Why the Men's Wearhouse CEO is the New Steve Jobs

When we say that founder of Men's Wearhouse, George Zimmer, is the Steve Jobs of men's fashion, that's not to suggest that he's a trailblazing revolutionary (that would be Kanye West, if you were to ask Kanye West). No, the similarity he shares with the celebrated tech genius is a much more somber one. Today, WWDannounced that Zimmer - who not only launched the company but served as the star of the its often cringe-worthy commercials (see below) - was dismissed.

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And perhaps you're unaware, but before Jobs amazed the world with his array of game changing iDevices, he was actually fired from Apple (only to be brought back into the fold a decade later). So there's still hope for Zimmer to rise like a phoenix from the ashes of his voluminous poly-blend blazers and trousers. Maybe George - an advocate of wearing a mock turtleneck (á la Jobs) under suits - is an ahead-of-his time visionary. It's too soon to call, really. Regardless, the tailoring empire he built is staying mum on the specifics as to why he was ultimately shown the door.

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But instead of focusing on the dreary realities of the here and now, we'd like to take a moment and fondly remember the days of yore, the days when a grinning, hirsute Zimmer would reassure us in times of sartorial uncertainty. "You're going to love the way you look," he'd say in his soothing baritone, "I guarantee it." Of course, those of us who have donned the brand's baggy clothing know that's not necessarily the case. Seems that in tailoring - whether buying a suit or running a business - there are no guarantees.


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