The Spice Of Life In Fashion

Now it’s the spices of fashion for men, the rising tide: And, dandyism still contrasting Beau Brummell rejection of 18th century frills, his mandate; a dark blue coat, buff-coloured pantaloons and waistcoat, black boots and a clean white neck cloth.

The modern sailor’s uniform, endures and has remained a popular choice for designers to mimic idiosyncratic characters, a simple uniform to draw inspiration from; each changing style to suit forms and functions.

A little more evidence on how history in fashion repeats itself: Bell bottomed trousers were another 'icon' of the square rig uniform. These were practical garments for men who worked sailing ships since they could be rolled up securely to clear the feet and ankles when working the rigging. In common with all other items of a sailor's kit, trousers were kept folded ready for use in a kit bag. Kept inside out to avoid fluff on the outer surface and to avoid 'shine' by ironing, they were folded horizontally at about a hand's width and taped into a rectangular 'block'. When worn, this produced inverted vertical creases down the side of the leg and five or seven, depending on the height of the wearer, horizontal creases down the leg. In time these were accepted as the thing to have and were pressed firmly into place from the early years of the century. Since the First World War bell bottoms were purchased for tradition rather than any practical use but were replaced by flared trousers in 1977.

The three white tapes were said to commemorate Nelson’s three great battles – The Nile, Copenhagen and Trafalgar. However there is no truth in this – the Admiralty were at one time considering the merits of two stripes as against three. Sailors were assigned to various jobs according to their skill. ... Before 1857 there was no uniform for Royal Navy seamen, who usually wore baggy trousers ... The modern sailor's uniform is the culmination of centuries of tradition and innovation. From silk stockings, frock coats and night caps.

In 1756 a children’s uniform of 'sailor's dress'with distinctive leather caps was adopted, instead of the uniform based on what the pensioners wore. ...

The sailor's collar deserves a special mention. Tarred pig tails disappeared rapidly after 1815 and the last is recorded as having been seen at sea in 1827. On the other hand, the first broad collars were worn after 1830. Contrary to popular belief, therefore, the two were never worn together.

Enough sea faring stories; now, the gentleman, endowed with wisdom, true to word and honourable handshake. Bereft of principles; no gentleman.

So, clothes befitting is not distinguishable enough to judge mans true character, he chooses to wear governed by mood, taste, budget, status or advice? A pair of faded jeans and linen shirt and sneakers, or the best cut suit from Savile Row and a pair of Floorshiems for the feet

However it’s what suits the individual taste in fashion. The things that add spice to menswear clothing are the accessories, like silk ties, cravats, or scarves. Men wear label badges as recognition of status or club membership. Then there are endless choices of cufflinks in silver Swarovski crystals and most traditionally enamels.

Even more fortunate for the modern man are designers who mark a new creative direction for men’s clothing and accessories. A few fine examples, Vivienne Westwood, Timothy Everest, Ian Flaherty.