It almost feels like heresy to post a pair of white bucks in such pristine condition, but it was necessary because I have yet to pull out my summer shoes from storage. Unfortunately, I did not have enough courage to wear them with my winter tweeds as pictured below, but white bucks have always been an important part of my life.
When I was growing up, the world had left behind the northeastern concept of white bucks being an year around shoe, but I can honestly say that I lived in them during the spring/summer months. I wore them so often as a young man, that I abandoned them for most of my twenties, but I have grown fond of them once more. They are a shoe that you can literally beat the heck out of and just keep wearing. A little wear and tear creates a perfect patina, and it gives one the opportunity to pull out the old chalk bag. For those who have never owned a pair, white bucks are restored to their white prominence with a chalk bag. This is a very important part in creating that desired patina.
I can still recall today, my very first date as a young man at the tender age of sixteen. I can still see the blue oxford cloth button down, ribbon belt, khakis, and white bucks that I wore to pick up the young lady that I was reluctant to venture into the evening with. The young lady I escorted had hair bigger than Alaska, and some horribly sparkly dress. Clearly, I was not on a date with a preppy girl. She was average for my day, and unfortunately, I had not become the Richard we all love today.
Regardless, the night finally came to an end, and I remember the advice that my dear friend Brandon had given me about ending first dates. Foolishly, I listened to the boy and squeezed my young lady friend's behind as we kissed goodnight. Her response, she stomped my white bucks, leaving a shoe print on top. Little did she know, she was helping me to achieve that perfect patina :)
A jacket or cardigan over the shoulders is a classic look that I adore. There is something so nonchalant about it, yet with a bit of panache. Although not the most practical if one is in a hurry, if you are casually strolling and not in need of the complete warmth of the jacket, this is a great option. My grandmother always wore a cardigan over her shoulders and was of the opinion that every young lady should do the same. While I don't completely agree with that, I think it is a great way to add another layer of dimension to your outfit.
One of a gentleman's great luxuries is applying shaving soap with a silvertip badger hair brush. There are many advantages to using a badger hair shaving brush including that the badger hair holds water well thus producing a richer lather and that it softens and lifts the facial hair before shaving. I have three badger hair shaving brushes -- a small one with a travel case that I use when away from home, one that was my grandfather's that I regularly use (and has been used for nearly half a century no worse for the wear), and a handsome ivory and sterling handled one that I found at Bergdorf among their vintage pieces. It may take a bit more time to apply shaving soap with a shaving brush than applying shaving cream with your hand, but taking the time to do so is one of life's simple pleasures.
