Anonymous asked: So, I love your blog and bold looks and just went through all 36 pages looking for inspiration. Very cool. But... can't we see your pants, socks, and shoes?? - Joel
First of all, thank you for your positive words!
You ask a fair question. Why not photograph the entire head-to-toe outfit, as so many others? There’s a few ways I’d answer that, so let’s begin.
1. I tend to find the lower half of my outfit less deserving of attention. It’s a fairly basic rotation of chinos in basic colors, denim, and navy blue wool trousers. Quite standard, really, to the point of being boring. At least to me. As I wear a waist size upwards of many manufacturers’ range, I’m not exactly overwhelmed with options. (Yes, I’m a big boy.)
2. I’ve always intended this blog to be mainly focused on neckwear in general and on the specific vintage pieces I’ve collected in particular. I’ve accumulated a few hundred ties, and I want to show them off, damn it! The virtually inexhaustible permutations of shirts, ties, and additional layers really excites me creatively. Focusing on the front-and-center allows me to freely indulge in mixing color, texture, and pattern. It’s where I feel most comfortable, and if I may say so myself, it’s where I’m most talented. (Not everyone may agree.)
3. A terrible confession: Sometimes my entire outfit doesn’t really come together as I’d like. Sometimes the fit just isn’t right, or the proportions are awkward. There are plenty of #menswear bloggers whose looks are fitted to perfection, or close to it, but it’s a rare occasion for me. I know that fit is widely considered the sine qua non of men’s style, so rather than distract with my shortcomings, I prefer to put a tight focus on what I enjoy most: Mixing fabrics like some sort of pattern-crazed eccentric.
I’ve recently been thinking about ways to expand this blog beyond the formula it’s settled into, and who knows? Maybe I’ll become more comfortable with showcasing more comprehensive looks as I build a little more confidence (or, uh, shed a few more pounds).
Thanks again for reading, and for taking the time to ask.
TL;DR - Pants are boring; ties are important; and you don’t really want to see all my mistakes, do you?
