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On the Street.....Essex St., New York

 
 
 
 
 















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Tuesday, April 13, 2010

On the Street.....Essex St., New York


ps. you might recognize this young man from a post I did about Coney Island in August 2006 and from my book.

UPDATE - I should have written this when I first posted this image. One of the reasons I take a shot like this is that it is so uniquely American.

I took this shot Monday, I had just returned from Moscow and Berlin and, guess what, you don't see this there.

You don't see this type of style in Milan or Paris or Sydney or Stockholm. When I see a gentleman like this, like his style or hate his style, I'm forced to react. I think my blog only works when I can have both Lino AND a gentleman like this presented.

posted by The Sartorialist at 6:15 PM

Comments on "On the Street.....Essex St., New York"

 

Blogger M. Fairchild Clark said ... (6:26 PM) : 

While the color on this is SPECTACULAR and I commend any man who will even attempt to pull it off, I wish the fit was better. The collar could use more subtlety since the color is so big itself, and the pants look a bit wide legged. And, not to beat a dead horse, but the hat is too big too! The Ralph Lauren in me wants the pants to be kelly.

 

Blogger Tifftonians said ... (6:26 PM) : 

wow!
it hit me like a bus...

there is a german by my side laughing nonstop...
is it racism?

Actually, I don't really know...

both the german and the pink panter seam ok to me

no... its the beauty of being diverse...

good job

 

Blogger Kayla said ... (6:26 PM) : 

THIS IS EPIC.

 

Blogger SnapandPrint said ... (6:27 PM) : 

I am loving his pink suit and lighter pink hat. Great combo!

His attitude in the outfit really makes the photos tand out.

 

Blogger Joy Mars said ... (6:32 PM) : 

Only the RGB color spectrum could pick up this color so brilliantly. You'd never see this printed well in a book.
One good aspect to the web.

I'm all for energetic color. You have to go to Central and South America to see it -- in clothes and on houses. I hope we get into it as a culture. It's a mood-changer -- in a good way.

 

Blogger Lisa Petrarca said ... (6:36 PM) : 

I can only think one thing...pimp daddy!

 

Blogger Rebecca said ... (6:37 PM) : 

Very few men can pull off such a bold statement suit. His attitude in the photo is what makes this image a total stand-out. Nothing like greeting Spring with a bright pink suit. Kudos.

 

Blogger Gary K. said ... (6:37 PM) : 

Hmm. Bubblegum pink. I dunno... .

 

Blogger Madame en noire said ... (6:48 PM) : 

WOW!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (6:48 PM) : 

I like it! This pink is literally HOT! It also looks amazing against his skin color. This man is daring. He reminds me of one of the characters in Walter Mosley's work - Fearless Jones or a young Socrates Fortlow, perhaps?

Scott, I think it is imperative that you post diverse people, fashions, and ideas on your site. Keep it up! Diversity, color, and daring individuals, make the world go around (and this site is a perfect example of that!)

-huracán

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (6:50 PM) : 

Hideous. And as a black woman who dresses in a tasteful, conservative manner, but who still sometimes gets mistaken for a secretary or a maid, I find him embarrassing.

 

Blogger davidikus said ... (6:54 PM) : 

Plastic is fantastic. Pink is fantastink.

http://davidikus.blogspot.com/

 

Blogger Natalie Tahhan said ... (6:54 PM) : 

takes guts to wear that suit!

 

Blogger mariel said ... (6:56 PM) : 

aw snap!! he was really walking around in that? balls.

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (6:56 PM) : 

Say what you will about the size of his hat, lapels, etc, but I'll take this over the abundance of the photos of males carrying $1500 oversized handbags and the ensuing "love the bag" comments.

 

Anonymous Natasha said ... (7:02 PM) : 

wow, even if this isnt a typical "fashionable" look, you can respect him for wearing such a bold but lovely colour-i think it makes such a good change from the greys and blacks you see in cities all the time, or the only "acceptable" colours in fashion at the moment :)

 

Blogger TMFA said ... (7:03 PM) : 

This guy sure loves his pink colour...

