Like Your Pants? Thank Beau Brummell
From our Life & Style Editor, Theresa Johnston
Beau Brummell just said “No” to overly ornate fashion back in the early 1800s. Why is this important? Because his rejection of frou-frou menswear in Regency Era England is the reason why clean-cut trousers, dress shirts, jackets, and ties are your modern wardrobe staples.
Although not born a gentleman, Brummell was a savvy social climber whose wit and notable fashion sense eventually gained the attention of the Prince of Wales (King George IV). The Prince’s approval of Brummell influenced many aristocrats to adopt Brummell’s style. Brummell held so much sway that he was revered and consulted much like a modern day celebrity stylist (think Brad Goreski) on all matters related to dress, grooming, and etiquette.
Prior to Brummell’s “fashion revolution,” high heels and bright colors were standard dress for male members of the aristocracy. Brummell preferred and evangelized darker colors and an overall more sober style that focused on simpler, well-cut garments made with high-quality fabric. He was known in particular for popularizing trousers instead of knee breeches (Hooray for pants!).
So the next time you put on your pants, remember your friend Beau Brummell. Without him, you might be wearing man capris.
Sources: http://histclo.com/bio/b/bio-brum.html” ; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beau_Brummell
