As I have stated before almost all traditional clothing has its origins in either war or sport. Critter imagery is no different as it is deeply rooted in the sport of hunting. Lots of animals are associated with trad, ivy, and preppy culture. There are ducks, pheasants, dogs (Retrievers, Labradors, Pointers), fish of all types (including whales) and numerous other woodland creatures, but by far my favorite of all the trad animals is the fox.
Fox symbolism has existed in many cultures. Fox have been seen as guides, protectors from evil and even deliverers of messages from the afterlife. However, the trad fox is more symbolic of the people that hunt them than the fox itself. This fox conjures up images of the gentry hunting with their hounds on a country estate. I don’t think that this dream (I am kind of an anglophile at times) is the reason that I like them only because I am more familiar with the fox from Disney’s “the fox and the hound”, “Robin Hood”, or Wes Anderson’s very cool “Fantastic Mr. Fox.” The fox in these films are clever, cunning, and possess a natural wisdom. Whatever the case I do know that I adore the fox and I am always on the lookout for an accessory adorned with them. I searched the web and have rounded up a few cool fox accessories and a couple of misses as well.
1. Smathers and Branson
2. R. Hanauer
3. Ralph Lauren Rugby
4. Belted Cow – This belt is really close to a miss, but I really want to like it. Plus, the fox is done well.
And a few Misses
1. Knot Belt Co. – Great idea, but poor execution.
2. Ralph Lauren Rubgy -They have some nice accessories decorated with foxes above, but I would hesitate to call this a fox.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foxes_in_popular_culture
I ran into this auction (not mine) after reading your post and just had to come back and bring it to your attention.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BNWT-125-POLO-by-Ralph-Lauren-Golden-Foxes-on-Navy-Blue-Emblematic-Neck-Tie-/271038060619?pt=US_Mens_Ties&hash=item3f1b20984b
HerrDavid – That is a great tie. I love the gold on navy. Mr. Typhoid Jones seems to have some nice stuff. I have perused his Etsy store quite a few times. Thanks!
Hi! I just wanted let you guys know that I appreciate your interest in that Polo tie. I really liked that one, but I’m up to my eyeballs in ties as is, lol. I’ve always liked clothing and have luckily been able to make a hobby out of it. Great blog and thanks for taking the time to check out my Etsy shop! -M-
Very nice post! I love your Fox belt. Have you found a fox wallet that you like?