Judah Estreicher of JBD listed in b’s 10 people to watch under 30 in Baltimore!

Judah Estreicher almost thought his career was over just six months into opening his business, JBD Clothiers.The custom clothier decided to part ways with his tailor, and he was afraid that he would lose clients as a result. That was three years ago.

“I thought I wouldn’t make it,” he said. “I ended up doubling clients. It was a situation that I got a little but nervous, but I came through.”

Estreicher, 29, has consistently found a way to make it in the competitive world of men’s fashion. Not only does he have to contend with the global brands such as Gucci, Boss and Armani, he also has to contend with Jos. A Bank and the other mass producers of suits. It’s a surprise that he’s been able to carve out a niche at such a young age.

Estreicher’s impressive roster of clients includes: Ravens players Torrey Smith (Estreicher has dressed Smith for the ESPY Awards and his wedding), Ray Rice and Joe Flacco, Frank Bramble (board of directors of Bank of America Corp.) and Alex Smith, owner of Ouzo Bay.

Estreicher receives most of his clients through referrals.

“When I first started out, I went to close friends, and parents — building clients off of the relationships that I had,” he explained. “Most of the business I have doesn’t come from any advertising.”

Estreicher initially attended Towson University to major in business and mass communications, but left early after realizing he wanted to pursue the custom clothing industry. From college, he went to work for a close family and childhood friend at Astor & Black, a national custom clothier that at the time was one of the fastest growing companies of its kind in the country.

While at Astor & Black, Estreicher formed great relationships with clients, including Joe Haden. Estreicher wound up dressing Haden for the 2012 NFL draft, which led to a slew of other sports figures as clients.

“It was a big deal. He was a very well-known athlete in college,” Estreicher said. “It was a very memorable experience.”

Estreicher believes that his attention to detail and fit of his clothes sets him apart from the competition.

“I take 25 measurements,” said the Pikesville native. “I customize the sleeves to fit the arm — or anything else that you might have. I make everything fit the proper way. If you go to Nordstrom or other places, they might take two or three measurements. I make sure [the suit] fits you like it should.” — John-John Williams IV