Macy’s vs. Brooks Brothers – #StoreWars Rd. 1

STORE WARS: Macy’s vs. Brooks Brothers

Starting March 19th and running through April 8th, Dappered.com is hosting a bracket based tournament with the purpose of eventually crowning the all around Affordable Men’s Style Retail Champ for 2013.  For a full introduction see this post.  The bracket on the right will be updated as the tournament progresses.  Click on it for the full size.  Make a case for your preferred competitor in the comments section, but don’t forget to vote at the bottom of each match up. On with today’s showdown:

Strengths: Not to sound like an awful reality show, but Macy’s is where many a man’s personal “journey” to a better sense of style once began.  Their One Day Sales are once a month (or thereabouts) events that are worth giving a look.  In house brands like Bar III, INC, and Alfani Red might miss the mark sometimes, but often produce well fitting off the rack options at a very reasonable price… if you wait for one of those big sales.

Weaknesses:  Feels like they might be starting to become the GAP of department stores.  Sure they’re consistent, but things haven’t changed much over the last few years and they’re starting to feel… forgettable?  Website browsing feels cluttered.  Perpetual sales can cause some confusion (when is a 20% sale actually 15% off?  And can you stack another coupon on that to… you know the drill).  Shoe department is usually pretty weak.  Free shipping doesn’t kick in until $99.

Strengths:  The granddaddy of em’ all, yet has made significant strides in the last few years to appeal to a younger demographic.  Iconic Made in the USA half canvassed suits.  Many swear by their slim or extra slim dress shirts.  Wide variety of great looking accessories (like their wallets and cufflinks).  In house shoes like their drivers and chukkas.  Works with heritage companies like Allen Edmonds, Filson, Red Wing, etc… to stock their stores and websites with great looking American merchandise.

Weaknesses: Expensive.  Especially when it comes to suiting, but if you hang around for the rare once or twice a year sale, you could land something on the high end for a more palatable price.  While they have tried to get younger these past few years, some of their looks can still feel a little too classic.  They could use more middle ground between Established Guy in his late 40s, and hyper-prep peacock wearing all bright colors.  Sizing on basics like sweaters can run extremely generous.  Shipping on small stuff can be a killer.

Your votes determine who goes on to the next round.  Cast your ballot below.  Voting closes at midnight ET.

UPDATE:  And Team 1818 whomps Macy’s.  Heritage movin’ on to the next round.