Esquire Theme by Matthew Buchanan
Customization Design by Sonia Oram
26
Jan
Jennelle of Portland, Oregon rocking a sweatervest combo on a freezing January day
Hat: Goorin Bros
Jacket: Levi’s
Shirt: Goodwill
Tie: $5 at an antique mall in Seaside
Pants: Goodwill
Lhasa Apso’s jacket: Hip Hound
08
Oct
Anonymous asked: Hey, so I just found your blog, and hey! it seems to be one of few really thorough queer style blogs on the whole internet. Which is pretty amazing. I think your blog is great. my question however is about the recurring reference to “dapper”, I know the definition (i.e neat and trim in dress, appearance, or bearing), but i really would like your interpretation, in regard to queer style that is. AND why it is important?
Kind words much appreciated, friend! What a great question. Thanks for making me think about my word choices and why they are important to me. It’s definitely one of those words that has a lot of meanings and you can’t quite pin exactly what it means to every individual.
(source: closeupandprivate.com <— dope blog of close up fashion)
“Dapper” to me denotes a classic and traditional style, in to addition dressing smart and looking put together. Its use was originally for cis men who were thought of as gentlemen. Already by using it as queers or gender non conforming individuals, we are changing the meaning of the word and making it our own. So that’s one reason why it is important.
(source: styleforum.net)
I do associate specific clothes and looks along with the word, like brogues, bow ties, vests, brown leather, suspenders, fedoras, elbow patches, tweed, suits, button-ups tucked in, flat caps, pocket squares.
(source: deltoroshoes.com)
I also think it is the only way to describe exactly the way some of us want to look; smart, put together, classic, with clothes that fit extraordinarily well, but not necessarily for a formal event. I think it airs away from the more conservative ways of dressing that you might think of when just talking about formal wear or business casual clothing. The closest equivalent probably being dandy.
(source: juleofthenile.blogspot.com) <— awesome post and about gender bending clothes.)
And I mean, it’s such a FUN word! Better than smart, put together, clean cut, or anything else you could think of to describe the look.
10
Jun
Anonymous asked: I would really like to start wearing hats with some of my outfits. I own a few, but whenever I put them on, I feel like it’s too much & end up not wearing them. I’m partial to fedoras. I’ve never tried to pull off the skater/trucker hat, but I’ve always wanted to. Any ideas for fedoras, skater/trucker, or hats in general? & what kinds of dos/don’ts with outfits?
My friend A.D. says: haaaaaa, my eternal question.
Here’s the deal: if you wear it right, nothing is too much. But I understand your issue; hats are tricky, especially fedoras. Even though I’m not partial to fedoras (my head is a weird shape), I think fedoras can be worn just about anywhere. They look especially good when paired with dapper items, like collared shirts, oxfords, ties, etc. (Extra points if you wear a fedora on a date!) I’ve seen people rock them in jean shorts and T-shirts, too. The key to wearing a fedora (or any hat, really) is confidence. You’re wearing this cool/vintage-y hat, and it’s right there on top of your head with no place to hide.
Swag/confidence is required for skater/trucker hats, too, but it’s a different type of confidence. Fedora says, “Yeah, I know I’m wearing this, and I look damn good!” Skater/trucker says, “Bro, I’m cool and silly, and I know it.” Skater/truckers are rocked best when paired with some skinny jeans/tank top OR shorts/shirt (or tank).
