Imagine a small, family-owned clothing store in Buffalo, New York, quietly serving its community for 65 years, suddenly thrust into the national spotlight. That’s exactly what happened to O’Connell’s, a beloved local gem, when The New York Times named it one of the 50 Best Clothing Stores in America. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: this isn’t just any store—it’s a piece of Buffalo’s history, founded by three Buffalo Bills players in 1959 and now run by the second generation of the Huber family. And this is the part most people miss: O’Connell’s isn’t just about selling clothes; it’s about preserving timeless style in a fast-fashion world.
Located on Main Street in Buffalo’s University District, O’Connell’s has been a go-to destination for high-quality, classic clothing, shoes, and accessories since the 1950s. John Huber, the store’s president, expressed his astonishment at the national recognition: ‘Hugely surprised… I mean, we are a small business in Buffalo. Who would have expected this?’ Yet, the store’s commitment to tailored suits, sports coats, and pieces that ‘stand the test of time’ has clearly resonated far beyond its hometown.
But here’s where it gets controversial: In an era dominated by trendy, disposable fashion, O’Connell’s unapologetically champions timelessness. Huber proudly states, ‘We’re known for things that are as correct today as they were 10 years ago—and will be 10 years from now.’ Is this a nostalgic throwback, or is O’Connell’s onto something bigger? Are we ready to embrace quality over quantity in our closets?
The store’s roots are as deep as its commitment to classic style. Founded by Tommy O’Connell, Richie Lucas, and Don Chelf—Buffalo Bills players turned entrepreneurs—O’Connell’s hired Bernie Huber as one of its first employees. Years later, Bernie’s son, John, now runs the store alongside his brother Ethan and their father. This family legacy caught the eye of The New York Times, which praised the store as ‘distinctive and inspirational.’
Since the Times’ spotlight, O’Connell’s has seen a surge in both in-store and online orders. Huber credits their success to a meticulously curated collection: ‘Every single piece, whether it’s knitwear, tailored clothing, or leather shoes, is the very best you can find.’ This dedication to quality has earned the store a loyal customer base across generations.
Looking ahead, the Huber family plans to stick to what works: timeless style and unwavering quality. ‘Hopefully, we’ll carry it on for at least another generation, if not more,’ Huber said. For those curious about classic, high-quality clothing, Huber invites you to visit the store for a personal tour.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: In a world obsessed with trends, does O’Connell’s success signal a shift back to timeless fashion? Or is this just a nostalgic blip? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on whether classic style can truly stand the test of time in today’s fashion landscape.
