Formans Menswear

General information

Originally founded as a men’s hat shop, Formans opened its doors in 1948. It evolved into a men’s clothing boutique in 1959, and by 1985, it was on the edge of the fashion industry offering a more unique and distinctive look. Several European Brands were introduced to Calgary and Western Canada that significantly redefined the men’s wear industry. It’s this pioneering spirit that defines Formans vision.

With over 5 decades of experience, it has developed a loyal and consistent clientele that continues to grow as the company grows. At the turn of this century, we relocated to a Heritage award winning building in the revitalizing community of Victoria Park. Here, the company became Formans Fashion Group, earning critical acclaim for the opening of its women’s division in 2004.

In 2008 Forbidden Clothing opened its doors and immediately earned a reputation as a unique, fashion forward boutique with a European flair. In 2012, the two companies focused on the best of both worlds and merged to provide a youthful edge for men and completing and integrating fashion to a new level.

100th Anniversary Heritage Bank Building

Originally commissioned in 1912, this building was built in 1913 as the 2nd Calgary location for the Canadian Bank of Commerce. The building served as a branch, as well as training center for southern Alberta, with the bank manager’s suite on the 2nd floor and a dorm for trainees on the 3rd floor.

In 2006, the Calgary Heritage Authority, awarded all the renovations of this project with Calgary’s Heritage Award for the best re-adaptive use of heritage space. The other winners in that year were the Lougheed House and the Grand Theater. We are pleased to be included in such a distinguished group.

When we decided to relocate our retail business to first street in 2003, we became part of one of Calgary’s 2nd oldest community. First street, originally named Scarth Street, was Calgary’s 2nd retail street.

We participated in, and began initiatives to revitalize the Victoria Park area with a vision to build a modern urban community founded in a rich heritage that formed Calgary’s identity. That vision included building a thriving residential, office, entertainment and retail community.