One thing is clear: People will always wear fur. Just ask Richard Swartz, the fourth-generation owner of Mano Swartz. We sat down with the furrier to see if he had any advice for fellow merchants—and if real men really do wear fur.
Where did you go to school?
Boys Latin, Park School, Pikesville Senior High, University of Vermont.
Who is your favorite Baltimorean, living or dead?
Frank Robinson—a true leader.
What is the best advice you ever got?
Don’t talk about what you are going to do, just do it.
What is the biggest mistake you’ve ever made?
Swimming in the Inner Harbor.
What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
Swimming in the Inner Harbor.
What is the greatest problem facing Baltimore today?
The breakdown of the family unit.
What are your thoughts on The Block?
Gives Baltimore its flava!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Leg-o’-mutton at the Sunday Farmers’ Market under the JFX.
If you could write Baltimore’s motto, what would it be?
“Baltimore: The Kapital of Kitsch.”
What kind of guy wears fur?
It seems a bit flamboyant . . . Someone with a strong sense of style.
Do you wear fur?
Yes, a fur-lined jacket.
What is the most unusual piece you sell in the store?
A pink sable handbag.
What furs are popular now? Which are out of style?
In: Light-weight reversible jackets. Out: Bulky heavy long coats.
Any old fur trends you wish would come back?
A lot of vintage styles are hot: Lots of 40’s swing coats and Eisenhower jackets.
What do you say to animal rights activists who are opposed to fur?
In America, we believe in the right to choose.
Do you take any special security precautions to protect your customers?
It’s not necessary.
Predict the next big fur trend:
Fur-trimmed, man-made materials.
After four generations, what has your family learned about customer service?
It takes 100 years to grow a tree and only one day to cut it down.