Check Sartorial Streetstyle from Amsterdam at my blog. :)

http://getyourplanerightontime.com/

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:11 PM) : 

I'm sure he is a wonderful man, but he dresses like a clown.

 

Blogger Heather Feemster said ... (7:20 PM) : 

Wow, what a shot, what a suit.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:23 PM) : 

Intense...

 

Blogger Natalie J Monty said ... (7:23 PM) : 

big pimpin'!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:32 PM) : 

GORGEOUS. Living in Detroit I have been admiring black men's style with suits for a long time. I just love the palette. Men who are dressing in a more traditional template could really WAKE UP and learn a thing or two!!! Color is for everyone!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:37 PM) : 

Yes but is he sockless? Has he rolled his britches fashionably? One can only wonder.

@Christopher, thank you, the bag fetish needs to stop.

You dress this way to get people to look at you. They will look, so I guess it's a success.

 

Blogger joanaddicted said ... (7:46 PM) : 

noooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! haha i'd seriously like to meet this guy!!! and ask him 'what were you thinking???' the truth is ..he's got guts!

 

Blogger kathrynnova said ... (7:48 PM) : 

i've never seen such a bright pink suit! daring, but he wear it with confidence.

worldrunway.blogspot.com

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:51 PM) : 

he matches the lovely begonias blooming outside my window!

xx
eva

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:57 PM) : 

I like the contrast of the light pink hat and the intense darker pink of the suit.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (8:01 PM) : 

Super Fly Style! American vitality! Exuberance and Defiance!

 

Anonymous Anouk said ... (8:01 PM) : 

Reminds me of a character in the French novel 'La Vie Devant Soi' par Romain Gary, tres celebre. Peut-etre Garance connait Monsieur N'Da Amédée? :D


Also, I have never seen you visit Boston! We are not so far from NYC!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (8:05 PM) : 

Love when someone has the cajones to wear something like this. Gives us a visual shot and readjusts our sensibilities in the world of fashion. Thanks.

 

Blogger Nedda Ebo said ... (8:07 PM) : 

Lol what a pimp! Very colourful I like it. x

 

Blogger Francesca Robertson said ... (8:07 PM) : 

LOVE THAT COLOR!!!

xoxo,
F

lekisskiss.blogspot.com <-- Texas gal bloggin fashion from NYC!

 

Anonymous sj said ... (8:07 PM) : 

i just saw him on houston st on saturday night in this same suit!





myembellishedlife.wordpress.com

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (8:07 PM) : 

Sorry, I find this extremely tacky. It's the suit that would be left on the rack by even the most desperate tux-renter at the local rent-a-crappy-suit place. It's not the color - the color is fabulous. It's everything else about it. The fit, the self-covered buttons, the lapels, the pocket flaps, the shine...it's all pure cheese. Just....so bad.

 

Blogger Chateau de Chic said ... (8:32 PM) : 

Although I'm not sure how I feel about this look, this strikes me as something you would simply hate. I've always felt you were very drawn to low-key styles, and so I'm really surprised to see the flashiest of suits and watches appear here.

I guess it is what Anonymous said.. representing all styles, not just what you happen to like the most.

Click For A Deep Analysis of Style

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (8:35 PM) : 

pimpwearisntfashionever

 

Anonymous princess glee said ... (8:42 PM) : 

Uuuhm, he wear's pink. This is not fashion I'd emulate OR recommend, buuuut I certainly would want to talk to him to see what's on his mind.

 

Blogger Sista said ... (8:44 PM) : 

Elsa Schiaparelli Pink ..He is a hommage to her Surrealalist collaborations with salvador dali ...Shocking in every detail starting with the hat ....I'm wondering what his shoe choice was....

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (8:44 PM) : 

whatever!

