30 April 2012

A Dash of Color

I like to make an attempt to look put-together, even when I'm not really dressing up. Since a tie is frequently too much these days (as stated here), Springtime affords a man the option of ribbon belts in a myriad of stripes and prints. They can add the dash of color of a tie, in an easy, casual way:
My own collection isn't huge, but it's adequate. A grouping of stripes in colors similar to what I might wear in a tie, one madras plaid, and  a couple of go-to-hell prints. If you're wearing khakis or go-to-hell pants with a tennis shirt, a leather belt simply won't do. If you're wearing a blazer and bow tie, and you're a brave man, try one on for size. Just stay keep them away from dress pants and suits (but you already knew that, right?)

Cheap, fun, and eminently collectible, ribbon belts satisfy my style conscious side as well as the insatiable hoarder in me. And here's a little secret: look for these in the women's accessories at the thrift shop. All the best ones wind up there.

p.s. the Shop is as stocked as ever. Check it out.

8 comments:

Roger v.d. Velde said...

Crikey! The header has been updated removing the ties! Heavens man there's often an opportunity to slip a tie into the ensemble- please don't join the chorus of people declaring the gradual disappearance of the tie.

*one stiff drink later* Those belts however, are great. With the added benefit that one doesn't have to fuss about trying to match shoe leather with belt leather and watch.

Giuseppe said...

Rest easy, Roger. The header has only been freshened up for Spring. I will continue to wear a coat and tie in situations where I feel it is appropriate, regardless of current laxness in dress codes.

Gentleman's Outfitters said...

Yes, the ladies department is always good for belts. I always seem to find nice raincoats in the women's racks as well.

Also, regarding a previous post about 6x2 coats closing to 6x1, I discovered yesterday that the 1970s/80s Polo flannel suit I have had for a while is the very same. It never sat correctly on the second button but falls gracefully to the first with the buttonhole finished on the other side. It really does look great and not at all like a bad 90's 6x1. I feel like I found a new suit! Thank you for the tangible information!

Anonymous said...

Gentlemen, It's wonderful to know that men shop womenswear as we do menswear. I never guessed it.

notanymore said...

I have a few, not nearly as many as you, and I have a terrible habit of losing them...

Brent Kryda said...

Imagine finding a Madras shirt in the women's shirts. It's pretty much where I find them these days. I suppose some thrift worker could not imagine such a thing being worn as casual wear by today's men who are so concerned with "fitting in".

Young Fogey said...

How on earth do you lose your belts, Kionon?

Back to ribbon belts: do they actually work for keeping your pants up? I never had much luck with D-ring belts in the past, and am therefore wary of them.

Andy C said...

I've only ever had basic black or white belts hanging on my wardrobe door. Think I need to up date the collection with some funky coloured ones.