One of dapperQ’s key themes is that that style isn’t about blending in. It’s about dressing to fight the good fight each day. Folks may not like what we wear, but they can be damn sure we are making choices, self-determining and gliding through the world with pride.
In this OccupyWallStreet world, it’s less about money than it ever was. HOWEVER, quality isn’t cheap. And if you are interested in supporting artists rather than “the man”, you may have to save your pennies to buy special pieces.
I’m saying you like I don’t mean me. I do. In 2011, I paid off all my credit cards and I’m committed to staying out of debt. 2012 will see me buying less. I will be no longer buying pieces because they are a good deal or because shopping is a great way to overcome depression (temporarily.) I want to invest in pieces that will look as good ten years from now as they do today. I want accessories that are as unique as I am. And I want to direct my fashion dollars to budding entrepreneurs who share my values.
Since I live in Brooklyn, and since I founded dapperQ, I regularly meet designers whose work inspires me. 2012 will also see me sharing what they do with you. I’m not going to censor myself with an inner voice that says “none of my readers would pay $180 for a pair of pants.” I’m going to post what I see, what I love, and what I hope might inspire you.
My first amazing buy of the year? A pair of four-season, bike to work pants from Outlier. (Thanks Kurt and Jahn at Bklyn Dry Goods for turning me on to Outlier.) They stretch with me but don’t feel stretchy. They resistaned city schmutz and fit like a glove. Crafted in NYC, I would recommend these garments to anyone. I’ve never felt anything like Outlier’s Liberated Wool Peacoat (shown right.) I didn’t jump off a moving train but I could have.
A few lines from Outlier’s philosophy describes why I’m so geeked about the company…
One well considered object can take the place of many cheaply made ones. We think the traditional fashion system is flawed and that it is possible to create higher quality garments at better prices by rethinking traditional cycles of development, production and distribution.
Businesses need money the same way humans need water. It is essential to function, but profit should never be the goal or reason a company exists. A healthy organization creates value that extends far beyond money and into all points of its operation; from suppliers to employees and from customers into communities.
In 2012, I’m committing to quality and craftsmanship. Who wants to join me?
Bravo! Affirming prosperity rocks. Affirming artists and artisans rocks. Affirming getting real about what your value system really is rocks. Clearly, my dear…..YOU ROCK!
I’m in! You are so right. Quality classic pieces outlast cheaper trendy items in both style and durability. Also? Buying less? Totally HAWT!!!
Damn, been missing your voice! Thanks for chiming in.
My new motto foe twenty-twelve, “Quality over quantity.” Thank you for leading the charge!
i’m wearing ’em today, too! so good. and the people behind the brand are amazing.
Fine ideals for the New Year. A little off topic, I just have to say that I’m a sucker for non-cycling clothing that works on a bicycle.
I’m so with you. I made the same commitment to myself, and I added in “as much American-made as possible,” and my wardrobe and pocket are happier for it. I’ve scaled my wardrobe down over the past few years, but I have better quality clothes and I spend a lot less chasing every trend.
Great piece.
Outlier is _fantastic_ – I’ve been ogling their work for ages. Did you pick up the women’s cut or the dudes?