By Jose Paolo S. dela Cruz
In the Godfather films, “omerta” refers to that all-powerful “code of silence” among members of the Mafia. But in Cebu, and more recently, in Manila, the word trades in its darker definition for something more stylish and bespoke — an ode to a lifestyle sworn not to secrecy but to sartorial pursuits.
First established by the well-dressed triumvirate of Chase Cokaliong, Alden Go and Brian Poe Llamanzares in Cebu in 2023, Omerta Bespoke easily captured the attention of the Queen City of the South’s stylish set with its perfectly tailored creations. And as we all know, a secret like that hardly stays in one place for long.
“In our shop, the difference is really in the details. And we can bring these details to our clothes and services by asking our clients the right questions and taking exact measurements,” says Chase during the opening of Omerta’s newest boutique at the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City.
“Aside from the hyperbolic stuff about Omerta, we also carry a good number of European and Italian fabrics, so the name really fits the brand,” says Brian. Among the renowned luxury fabrics Omerta carries are Loro Piana and Piacenza, which are also used by some of the world’s most established luxury houses.
Brian also notes that while these fabrics aren’t quite as accessible to the rest of the local market, they are always available at Omerta due to its owners’ long-standing relationships with the suppliers. The trio is also proud of the talented pool of tailors they work with, who transform such fabrics into bespoke works for their clients.
Bespoke everyday
Some may argue that bespoke suits are luxuries best reserved for special occasions such as weddings or perhaps, red carpet events. But Brian and Chase are quick to point out that such a mindset appears to be changing, at least as far as their clients are concerned.
“I’m a big guy, so my size isn’t always available off-the-rack, or if it is, options are usually limited. And many other men and women feel the same. In our store, they can get clothes that are made for their height, their build, in a style that they prefer,” says Chase.
“It’s not only the suits, either. We have clients who would also come to us for dress shirts, jackets, and other items in their wardrobe to get that perfect fit,” Brian chimes in.
A different experience
In a world where fittings and measurements are often associated with stylish ladies and their gowns and dresses, Omerta comes up with a decisively inclusive approach — one that would make every gentleman looking for that perfect suit feel right at home.
Their boutique in Mandaluyong, for one, is designed to provide an intimate experience. Inside, one will find a treasure trove of in-store fabrics and even ready-to-wear pieces that more or less allow the client to imagine which items fit him (or her) best.
Clients are then taken through a meticulous sartorial journey — from consultation and precise measurements to fabric selection and final fittings. There’s even an in-store bar, where clients can have a drink or two during their consultations.
But the magic, I would say, happens in the spacious, well-lit and private consultation room. Furnished with a tan Chesterfield Sofa and decorated with well-curated images, the black-and-brown walled fitting area is well-lit and discreet, allowing you to inspect, appreciate, or even scrutinize the details of your suit before it’s packed and finished. There, you can exhale, slouch and ask for improvements without having to hold back, since everything you say is between you and Omerta’s highly skilled — and tactful —staff.
“We are passionate about the art of bespoke tailoring and are committed to delivering garments that not only fit perfectly but also enhance our clients’ confidence,” says Alden. “Our goal has always been to create pieces that are timeless and impeccably crafted.”
And that’s a secret this trio is more than willing to talk about!
