In 2014, Robert founded Rusted Oak: Gentleman’s Boutique, as a menswear retailer located in historic downtown Valparaiso, Indiana. He learned that ‘turning inventory’ at the end of the season often led to the owner making decisions that were in his best personal interest instead of the clients.
After moving to DC in January 2017, he started the brand Capitol Hill Clothiers and eventually gifted the brand to his business partner (who had a much bigger vision) in 2021. Since then, Robert revived the Rusted Oak brand to focus more on comprehensive wardrobe consulting and closet audits.
He started work in menswear at Brooks Brothers in 2009 and JCrew in 2011 and now has over a decade of experience as a consultant, buyer, and retailer. He holds a BSBA in Finance (07), MS in International Commerce & Policy (10) and received his CTDA custom clothier certification in the Fall of 2015.
Based in Indiana, between Gary and Indianapolis, Robert and visits both Washington D.C. and New York City to service clients, shop, and stay active with continuing education.