Stephen Fendler, president of CM Almy, shows off a rack of samples from his brand-new women\u2019s collection, pointing out a piece he\u2019s particularly proud of: a black blouse in a stretchy jersey knit.<\/p>\n
But Mr. Fendler\u2019s collections won\u2019t be seen on the runways anytime soon. CM Almy says it is the largest, and one of the oldest, American producers of clerical clothing, and its models are hitting the pulpit instead of the catwalk. Their designers create garments for priests, ministers and bishops mainly within the Episcopal, Lutheran and Roman Catholic churches \u201d\u201d from everyday plain shirts and white collars, to the more elaborate and colorful ceremonial chasubles.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have seasons, and items go in and out of style just like the fashion world,\u201d\u009d Mr. Fendler said. But \u201cour style changes are driven by evolutions in holy ceremonies. Nobody would call us the most fashion-forward company in the marketplace.\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n