Esquire’s Holiday Attire Suggestions
Love or hate the holidays, you’ll most likely find yourself at more than a few gatherings in the next couple of months. The guys at Esquire Magazine have clothing suggestions for every scenario, from Christmas in the woods, to a black tie affair.
Click here for the suggestions.
And now, my respectful disagreements, by slide number.
#4 Don’t just watch, actually chop the wood. It’s good for you, and incredibly satisfying.
#14 That sweater is old-manish. Try this instead
#18 If you’re the only one wearing a blazer, why take it off? Your friends shouldn’t be too concerned about what you’re wearing. And if you take it off, it looks like you’re too concerned with what everyone else is wearing.
#29 Pleated Shirts will hopefully go the way of pleated pants at one point. To the trash.
A fine list all and all. Most of it is way too expensive as usual, but perfect for idea starters if you just don’t want to think about what you should wear to any given event.
I agree that pleated shirts are a woefully long-lived bit of archaic apparel. Remember that here-and-gone clothing line based on Regis Philbin? That was the first time I’d encountered comfortable, non-pleated tux shirts, a revelation for a teenage boy that traditional attire need not be inflexible.
I do, however, strongly disagree with your assesment of – and tacit prejudice toward – the “old-mannish” sweater vest. While the pattern might generously be called “quaint,” I think a bit of classic haberdashery can enliven the monochrome winter garb in which most of us clothe ourselves, especially given the closer cuts most are now made with. Personally, I have not felt more excited by a designer’s direction than I have been the last two years seeing Ralph Lauren’s winter Polo line. Not only does it look great and have a relaxed, cedar fire and snowbound cabin feel, the resurgence of older patterns – Fair Isle, Houndstooth, Argyle, even Plaid – reminds us that antiquated doesn’t equal outdated. Plus, I get to wear my Grandpa’s old clothing and appear cutting edge.
awesome.
awesomer.
awesomest?
I will admit, though, that you have to be young to wear old well. As regards #18, I’d say the same is true of #25. What you wear should not be dictated by nicety. Or fear of your overlords.