Text reading 'COVER STORY' in black font on a white background.

Interview with the founder of TheManRefined, Stephanie Araneta-Clifford

A young man with short dark hair, wearing a light blue checked shirt and navy pants, sitting on a wooden bench, looking at his smartphone, in a bright, modern room with natural light, mirror, and decorative plants.

Let's start at the beginning ... please introduce yourself for us?

My name is Stephanie, and I grew up in Cebu - one of the 7,000+ islands that comprise the Philippines. I moved to the U.S. 20 years ago and I have been in the clothing industry since then. I started in textiles. Then I moved into the manufacturing side of the industry. After that, I co-founded TheManRefined. That was in 2019.

How did the idea of TheManRefined come about?

TheManRefined was borne out of a desire to fill a gap in the menswear space. I saw a market for of-the-moment, custom-made clothing that won't break anyone's bank.

Who are TheManRefined customers?

Truly? It ranges. We have young, older, and in-between customers. Being a man and being 'refined' seems to have a common factor ... and that it they are all looking for clothing that fits them just right. These men are looking for custom-made clothing - customized to fit their body and their style.

“a desire to fill a gap in the menswear space”

What are the benefits of having custom-made clothing?

It's yours. It's unique. And it's made exclusively for you - no matter your size. It will make you feel more confident knowing it fits well according to your measurements. You don’t have to settle and be forced to fit into a mold with standard sizing. It will save you money and time from unnecessary trips to the tailor.

Who inspired you with your design decisions?

Our customers, as well as my personal travels, inspire the design elements that go into each season. Those things and prevailing fashion trends, of course.

For example: our best-selling "Copenhagen Knit Pants" came to me after a short travel layover in Copenhagen (thus the name) - a city known for its cutting-edge, smart-casual fashion sense. I fell in love with the fabric, and the silhouette, of a pair of pants I found in the airport. And I Immediately thought of an elevated yet comfortable pair of pants for TheManRefined. The "Copenhagen Knit Pants" have been a hit, as well as a favorite for those who want to look smart but feel comfortable all day long that I nicknamed it “elevated joggers”.

A young man with brown hair, wearing a white hoodie and dark blue pants, standing in a kitchen. He is drinking from a mug and holding a phone. A small, fluffy dog with light brown fur is walking on the rug in front of him. The kitchen has light blue cabinets, white subway tile backsplash, and various items like plants, bowls, and bottles on the countertops and shelves.

A young man with curly hair, wearing a red hoodie, poses against a plain white background.

Who is your favorite fashion designer? And which are your favorite brands?

I love Tom Ford. I appreciate the luxurious fabrics and sophisticated aesthetic he brings to his designs. My favorite brands are Prada, Anthrolopologie Petite and Zara.

How would you describe your fashion style?

Constantly evolving! Recently, I got into classy-comfort dressing, but I am very particular with the quality of the fabrics and craftsmanship. This is also reflected in TheManRefined - we meticulously pick our fabrics and have strict manufacturing guidelines.

What are the challenges you face as entrepreneurs?

Brand awareness and how to constantly put our brand out to consumers. Being a standalone e-commerce clothing company is very challenging. Consumers are not certain when they order or buy - that is, until you build a solid reputation. This is why getting reviews are important. I know we do great work and would love for customers to know that their 'hot takes' when it comes to reviews really, really matter!

A man with dark hair and a beard leaning against a kitchen counter in a modern kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and white brick backsplash, looking to his left.

What advice can you offer to new business owners?

You got this! Remember, daily, it's hard work and grit and don't forget your patience. Those elements will get you and your team to the next level.

Who is your greatest supporter? Why?

Ah - my husband. He is my hype person - and he inspires me, every day.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Fitness matters. I have been into fitness lately. Whether it is going to the gym or going for long walks along the beach. I also value traveling; and I definitely love spending time with loved ones.

What else would you like to share with our readers?

DO NOT GIVE UP on your dreams!! Especially when you know you are capable of achieving your goals.

A young man with dark hair and a beard sitting in a hanging wicker chair outdoors on a gravel surface, with plants and a wooden fence in the background.

A man in a brown V-neck T-shirt, white pants, and white sneakers with red laces sits on a wooden stool against a white brick wall background. He is looking at the camera with a neutral expression and wearing a wristwatch.

Screenshot of the 'About TheManRefined' webpage, featuring text about men's clothing, their mission, history, and product range.

A man is sitting in a wicker hanging chair, wearing a pink shirt and dark pants, holding a glass, with a piece of tissue on the floor in front of him. There is a decorative piece with a moon and star design on the wall behind him, a small shelf with a plant and a picture frame, and a mirror on the left side of the image.

A young man with dark hair, blue eyes, and facial hair, wearing a blue and white patterned shirt, is sitting on a wicker chair with a white pillow, in a room with light-colored walls and a door in the background.

Text reading "TheManRefined" in black font on a white background.

www.themanrefined.com