Below is a recent Charlie Rose interview of James Levine, conductor of the luminous Boston Symphony, Daniel Barenboim, former music director of the mighty Chicago Symphony and centenarian American composer Elliott Carter.
At 100 years old, I give Carter leeway in his dress but I do note his charming use of suspenders. Note the jacket on Daniel Barenboim – an example of a soft shoulder with no or very minimal padding (and unusual, Teba-like lapels – no notch as far as I could see).

Contemporary classical music is in a very similar situation to “classical” men’s clothing. It doesn’t resonate with today’s audience or to use Barenboim’s phrase it lacks immediacy.
In my Tom Ford entry, I give short shrift to “timeless” style in men’s clothing. This is because its strict application tends to lack “immediacy” – trueness to you and your context. I believe men should be absolutely aware of classical men’s clothing but they should not be slavishly bound to the canon in all things, all times and all places. For better or worse, we have the freedom to make choices.

3 thoughts on “Classical music and classic men’s clothing”

  1. Interesting!

    When it comes to men’s clothing the first thought which sparks in my mind is designer jeans. Anything will be suitable with designer jeans might be tees, shirts, jackets or blazers. Men in designer jeans look cool and handsome!

  2. Great stuff from you, man. Ive read your stuff before and youre just too awesome. I love what youve got here, love what youre saying and the way you say it. You make it entertaining and you still manage to keep it smart.

    high visibility clothing

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