Winnin' in '0-10!!

Hello cyber world, Lauren Wray here letting you know some of the beautiful things we've been working on for our even more beautiful clients. We are so lucky to have such an array of clientele ... from movie stars to hobo story tellers to everyone in between. Yes, everyone in between. To fill you in on what's been going on this year thus far... Nashville is getting to be quite the destination for filming movies here in the past few years. We did stuff for Hannah Montana: The Movie (specifically a western shirt that Lalie designed for Miley) and recently made custom boots in a whopping 6 days for none other than Gwyneth Paltrow to be worn in the movie (in production), Love Don't Let Me Down, which is currently being filmed in Nashville (also stars Garrett Hedlund of Troy and Friday Night Lights , Leighton Meester of Gossip Girl, and Tim McGraw - client and pop country crooner). Personal side note: I worked a few days as an extra (it was a very deep, complicated character I played) on set... no more details to be released at this moment but I will be signing autographs at K-Mart next week, thanks! Nick 13 of Tiger Army (I think he may be working on a Nashville album?) also just ordered his second Manuel suit. It is inspired by the Elvis gold lame' suit and we hear he will be using it for upcoming photo shoots so I'm sure you'll get to see pictures of it soon. The ladies of Casey James Prestwood and the Burning Angels win this month's contest of cool kids (I judged). Kate just received hers and Jeremi's is in the works. Casey and Brent have been rocking their Gram Parsons' inspired motorcycle jackets for a hot minute, so we're stoked (we hope they are too!!) for the ladies to be donning some rhinestones on their bad ass selves. Please be sure to check out their music... they are super groovy and cool and we're happy to be a fan of these clients and friends... Who can forget hunky Mr. James Intveld a long time friend/client who's been a friend of the Man's since the "L.A." days. He's another one that we love to listen to... as well as measure... ahhhh sorry James, couldn't resist. Also check out James' tunes and bio -- he's got an interesting history. Time to take a minute to shout out the legendary Mr. MERLE HAGGARD. We respect and love the legends and Manuel loves hearing from his old friends (he's made clothes for him through out his entire career). We're working on some suits for him right now. He's requested old school, Hank Williams style... meaning lots of piping and arrows.I know there's been stuff that I've left out, my dearest and sincerest apologies. I have a lot of stuff to do, i.e. sew arrows, figure out what to wear tomorrow for the taping of the Marty Stuart show, and so on so forth. It's also time to start thinking about lunch as well. So adios amigos... keep rockin' and rollin'. -LW


P.S.: Robert Plant and Alison Krauss came in the other day to say hello to Manuel. I think Mr. Plant lives here part time but it still makes me shakey when I see him... I just can't help myself. Lalie is accepting bids on my behalf to hear the story about how he found my bra in the dressing room last year. No part of story will be falsified, email to place bids: lalie@manuelcouture.com (Rules and Regulations: Bids will be accepted in increment of 10's (i.e. 10, 20, 30... so on) and barters can be discussed).

Notes from Ole' Sarah!

On my first day of work at Manuel's anything that could go wrong on a first day did go wrong. I woke up early to ensure that I was not late... and the coffee maker exploded like a volcano full of lava-- coffee grinds everywhere. Then, I finally arrive at Manuel’s and can't find a parking spot, so I park in a Vanderbilt parking garage. When I eventually get inside the shop, I was 20 minutes late. Lalie greeted me and told me not to worry about how late I was and gave me a tour of the shop. When she was giving me a tutorial of how to rhinestone, I accidentally knocked an entire rack of scarves over and barely missed her head. By that point I was anxiously awaiting 5:30 to roll around so my frazzled first day would be over. To top it all off, when I got back to my car I had a $20 ticket because I had put my money for the parking garage in the wrong slot.

Thankfully, my first day was NOT a sign of things to come. The 3 months that followed that awful first day were the most fun I have ever had. I came to find that I actually looked forward to going to work everyday and was sad when 5:30 did roll around. At the end of my internship I had even considered cancelling my plans to attend SCAD (Savannah College of Arts and Design) so I could stay in Nashville and continue interning. I consider myself privileged and lucky that I got to work and form friendships with such amazing people. Everyone from Manuel's even put together a hipster packet and sent it to me when I first moved to Georgia because they knew how homesick I was and how much I loved stereotypes.

I am now living in Savannah, GA and anxiously awaiting graduation from SCAD. Words cannot express how much I miss my family at Manuel's. I try to visit everyone as often as possible, which unfortunately ends up being only once a year. I am excited to visit in April for Manuel's birthday and to be greeted with a hug and to hear the Man himself say "I have missed my boobies!"

