July 20, 2010

Fashion Forward #7 - Brace Yourselves

Suspenders (Am. English) or how they're most commonly referred to, Braces (B. English), have been popping in and out of style for the past century. While originally designed so that the higher-cut trousers of that time wouldn't fall off, suspenders have become more or less useless in the age of low-cut pants and belts. Nonetheless, suspenders have nowadays made their way into mainstream fashion as more of a fashion statement rather than a practical accoutrement. Though they are considered underwear by the most purist of dandies and fashionistos, suspenders have broken out of their "always covered" shell and are now worn in full view, having become a part of different cultural scenes.

Browsing  TOPMAN.com , I happened to come across this Off White Vintage Tip Braces, which although not traditional due to their clip on rather than leather tab mode of attachment, I still find quite appealing.

Off White Vintage Tip Braces, $30
If you do fancy wearing suspenders or braces, whichever your favourite word for the might be, remember that wearing both suspenders or a belt is considered a faux pas!