From the desk of Mr. ANGELO FLACCAVENTO in Sicily, Italy, comes an urgent call to action in evaluating one’s wardrobe: “I often feel like my wardrobe is missing something: too many choices, I’m afraid, feel like no choice at all. Rationalising is the solution. Part detox, part re-start, the rational wardrobe – not the ideal, but one that functions – is efficient, modular and mistake-free. Based on accurate case studies, it is equipped with a tightly-edited choice of matching pieces – making permutations virtually endless – suited for every occasion facing a modern day gentleman in the course of the day. It should be compact and be able travel in its entirety, just in case. It should be renewed almost seasonally, too, to keep it fresh.”
Mr. FLACCAVENTO’s quest for a rational wardrobe is inspired in part by an image, part of which appears above, from the transfixing new book “Fashion at the Time of Fascism”, which includes only one sweater, no sportswear to speak of, and twenty-two handkerchiefs. “Maybe a contemporary version should include at least one pair of jeans and a cardigan,” suggests ANGELO, “but for the rest I’d keep it mostly like that, with a few trims in the coats and suits department, and the addition of some casual items – chinos perhaps?” Sneakers, suitable only for workouts, do not make his final edit. Ultimately this rationalization is a mental exercise that is sure to pave the way for a focused and spotless year of self-presentation.
COMMENTS
Clinton C.:
I like the minimalist trend here, good picture as well.
Edmondie:
How I wish I could be spoilt for “too many choices”!
Nueve Musas:
That book is fantastic, so many nuggets of inspiration and such a little discussed niche in fashion history. I second this recommendation. I recently conducted a major involuntary wardrobe edit and it’s been fantastic. For me it’s more of a uniform than a rational wardrobe, and if anything a matter of economy. We should all choose less, choose better, and choose smarter when we acquire clothes.
Morkle&Dahl:
The modern gentleman has much to learn from the gentlemen of the past – economy, efficiency, simplicity but with the possibility of interesting combinations & occasional surprises. Less is most definitely more when it comes to classic style and elegance on the masculine form.
Bas:
Sorry but I find this a tad boring.
Where is the personality? This could be anybody’s wardrobe.
Ryan Waggoner:
“This could be anybody’s wardrobe.”
Not today, it couldn’t. Almost no one dresses like this anymore. You’d be sure to stand out if you did so.
bill:
LOVE the vintage appeal of the images, yeah maybe a bit too old fashioned but a good place to start when re-thinking a wardrobe. Love the postings, keep up the good work!
Tyler Willis:
Would love if there was a refreshed version of this.
What would the versatile gentleman in 2010 have in his closet.
Beau:
Just love the authenticity of this!
Matt Fox:
Love it. Simplify! Great image too.
Blanche Ducksworth:
was looking for a furniture forum – came across yours, good read