Picture and Text by Timothy J. SteinerHow many of us have asked, why don’t modern designers make vintage-style suits? As we know, by and large, they don’t. Sure there are the seersucker suits from Brooks Brothers tailored in the same style as they ever were. The same goes for their poplin suits and their sack suits. Ralph Lauren has been known to produce vintage-style tweed suits, at least vintage-style in material; their cuts are typically modern. But these are the exceptions. Sadly, it is very difficult to find classic suits without trolling through the mothball-smelling racks at the local vintage shop.
Well, imagine my surprise as I was shopping in my local Filenes's and I saw a single-breasted suit with notched lapels. I walked close hesitantly, questioning my senses; was I actually seeing what I thought I was seeing? As I drew closer, my hand reached out to touch the fabric: fine wool, smooth and soft. It felt expensive. The pinstripes contrasted dramatically against the oil slick sheen of the silken wool.
Next, I noticed the sleeves; there were several buttons, five, I think.
I undid one, then the next, then the next and the entire sleeve opened
up. Functioning sleeve buttons were quite the touch. I was impressed.I took the jacket from the hanger and threaded my arms through. The lining was silk or satin and iridescent red to purple. It was a bit flashy to me, but it seemed somehow appropriate. I am an off-the-rack 44L and this jacket fit as if it were tailored to me. When I studied the lapels: high and notched with delicate stitching around the lapel like a custom-made garment. Multiple pockets were on the inside of the jacket; a pen pocket, a ticket pocket and a pocket for a wallet. It fit wonderfully.
I was in for the biggest surprise of all; I looked at the tag and at the make of the suit and it was, of all things, a Sean John! I must admit, the man makes a fine suit. The suggested price was $595.00, on sale for $389. It was very tempting, very tempting indeed.Your thoughts? Visit us on our Forum...
