The Ben Silver Collection

The on-line order system needs significant work. It is mind bogglingly poor. For the second time in recent years I've ordered from Ben Silver via the web. For the second time in recent years given baffling delays in delivery - much less order status updates - I've had to cancel my order. The most recent order was simply for a necktie. Nothing more. It was ordered in mid-March 2025. I cancelled the order today. This comes after three (3) separate calls to Ben Silver Customer Service ("CS") for a status update. Yesterday CS advised that your Tie Buyer would call later in the day (Yesterday) with an update. No such call was received. It is baffling that a tie order cannot be filled in less time. Admittedly this is consistent though with my previous attempt to order on-line from Ben Silver. For a store that poses as purveyor of quality goods, the on-line experience is an absolute mess and warrants significant work. There are far better options available than Ben Silver on-line.

I do not understand why race or politics are the focus of any clothing catalog review. Just to be critical of gorgeous clothing? I see nothing but clothing in this catalog, beautiful clothing. Until I read your comment it did not occur to me to look at any racial characteristics. I am ordering a dress I like and have no idea of racial characteristics of the model, nor do I care. Politics and hatred do not belong in every aspect of our daily life. Hugs and kisses to you. Pass it on. Nancy Jones

I’m visiting from out of town and really love their clothes, great quality. However, the customer service could use improvement. I visited the store twice and, unfortunately, had a similar experience both times. No one greeted me or offered any assistance. I don’t need over-the-top attention, but a little hospitality would go a long way. Even a simple acknowledgment would’ve made the experience feel more welcoming.

We received this catalog today. Where is the diversity in the photos? Only white men can afford your items? I would recommend adding all color of distinguished looking gentlemen wearing the clothes and shoes.

Received your Fall catalog. was interested in several sports coats but noticed that you increased the price by on average $400 or 35percent. I realize there is an inflation factor but give me a break. Going forward save the expense of sending a catalog and i’ll save time by shopping at a merchant that provides quality at a fair price

Excellent product selection but customer experience lacking. Came in to purchase a tie I saw in a printed catalog at a friend's house. Wasn't greeted by any of the salespeople or even approached at all while I was in there browsing; only when I checked out to get several ties did someone even acknowledge my presence. Later I found out my wife asked if my young son could use the restroom only to be told they have no public restroom. I'm guessing they would indeed have a public restroom for someone getting measured for a suit or some other perceived larger spender. On the way out noticed a sign that basically said dogs are welcome but children are not; perhaps that's tongue-in-cheek but I did get that feeling. So much for southern hospitality. Overall feels pretty pretentious so don't think I'll be shopping with them in again.

Great Clothing - Excellent Service I recently visited the store and had a great experience. I have enjoyed receiving the catalog for years but it was so much better to see, try on, and feel the tailored clothing, sweaters, and fine shirting. I was able to purchase a beautiful sports coat, some shirts, and a sweater and I like them all. I found the customer service, both in the store and with the online sales, to be very attentive. We were staying at a hotel up the street and visited three different days. In addition, there was a minor issue with the sports coat but it was quickly resolved and shipped overnight to me. I look forward to my next visit to the store as well as receiving the catalogs.

They send an email promoting sweaters. I tried to buy a couple, none in stock ? Great clothes but terrible customer service etc..

They Curate a Great Collection - Excellent Customer Service Ben Silver does a great job with curating a excellent collection. I think that their collections have gotten better in recent years. Lots of great cashmere sweaters and sports coats. The cashmere knit blazer is amazing and very reasonably priced compared to others. Also the shirt fabrics are outstanding. The whole point of excellent stores is that they select the best fabrics and clothes. Ben Silver does that. The service in the store is top notch. They will remember you from prior visits. And there is no pressure to buy. They will pull out item after item for you to try on. If they do not have your size available they often have extra fabric at the manufacturer and can order your size. Prices have increased everywhere and I do not find that Ben Silver's have more than others. Plus Ben Silver's clothes are not made in China like some other stores. Finally, I have ordered things that were backordered in the past and they always arrived before the date promised.

Great clothing selections. Semi-retired and a tourist, I purchased a very nice golf shirt. Past purchases impressed clients. Some friends became new customers.

This is a fabulous store that has been fabulous for decades - they offer the most amazing collection of classic, traditional garments and accessories - you will enjoy their catalog - all good!

The finest traditional men's clothing at reasonable prices. Look you best with clothing from Ben Silver.

