Skeffington’s Formal Wear History

Skeffington’s Formal Wear was established in 1951 and was one of the first tuxedo rental companies in America. Pete Leo started his career with Skeffington’s in 1954 on the ground floor of the Savory Hotel in Des Moines. In 1976, Pete purchased the company from its original owner. Skeffington’s has always been a family-oriented business. Over the years Pete was joined at times by his sons, daughters, nephews and grandchildren. The company is still family owned and operated. Known as “Uncle Pete” to much of the Italian American community on the southside of Des Moines, Pete Leo was not only a pioneer and innovator in the formal wear industry, but he was also a selfless and generous man. Skeffington’s supports numerous philanthropic causes including the Variety Club Telethon.