For 17 years designer Aldo Segama has humbly stood at the doorstep of the fashion world, patiently refining his craft. Now, following a breakthrough 2024 -that included a top award at NFFW and being handpicked to design BostonMan’s tux for The Runway Ball- the Providence based clothier is ready to invite a global audience into his house.
CELEBRATING style, craftsmanship, and elegance, Aldo’s House of Formals (AHF) has redefined men’s fashion with tailored designs that blend sophistication with modern trends.
Based in Rhode Island, Aldo’s House of Formals was founded by Aldo Segama, a Providence native and member of one of the city’s original Peruvian immigrant families, honored with a plaque by the city. Segama’s journey began with a full-ride scholarship to study business, sparking his entrepreneurial spirit.
At just 23, he started a tuxedo rental business — a venture he still operates today as a part of AHF.. Eight years later, he began designing his own formalwear, charging lower prices initially as he honed his skills.
“I sucked at the time,” he says modestly, but his clients’ satisfaction fueled his passion. As demand grew, so did his reputation for creating custom pieces for galas, business meetings, and weddings.
Now, with 17 years of experience running the same store, Aldo’s House of Formals has become synonymous with high-quality, personalized formalwear in Rhode Island. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Segama has cultivated a loyal following that values his creativity and expertise. The store continues to offer tailored services and unique rental options, making it the top choice for men seeking the perfect look for their special events.
The vision behind Aldo’s House of Formals is rooted in Segama’s passion for helping clients feel their best on their most significant days. While it might sound corny to some, he finds nothing more rewarding than seeing a client put on their suit or tuxedo and beam with confidence.
It’s a moment he cherishes, often giving grooms a speech to remind them that his role is simply to reinforce why their partner said “yes.”
Traditionally, men have been the primary clients seeking menswear, but in recent years, AHF has seen an increase in same-sex couples and women looking for the perfect suit or tux.
One bride, preparing for her wedding, expressed deep gratitude for the service and craftsmanship.
Segama says, “Usually in a wedding the bride and her dress take center stage, so it’s nice having a bride tell me I did a good job.”
This shift reflects a growing inclusivity in formal fashion, and Segama takes pride in contributing to these memorable moments.
The design process at Aldo’s House of Formals is both personal and educational. It starts with discussing preferences, from colors and prints to details like lapel width and fabric choices. Clients select every detail, from sleek satin lapels that define a tuxedo to luxurious velvet accents, even down to the number of buttons on the sleeves. Whether deciding between single- or double-breasted jackets, clients gain a deeper understanding of formalwear etiquette along the way.
Segama explains that a black-tie event calls for a tuxedo — not just a black suit and tie. “A tux is like a ballgown, while a suit is more like a cocktail dress,” he says, emphasizing the importance of dressing appropriately for the occasion.
The customer experience at AHF is designed to be personal and uninterrupted. When clients book an appointment, the entire store is reserved for them, ensuring total privacy and attention.
If a walk-in arrives during an appointment, they are kindly informed when the store will be available next. This commitment to quality over volume means that when a client books time with Aldo, they have his undivided focus, free from interruptions or phone calls.
Segama doesn’t just take measurements and select fabrics — he takes the time to get to know his clients, sharing stories and building rapport. He especially enjoys working with clients who aren’t used to dressing up.
“Jeans-and-T-shirt-wearing people are great candidates because they’re open to his guidance and willing to learn,” says Segama. In these moments, Segama becomes not just their tailor but their stylist, guiding them through their transformation.
Social media plays a vital role in spreading the word about AHF.
“If my client ever decides to tag me in that photo, dammit, I want to make sure he looks good,” Segama says.
These shoutouts not only showcase his craftsmanship but also attract new clients from far and wide — from Bermuda to New York City. Despite the high quality and custom nature of his work, his prices remain accessible, making luxury formalwear attainable for a diverse range of clients.
Segama’s approach to style often starts with his own preferences before tailoring the design to his clients’ tastes. On the runway, he gravitates toward old-school aesthetics with structured but not overly heavy shoulder pads and higher-rise pants that enhance the silhouette. It’s a modern twist on classic styles that resonate with both traditional and contemporary tastes.
Client feedback has been instrumental in shaping AHF’s offerings. Though most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, Segama values constructive criticism, seeing it as an opportunity to improve.
“I’m not sure if I’m doing something right or if I’m just listening,” he muses, highlighting his commitment to attentive service.
He conducts multiple fittings to ensure clients leave with more than just a nice suit — they leave feeling like they had an exceptional experience.
Segama’s dedication to his clients goes beyond tailoring — he becomes a confidant and advisor. Whether it’s calming a nervous father-in-law about giving a wedding speech or reassuring a client heading to a jewelry convention in Italy, he instills confidence through both conversation and craftsmanship. “The 21st-century suit of armor is a man’s suit,” he says. “When you put on a well-crafted suit, you carry yourself differently — more confidently, like you’re ready to face the world.”
The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Aldo Segama, as he gained recognition as one of the “Top Newcomers” at New York Fashion Week’s Runway 7, earning praise for his innovative designs.
Later that year, he continued to make his mark by designing a custom tuxedo for BostonMan Magazine’s own Matt Ribaudo at The Runway Ball in December.
Looking ahead, Segama envisions continued growth and evolution for Aldo’s House of Formals. The success and standing ovation at New York Fashion Week reinforced his belief that he is on the right path, motivating him to aim even higher.
Now, his focus turns to Paris Fashion Week in September 2025, where he is determined to leave a lasting impression on one of the fashion world’s most prestigious stages. As he continues to push creative boundaries, Segama remains committed to delivering the same high-quality craftsmanship that his clients have come to love.
And that’s exactly how he wants it at the house that bears his name.
