I have been spent a lot of time trying to find the perfect source for OCBDs, chinos, and Shetlands. My thinking was that once I nailed down the ideal garment that I would be set for life. I would be able to purchase these “perfect” items over and over until the end of my days. I now see the flaw in my logic.
I know that I am not alone in this search. I get a lot emails from readers are on the same mission. It is a noble pursuit. However, I am changing my strategy. After following the clothing industry more closely over the past 5-8 years I have learned that change is inevitable. A company may not change the cut of the product, but use a new factory which changes the fit or they have to change their source for raw material and the colors change as a result. There are countless other scenarios that will impact our “perfect” shirt, pants, sweaters.
Based on the above my advice is that if you find something that you really like and that fits you well buy multiples, because tomorrow will never be like yesterday. I have kicked myself more than once for not following that logic. Friend of the blog Ensiferous shared this piece of wisdom that is well worth remembering,
It’s called “Herblock’s Law”, after the famous editorial cartoonist: If you really like it, they’ll quit making it.
Just did that with a pair (actually 2) of blue leather boat shoes. Had wanted them all my adult life. Found two pair of Rockports on clearance, perfect size, for $24. So, bought one to wear and one for future.
This is a great policy in changing landscapes and disgustingly foreign-owned trad suppliers. If only i had stocked up on Lands’ End original oxfords.
I am with you. I started buying multiples about 7 years ago. Sometimes it is a challenge to the budget, but if you do not do it you regret it. My fourteen year old son is on this path as well. When we find a shirt we like for him we get his present size and then the next size up. I thought by the photographs you were going to discuss not being able to find good neckties.
Wonderful advice from Ensiferous. I am lucky enough to own four (4) pairs of USA made Bass Weejuns – three brown and one black – from the late 1960’s, early 1970’s that I have carefully preserved over the years. All still in rotation in my retirment years.
Absolutely follow this advice. I just bought three pairs of Bills Khakis on eBay. EXACTLY THIS REASONING! (And to NC Jack’s comment….Bill’s is going away!).
AKA “hoarding.” Ha ha. I do it a lot, too.
Bills Khakis is going away?
Folks , Bills Khaki is not closing although it will be under new management. I just talked to the owner few days ago because I am inquiring about their khaki pants. And he mentioned that the company will be under new management.
There is information on the internet that Bills was sold to a private equity firm last Dec. I know that this may not be the most reliable information, but if you Google (Bills Khakis sold) about the third option states the buyers name and such. I like the idea od Bills Khakis, but my body just gets lost in their pants. I have 2 pair of them that have hung in my closet about 3 years with no attention from me. I believe Jerrod has posted about Donnelly products. This may be a good source for some people.
I try to strike a balance. I don’t like to get too obsessed or else this behavior can border on hoarding or obsessive compulsiveness. I was reminded of this today when I opened the closet and saw five neatly pressed and cuffed pairs of stone chinos, four from Lands’ End and one from O’Connell’s. Granted, I like stone chinos, and favor them in the summertime especially. But five!? Given that they are traditional fit, hopeful that in all likelihood I won’t gain all that much weight, and even optimistic about the number of years I have left on this mortal coil, I probably won’t need to buy stone chinos again. Then again, as I like to say, one can never have too many chinos.
I understand the urge to buy multiples of a product. However, I’d like to remind you of a certain website that wasn’t around way back when: ebay! Set your saved searches for NOS (insert product name). Someone will always be selling it.