Every week a different FADER staff member will pick a clothing item or accessory that he or she has lately been spending a lot of time with—or would like to—and write a little love letter to it. We would’ve done a column on who we’re dating but that seemed a little bit much. This week Alex Frank writes about the Original Penguin Blazer in Grape Juice.
For a while, I stayed far away from the blazer. There was a period of time not long ago that every time I saw a blazer and a pair of jeans, I was haunted by that awful word "metrosexual." This was not a convenient attitude to have either, since blazers are a great layer for men—a more structured brother to the cardigan. I even had a few tucked in my closet, but every time I'd grab one to try on in the mirror, I didn't like the young man I saw. And so I remained blazer-less, wrapping myself in wool cardigans, black and grey hoodies, and even a vest or two instead.
I must've grown up because those days are over, and blazers look not only good to me now, they feel essential. Especially if they are soft and casual like this one by Original Penguin. The moody plaid makes fall and winter look as comfy and inviting as a warm bed. But it's the strong shoulder, like any good blazer, that feels like a suit of armor, making me stand up straight and smart with the confidence that I just might be one sharp gentleman.