 

Blogger Milt-fresh_best-dressed said ... (8:46 PM) : 

THANK GOD!!!!! SOMETHING I CAN UNDERSTAND!!! THIZ IZ MY STYLE TO T! SCOTT I'M GLAD U DIDN'T MIND DEVIATING FROM THE EVERYDAY BESPOKE TAILOR MADE, TOO TIGHT PANTZ WEARING, DR. MARTIN STOMPING GENTZ, TO SEEING A GENT WHO IZN'T AFRAID TO EMBRACE HIZ INNER 1920'Z HARLEM COOL. OR SHOULD I SAY 70'Z PLAYER!!! EITHER WAY I APPRECIIATE IT!!! THE FASHION WORLD DOEZN'T WANT TO EMBRACE THIZ LOOK. THE CONSERVITIVE DRESSERZ WANT TO HIDE BEHIND THEY'RE POWER SUITZ! BUT A TRUE MAN GETZ BUZY IN A PINK SUIT!!! I TILT MY GODFATHER HAT TO THIZ BROTHA!!!! HATERZ CHECK YOUR HUGGY BEAR AND SUPER FLY INSULTZ AT THE DOOR!!!!

 

Anonymous ruffhog said ... (8:51 PM) : 

excellent!! the Gangsta of Love!

 

Blogger *Photographer Harjot Kaur * said ... (8:54 PM) : 

hahha sweet!

 

Blogger TheHypeAround... said ... (9:02 PM) : 

So is this fellow an actual pimp? Or perhaps a pimp wanna be? He certainly has that "style."

One thing is for certain, I'd be embarassed if I were at an outdoor cafe someplace and he came and sat down at my table. Maybe its that whole stereotype thing that,as a black man,I sometimes fret about.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (9:07 PM) : 

You've heard the phrase, "It takes a real man to wear pink?" Yeah, it applies here. A visual exercise in paradoxy.

I bet he's a ton of fun to hang out with.

Sara

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (9:09 PM) : 

I don't like anything about it, but good for him for going bold.
Something about the cut of the suit, the hat and watch all scream ' 70's PIMP' and then when one combines that with bubblegum pink... all I get is an image of a pimp meeting with barbie and this suit is the result.

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (9:12 PM) : 

This really is horrible. Neither the over-the-top colour nor the over-sized fit do it for me. A pop of colour is nice once in a while, but come on...

 

Blogger SaraKateSwan said ... (9:13 PM) : 

Haha this is absolutely fantastic!! This is what fashion is about for me, expressing yourself & having fun in the process. Although, i dont think i have his bravery!!

www.beautifulstreets.blogspot.com

 

Blogger austinguy83 said ... (9:36 PM) : 

for the first time, I actually think I hate the way one of your subjects is dressed.... the suit looks like its made out of thin foam rubber. doesn't fit him. It looks more like a piece of protective outwear than a suit. I don't understand this at all. I need more than a garish color to like an outfit. I don't think he's pulling it off at all... I think he looks try-hardy.

 

Blogger erin nuts said ... (9:36 PM) : 

I think this is definitely one where honestly nobody should give a rat's ass whether it's a "good look" or not, and whether it's even aesthetically appealing, for that matter - who cares if he's fashionable, he's FABULOUS. I highly, highly doubt that he put this outfit on with anyone in mind but his own fly self, which in my opinion makes it entirely successful.

 

Blogger erin nuts said ... (9:46 PM) : 

and on another note - this debate came up a while back with another Sartorialist photo of a black man dressed in a similarly wild and flashy outfit, but for those who commented in reference to his race, I really think that it should be left out of the equation when you look at this shot. I understand that his style is related to a lot of black stereotypes, the whole "pimp" look, etc, and that for that reason maybe you wouldn't want to sit at a table with him dressed like this. but frankly, NOBODY CARES! he very well might not want to sit at a table with you! it's simply not about that. it's about a guy who's wearing exactly what he wants to wear and is wearing it with some serious balls. and on a different level, it's about nothing more than a fantastic photograph. I'm biracial and I certainly don't like anybody pigeonholing my choices based on my race, so I see where you're coming from in feeling like he makes black people look bad, but to say it's because he's black is pigeonholing him just as much. so I think instead of immediately thinking about how he makes YOU feel, we should consider how this outfit makes HIM feel and just appreciate how much fun he's having and how much fun it must have been to take this awesome picture.


...okay getting off my soapbox. sorry.

