In this installment of “Ask A Gay,” our resident ‘mo expresses his fondness for Thom Browne’s updated version of the “high-water.”
“Bring Your Inner Nerd, Because It Has Already Been Broughten!”
Laura B. and her bevy of uptight, Ann Taylor-loving cronies surely do not know what they are talking about when it comes to fashion. (They are dolts when it comes to just about everything else as well, but that is beside the point.)
Recently, Women’s Wear Daily reported that “[w]hen Thom Browne wore his signature high-waters to a reception at the White House hosted by Laura Bush for the winners of the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Awards, he ‘drew more than a few curious glances, including those from several military guards.’”
While I will admit that high-waters can go way wrong, when Thommy-boy rocks his short pants, he is hard to beat. The look is classy, yet edgy; sophisticated, yet quirky. Above all else, this look is HIP.
Suits should be form-fitting and tailored. Perhaps that is redundant, but what is most important is that Mr. Browne’s high-waters retain the impeccably tailored shape of a great suit, yet still manage to add a much-needed dose of character to an otherwise stodgy wardrobe staple. Just like the rolled-up sleeve, or a touch of cuff showing at the wrist, the high-water is a great accent. Of course, you need to have the right socks, but that should not be too difficult.
As someone who wears suits 4 or so days a week, I appreciate the flair that the high-water provides. I often get bored looking at people in suits, mostly because people tend to wear absolutely hideous-o ones, but, literally speaking, suits are boring – they cover the body in the same fabric from head to toe. With the high-water, though, your attention is drawn to the ankle, a new point of interest for the eye.
For some reason the high-water also makes me think of Huckleberry Finn or the film “Lean on Me,” but in a corporate setting, and hence, I am smitten.
I say embrace your inner nerd!
