A Family Affair
Pictured Above: 1979 Spallone & Son Menswear Grand Opening. Left to Right: Velia, Umberto, Joseph, Rosalie.
In 1964, Umberto and Velia Spallone immigrated to America from Italy with nothing but $20 in their pockets, the clothing on their backs, and their young son, Joseph, in search of, like countless others of immigrants at the time, a better life.
Shortly thereafter, Umberto & Velia established their own tailoring business: Umberto Spallone Tailoring. There were no easy days however, Umberto spent his days working as a tailor at Sears in Dedham, MA and spent his nights tailoring with Velia. Together, they worked tirelessly to establish themselves and provide for their young family.
In 1979, Umberto and Velia made the decision to expand into retail; Spallone & Son Menswear was officially established. Sales increased and little by little, the store expanded, adding clothing lines and styles. After graduating college, brother and sister, Joseph and Rosalie, followed in their parents’ footsteps and joined the business.
In 1995, men’s shoes and accessories were added to the store, allowing men to build an entire wardrobe. In 2005, another milestone was reached, with the addition of the popular and exclusive brand, Tommy Bahama. Most recently in 2012, women’s jewelry, accessories, and boutique clothing was added. This addition truly took on a life of it’s own and Rose’s Corner was established within the lower level of the two-level store floor.
Though Umberto passed away two decades ago, his children, Joseph and Rosalie, run the business with the same passion that their father started it with. Velia, fondly known as “Nonna,” still tailors at the store to this day.
The business has successfully and proudly evolved with fashion trends over several decades, all the while providing top-notch customer service to a loyal following. They have dressed generations of families over the years and fully intend to continue doing so.
Brother & Sister.
Joseph & Rosalie Spallone.
