Besnard is a ready-to-wear brand focused on classic menswear and tailoring. The company was established in 1878 by Victor's great-great-grandfather A. Besnard, who owned a bespoke tailoring shop in La Haye, The Netherlands.
In 2018, Victor revived the company, and today he runs the Besnard boutique in Haarlem. Enthusiasts worldwide have the opportunity to appreciate Besnard's quality and aesthetic through the carefully curated online store and discussions on his Official Affiliate Vendor thread.
In our interview with Victor, we delve into the rich history and contemporary spirit of this time-honored yet rejuvenated Dutch brand.
Styleforum: How did you hear about Styleforum, and in what capacity did you start here as a member?
Victor Besnard: It must have been 10-12 years ago. At the time, I wanted to get a better understanding of what makes quality clothing. While searching for information about quality shirts, I stumbled upon Styleforum. I've been a rather silent member, primarily reading and absorbing information.
SF: When did you realize that you were interested in fashion?
VB: Wardrobes in cinema always fascinated me, even at a young age. But it was during high school that I developed a keen interest in clothing. I started to become more aware of how I and others dressed. While navigating through various style phases (some of which I'd rather forget) I eventually settled into a more classic style.
SF: When and how did you start your career in the clothing industry?
VB: I started my career in menswear at the age of 17 when I heard about a local store needing someone to serve coffee and run errands. I applied and got the job, eventually moving on to sales and then to buying. It was an amazing experience traveling to Milan to buy brands like Caruso and Brooks Brothers Black Fleece. Later, I worked as a sales assistant at a tailoring shop in Amsterdam, learning about made-to-measure and bespoke. After completing my studies, I worked as a strategy and management consultant, but my passion for menswear led me to launch my brand about 5 years ago.
SF: What is the best part of the job?
VB: The creative part of the business, especially designing new collections. My first collection was a series of shirts. I focused on getting each detail of the shirt right. But with just one product, it was a challenge to express the vision of the brand. The launch of new product categories made this easier since I was able to create more of a total look. Especially now, with more dedicated time for research, visiting fairs, and creating mood boards. And each season there are new opportunities and new learning experiences.
SF: What is your least favorite part?
VB: As a one-man business I’m responsible for all aspects of the company. For some reason, administration and doing taxes are chores that always come last.
SF: How do you stay up to date with the clothing industry and current trends?
VB: I am always on the lookout for inspiration. And there are so many sources; classic films, old photographs (VoxSartoria has an exceptional archive), social media and my favourite: menswear illustrations from the 30s and 40s (particularly those by Laurence Fellows and Robert Goodman). I find this era of menswear so inspiring, it’s classic but by no means boring. I also follow a few smaller menswear brands, tailors and menswear enthusiasts on Instagram, some have exceptional taste and make intriguing choices.
SF: What’s the single item from any collection you are most proud of?
VB: I am particularly proud of our house style. Developing a house style was a meticulous process involving the study of proportions, experimentation with structure, and extensive testing. The pattern was developed from scratch, guided by a clear vision of the desired silhouette. It was a journey, but I am very pleased with the result. I find the house style we've created classic, relevant, and flattering.
SF: What product did you make that you thought would be a hit, but bombed?
VB: A while back, I launched a Wall Street collection. I wanted to do something different and bold. Although it was well received and got some publicity, I expected more from the sales. The total looks were quite outspoken and probably not for everyone. But I thought the items alone could work well with a more subtle ensemble (obviously, that’s not how I styled it). When I look back, I can see that it did not really match the vision I have for the brand.
SF: If movie characters were real, who would shop at your store?
VB: My wife and I started watching all Hitchcock movies and I became fascinated with James Stewart. I just love his acting but also appreciate his sense of style. It would be nice if Ben McKenna (from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much) would buy his block stripe ties at my shop. There are quite a few in the spring summer collection.
SF: Your family has deep roots in clothing. How does your current business differ from the original business?
VB: My great-great-grandfather started his tailoring house in 1876. Each garment was bespoke and made on the premises. This is quite different from today, where a large part of the business is ready-to-wear and produced in Italy. Dedication to quality and craftsmanship are still important values. I chose to work with small - often family-run - workshops, which are highly specialised in one particular product. Often knowledge and skills are passed down from generation to generation. There are some other similarities as well, my great-great-grandfather and I share a love for English cloth. In newspapers from the archive, he announces that the cloth from England has arrived for the new season.