Amazing collection of beautifully crafted, tailored, men's clothing and accessories. Phenomenal tie, cufflink, and shoe collections. Many are only available at The Ben Silver Collection.

Over priced merchandise. Suit fabrics are good but tailoring well below average. Still needs additional tailoring when you receive it. A white shirt for over $200? outrageous! Go to Brooks Brothers where you can get 3 better shirts for the same price. You need more money than sense to buy here. dbs

I'm not entirely sure where the bad reviews are coming from because I have never had a bad experience here. The staff has always been very helpful and polite to me and assists in finding anything I ask for. I didn't give 5 stars because the selection is a little sparse (not to mention expensive) and specific to a middle-aged demographic. Great place to grab your dad some Christmas presents and a really good selection of cuff links.

As a long-time customer, it pains me to write this. Today, while on summer vacation in Charleston, I walked down King Street to visit the store. I was rudely greeted by a sign on the door that said "retail store open by appointment only". I was set to drop a few bucks on a pair of canvas bluchers that I've eyed for years, a linen sport coat and a classic navy blazer for my daughter's boyfriend (Lord knows what else I may have stuck on the counter). How can a mens' store that sells their goods at full retail (because they ostensibly provide excellent customer service) justify this. I guess business is so good that they can do without my business. Cancel my catalogs, bye. Bob Prenner, are you listening?

Have been a long time customer of Ben Silver, and about a year ago purchased some very expensive pajamas, one was $450. Recently I noticed tears in the material, and returned them to the company for their examination. They were returned to me with a shocking note from Robert Prenner, attacking me for my audacity to return an intimate garment with tears in the crotch. His staff, "was emotionally DISTURBED to be asked to review your nightwear." recommending I toss them in the garbage. He went to judge my social mores as being unacceptable since there were stains noted, something which I question. Finally I was told told to take my business elsewhere. This business has no idea how to handle a complaint. To attack a long term customer in such a shocking and unprofessional matter is the epitome of disgraceful.

The Ben Silver Collection on King Street in Charleston is a great place to find upscale clothing for business and living. There is a tremendous choice of different styles for just about any need that you may have to be outfitted for. The staff here is extremely helpful and knowledgeable and can answer just about any question you have and can assist you with getting you the perfect piece of clothing or accessory that will work out perfect for you. This is one of my favorite places to shop for clothing in Charleston and I have the confidence and know that everything in here will look good and stylish. It is good to have a good and consistent place to shop that you can turn to when you need it the most.

FollowUp -- Ben Silver's (B.S.) founder's son-in-law (s-i-l) is poised to recklessly fire customers regardless of his individual staff member's less than stellar judgement. Case in point... Since B.S. has a monopoly on a particular style of eye glass frame brand and being unable to order from the manufacturer, I reluctantly phoned the store for a replacement temple, gladly willing to pay upfront. Unbelievably, a young woman was repeatedly resistant and uncooperative, resorting to admonishing "order them at your own risk". "What risk?", I asked, baffled by the association of a simple merchandise component with peril! Needless to say, after a subsequent conversation with the s-i-l, who unwaveringly sided with his clerk, chastised me, exclaimed he doesn't care about reputation and reviews, and summarily banned me. (At least one other reviewer expounded on being banned for a justifiable return.) Greater than a year later, I'm delighted to report that the replacement eyeglass temple frame is durable , viable, and remains functional. As Oliver Twist so aptly put it ", Please sir, I want some more!" lol.

Says online items normally ship within 2 to 3 says. I ordered 3 pairs of socks And a pair on slippers on 10/29/20. On 12/22 I received 2 pairs of socks. On 1/20/21 I received the slippers which don't fit. I returned slippers on that day and wrote an email expressing disappointment. Response to the email was criticism because I followed the return directions which came with the Slippers andI was chided for the text of my email expressing disappointment And to punish me, they canceled the order for the remaining pair of socks. Net result, I paid $43.90 for shipping for 2 pairs of socks and the associated cumbersome (compared to almost any other return experience I've had) return policy. I'm a senior and this was one of the most disappointing experiences I have had with a merchant.

Ordered a sweater in early January and still have not received it, so I cancelled. I understand supply chain issues, but their unwillingness to communicate with customers is inexcusable!

Ben Silver is a fraud. Their products look good, but do not wear well. Size and manufacturer is inconsistent and quality is poor. I have bought many shirts and they all worn out, or ripped in a few years. Prices are outrageous for the quality of the products. Leather glass cases purchased from Osgoode Markley for $25. ben Silver sells for $145 for example. Brooks Brothers and Paul Stuart are to be avoided. Recommend J Press for quality products and service.

