News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 18, 2025

THE NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION PARTNERS WITH 100 SUITS TO OPEN A MEN’S BOUTIQUE ON RIKERS ISLAND

New “Dressed for the Part” Boutique Empowering Individuals in Custody Through Style, Confidence, and Resources

East Elmhurst, NY — The New York City Department of Correction, in partnership with 100 Suits – an organization that empowers underserved and marginalized communities by providing professional attire, workforce development, and community development programs - launched a men’s boutique at the Eric M. Taylor Center on Rikers Island. The initiative provides people in custody with a suit for special occasions, as well as upon their return to the community. The organization has been a valued DOC community partner since 2016, originally supporting the adolescent and young adult populations through mentoring, advocacy, and special guest speakers. Over the years, the organization has expanded its impact by offering comedy shows, holiday meals, poetry slams, and programming designed to promote dignity, healing, and community connection. The launch of the men’s boutique marks another major milestone in their continued commitment to uplifting individuals in custody.

“A suit is so much more than stitching and fabric — it may support someone’s confidence to pursue opportunities once they return to the community,” said NYC Correction Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie. “Effective, well-designed programs like this not only foster personal reform but also contribute to safer, stronger facilities. When we invest in people, we improve our jails—and ultimately, our city.”

“I am beyond excited to officially launch this 100 Suits Boutique in partnership with the Department of Correction,” said Kevin Livingston, Founder of 100 Suits. “This idea began years ago when I first reached out to DOC about establishing a space where incarcerated men could access proper business attire. This boutique is more than a project; it’s a legacy. A legacy rooted in restoring dignity, instilling confidence, and building futures for those who’ve often been forgotten. I look forward to continuing this deep and meaningful relationship with the Department of Corrections through this vision. Together, we are not just changing clothes, we are changing lives.”

The Boutique Model — “Dressed for the Part”

Dressed for the Part is a high-impact, on-site boutique designed to mirror an upscale retail experience. Developed to promote dignity, confidence, and readiness, the boutique provides individuals in custody with personalized support as they prepare for key moments such as court appearances, job interviews, program graduations, and reentry.

Participants enjoy a thoughtfully curated, professional retail-style environment and one-on-one sessions with trained stylists to select polished, professional attire. The program provides complete outfit packages, including suits, shirts, ties, and shoes. After each fitting, participants engage in brief mentorship sessions to reinforce confidence, presentation skills, and readiness for upcoming engagements. In addition, the boutique connects individuals to employment programs, educational opportunities, and community-based support networks, helping them transition successfully back into their communities.

This initiative is designed to foster personal transformation, strengthen self-worth, and equip individuals with the tools and confidence necessary to take positive next steps — both while in custody and upon release.

The boutique opened at the Eric M. Taylor Center on Monday, December 15th. The boutique will be stocked with suits, ties, formal pants, button-up shirts, shoes, accessories, and more. Individuals will also be able to utilize the on-site fitting rooms and mirrors for personalized fittings.

** Media Opportunity **

Photos, videos, and media tours are available upon request.

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The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment while providing individuals in our care with a path to successfully re-enter their communities.