 

Blogger Kate Rose said ... (9:46 PM) : 

He is definitely having fun :)
What I love is the angle of the pockets, the layered lapel, the shock of play-doh pink. How is it that this look is getting more criticism than the woman with the Cousin-It electric pink coat that Sart shot not too long ago? Kudos dude, you got some serious swagger!

 

Blogger Ashley Reese said ... (9:49 PM) : 

This is crazy and amazing at the same time. Def a way to get noticed in NY!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (9:59 PM) : 

wow...I'm surprised at the borderline racist comments, and so happy to see many people applauding him for his boldness...

 

Anonymous Felicity said ... (10:12 PM) : 

I love a man in pink!!

 

Blogger not 1000 words said ... (10:20 PM) : 

I saw him in the LES saturday evening! :D

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:23 PM) : 

The picture is great - the man clearly has a style, and this (I assume) is a blog showing people with a personal style that stands out to you, not just one that you like. But if you asterisk the photo with "...like his style or hate his style, I'm forced to react," it seems a form of excuse for posting someone whose style you don't like. Perhaps let the picture stand on its own without depreciating it with unique justification?

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:32 PM) : 

this blog, is, as I see it, about personal style that stands out. Style can be defined as a particular expression of personality and individuality, When you make it about taste only, it can get boring and pretentious.

This guy exudes style. He's got something to say, and it's coming across loud and clear.

Great post.

 

Blogger Brigadeiro said ... (10:32 PM) : 

Now that is a challenge: Looking fierce in a bright pink suit! He manages beautifully!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:32 PM) : 

I love this shot. I'm so glad that you have perspective on fashion, style and culture and how they blend and influence each other. I so admire this shot and you!

 

Blogger Ayinde said ... (10:48 PM) : 

Suit is a little big, but he is a big guy and carries it well. His attitude matches the suit. I love the bigger fits of the hat though - like a flip on Thom Browne pants.

 

Blogger Joy Mars said ... (10:51 PM) : 

Is he a gentleman? Who dresses like that? What job description fits this over-the-top kind of costuming?

Not your run-of-the-mill homeboy.

 

Blogger Chike Atu said ... (10:52 PM) : 

I absoulutely love this brotha! I see him all the time in the L.E.S... if you hang, shop or whatever down there, you see him. Really cool dude too... ALWAYS in a suit... hottest day?! dont matter. I respect him because he truly believes in his vision! Thats his vision. And i respect his creative soul...

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:52 PM) : 

Come on really! This is hideous. Please Scott!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:06 PM) : 

awesome! all cultures should be recognized as "legitimate" in its efforts to express itself. circumstances create cultures and this is definitely a result of some interesting life circumstances for this gentleman. better fit would be lovely however.

 

Anonymous enrique said ... (11:17 PM) : 

This just in! Spring is fuschia's comeback!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:26 PM) : 

Ebony Magazine circa 1975?

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (11:26 PM) : 

I am surprised at the racism posted here. Thank you for the lovely photo and forward style. I wish there were more optimism and COLOR in the world. Brilliant! And fun!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:27 PM) : 

Um, he looks like bubblegum. I can't stand bright suits on anyone. I also wonder if this fabric is possible before 1950.

 

Anonymous Elisa Gijsen / Brazil said ... (11:41 PM) : 

fucking cool. poderia ser sambista no carnaval brasileiro na mangueira.

 

Blogger liquidmorpheme said ... (11:44 PM) : 

Actually this looks a lot like what Marinetti envisioned when he wrote the Futurist Manifesto of Men's Clothing. So, at one point, you would have seen something like this on the streets of Milan. . .

 

Blogger liquidmorpheme said ... (11:46 PM) : 

I believe he specifically called them Anti-Neutral Clothes.

 

Blogger tim said ... (12:18 AM) : 

He's got style, which means he's got personality, and that's what counts.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (12:41 AM) : 

Attitude!

And why not...

 

Blogger Criteriamour said ... (1:05 AM) : 

This is interesting, but where are the spring and summer looks? Are you going to Greenland and Antarctica next?