Miss you all,

Sarah Swafford

Manuel in my Life... a reflection

photo by jenny petite

About three years ago I opened a door at a studio in Nashville not knowing quite what to expect. Nothing in the world could have prepped me for what I found! At 1922 Broadway there is much more than amazing clothing, sparkling stones, and a piece of history. There is also genius, love, and an old bordello full of the most creative and exciting people I have ever met. Manuel welcomes everybody with open arms- and well, when you have curves like mine, he opens them a little further! Only for hugs of course. He is an amazing mentor. Supportive, smart, witty, and kind. He had faith in me- which in turn allowed my creative juices to thrive.

As far as the rest of the crew is concerned, I can define Lalie as charismatic and intoxicating. An energetic neo pin-up with style and flare that never ceases to amaze and is out done by no one. Lauren Wray has spunk. Moxie, spirit, gumption- true southern grit. With her you always get an honest smile and a boost of freshness. Last but not least Morelia, Manuel's daughter. What can I say, she is the leading lady in her life- and I dare anyone to call her an "extra!" Morelia is quite simply- hilarious (Read Mo-ism # 437). She is full of life, wonder, and love.

The most important thing about this group is family. I was amazed to find a family within each of them. To this day I look to them for support, criticism, a shoulder to cry on, or a booty to dance with. No matter the circumstance or occasion each of them have been there for me. When I needed help with hand made buttonholes on a tailored jacket I made- they were there. When I had to find a dress to wear to my Grandpa's funeral, and didn't think I could face it alone- they were there. When I wanted to celebrate my 24th birthday- they were there (hives and all)! And when I was interviewing my 1st "big name" at a Lexus/Vogue fashion show full of nerves and doubt, I found comfort in seeing them in the front row next to the runway. With their hugs I gained my confidence to do my job and was able to shine. That's the glory in being a part of "Manuel Exclusive Clothier," you do not only learn about fashion, expert workmanship, textiles, and couture... you learn about life.

I feel honored to know that years ago I was able to open a new door in my life. And I feel privileged to understand that that door never has to be closed.

All my love and respect,
S.R.


Since interning with Manuel, Sarah Reesman has worked abroad with designer Vivienne Westwood and is currently a writer and editor for Nashville SixFifteen Magazine. She may be contacted at sreesman@hotmail.com

So how much is a Manuel?

So how much is a MANUEL?






This is the most asked, debated, pounded, argued question...




And that answer is all based on the choice of fabrics, styles, details, embroidery & rhinestones! Not to mention, all Manuel designs are "one-of-a-kind" pieces: custom couture. Not one thing is ever duplicated!





A jacket with basic embroidery & rhinestones begin at $2500.00 + -- some have left with bills that are over $50,000.00 + (no joke).






So the sky's the limit!




Manuel suits begin at $3000.00, which include plain pants & jacket






Specialty pieces for example like a Gram Parsons influenced piece begins at $5000.00 + ($7500.00-$10,000.00 range)






Western shirts begin at $750.00 - $1250.00 +






We do carry a specialty limited-edition western style shirt for men & women for $250.00 ( call for details )

Pants plain begin at $600.00 +

Boots Plain $950.00+

Belts beginning $350.00 +

Guitar straps begin $750.00+

Clutches $95.00-$500.00+

Prices do vary and we suggest you pop into the showroom... he has been known to have some special prices on some items already made in the store. Keep in mind there are occasional secret sales on Wednesdays from 20%-30% off when we host a showcase...check in for details!

He creates images and is best known as a costume designer.

He is MANUEL.

No Returns ~ No Exceptions! All custom orders are final sales!

Please e-mail info@manuelcouture.com for further details...

Ratings vs. Rhinestones

Conan O’Brien looked smashing on the Tonight show and it was all because of a simple phone call. One afternoon, Conan’s assistant Deb called our studio in need of an amazing suit. I thought to myself, “Well you sure called the right place! Nashville’s rhinestone rembrandt is here to save the day!” As Deb described Conan’s physique, it was rather unique and created somewhat of a challenge when selecting the perfect fit for the show; however I knew I had one colorful piece to fit his personality. A mint, green ¾ length jacket embroidered with old school cars and rhinestone accents would definitely do the job. Although we were unable to provide him with a custom-made suit due to time constraints, the one-of -a-kind suit was definitely complimentary of Conan’s personality. As we finished up the details of the order, we discovered that the world is truly small. It turns out Deb, who worked for my favorite late night show host Conan O’Brien, ironically knew my grandfather who we all know as Nudie, the notorious North Hollywood tailor. Deb and I got Conan’s order squared away and everything was just great! As he was going to the Rockefeller Center in New York, Conan personally called me and expressed how thrilled he was to be wearing one of Manuel’s couture cowboy jacket. Everything was awesome! Today Manuel is considered one the premier fashion designers of all time. From the Rolling Stones to the Jackson 5, Manuel has provided fashion sense to a range of artists and has even been featured in the Smithsonian. Manuel continues to design his couture garments at his shop, Manuel Exclusive Clothier, in Nashville, TN. Team Conan!