Superior customer service keeps me coming back to this store. They usually ship same day so my order is delivered in one to two days. The order is always correct and I never give a second thought to the quality. Quality of workmanship here is always top notch. It's a pleasure to do business with these friendly knowledgeable folks. Thanks!

Ben Silver Collection I can't agree more with the other bad reviews (e.g., Greg P.). They are correct. I made a mistake last year of ordering from Ben Silver when their catalog hit my mailbox. I so regret that somehow they found me. Unfortunately, I am now "stuck" with some of my purchases and trying to make the best of them. In my opinion, their quality and customer service is "subpar." There are so many better options available. No need to shop here. My opinion. I wish I had done more research online before I ordered from BS.

What GREAT customer service!!! I ordered two pair of socks for this weekend and got concerned when I hadn't received them by Friday AM. I called with my concern and was told that they had been delivered on Wednesday afternoon...I let them know I hadn't seen them and that someone must have taken them off my porch- aaaargh! To my surprise, they offered to send them out again, Over Nite, at no charge... Needless to say you now have a customer for life!!! Greg Joselove

Ordered two sweaters from the catalogue. One was out of stock and due in next week.The first one came in two days followed by the second one a week later. Couldn't ask for better service

I bought ties, Old School, University, and regimental ties from them for years. A period went by and I did not buy one but recently bought to replace some lost and worn out. THE DECLINE IN QUALITY WAS STARTLING. LIGHTER AND LESSER SILK to the hand, nowhere close to the old ones I still have and not worth anywhere near this price. After buying over twenty ties, I will never buy another one. I sent a complaint to the company and they failed to respond. Deeply disappointed. No, make that damn mad.

This is the place from OUTER BANKS. Good store with great clothing and kind staff. Going to be coming back.

The negative reviews of your poor reputation of standing behind products is out there. Sizing and quality of shoes, shirts and ties. Wake up Ben Silver!! Now you Black ball customers. Is that legal?? Your customer service on returns is out there. Good luck Very seldom in this day and age are businesses bold enough not to respond to at least explore why a customer is dissatisfied. I asked for a response and have received nothing. I guess I will keep writing reviews. I hope the $500 Ben Silver save by not addressing me is worth the negative press. Wake up to the era you are in Ben Silver!!!!

Some complain of the pricing of Ben Silver. If you want quality, Ben Silver should be your first choice. You get what you pay for! Everything our organization (AVVBA.ORG) has ever ordered has be 'perfect' in every way. If quality isn't an issue with you, shop elsewhere. We love this place!

I am in the middle of an order for a cap. I've been a Ben Silver customer for three decades at least. Most of my purchases were from a while back when their prices were more reasonable. I have a pair of their cuff links and a bunch of ties, all British repp (regimental stripe). My order was finally listed as back-ordered and still is. My emails to their customer services elicited that it would soon be shipped and then that it had been shipped. Another email said that I should get the cap by the end of this last week (I did not). And the order is still listed as back-ordered and not shipped. I'd sure like to get the cap before spring. I will say that their quality is superb. I have not had such problems with shipping and customer service before and am disappointed.

Ordered Camel Shawl Collar Sweater early in the season. Not only did it not ever arrive, I never heard from them. Their reputation for terrible customer service is well deserved. I get the distinct impression they couldn't care less about customers.

I bought a Red Glass Case on Line. When I received it, it looked Pink. When I called Customer Service, no one apologized. The Customer Service Manager said that I could return it, but did not offer to supply a Postage Paid Shipping Label, even when the mistake was not mine. He appeared to be very unhappy about providing one. After the Case was received, it took a very long time for my Account to be Credited and I had to call several times. Then, I received a Letter from the Customer Service Manager stating that the company would no longer sell to me. I know this was because he was unhappy about providing the Label. I called the President, left a message about this and asked him to call me. He never did. No Retail Experience compares to this. This company sells outdated, grossly overpriced clothing and has the most antiquated Customer Service with Representatives that just don't care about the Customer. Can't imagine that I every bought anything from them.

One of my Ben Silver blazers lost a button. I emailed asking if they had a replacement. They in fact did AND SENT A FULL SET AT NO CHARGE AND NO CHARGE FOR SHIPPING! That is old fashioned superb customer service. The buttons (full set) arrived shortly with a personal note. Great store, great people!