 

Blogger James said ... (1:11 AM) : 

Am I the only one to say that this guy looks like he's a Congolese sapeur? Check out the book 'Gentlemen of Bacongo' for more info. Sapeurs are bad-ass.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (1:11 AM) : 

"I took this shot Monday, I had just returned from Moscow and Berlin and, guess what, you don't see this there."

Yes, yes, we know.

 

Blogger Jason Laucht said ... (1:23 AM) : 

OMG! can someone pls tailor one for me!!
lol

 

Blogger Bukurije said ... (1:39 AM) : 

I think it's suuuper wild. Why not go for something different then the usual black, grey ect.

I actually think it's kind of brilliant. Maybe a bit toooo bright ans shiny, but again.

Bukurije
http://liloemini.blogspot.com

 

Anonymous Yoram from Berlin said ... (1:52 AM) : 

Love it, because most American men have huge masculinity issues tied to pink... you can't get an American salary man into a pink shirt because it might be "gay" but this guy clearly knows who he is.

Props given.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (1:57 AM) : 

I love most things you post on here. That being said, I don't like this look at all!
I don’t like anything about his suit, the size, the colour, the way it’s not ironed properly, the buttons, whatever he’s got going on underneath, even his hat or his big watch- nothing. I don’t understand how he’s on this blog- I simply cannot fathom why. But, I get it, it’s shocking- he’s wearing bright pink. He has guts, there’s no doubt about that. I understand that you want to capture a wide array of personal styles, but as individualistic as this man might be, I don’t think this is fashionable in the least. I thought this blog was about capturing those with a good sense of fashion, who have innovative personal styles, who set trends- not those who can just dye their rags in Pepto Bismol and are good to go.. Can you take my picture if I walk around dressed in a garbage bag from head to toe? Same thing I think, it’s so random, shocking, daring- but fashionable? No.
You even wrote under his picture “like his style or hate his style” – I’m feeling that you anticipated some sort of protest. But I’m glad this picture’s up here, it’s a perfect bad example.

-Pri

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (2:30 AM) : 

i thought it was a shoot from africa, those guys dressing spectacularly, and he also does! this is fashion, an unreal world that is here to satisfy our personal stetic demands, loved it!

 

Blogger notanotherblog said ... (2:35 AM) : 

It's not that hideous, guys. Calm down. The colour choice
is brave, I can never pull off something like this.

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (2:42 AM) : 

the colous is awesome!


http://sofrannifinesse.blogspot.com/

 

Blogger Déborah said ... (2:48 AM) : 

I like it!
not anyone could wear this and still look cool. this guy is one of the rare people who can!

 

Blogger stylefrontier said ... (3:09 AM) : 

this outfit is amazingg
there isnt much gentlemen going around like this

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (3:14 AM) : 

You can see it also in Africa:)

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (3:14 AM) : 

What do you mean only in America? Scott, have you ever heard of gentlemen of bacongo?

 

Blogger AnAzevedo said ... (3:17 AM) : 

He doen't care! he loves pink and he wears pink no matter what everybody else thinks.
I think this is sooooooooo very much tacky but i love his confidence.

 

Blogger Emilie said ... (3:17 AM) : 

I love this shot.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (3:19 AM) : 

The great thing about this bloke is that he would not care for the pink naysayers.

I'd happily sit with him because, by wearing a suit like that, I would expect an interesting yarn or 2000.

 

Blogger Comme Coco said ... (3:43 AM) : 

Seriously, this man OWNS his style!
I love that!

 

Blogger Diana said ... (3:46 AM) : 

I think the day, when you stop shooting images like this, and concentrate only on Linos and Lucas, I will also stop visiting your blog!!!
:-)) See it as a warning Mr Schumann!

He is a sunshine. A shocking pink sunshine!

 

Blogger MlleV said ... (3:49 AM) : 

Hideous? Not in my book.

Why? Love it or hate it, it's his carefully thought-out look and I say good for him.

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (3:49 AM) : 

wow!!!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (3:52 AM) : 

But you can see this in Congo Brazzaville, where the sappeurs, have their own fashion universe. i am sure the man in your picture is influenced by the sappeurs de Brazza

 

Blogger pinkyracer said ... (3:57 AM) : 

He's man enough for me, I'll tell you that. And he makes me miss NYC. We have pimp style in LA, but not in hot pink.

