Mark Alford, Fox 4 morning show anchorman, has been helping men find the right fit in 9-to-5 wear for close to 30 years. Alford, a personal clothier, consultant and stylist, says more people, mostly men, are interested in custom clothing in today’s economic climate because they want to stand out in a sea of black business suits.

“A lot of people don’t know about custom clothing, but people who know about it know the value,” says Alford. He recently made garments for hard-to-fit athletes and bodybuilders. Alford spends time with his clients to decipher their styles and day-to-day activities.

Some of the choices available with custom clothing include the size and shape of a lapel, stitching design and color, lining fabric, button placement and pocket style.

Businessmen such as financial adviser Bruce Cramer of Kansas City, who is one of Alford’s clients, has his clothing made for a buttoned-up look that makes a statement from sleeve length to shoes.

“When 100 people notice you at a convention for your attention to detail, that’s what I like about it,” Cramer says.