Absolutely, Jim, and when I'm solvent again (hem-hem!!), I shall be researching in even more depth and trying to dig out more gems like the Press 1940s sportcoat I bought recently, with a texture to the weave like nothing I've ever come across. 
Texture and proportion - I like that.  More important than colour, certainly.  Right now, before the pavements grow dicey, I'm wearing my very dark red, almost black (to my eye) Jarman cordovan wingtips, the heftiest shoe I currently own, usually with chinos or khakis and a field coat.  Almost no one looks twice, because at first glance the coat looks a bit like a Barbour.  Second glance - our glance - reveals it to be nothing of the kind, and it has blue and grey beneath: cotton and cashmere.  I can go anywhere without attracting attention, and only an old skinhead of my acquaintance will pay any attention even to the shoes - because he's in his fifties now and had a pair circa 69. 
I would like to acquire the supreme confidence to go un-co-ordinated, but I think Alex and I are somewhat in agreement that to do so would fly in the face of our true natures'.

The 'next level' stuff for me means TNS. Truly new exploration ground for me personally. I've asked for someone to do a nice little essay on the subject before which I probably may end up doing myself at some point because it becomes more and more appealing. Not much of a suit person myself although I do use the Italian approach when the situation calls for it, ties are mostly English though. I do prefer a combination of some sort however when dressing up ( providing a compromise is possible ) and the TNS jacket will very likely become a big part within that next step, so to speak. I love the fact that it leaves a lot of room for experimentation also. Will keep you posted....

Last edited by Alex Roest (2008-11-16 14:00:23)

Last edited by Alex Roest (2008-11-18 07:06:22)