Bowler Hats Forever

Clarence Trefry

$24.99

  • Description

I'm a big fan of three things: a good hat, a good suit, and a good photograph. So, naturally, I'm also a big fan of this portrait, which shows a man posing on the edge of a cemetery in his bowler hat and double-breasted suit. Like most articles of clothing, the good old double-breasted suit has a story all its own. The DB dates back to the 1880s and its design was inspired by traditional Navy jackets (which were also known as reefer jackets). Back in the late 19th century, the DB jacket was a more casual style option that was worn for leisure activities. It wasn't until the 1920s and 30s that the DB suit became an appropriate choice for more formal occasions. This change was largely inspired by the Duke of Windsor, whose preference for the DB helped elevate its style standing. Although various Hollywood stars, including Humphrey Bogart, helped the DB continue to build its momentum, the jacket fell out of style in the 1950s as the Mod suit, with its narrow lapels and natural silhouette, took over men's fashion. It wasn't until the 1980s that the double-breasted suit began its comeback. Today, the double-breasted suit is thoroughly back in style, although the contemporary version of the DB is far more subdued than its 1980s ancestor. This trip back in fashion history is brought to you by Clarence Trefry, who snapped this snappy portrait around the area of Rye, New Hampshire around the turn of the century.

  • Description

I'm a big fan of three things: a good hat, a good suit, and a good photograph. So, naturally, I'm also a big fan of this portrait, which shows a man posing on the edge of a cemetery in his bowler hat and double-breasted suit. Like most articles of clothing, the good old double-breasted suit has a story all its own. The DB dates back to the 1880s and its design was inspired by traditional Navy jackets (which were also known as reefer jackets). Back in the late 19th century, the DB jacket was a more casual style option that was worn for leisure activities. It wasn't until the 1920s and 30s that the DB suit became an appropriate choice for more formal occasions. This change was largely inspired by the Duke of Windsor, whose preference for the DB helped elevate its style standing. Although various Hollywood stars, including Humphrey Bogart, helped the DB continue to build its momentum, the jacket fell out of style in the 1950s as the Mod suit, with its narrow lapels and natural silhouette, took over men's fashion. It wasn't until the 1980s that the double-breasted suit began its comeback. Today, the double-breasted suit is thoroughly back in style, although the contemporary version of the DB is far more subdued than its 1980s ancestor. This trip back in fashion history is brought to you by Clarence Trefry, who snapped this snappy portrait around the area of Rye, New Hampshire around the turn of the century.