Hello-hello, all. The Consort here sidling mikeside while The (beautiful and very talented) Princess deals with a royal baby. I’d like to share some thoughts about becoming invisible. There will be no attractive magician’s assistants or brightly colored props. Nothing quite as dramatic as all that. It’s really very simple and it’s not even a trick.
I am approaching a birthday. It doesn’t matter which birthday; trust me when I say I am experienced at this celebration thing. I am in one of those demographic groups that advertisers ignore. As the years have passed I have noticed that I have become invisible. How so? When I was a much younger Consort I always flattered (and perhaps deluded) myself into thinking that young women noticed me. Men are like that. We are not above preening. But in recent years I am not seen as readily. I have become that “older gentleman” who has outgrown the fashions of my youth and has gravitated to a more traditional wardrobe. And you want to know something else? I’m comfortable with this transition. It’s about embracing style over fashion. In addition to my Cloak of Invisibility here’s what else I’m wearing these days…
Always count on Brooks Brothers to answer the style bell. This suit has it all; cut, pattern and weight. They didn’t get to be Brooks Brothers by following Ed Hardy, now did they?
Dress shirts do not need to be a challenge for gentlemen of a certain age. My choices are generally Brooks Brothers and Charles Tyrwhitt. I appreciate what is kindly called a “generous, comfortable fit” in a shirt. The good people at Tyrwhitt offer tailored features at a wonderful price. As I approach my doddering years it is important to save a dollar here and there.
When it’s time to go casual I turn to my friend Kiel James Patrick for guidance.
Kiel is launching a line of shirts for men and women that are wonderfully creative. I appreciate the fact that they are made in the USA and demonstrate a sense of humor. Those points count for something extra in my mind.
But now it’s time to bring these wanderings to a close – for now. The Princess has asked me to continue my thoughts in another post and, with your indulgence, I shall do just that. She’ll be back to upgrade the quality of writing in this blog. Until we meet again I’ll remind you to take care of your waitperson tonight; they’re working hard for you. Good night, everyone.