May your Rhinestones always shine!

Morelia

Rhinestone Honky Tonk Heiress

Manuel's suit for the unknown artist

I just came across a photo of one of my personal favorite Manuel designs of all time.

It is part of Marty Stuart's amazing collection that was shown at the Tennessee State Museum, a completely delightful exhibit entitled "sparkle and Twang" which has been traveling around the US for the last two years or so.

The incredible garment I am typing about is the lavender/grey toned one with an entire human skeleton embroidered and rhinestoned on the back of the jacket and legs of the pants.

Manuel did this as a dedication to all the artists and musicians that would never get the recognition they deserved for their time, talent and craft.

The very moment I laid eyes on this small piece of western wear history....I got chills.

This is the very suit that inspired Jack White (of The White Stripes, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather) to get his infamous bone suit tailored at our shop.

(suit featured in video to follow!)

xoxo

Lalie

Assistant Designer to MANUEL

Intern in the House

Happy New Year everybody! This is Holly, I'm one of the new interns at Manuel Exclusive Clothier. I'm a freshman at O'More College of Design and I'm loving every second of my college experience - and my experience here with Manuel! I've been learning lots of new things, like how to make arrows, piped pockets, and hem pants. They've also had me on clutch duty, making tons of super-cute clutch purses (which everyone should come check out). We're all getting back to work and school and getting over the stress of the holidays. Hope every one has a wonderful new year!

~ Holly

F.A.Q.

Feel free to ask any questions we left out...

• Who writes Manuel's blogs, "tweets", keeps up with his Facebook, etc.?

A: Although Manuel is fully aware of what's going on with his "Twatter" as he likes to say, and his Facebook friends, Manuel is not so much into social networking himself. He sees it as a valuable tool and loves to hear from his family and friends and all over the world. However, his assistants and interns do the dirty work on this particular subject.

• Can I come see the store?

A: Yes! We love guests. We'd love for you to call ahead if possible. Our number is 615-321-5444 and we are located at 1922 Broadway, Nashville TN, 37203 on the corner of 20th and Broadway (Midtown). We are open Monday-Friday 9-6 CST.

• How do I go about getting a custom piece made by Manuel?

A: For starters, we are going to need your measurements. It's highly recommended that you visit the shop so Manuel can measure you personally. We take great pride in our tailoring skills and Manuel prefers to meet his clients in person due to the fact that he's not only a designer, but an image maker. If coming to Nashville isn't possible, please call the shop or e-mail Lauren at laurenwray@manuelcouture.com to make other arrangements.

• Can I look at Manuel stuff online?

A: While we are the stages of making our website (http://www.manuelcouture.com/) suitable for ecommerce, we're not quite there yet. Please come to our showroom!

• I own a vintage Nudie and/or Manuel. How can I find out how much it's worth?

A: Easy. We can write you a letter of authenticity and appraisal letter from Manuel. Please inquire for prices for this service.

• How do I go about making an appointment for a fitting?

A: Please call the shop 615-321-5444 or e-mail Lauren Wray at laurenwray@manuelcouture.com

• My daughter is going to prom and needs her dressed fixed. Can we take it you for an alteration?

A: Dear Lord no!

• Are you hiring?

A: No.

• Do you all have an internship programs?

A: Yes. Please contact Lalie at lalie@manuelcouture.com

• How long is your turn around time?

A: Typically at least 3-4 weeks. Extra charges apply for rush orders.

Notes from Manuel's Assistant Designer

OMG (that stands for oh. my. God for all you non bloggers out there)

We have been SO busy these past few weeks at the house of Manuel.
I personally have been very preoccupied with the conceptualizing, brainstorming and designing of the mens and womens $250 shirts .
I know each and every one of you Manuel Couture fans are just DYING to get your hands on one for yourself or maybe as a very special gift for your honey over the holidays.... ladies and gentlemen....let me tell you now....they are going to be fantastic.

In other news, we can now do some of that fantastic black magic to your favorite pair of jeans or that denim jacket you have been wearing since you graduated high school...
we have designs available in the $150-$250 price range OR
We will do custom embroidery and rhinestones on your own personal garment for a special price
email me at lalie@manuelcouture.com for more details....
(if you are wanting to do something before Christmas I am going to have to get your orders by the first week of December)

well friends, I am signing off...
dont look for me at the' fashion after dark' event...although some of my GLORIOUS clutch designs will be available for purchase...
i unfortunately will be tardy for the party due to an emergency wisdom tooth extraction surgery
( please send flowers)

xoxo
Lalie aka Darla Outlaw