SF: Your MTO program for trousers is wildly successful. Can you tell us a bit about what makes it special?
VB: I believe what stands out is the quality, the fabrics and the simple process. We offer a selection of high-quality fabrics such as Hardy Minnis, flannels, cotton drill by Brisbane Moss, Irish linen and original Fresco. The trousers are expertly made in Italy and finished with horn or corozo buttons. The customization process is clear and straightforward, providing a range of options in terms of style and fit. I am always happy to assist customers if they have specific requirements, there is a lot we can do. Finally, this all comes at a very reasonable price. It’s good value for money.
SF: You recently opened your first brick & mortar store, which will offer made-to-measure services. How does it feel to meet your customers in person after years of interacting with them online?
VB: It’s nice to be able to have a cup of coffee and chat with customers. I find that It also helps to be there when a person tries something on. A good example is that one of my customers – while trying on a sport coat – observed that there was more room at the chest than he was used to. He was very interested in the reason behind it and we spent the next half hour discussing lean vs drape. I try to offer this level of service to my overseas customers but it’s easier in person. Trunk shows are something I would like to do in the future. So who knows, I might be able to meet some of my overseas customers in person in the near future.
SF: What are three pieces of advice you would give to your younger self?
VB: 1. Live life to the fullest. There is no time like the present. 2. Don’t take everything too seriously. Life is better with a bit of humour. 3. Start a venture in something you’re passionate about. You’ll enjoy it and learn a thing or two.
SF: What did you wear to your first ever job interview?
VB: That’s a long time ago. At that time, my go-to outfit was a navy suit, a light blue spread collar shirt, and a navy tie with white polka dots. My best guess is that I wore this.
SF: Describe yourself using only 5 words.
VB: 5 things that I find important in life are family, humor, curiosity, passion and progress.
SF: Tell us about your hobbies outside of fashion.
VB: I enjoy watching films, tennis, basketball and traveling. I’m a bit of an Italophile in terms of culture, food, fashion, and people. But it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster the last couple of years, building my company next to a full-time job. The little free time I had I wanted to spend with my family.
SF: What is making you happy today?
VB: It may sound like a cliché, but it’s doing what I love full-time. There are so many interesting projects I am working on. I feel I can finally give my company the attention it deserves.
Join the conversation on Besnard's Official Affiliate Thread.
In 2018, Victor revived the company, and today he runs the Besnard boutique in Haarlem. Enthusiasts worldwide have the opportunity to appreciate Besnard's quality and aesthetic through the carefully curated online store and discussions on his Official Affiliate Vendor thread.
In our interview with Victor, we delve into the rich history and contemporary spirit of this time-honored yet rejuvenated Dutch brand.
Styleforum: How did you hear about Styleforum, and in what capacity did you start here as a member?
Victor Besnard: It must have been 10-12 years ago. At the time, I wanted to get a better understanding of what makes quality clothing. While searching for information about quality shirts, I stumbled upon Styleforum. I've been a rather silent member, primarily reading and absorbing information.
SF: When did you realize that you were interested in fashion?
VB: Wardrobes in cinema always fascinated me, even at a young age. But it was during high school that I developed a keen interest in clothing. I started to become more aware of how I and others dressed. While navigating through various style phases (some of which I'd rather forget) I eventually settled into a more classic style.
SF: When and how did you start your career in the clothing industry?
VB: I started my career in menswear at the age of 17 when I heard about a local store needing someone to serve coffee and run errands. I applied and got the job, eventually moving on to sales and then to buying. It was an amazing experience traveling to Milan to buy brands like Caruso and Brooks Brothers Black Fleece. Later, I worked as a sales assistant at a tailoring shop in Amsterdam, learning about made-to-measure and bespoke. After completing my studies, I worked as a strategy and management consultant, but my passion for menswear led me to launch my brand about 5 years ago.
SF: What is the best part of the job?
VB: The creative part of the business, especially designing new collections. My first collection was a series of shirts. I focused on getting each detail of the shirt right. But with just one product, it was a challenge to express the vision of the brand. The launch of new product categories made this easier since I was able to create more of a total look. Especially now, with more dedicated time for research, visiting fairs, and creating mood boards. And each season there are new opportunities and new learning experiences.
SF: What is your least favorite part?
VB: As a one-man business I’m responsible for all aspects of the company. For some reason, administration and doing taxes are chores that always come last.
SF: How do you stay up to date with the clothing industry and current trends?