 

Blogger MELISSA Z. said ... (4:06 AM) : 

Oh my Gosh! Pink never dies!

www.abitoffashion.com

 

Blogger edp said ... (4:27 AM) : 

I love diversity. What's the point of dressing like clones?

 

Blogger J. M. said ... (4:33 AM) : 

I think he needs to visit Africa!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (4:33 AM) : 

Sweet. Grew up in Chicago. This is normal. All kinds of diverse style, color, Africa showing off, from the very sophisticated to the 'hood'. It's what makes us who we are. Unique! Sartorialist, you are one of a kind. Globetrotter! Love your eye for style and vision!

This blog is amazing.
Cole's lady...

 

Anonymous proletarian Great Gatsby said ... (4:36 AM) : 

Think Pink (Funny Face,1957 directed by Stanley Donen).
No thanks.

 

Anonymous proletarian Great Gatsby said ... (4:42 AM) : 

After Black Panther now Pink Panther?

 

Blogger Sara Lee Bentley said ... (4:42 AM) : 

I agree that it's all in the mix. The point is personal style, but it is true that personal style is often influenced by it's surroundings.
This is a great pop of color!

www.sarabbentley.blogspot.com

 

Blogger Baron-Münchhausen said ... (4:47 AM) : 

I'm a barbie girl, in the barbie world
Life in plastic, it's fantastic!

 

Blogger Nar8iv said ... (4:47 AM) : 

I like the shot.It's distinct.
and that is the point of this blog.
My one criticism is that this isnt distinctly american as you put it.
That type of swag has been standard in Africa for a while.
With unrest in parts of africa I have been blessed to see how Nigerians, Angolans and Congolese put their own twist on it.

if you should ever come down to Sout Africa give me a shout and I would be glad to show you around Cape Town a little and break bread.

Respect to you for your incredible blog /vignette.

 

Blogger Morgane Melo said ... (4:48 AM) : 

wahou!!!gorgeous!!

 

Anonymous Felicia said ... (4:59 AM) : 

The difference between him and the usual pimped out Italians, French, etc. that are featured on this blog is that this man makes the clothes, the clothes don't make him. His personality shines through in this photograph. Yes the pink is the first thing that most people will see, but what most people with real style will see is his attitude, the power and beauty through his eyes...and that stance? Pure HIM! You can't tailor style baby, can't even buy it no matter how much money you make or what magazine you happen to be editor of.

Keep it coming, Scott.

Felicia
http://www.felicia-shelton.com

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (5:02 AM) : 

@Christopher: you are SO right!

For the suit: no guts no glory. I do like the sheer breezy fun of it.

Reminds me of zoot suits or the Congolese sapeurstyle which you actually do find in Paris and Brussels.
Have some guts Scott, and just check the right (and less chique) neighbourhoods! Hanging around the fashion fairs will give you these endless shots of silly bags with silly bags.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (5:07 AM) : 

Pity the poor readers who feel embarrassed by this gentleman's sartorial choice or who believe that it somehow qualifies him as a pimp/ gangsta/clown or other borderline lifestyle. Get over yourselves and let the gentleman bask in his exuberance in peace!

--haapi

PS: @ Christopher: YES!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (5:11 AM) : 

What confidence! What pizzaz!
My heart skipped a beat when I saw this photo -and the colour is so uplifiting.

All the boring pretentious people can go one being boring and pretentious, waxing lyrical criticisms. Everyone can be a critic but it takes guts to be creative.

 

Anonymous costume jewellery said ... (5:13 AM) : 

You might see that in London also!

 

Blogger Emma Hoareau said ... (5:21 AM) : 

AMAZING! such a bright colour, so well pulled off

http://lolitasaysso.blogspot.com/

 

Blogger Goldilocks said ... (5:25 AM) : 

Can you please stop with the "pimp" and "homeboy" comments please?! It's embarrassing and condescending. These are some of the same words used to describe Kanye West when he was photographed in fur awhile back. Ugh.

