In search of tweed

[BostonRussell]

I was originally in love with this guy:

http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/Mens...6287/96287.jsp


Then I read that Ebay was such a treasure trove of tweed jackets (presumably because of the vintage stock, also that tweed takes well to wear and tear). I certainly have found some affordable options but the dull photography on most of them (not on a live human, no shirt/tie attached) is giving me trouble evaluating them. I'd love to save abotu 200$, it could go right to my "Edmond Allen Bel Air" fund.

Oppinions are appreciated:

http://cgi.ebay.com/mens-blazer-jack...1%7C240%3A1318

http://cgi.ebay.com/blazer-jacket-Ha...1%7C240%3A1318

http://cgi.ebay.com/blazer-jacket-Ha...1%7C240%3A1318

http://cgi.ebay.com/Brown-Harris-Twe...3286.m20.l1116

 

[DocHolliday]

If you go the eBay route, I would advise cautious bidding on brands you don't know. Tweed is hearty, but the construction on some older coats is lacking, and those can be stiff and a little unpleasant. Also, buying vintage naturally comes with a risk of holes or other problems. If you keep the initial investment low, it makes any misfires much more tolerable. And you might just end up with something great.

When looking at older coats, consider the shape and size of the lapels and the placement of the buttons. Are the bottoms of the lapels straight or rounded? I prefer straight, myself. And very low buttons -- with the bottom button well below the top of the pocket flap -- are a style that has now passed. Of course, if you don't mind looking a bit vintagey, no trouble there. Personally, I hunt the slim-lapeled look from the '60s. These, sadly, are far outnumbered by their large lapeled, lower-buttoning brethren.

Aside from eBay, you might consider visiting thrift shops. That's where most of the eBay tweeds are coming from, as thrifts are invariably brimming with older tweeds. There, at least, you get to inspect and handle the merchandise, so you know what you're getting.

 

[BostonRussell]

Originally Posted by DocHolliday

If you go the eBay route, I would advise cautious bidding on brands you don't know. Tweed is hearty, but the construction on some older coats is lacking, and those can be stiff and a little unpleasant. Also, buying vintage naturally comes with a risk of holes or other problems. If you keep the initial investment low, it makes any misfires much more tolerable. And you might just end up with something great.

When looking at older coats, consider the shape and size of the lapels and the placement of the buttons. Are the bottoms of the lapels straight or rounded? I prefer straight, myself. And very low buttons -- with the bottom button well below the top of the pocket flap -- are a style that has now passed. Of course, if you don't mind looking a bit vintagey, no trouble there. Personally, I hunt the slim-lapeled look from the '60s. These, sadly, are far outnumbered by their large lapeled, lower-buttoning brethren.

Aside from eBay, you might consider visiting thrift shops. That's where most of the eBay tweeds are coming from, as thrifts are invariably brimming with older tweeds. There, at least, you get to inspect and handle the merchandise, so you know what you're getting.

Thanks for that info!

 

[randallr]

Doc is like the king of the fall look.

 

[BostonRussell]

Originally Posted by randallr

Doc is like the king of the fall look.

It would certainly appear so.