I don’t know about you, but I haven’t had an excuse to dress up for a long time. Over the last year, I have been going to the same spot in my closet recycling a group of pieces that includes knits of various colors, some stretch five-pocket pants, a trio of knit sportscoats, and a couple of vests to layer. These pieces have been my go-to for easy care and easy comfort but at this point, a bit too much and I should probably think about replacing them no matter what. A nice freshen up here is probably overdue and now is a perfect time to redo that part of my wardrobe. I think this will include some new interlock knits, a hoodie or two, and definitely some 5-pockets in the new performance stretch colors.
Not one usually for award shows, over the weekend I found myself glued to the Golden Globes with celebrities adapting to the virtual setup sitting in their homes dressed up with fabulous outfits and borrowed jewels. Most of the celebrities commented on how great they felt to have a reason to get dressed up after such a long time of wearing only sweatpants and hoodies. Actually, a few of the nominees still showed up a little over-relaxed in their sweats and pajamas which seemed a bit disappointing and a bit in poor taste after all the effort that the majority had put in.
Whilst most of us still don’t have a reason to get dressed up, this weekend I decided that after receiving my second vaccine shot last week, I was ready for a restaurant experience after a very, very long time. The most enjoyable part of the whole (fully masked) event was getting ready. Putting together outfits from forgotten parts of my closet and enjoying playing dress-up was a great experience. I will admit that I discovered that I may need a few alterations here and there, sadly in a horizontal direction and it made me wonder that perhaps some of our clients may need assistance here too.
Feeling good in your clothes because they are custom-made for you was a wonderful sensation to re-discover and I wonder how many other guys are going to the backs of their closets having a similar experience of rediscovering pieces and looks that really distinguish J. Hilburn from all the rest. Putting on a beautiful sportscoat, a nice five-pocket, woven shirt, belt, and other finishing touches seemed familiar, but strangely new at the same time. I enjoyed remembering each fabric, the swatch it came from, the mill, and all the extraordinary effort that goes into making each and every wonderful piece. I will say that I felt a little indulgent too, admiring this wardrobe that was all made only for me, not only to my fit – but to my preference of button choices, lining colors, collars, etc. What a fortunate man am I, able to count on this constant support from my J. Hilburn wardrobe. I know that no matter the occasion, I can rely on this closet to always help me show up the better version of myself.
Standing finally in front of the mirror, I was also reminded how looking good makes you feel more confident, taking over your mood and I found myself standing taller, feeling better and the corners of my mouth decidedly curling upwards. Sad that no-one at the restaurant could see my smile as it was covered by my mask, but at least it’s a lovely comfortable J.Hilburn one. Bon appetite
