I take an instrumental approach to the look. It`s a style I`ve liked and worn for years, satisfying me both aesthetically and, if you like, philosophically in that it`s, and was in its earliest manifestations over here, subtly subversive.
However, reading this forum and others over the last few months it`s clear that other wearers have a different approach.Ten, twelve, fourteen suits, sixteen jackets in one case, dozens of shirts, umpteen pairs of loafers and goodness knows how many pairs of longwings, camp mocs. etc. How do people find the time and the occasions to wear them all? Even when I was wearing suits every day I only had six, three each for winter and summer, a couple of jackets, four or five pairs of shoes. Admittedly it was more difficult to get hands on the stuff but I had an adequate working wardrobe which only needed topping up as things wore out. Ok, I`ve probably got a few more, and better quality, shirts these days but I don`t feel the need or urge to buy at every opportunity.
Purely in the spirit of inquiry, you understand not criticism
My buying days are now more or less over. I have four suits, about eight jackets, plenty of shirts and knitwear, loafers, desert boots and wingtips. I can't cram anything more into the wardrobe, simple as that.
Its probably more of a reflection on modern consumerism.
The current financial climate has put an end to my spending days. Now it's about rediscovering things I already own. Or hunting out a real bargain. Half the stuff I bought when I had money, i've now gotten rid of. I only bought it because I could.
I think it's maybe time for a "back to basics" approach. Hand picking key pieces and making the most of them. Quality rather than quantity. Also, not being afraid to buy cheaper items, because of snobbery.
I bought two really nice, seersucker short sleeved BD's the other day from Cotton Traders (No silly logos, thank goodness). £10 each.
Years ago I wouldn't have gone in the place, but i'm more open to a bargain these days. 'Hard times' baby!
Addiction, pure and simple.
I think The Beatnik's comments concur with those Chris made a few months back, about the recession biting hard - cab drivers worrying about their mortgages and paying the bills instead of their Bill's - ha ha. And Chris was spot on. I intend that what I have now should see me through.
Im all for hunting out bargins in particular at present. Problem is even the bargins seem to be drying up. Searching the usual places seems to draw a blank most of the time and ebay seems to be bursting with people who are selling 'vintage' clolthing these days but not at 'vintage prices'. Im trying to stick to a one in one out policy and only buying items I know I will get good use out of . Im amazed at what some people will pay for footwear at present having seen the price items go for on ebay for example (worn out Loakes etc).
Buying the very best that you can afford is, in the long run, economical.
I love the fact that, with Ivy, everything should look as if you've owned it for years. Maybe even that your father owned it before you. Truly anti-fashion, and something so-called 'mods' never will understand.
Couldn't agree more RS re: addiction. I think we touched on this on the phone the other day. I too was an addict though I've now been forced into a period of respite - though I am still (quite literally) paying the price for those years of reckless acquisition.
Staceyboy
Do you think we should all have a meeting in a church hall. Sit in a circle and be there for each other?
"My name is the Beatnik and i'm a clothesaholic..."
One day at a time Sweet Jesus!
But I do wear my collection so to answer the OP's question I'm a bit of both.
I no longer rate Boyer.
- Pure 'schtick'.
He shot his bolt & there's nothing else left now.
.... But Schtick is where the money lies - And lies & lies & lies & lies & lies...
Big Bruce as iCunt?
IMO, Fucking yes.
Well his books on Astaire's Style and Rebel Style were very lightweight in my opinion. I expected more from him.
As for the original question I can say I own a lot of stuff I've worn for years ( overcoats, casual jackets, knitwear and trousers mostly ) a working wardrobe as someone called it. Not being a suit and tie man I own two suits only and a handful of ties, all quality stuff mind you. I tend to buy a few brandnew items each season still, mostly because I get bored with some older threads and want to replace those garments.
My aim right now is to concentrate on the basics even more and get rid of the slightly 'dandified' gear ( think PS ). I'm familiar with the addictive side BTW but never let that kinda thing get out of hand. Finally, I never buy anything vintage.....
Last edited by Alex Roest (2009-07-15 06:44:13)
Not all your regency velvet suits and Beau Brummel high collared shirts Alex! Can I have first bids on your calf-skin breeches and French buckled boots.
Last edited by The Beatnik (2009-07-15 07:01:57)