Let's start with the name. Last week, (during its annual holiday party), Martin Patrick 3 debuted its new women's gift department. They're officially calling the room "Apology."

Pretty straightforward, huh?

The North Loop men's shop is known in the Twin Cities as an ever-expanding menswear palace — basically a GQ magazine come to life. The addition of a small women's section seems like a smart idea: Guys go shopping for themselves, bring home something for the missus. (Or: Guys get in the doghouse, bring home something for the missus.)

Apology is Martin Patrick 3's take on slickly designed feminine merchandise: fragrances, necklaces, bracelets, lux candles, letterpress gift cards. Also: ostentatious golden paperweights (for about $130). And the new and very sought-after Faribault Woolen Mill's capes and vests.

During the unveiling of the room, a man asked one of the shop's employees, "Why is it called 'Apology'?"

Obviously, this gentleman is doing everything 100 percent amazing in his personal life.

Tom Horgen