Last edited by The_Shooman (2008-10-20 08:24:31)

No reason I know, Formby.  Whoever made it just did it.  I've looked at my other striped suits and about half are that way and half are not.  Foraland wisdom seems in favor of concealing rather than revealing the stripe there.  Apparently, the person who sewed them decided on an unabashed celebration of the stripe.  As this is a sort in-for-a-penny-in-for-a-pound kind of suit, I don't mind.

Well, thanks, Buff.  I'd be happy to put everyone in the picture on this.

This suit is made by H. Freeman & Son, formerly, as I understand it, of Philadelphia.  It's a made-to-measure.  This won't surprise the more attentive fora reader as I've never made any secret that that's the field in which I play.  Freeman have their ups and downs in this market.  There is rather more custmosization than the normal MTM program.  An interesting number of inclinometers and measuring devices are brought into play.  My local haberdahsher/agent is very concscientious about all of this.   However, Freeman themselves make a number of mistakes along the way; often silly mistakes.  If you've a good local haberdaher (as I do) they go to bat for one over all of this and it gets sorted out with patience.

Sorry, all of this is likely a detraction for those of you who do bespoke.  If anyone in the MTM range has questions, I'd be happy to address them.

Back to FNB's questions.  This is a Holland & Sherry 8.5 oz. fabric.  Admittedly, it is my first suit with fabric from that firm.  I would have preferred something a bit heavier, but that was what was available in this sort of stripe and I've wanted this sort of stripe for some time.  Nonetheless, in the era of modern climate control, I don't think it will signify overmuch and there's none of that ugly puckering one sees in so many of the more contemporary fabrics when done up.

There it is, lads.  Let me have it with both barrels.

Double breasted with bold stripes and an electric lining - magic. It takes nerve to carry the look off but done with enough confidence I find that people react well to the look. The look is not conservative (outside a small London circle) these days so, like you, I found that it works well in the evening. Combined with that lining I think you are really going to have fun.

I will have to take a look at that Holland and Sherry book as  I would like a lightweight suit made up with that look.

Jeeves,

Magic is, indeed, the word.  I like wearing all of my suits.  Some have touches of whimsey or not, but this one is just outright fun.  Tell us a bit more about that small, London circle who still wear the things and think them conservative.  I really have no idea what book the fabric came from.  I'll make enquiries, if you would find it helpful.

Formby,

I have a suit rather like that.  Three piece, SB with peak lapels just as you describe.  In grey flannel with a pronounced stripe.  I'll have to see what I can do about a photo.  Flannel's made of 160s merino.  Like pyjamas it is, all day long.  Hopefully it will hold up.  Only my second cold season with it and only time will tell.

Has anyone who wears bright stripes such as these recently been told that they resemble a banker in a disparaging way?