East meets west at Marcello Sport, with a curated selection of the best men’s fashion looks Florida’s left and right coasts have to offer.  Father and son Michael and Darren Apel, owners of the new store, are also the force behind 25-year-old Fashion Concepts of Delray Beach, a manufacturer of fashion sport shirts, fine knitwear, sweaters, and more under the Marcello Sport brand label.  Jack Peffley, the store’s manager and his wife Nancy, were Marcello Sport customers when they owned Taffy’s, which was a menswear icon on St. Armands Circle for more than 50 years.

The Marcello Sport line, sold in fine men’ clothing stores throughout the U.S. and Canada, brings a European fashion edge and younger, east coast vibe to Sarasota. “We’ve added looks for a sophisticated clientele, but we are mindful that our customers dress differently in St. Armands than where we live in Boca,” Michael explains. “St. Armands is more laid back casual—shorts and sandals—while clothing on the east coast is much dressier and boutique-driven,” Darren explains.

Marcello Sport, 18 S. Boulevard of the Presidents, (941) 706-1357

Inside the Look

What’s hot this summer? “Our new contemporary looks from Marcello Sport for the younger, more sophisticated customer and for fun, hot salmon or plum sport coats and Loudmouth Golf pants,” says manager Jack Peffley, wearing the brand’s new pattern called Hollywood Squares ($95, above center).

My best Sarasota memories: “Taking the kids to the Holidrome at the old Hilton resort on Longboat Key when we first moved to Tampa in the 1970s. They loved the enclosed swimming pool and game area; we drove down as often as we could,” Michael says.

Can’t live without “Boating,” says Darren, owner of a 30-foot Sea Ray. “Every time I drive over the bridge to St. Armands, I’m struck by how peaceful the water is and how beautiful the views are for boaters compared to the east coast.”

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This article appears in the July 2014 issue of Sarasota Magazine. Like what you read? Click here to subscribe. >>