Winter 2023

T he most frequently traveled route into downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea is via Ocean Avenue west from Highway 1. And the first thing visitors see upon entering town is a white, exquisitely landscaped building on the corner of Ocean and Junipero. The store’s windows are an ever-changing riot of color and style, a statement that subtly and tastefully says, “Welcome to Carmel.” This is J. Lawrence Khaki’s, Men’s Clothier of Carmel. Jim Ockert and wife Connie are the propri- etors of Khaki’s, as it’s familiarly known. “We want people to have a good experience when they come to Carmel,” Ockert says “We’re try- ing to keep the classic Carmel culture alive and well.” To the Ockerts, that means the spirit of welcoming, warm hospitality and top-drawer excellence that this little beach town is known for all over the world. “When someone visits Carmel, they can choose from superb restau- rants and hotels. And we want to give them an unparalleled retail experience here at Khaki’s.” Stepping into the store is stepping into a world where everything has an orderly rhythm. Clothing is arranged with meticulous care, some- times aligned with complimentary items so it’s possible to approach a display and choose slacks, shirt and sweater that are already expertly and tastefully curated to create a perfectly paired ensemble. It’s a highly tactile experience; each article of clothing is softer and more touchable than the one before, and all exhibit a feel of great quality and craftsmanship.“We have always had a passion for quality and well-made products, made from beautiful fabrics you can wear forever.” In addition, the Ockerts are highly concerned with carrying products made by manufacturers who care as much for the planet as they do. “We’re always looking to find those makers who under- stand the environment and sustainability.” Khaki’s carries menswear from a wide range of Italian and European brands as well as some from the U.S. Jim and Connie frequently travel, seeking out the newest styles and unique items to add to the sales floor. “Probably half to sixty percent of our inventory is from Europe and half of that is from Italy,” Ockert says. “We visit Florence, Milan and Naples and NewYork and Chicago for trade 124 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 In the space formerly occupied by a well-known luxury department store, Jim and Connie Ockert created a menswear shop where every item invites the hand to touch and appreciate its fine quality fabrics and old-world craftsmanship. Photo: Moss Media