VB: I am always on the lookout for inspiration. And there are so many sources; classic films, old photographs (VoxSartoria has an exceptional archive), social media and my favourite: menswear illustrations from the 30s and 40s (particularly those by Laurence Fellows and Robert Goodman). I find this era of menswear so inspiring, it’s classic but by no means boring. I also follow a few smaller menswear brands, tailors and menswear enthusiasts on Instagram, some have exceptional taste and make intriguing choices.
SF: What’s the single item from any collection you are most proud of?
VB: I am particularly proud of our house style. Developing a house style was a meticulous process involving the study of proportions, experimentation with structure, and extensive testing. The pattern was developed from scratch, guided by a clear vision of the desired silhouette. It was a journey, but I am very pleased with the result. I find the house style we've created classic, relevant, and flattering.
SF: What product did you make that you thought would be a hit, but bombed?
VB: A while back, I launched a Wall Street collection. I wanted to do something different and bold. Although it was well received and got some publicity, I expected more from the sales. The total looks were quite outspoken and probably not for everyone. But I thought the items alone could work well with a more subtle ensemble (obviously, that’s not how I styled it). When I look back, I can see that it did not really match the vision I have for the brand.
SF: If movie characters were real, who would shop at your store?
VB: My wife and I started watching all Hitchcock movies and I became fascinated with James Stewart. I just love his acting but also appreciate his sense of style. It would be nice if Ben McKenna (from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much) would buy his block stripe ties at my shop. There are quite a few in the spring summer collection.
SF: Your family has deep roots in clothing. How does your current business differ from the original business?
VB: My great-great-grandfather started his tailoring house in 1876. Each garment was bespoke and made on the premises. This is quite different from today, where a large part of the business is ready-to-wear and produced in Italy. Dedication to quality and craftsmanship are still important values. I chose to work with small - often family-run - workshops, which are highly specialised in one particular product. Often knowledge and skills are passed down from generation to generation. There are some other similarities as well, my great-great-grandfather and I share a love for English cloth. In newspapers from the archive, he announces that the cloth from England has arrived for the new season.
SF: Your MTO program for trousers is wildly successful. Can you tell us a bit about what makes it special?
VB: I believe what stands out is the quality, the fabrics and the simple process. We offer a selection of high-quality fabrics such as Hardy Minnis, flannels, cotton drill by Brisbane Moss, Irish linen and original Fresco. The trousers are expertly made in Italy and finished with horn or corozo buttons. The customization process is clear and straightforward, providing a range of options in terms of style and fit. I am always happy to assist customers if they have specific requirements, there is a lot we can do. Finally, this all comes at a very reasonable price. It’s good value for money.
SF: You recently opened your first brick & mortar store, which will offer made-to-measure services. How does it feel to meet your customers in person after years of interacting with them online?
VB: It’s nice to be able to have a cup of coffee and chat with customers. I find that It also helps to be there when a person tries something on. A good example is that one of my customers – while trying on a sport coat – observed that there was more room at the chest than he was used to. He was very interested in the reason behind it and we spent the next half hour discussing lean vs drape. I try to offer this level of service to my overseas customers but it’s easier in person. Trunk shows are something I would like to do in the future. So who knows, I might be able to meet some of my overseas customers in person in the near future.
SF: What are three pieces of advice you would give to your younger self?
VB: 1. Live life to the fullest. There is no time like the present. 2. Don’t take everything too seriously. Life is better with a bit of humour. 3. Start a venture in something you’re passionate about. You’ll enjoy it and learn a thing or two.
SF: What did you wear to your first ever job interview?
VB: That’s a long time ago. At that time, my go-to outfit was a navy suit, a light blue spread collar shirt, and a navy tie with white polka dots. My best guess is that I wore this.
SF: Describe yourself using only 5 words.
VB: 5 things that I find important in life are family, humor, curiosity, passion and progress.
SF: Tell us about your hobbies outside of fashion.
VB: I enjoy watching films, tennis, basketball and traveling. I’m a bit of an Italophile in terms of culture, food, fashion, and people. But it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster the last couple of years, building my company next to a full-time job. The little free time I had I wanted to spend with my family.
SF: What is making you happy today?
VB: It may sound like a cliché, but it’s doing what I love full-time. There are so many interesting projects I am working on. I feel I can finally give my company the attention it deserves.
Join the conversation on Besnard's Official Affiliate Thread.
