What do you know, there are spectrums
and they are every where. Sexuality spectrum. Autism spectrum. The Dandyism
Spectrum.
OK, it’s not a common term yet, so we’ll see how far I can
stretch this into the need for formalizing the concept. The hard coded term
definition for a dandy is a man
unduly devoted to style, neatness, and fashion in dress and appearance. The inclusion of the word unduly
(def: to an unwarranted degree) is not well
placed as it implies that the devotion to style is unnecessary, when in fact
for some this devotion is quite necessary to the individual. In ways one needs
to be unique and to be an individual above or outside the crowd. A dandy is
therefore one who is outside the norm. It is through this uniqueness that the
dandy expresses their personal needs to be their own individual, a sub-culture
of one.
Since my declaration is that dandyism
exists across a broad spectrum of style and then uniqueness, it is possible
that my goal of improved personal style might not meet the target of coming
“short of a dandy”. I might be able to achieve dandyism after all.
Writing this post in the aftermath of
studying the Pete Burrows’ July 2014 post The Elements of Dandy Fashion for
Modern Gentlemen (link) has brought some realization of
the spectrum. Burrows points out that some dandy gentlemen appear flamboyant
while other side to the dapper end of the spectrum. “Some dandies dress to stand out from the crowd, while
others opt for a more understated sort of elegance with muted colors and
minimal ornamentation.”
The modern dandy has so many choices and in the right
environments, or crowds, the respect of their uniqueness. Being influenced by
historically “over the top style” can be equally accepted (or unaccepted) as “a
dandy dresser sporting an impressive (but well-groomed) beard, gauged earrings,
or a tasteful and meaningful tattoo”. If you want your style to be unique and
outside the crowd’s norms you too could be, intentionally or not, a dandy.
Congratulations and welcome to the Spectrum!
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