 

Anonymous violettewoods said ... (5:26 AM) : 

i adore this! very difficult to wear,but he does it so well! truely inspirational

 

Blogger TheStreetFashion5xpro said ... (5:26 AM) : 

amazing!...fabulous!

 

Blogger SabinePsynopsis said ... (5:44 AM) : 

Absolutely! What would the world (and fashion) be without fierce guys like him?!

 

Anonymous Filuzi said ... (6:02 AM) : 

This is the pinkest pink I've ever seen in my life - and he pulls it off!

 

Blogger Ariko said ... (6:07 AM) : 

He reminds me the latest book published by Trolley, "Gentlemen of Bacongo". You should really get it if you didn't yet!

Ariko
www.designcatwalk.com

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (6:13 AM) : 

Gentlemen of Bacongo:

http://www.fotografie.nl/agenda/38509/gentlemen-of-bacongo

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (6:21 AM) : 

scott, you shouldn't have to explain yourself. the color of his suit is beautiful & the cut is very interesting. style is really not universal, but it is like art that evokes strong responses. if people don't like his suit they can simply not dress like him! all these rude comments are ignorant and immature.

 

Blogger Black Devil said ... (6:36 AM) : 

love him.


Style is more than one thing people.

 

Blogger The Sartorialist said ... (6:54 AM) : 

for Anon 6:24

I'm not expain myself, I'm communicating

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:03 AM) : 

He is brilliant. I never expected your blog would be this good! :-)

 

Blogger Barbara von Enger said ... (7:03 AM) : 

Bold, commanding, fierce.
Reminds me of life in Barbados. xx

 

Anonymous Ella Walker said ... (7:26 AM) : 

I'm blinded.

 

Anonymous Archibald said ... (7:39 AM) : 

You do not see those colours often, but NY isn't the only place... Watch The Gentlemen of Bacongo

 

Anonymous Rolf said ... (7:56 AM) : 

This is a real zoot suitism outfit.

 

Blogger Rebekah said ... (8:07 AM) : 

He is OWNING that suit and hat! And the best part? ... It looks good...on HIM! Someone above me said it was "extravagant and daring" and I don't think it can be expressed any better than that.

I love living in this country! His style is a reflection of the word "freedom."

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (8:18 AM) : 

My eyes just died.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (9:01 AM) : 

No pimps here. He is just a sharp dressed man. Shocking to look at but I would drink a latte with this dude at my table anytime.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (9:08 AM) : 

PS:
You may (or may not) already know this but you see this kind of style in Paris, too. But you have to leave the well-trod Marais/Louvre/St Germain beat and go into the less posh neighborhoods. Spend an afternoon in Barbes, Belleville or in the 94 and you'll definitely get your fill.

cheers-
--haapi

 

Anonymous K said ... (9:11 AM) : 

This suit has a magnificent color, which is complimented by the gentleman's attitude. His fine choice of details, the watch and the hat, concludes the style of the outfit.

The photo instantly reminded me of the cover of the book "Gentlemen of Bacongo" by Daniele Tamagni.

 

Blogger FindingFashionland said ... (9:18 AM) : 

what is the name PIMP?
im one of the persons who hates this outfit!

 

Blogger Frederique said ... (9:45 AM) : 

I really respect the fact that you uploaded this photo on your blog, it takes balls to do this and it takes balls to wear this!!! :)

 

Blogger kbd said ... (10:47 AM) : 

You should try Africa, then. Wonderful stuff like this happens there all the time. Try Cape Town or Joburg.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:50 AM) : 

Like you say in a later post Scott, too many people take your images literally and are trying to replicate a "Sartorialist" style. Even my friends and I are starting to notice individuals perpetrating such a look. We call them "Sartorialist moments" which is really a misnomer because it goes against the grain of what you actually intend with the blog, because if everyone actually looked like Lino, what a boring world it would be. Boring is what fashion and fashionistas can start to seem when it becomes predictable that of course they will always have the latest offering from the hip new cool designer, mainstream or avant garde. The seamlessness of Lino could also start to grate if there was not the balance of this gentleman's kind of style. So much more could be said about how our heritage, way we live, what surrounds us and how we imagine ourselves shape how we present ourselves to the world...you captured it all at once in that great pic of the young woman and older man on a bus stop bench in Moscow...style and fashion works best when there is contrast...more engaging provocation for the eyes...

