the mezcal to the mug, followed by the hot chocolate, and then doctor it with the vanilla extract and sugar. Sip, and sleep is sure to follow.

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Coconut Cooler In the Caribbean, pharmacists of days gone by might have been called on to help patients counter the effects of too much sun. Their “prescription” was probably a simple one—potassium-packed coconut water for hydration (it has more potassium than two bananas) and local rum to ease the sufferer’s body and mind. The best part is, there’s no glass to clean afterward. n 1 large coconut, chilled n 6 ounces Rhum Agricole

Chill the coconut by keeping it on ice overnight, or by storing it in the refrigerator. Using a drill, puncture three holes in the coconut. (But don’t discard the precious water inside!) In the islands, a machete is often used to punch holes in coconuts. Some people who use machetes are missing their fingertips. Don’t be one of them.

Add the Rhum Agricole through one of the holes, using a funnel if necessary.

Stick a straw into each of the holes, and sip the contents while cheek-tocheek with a close friend. Serves 2.

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welcome to our Home From our drink bar to our flat-screen TV, we designed the store to make you feel at home. Even our Made-to-Measure Room is casual and comfortable, with its roomy conference table.

Service

Directory the

M Penner Personal Service

expertise A central part of the M PENNER experience is superlative service. When you need expert, individualized attention, you’ll get it—instantly and for as long as you want. Our knowledgeable staff is well versed in all of the brands we carry, the trends of the season and how to fit every body type. They stand ready to advise you on all matters of wardrobe and accessories.

abundant parking Houston’s a big city, and parking is often a challenge. At M PENNER we provide plenty of free parking, right at the front door.

As a family-owned business, we take a lot of pride in everything we do at M PENNER. We have the finest sales professionals that you will find anywhere, and our experienced tailoring staff works diligently to make sure that you look great. Our commitment to our customers goes beyond the sale. Service impacts every part of our business, and our goal is to constantly exceed your expectations. Here are some of the things we do to take care of you. Of course, special requests are always welcome!

made-to-measure service Exceptional fit is essential to impeccable style. We have a whole room created for you to design your own suits, sportcoats, shirts and trousers, where we will take your measurements and help you select fabrics, styles, buttons, etc. from the finest companies in the world.

Delivery We understand that sometimes it’s a challenge to get to the store to pick up your alterations. Just let us know when and where, and we’ll be happy to deliver them to you.

that’s a wrap!

We’re here to make your life a little easier, remember? So, you pick the gift and we’ll take care of the wrapping on all non-sale purchases at M PENNER. Of course, all you have to do is ask and we’ll pick the gift out for you, too!

Closet Cleaning Sometimes it’s hard to part with old friends. We can help. When you shop for your new seasonal wardrobe, our sales associates will come to your home and let you know which items are worn or out of style, and suggest how to coordinate your existing clothes with new additions. We’ll even take your old clothes and donate them to a local charity on your behalf.

Picture This Sure, all of your new clothes look great at the store, but sometimes, once you get home, it’s hard to remember what goes with what. Just ask and we’ll be happy to photograph your ensembles.

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Special Orders

Complimentary Alterations

Whether it’s a suit, sportcoat or a pair of shoes, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, just let us know. We’ll do our best to find it from one of our many resources.

Our reputation is sewn into every garment we sell. To make sure you always look your absolute best, we provide complimentary alterations on all non-sale items purchased at M PENNER. We even perform routine wardrobe maintenance: Should a button become loose or lost, we’ll be happy to replace it—and press your garment—while you wait.

shopping by appointment Just give us a call and we will pre-select clothing to meet your needs. Items will be ready to try on upon your arrival, during or after store hours.

Can’t find the time to stop by?

We’ll be happy to come by your home or office.

Brownies on Saturdays M PENNER brownies, made from a recipe passed down for generations, are required at all M PENNER family events. When we built the store in Uptown Park we added a kitchen so we could make them fresh for you every Saturday.

M Penner gift cards M PENNER gift cards are available in any denomination and can be purchased at the store or over the phone. Just give us the word and we’ll be happy to send them for you as well.

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Unrelenting power, elegantly harnessed.

The new Continental GT Speed.

For more information call 713.850.1530 or visit www.bentleyhouston.com

BENTLEY HOUSTON

The name 'Bentley' and the 'B' in wings device are registered trademarks. Š 2015 Bentley Motors, Inc. Model shown: Continental GT Speed.

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