Saturday, June 25, 2011

HERMES Men's Permanent Collection Solid Orange Silk Tie

I'm writing this at around 0100 in the morning in the D gates section of American Airlines terminal in Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.  The terminal is vacant save for the cleaning crews, who through their sweeping, dusting, mopping, and floor shining give the impression of bustling, industrious nervous insects preparing their hive for the impending arrival of their queen... 

I have an aversion to articles of clothing and accessories in certain colors, namely orange and purple, colors opposite each other on the color wheel as it turns out.  (This aversion extends to a lesser extent to green and yellow. ) This goes for all shades of orange and purple, from burnt umber to eggplant, respectively; these colors almost universally visually repulse me.  It has nothing to do with these colors not matching my skin tone, or my personal seasonal aesthetic (are you a winter or a fall? Answer: What does that even mean?)  
That said, I told myself that if I ever did feel compelled to purchase something in either of these two colors, it would have to meet a certain set of criteria.  Namely orange or purple would need to hold some special significance to the brand in question.  The article or accessory would need to be completely orange or purple, else it would appear as if I was trying to mask the fact that I had made a purchase that contained a little or a lot of two colors I loathe, almost as if these colors were afterthoughts or incidental.  

I had been contemplating purchasing something Hermes for a long time.  For me, my first purchase from a brand has to be something classic, something the brand is known for because they do whatever it is that I'm purchasing, the best.  I'm not a scarf guy--they're too fussy, too delicate, and too costumy.  This isn't to say I don't appreciate scarves, especially by Hermes.  On the contrary; they're just not my look.  An eight of an inch of precisely-folded solid white pocket square protruding from a suit pocket is as far I venture into that realm.  

It goes without saying that Hermes is known as much for their exquisite neckties for men as they are known for their Birkin bags for women.  Specifically, Hermes is known for their whimsical, collectable, and instantly-recognizable patterned silk neckties.  This color is whimsical and daring enough for me, along with being the Hermes signature, and so this is what I chose.  Just what the doctor ordered, a birthday present to myself as it were.  The buying experience was exceptional.  Although I made it known I was just in the market for a simple silk tie, the sales associate treated me as if I was entertaining the notion of purchasing several ready-to-wear pieces.  Multiple associates assisted in the packaging and the ultimate presentation once the transaction had transpired.  

I expect to pair this tie with a crisp white slim-fit dress shirt, khaki slacks, a light brown belt and loafers.  You can expect to see a picture of the same shortly as I aim to start photographically documenting some of my complete looks.