ANN ARBOR, MI — Renaissance has a long history of bringing luxury fashion to downtown Ann Arbor.
Founder Roger Pothus opened the store in 1971 as a spot for luxury men’s and women’s clothing, but the business also has come to be known for its customization services for suits, sport jackets and trousers.
However, Pothus’ death in 2021 has caused a shift in ownership, with two men who have their own history with Renaissance deciding to continue the store’s legacy.
Bill Sizer has been Renaissance’s general manager since 1998, also running the shop’s custom made to measure and special-order department. He officially purchased the business in October.
Shortly after the purchase, former employee Todd Lidgard joined Sizer to help lead operations.
Lidgard worked with Renaissance full time in 1995 before scaling back his involvement in 2005 as he grew his real estate career. Since then, Lidgard has helped operate the store when needed.
“Personally, I am excited to be returning back to the store and reconnecting with some of our longtime customers who I’ve known for a long time and of course helping Bill for a smooth transition,” he said.
Bill Sizer and Todd Lidgard pose for a photo in the women’s store of Renaissance at 306 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor.Makayla Coffee
The men said they will work as a team to continue offering the services people have come to know and love at Renaissance.
“We will continue to operate the business as it has been operating,” Sizer said. “We will continue to do what we have done in the past and that’s imported men’s and women’s clothing.”
However, customers also will find some new additions. Renaissance recently began broadening its offerings to include more casual clothing options for both men and women.
The store also is offering dress shoes for men and women, along with more women’s accessories. Lidgard said the biggest changes people will notice will be in the store’s women’s section.
Sizer also mentioned Renaissance plans to offer more moderately-priced clothing options compared to what customers have grown used to finding over the years.
“We’re going to have things that young working professionals, both men and women, can afford to get into,” he said.
The store will remain focused on carrying exclusive imported clothing from countries like Ital,y while continuing to give customers “the personal attention” they desire, Lidgard said.
“We look forward to continuing the business for many, many, many more years,” Sizer said. “We’re only planning to improve.”
Renaissance, 306 S. Main St., is open noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or by appointment. Learn more about the business online or on social media.
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