Is it as bleak as it sometimes appears?
I may have nodded off but only a few names, like Vetra, seem to be ticking any boxes.
What's happening in Japan? Are they pursuing, bless them, their own objectives? If so, good for them.
It it really and truly over for Brooks, Press, Ralph Lauren and others?
Is most of it simply mainstream and therefore lacking in that 'rarity' value mentioned elsewhere?
In the UK, is what goes on in certain parts of London enough?
What's happening in France beyond Paraboot and Vetra?
The future of humanity in general appears rather bleak, so personally I'm not worrying over whether or not anyone will be wearing soft collar BDs in 50 years' time. Although I like to hope they will. Stranger things have been known.
As I understand it, Press has become a lot more ivy (or in touch with its roots) in recent years, although their prices are not for many of us on here.
Re. Japan I have no idea, but I seriously doubt their strong ivy traditions are going to disappear in a hurry. The Japanese ivy fans don't seem interested in discussing the topic online, but they certainly like to wear it. (Maybe they're too busy working to have time to chat.)
Although Japan is hardly in The West.
I suspect/suppose Japan is out on her own. Our Gibson is a devotee of their style, I think, and I certainly admire (to a degree) the way they go about things.
The future looks great.
There are still a number of brands producing great goods - Rancourt, Alden, Allen Edmonds,Bills, Mercer, Leatherman. I still rate Sebago too.
Press seams to be getting better each season.
In the UK you can still get some great knitwear and with online things get delivered early quickly.
Shoe wise Crockett produce a great looking loafer - Boston and Harvard.
On the accessories front you've still got Corgi, Pantherella and Tootal.
Cording's are a great source for overcoats, 5 pockets, cords, moleskin trousers and knitwear.
Brooks are back up and running with new oxfords.
Music is relatively easy to get hold of with plenty of reissues now on both cd and vinyl. Even new stuff appears to be cropping up regularly from Hayes, Blakey and Evans
The Criterion Collection is reissuing plenty of cult films.
Mono media are producing some great documentaries.
And best of all with forums like this the ability to disseminate information is now easier than ever
Last edited by AlveySinger (2021-11-16 16:54:11)
I'm not normally a fan of optimism but in this case the above seems reasonably realistic.
Mr.Singer produces a very nice list. Thank you. It even meets with Yuca's approval. Must be doing something right.