The Epic Evolution of Manhattan Wardrobe Supply: From Late Night Brainstorms to Global Wardrobe Emporium
In the wee hours of a film shoot, amidst the constant hustle of wardrobe changes and the controlled chaos behind the scenes, a simple phrase echoed through the wardrobe department: “Someone needs to create a one-stop shopping source for wardrobe professionals like the other departments have.”
From Apple Boxes to Empire: The Birth of MWS
At the time, it sounded like just another late-night observation shared between colleagues trying to solve a daily frustration. But for Cheryl Kilbourne-Kimpton and Tommy Boyer, that offhand remark struck a chord. Wardrobe professionals were constantly scrambling—running from store to store, improvising solutions, and hunting down specialized supplies that other film departments could easily source from dedicated vendors.
So there they were—perched on apple boxes in the back of a wardrobe truck during the filming of You’ve Got Mail. Cheryl and Tommy, scribbling feverishly on a napkin, began outlining an idea that would change their industry. That moment, at the end of a long shoot day, was where it all began.
With a shared vision to create the ultimate haven for costume professionals and fashion stylists, they started crafting the blueprint for what would become Manhattan Wardrobe Supply. They imagined a place built by people who truly understood the daily challenges of the wardrobe department—a resource designed specifically for the wardrobe professionals who kept productions running smoothly behind the scenes.
No more last-minute scavenger hunts across the city for thread, hangers, or the countless small tools that make a wardrobe department function. Manhattan Wardrobe Supply would become the one-stop shop for costume designers, stylists, and wardrobe teams, offering everything they need in one place.
Meet the Visionaries behind the curtain
Cheryl Kilbourne-Kimpton, a seasoned costumer and stylist, made her mark in the world of theater, commercials, and eventually, film. Her journey from the stages of Atlanta to the bustling streets of New York is a testament to her tenacity and talent. Meanwhile, Tommy Boyer, once a singer and dancer, began performing in plays and recitals as a child. He eventually moved to Manhattan and found his passion in the wardrobe departments of Broadway. From dressing Broadway stars to becoming a wardrobe supervisor for film, Tommy’s expertise is extensive.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Domination
On August 1, 1998, Manhattan Wardrobe Supply opened its doors in a modest 300-square-foot space on West 29th Street. With just Cheryl and Tommy manning the fort, it was a labor of love from the very beginning. Fast forward to today, and MWS sprawls across 5,000 square feet, employing a team of dedicated souls. They’ve become the go-to destination for professional hair, makeup, and wardrobe care products, serving everyone from Hollywood productions to Broadway to college theater programs worldwide.
The Birth of MWS Pro Beauty: A Stroke of Genius
As the demand for makeup and hair products grew, so did Manhattan Wardrobe Supply. In 2014, seizing an opportunity to expand, they launched MWS Pro Beauty. With the guidance of Academy Award-winning makeup artist Mindy Hall, they curated a selection of top-notch products, fulfilling the needs of beauty professionals everywhere.
The Future looks Fabulous
As Manhattan Wardrobe Supply continues to thrive, one thing remains constant: its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Cheryl and Tommy stay one step ahead by offering industry-standard products, excellent service, and a seamless shopping experience.
In the ever-changing landscape of fashion, theater, and film, Manhattan Wardrobe Supply stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. From humble beginnings to global recognition, their journey reflects passion, vision, and a lot of hard work. So here’s to Cheryl, Tommy, and the entire MWS team. May your future be as bright and bold as the costumes you help create!