Movers & Makers: Ami Arad

April 28, 2015

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Successful San Francisco entrepreneur, Ami Arad, has fueled his passion for men’s style by creating a gentlemen’s oasis. His flagship store, Wingtip, has become a San Francisco staple, extending beyond the traditional men’s retail store to include a full bar, private parlor rooms, a boardroom, golf simulator and wine cave. From rentable wine lockers to hand-tailored suits, Wingtip, and its owner Ami Arad, exude “cool.” The unique storefront has proved a welcome home to our bags and accessories, (recently featured by MSNBC) which pair perfectly with their timeless and refined style.

Name:

Ami Arad

Profession:

Founder & CEO, Wingtip

Passion:

Clothing, Soccer, Cigars, Bourbon – in that order.

Dog or Cat:

Neither. Probably a dog someday.

Briefly, what is your story?

I left technology to purvey my own passions. I’m trying to create a true “one-stop shop” for men like me. Been working on it for 12 years; realizing now that I’ll never be done.

How would you define your style?

Every other day my whole dress code switches. Above all, I love to dress for every occasion. My closet has an extremely eclectic collection of items from three piece suits, tuxedos and dinner jackets to seersucker and madras for warm days and flannel and cashmere for cold days.

What inspires you?

Within the store and Club, we’ve tried to blend the best of the old and the best of the new. Personally, I love traditional design: dark woods, leather, ornate moldings and the like. But times are changing, and we believe we shouldn’t be trapped by tradition. Many old line clubs do not allow cell phones, or denim, or women. We trust that our members respect the Club, their fellow members and themselves enough to dress appropriately, be considerate if needing to take a quick call, and of course, any woman that likes what we’re doing enough to want to be a member, we are thrilled to have as a member.

What is your favorite piece of clothing/accessory?

My limited edition 007 S.T. Dupont lighter.

What is your favorite thing about living in your city?

San Francisco is the smallest big city in the world. I don’t have nearly enough time to take advantage of all the city has to offer, but through the Club, we’ve done museums, the new San Francisco Jazz Center, the Symphony, trips to the wineries and dinners at fancy restaurants.

Where is your favorite local place to eat?

Bix. A hidden gem.

What is your favorite thing to do in your space time?

I have two big problems with spare time: (1) I have too much work to do to have spare time, and (2) if I have some free time, I love what I do so much, that I actually like to work. But assuming work is not on the agenda, my wife and I tend to be homebodies, although we try to get out. I love to window shop, antique and walk new neighborhoods.

What are you currently reading?

Mostly magazines. While they’re still around.

What is your travel must-have?

Noise-cancelling headphones.

Favorite place in the world?

Wingtip. I love to travel, but nothing beats being at Wingtip.

What Moore & Giles products do you use?

I own a Benedict Weekend Bag, Donald Dopp Kit, and the Money Clip Wallet.

Any travel tips?

“Everything’s amazing and nobody’s happy” – those that travel a lot have probably seen the Louis C.K. bit about in-flight wifi. I think it’s hilarious. I’ve always liked Louis C.K. but that particular appearance is always in my head when I’m traveling.