What is unique about the Ben Silver Collection is a rich combination of classic American and European heritage ( fine fabrics, leather goods, watches, Shoes, Eyewear and accessories) and exquisite workmanship which makes this brand distinct from other fashion brands. It was immediately obvious during my first visit to the store that there is an undeniable eye for detail and high quality craftsmanship which produces timeless fashion with a distinct preppy American flair for all social occasions. The staff has been courteous, knowledgeable and helpful. Prices are fair considering that the overall quality of the products offered are superior, from my point of view, to most other mainstream high profile men brands that I used to buy from prior. BenSilver.com has proven to be a good alternative for a West Coast resident like me until I have the opportunity to be back in Charleston. I highly recommend this authentic and distinguished Southern brand.

I love the selection of silk regimental striped ties. However, every single (over-priced) tie I've purchased from Ben Silver has either come unraveled in the hems or fallen apart from the back side - and, I mean every single one. So naturally, I've stopped buying Ben Silver ties regardless of having the very best selection for regimental stripes. But, they're just not worth the $$$$. D2

I've been a customer for quite some time (cust#560368.) Hoping you folks haven't experienced harm from Hurricane Dorian. Bill Brady

I ordered a linen shirt from Ben Silver back in June, my 2nd one, I've been to their store in Charleston. They said it would be around 3 weeks. End of July, haven't heard from them at all, it's been 5 weeks. Ask where my shirt is. I'm told the factory took a week off it would be 7-10 days. That was 17 days ago. I have asked them to update me on the progress but they can't be bothered to reply to a simple email about my purchase. Avoid. They couldn't be less interested in helping you.

I have only dealt with the store via mail order, so I can't comment on the store beyond what I've seen in their beautiful catalogs. I've never had an issue and customer service has generally been painless. The staff has always been accommodating in providing me with measurements and other specifics about the clothes. Bob Prenner seems like a mensch as well. I would love to see the store in person if I ever make my way to Charleston. I don't understand the complaints about the pricing. The clothes aren't inexpensive, but they are certainly not the priciest out there. The prices are in line with the high quality of the clothing. A little more expensive than Brooks Brothers, a little less expensive than Paul Stuart. Nothing outlandish like Ralph Lauren Purple Label or any of the Italian designers. At any rate, the store carries really beautiful, clothing and is a reliable stockist of buy-it-for-life items like Crockett & Jones shoes. Traditional, but also relaxed and colorful.

Few things I've ever seen as absurd as a photo in the latest Ben Silver catalogue. There is company owner Bob Prenner posing carrying a messenger bag. Previously,Ben Silver had carried the beautiful briefcases made by Simpsons in the UK. Regretfully,they have gone out of business. There are other firms in England that make equivalent bridle leather briefcases. Ettinger,whose wallets Ben Silver already sells is an example of a British firm that makes wonderful traditional business cases. But now we are being told by Mr Penner to carry a messenger bag with your $1000 navy blazer. Messenger bags are for students and workers in the tech world,for whom proper business attire is flip flops,cargo shorts and t shirt. Mr Prenner,you could really have done better here. You sell the most wonderful mpeccable,traditional clothing and now you are pushing messenger bags on your clients. Shoulder bags throw the whole look of a suit jacket off. They have no place for proper business. If you were offering this as a weekend bag that would be one thing. But this is so obvious a departure from the aesthetics of your fine company that it must be addressed proper business men do not where backpacks or messenger bags to the office. There are just way better choices for your business case offerings.

I ordered clothing on December 12 th and it was shipped on February 13 th of the following year....60 days. No prior backorder notice to me as the purchaser, but I did not complain. My second order was shipped right away but upon receiving it I determined that it would not compliment my Canali jacket. I returned it at my own cost but now I am considered some type of customer with a high return rate and they will no longer sell to me. So I waited a few years and placed an order, they charged my charge card and I waited and waited and waited. Nothing...no tie. So I emailed customer service and they said I wasn't the type of customer they wanted and they reversed the transaction and would not sell to me. I feel that I have been discriminated against as the reasoning they are using for not selling to me is not listed on their Website anywhere. In fact they state they want 100 pct satisfaction. So to summarize they are discriminating against me because I returned a tie. They are not honoring their customer satisfaction implied warranty. I would not shop there. With so many fine retailers of great garments unfair practices that they exercise will not bode well during this coronavirus pandemic only the strong retailers will survive. They will be begging for customers as their sales for discretionary purchases begin to shrink and their inventory begins to go unsold and fades away. It is too bad that they don't work with the customer instead of trying to rip them off. They want people who will spend greater dollars and are not interested in smaller fish. But who in their right mind would purchase a $ 1,500.00 coat or suit if they could not exchange it if it couldn't be tailored to fit. My advice is to steer clear and patronize an establishment that recognizes that customers are their key to life, not the enemy.

Came in here because my husband was buying a gift for someone. The store is beautiful and very well laid out. Almost exclusively for men, but a few pieces for women in the very back. The store reminded me of Brooks Brothers but on a smaller scale with Southern flare. Think Brooks Brothers meets Whale-on-my-pants attire. They have the most beautiful cufflinks if you're looking for a gift.

i have dealt with Ben Silver for over 20 years. Superb quality, traditional items. Probably the best in the U. S. -- and I am a NYC resident who will buy anywhere! Service has been excellent. My only complaint was their ties had become too narrow -- but they readily took them back. Just bought a few items today.

Ben Silver has endless neckties, intriguing cufflinks and lots of other gift ideas. Knowledgeable staff, too! A fun Charleston "experience"! Helen P.

In my opinion, Ben Silver is the best of the best - better than Paul Stuart, Louis Boston, you name it. I have never purchased anything from here that wasn't of the highest quality and I have been shopping at Ben Silver since the late '70's. I can't always shop here - quality doesn't come cheap but when I have to have something special it is the only place I go. And, the staff is amazing!

I have purchased a couple of ties from this store. The ties are not cheap and run at least $100/a piece. I have found that they initially look nice but after wearing them, the material remains all crumpled and wrinkled. Not like most ties which smooth out in the knot area after wearing them. I think the ties are way overpriced in regard to the material they use in making them.

I find a few negative reviews of Ben Silver. I think that's because customers who have been dissatisfied are more likely to write a review than those who have been pleased. I've ordered my good clothes from Ben Silver for decades and always think of Ben Silver first when shopping for something good to wear. I believe that for the most part you get your money's worth at Ben Silver because I think items are honestly priced, although I see a few exceptions.(The silver orange peeler is overpriced.) To those who feel Ben Silver's clothing is overpriced I say you are not considering that their offerings are of the highest quality. I love their pajamas, the pants of which are secured with buttons rather that with one of those pesky draw strings that gets entangled with other items in the washer. I would add that their staff is knowledgable about the inventory and is most courteous and helpful.

Do not buy eye glass frames from this company. Not only are their frames twice as much as DITTO charges for the same frame, but if your frames get broken, they will not honor their guarantee except in cases of "manufacturer's defects." I had this happen to me and boy, do I regret not doing my homework before ever doing business with Ben Silver! After weeks during which the optician and I both left voice messages, Ben Silver's representative "spoke to the owner" and said she could get me new frames for $130. I said no thanks and purchased frames from DITTO instead. They will honor their warranty even if I sit on my glasses, and with first time buyer discount, I only paid $135 for the same frames I got from Ben Silver for $275. Do not be stupid as I was. This company obviously does not care about keeping customers.

Have spent close to $2,000 with them over the past few years buying graduation gifts for friends. Was prepared to spend another $1,000 but had to deal with staff that really didn't care if they dealt with me or not. Phone staff seems to be young and was unable to offer even the least bit of customer service. Management did not respond to phone calls either. They have great merchandise that is worth the money, but not worth the hassle of having to deal with untrained, uncaring kids on the phone. Will shop elsewhere from now on.

Be prepared to be thrown out with the trash if you have any problem getting something to fit, even after buying a pair of Crockett and Jones shoes. Even if the items are returned in pristine condition you will be told you can no longer shop there.

I have been a customer for several years, both on line and in store. I have no objections to the quality of the merchandise, but rather on their on line experience. To say the least, it is dreadful. For several years now, they publish catalogs and feature new items on line. But when I have gone on line to purchase, invariably one or more items are "expected soon" or "expected in early November". Problem is that those expected dates quite often do not materialize, and stretch out additional months. I have called the store to ask, but their phone reps are very disinterested. If this was an occasional occurrence, there would be no problem. But it is a recurring theme. I cannot understand why they would continue to advertise new products, but those items seem to take months to come in. It has definitely reduced the number of purchases that I have made, and seems to be something that management has no interest in fixing. I guess they are doing good enough.