 

Anonymous jaine said ... (10:54 AM) : 

love pink!

 

Anonymous Liz said ... (11:08 AM) : 

I've been thinking about this...art is about two things, the effortless harmony, and a deeper purpose. The deeper purpose in Scott's work has to do with the choice we all make first thing everyday, that tabula raza of who we are, and how our resources, habitat and intelligence mix, to create a picture of who we feel ourselves to be. And then the leap over to how that looks to other folks.

The first thing I saw was this fellow's eyes. There is some suffering there amid all the pink. I relate to the shiny polyester, I've been there. That and the love of color. A life story in a choice. That's what is beautiful in these photos.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:13 AM) : 

Scott, I like your honest comments about Queens as well as this image here being uniquely American. You must've got strong reaction to these comments. I think the reaction in itself is uniquely American - so readily defensive, so needy to feel good and be politically correct. If you tried talking about weight in your next post, you'd strike three :) Oh well ... I do appreciate your candidacy and worldliness.

 

Anonymous Kyle said ... (11:20 AM) : 

I saw this man on the street literally the day before this was taken. Here are some shots of him in a shiny red suit:

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs384.snc3/23510_581124470095_35401375_34362734_451133_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs424.ash1/23510_581124465105_35401375_34362733_803767_n.jpg

 

Anonymous blogger@uneamericaine.com said ... (11:26 AM) : 

Love the color! More colorful looks on

www.uneamericaine.com

Latest Post..."A Day with DIOR"

xxx

 

Blogger Cultivated Ah Lian said ... (11:27 AM) : 

both Lino and this guy have their own sense of style and they look great! that's what this website's all about!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:30 AM) : 

I like people who can have a little fun. If its not your thing so what, its not like he went on an interview with it. Fashion is not about taking yourself too seriously!

I like and the attitude is the best part!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (12:10 PM) : 

Dare to be YOURSELF!That's what this picture screams to me.It's not everybodys choice but it's not meant to be.It's uniquely that MANS and I respect it.

Most 'fashionistas' are sheep who read Vogue and follow blogs like this (no offence Scott) to gain 'imspiration' otherwise known as being told what to wear to fit into a very ordinary mundane world.Thanks for this picture it made me smile.He's so proud and unafraid and for that I can't help but think this picture is anything short of BEAUTIFUL.

 

Anonymous princess glee said ... (12:38 PM) : 

Makes me think of the late Bernie Mack and Steve Harvey.

 

Blogger Prutha Raithatha said ... (1:00 PM) : 

i always love knowing ppl who have a style of their own... good or bad, if they know how to make an opriginal statement, they have own my attention!!

i think that goes with my relationships too...hehehe... i always get very attracted to men who r different in some form.. [cool that i kinda made this coonection in my head right now...hehe]..psycho analysis thru a fashion blog!!!

http://www.donotshoeme.blogspot.com/

 

Blogger Chaely said ... (1:04 PM) : 

It's funny you should say that - he reminded me immediately of the Congolese sapeurs & their sharp, vibrant, over-the-top style.

 

Anonymous Isobel said ... (1:13 PM) : 

love love love love love love love.... dont you just want to get inside his head and follow the thought process that said " i am going to buy a pink suit today and wear it with utter dignity."

i can tell you one thing, you would NEVER see this in Dublin....

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (1:14 PM) : 

Love it! I could also see a woman in Paris wearing this type/cut/color of suit---except somehow, in Paris, she would wear a heavier or more substantial fabrication of it. I also LOVE the unique style of American black women and their church hats! You should capture some black women in their Sunday finest; in this same vein-- a look that is also wholly (African) American! :)

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (1:32 PM) : 

you need to go to africa! west africa especially, senegal, ghana... colors like this are EVERYWHERE there

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (2:24 PM) : 

Pimpwear, circa 1976. It so reminds me of Huggy Bear in Starsky and Hutch.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (2:26 PM) : 

history, value, statement, voice of ones own, tolerance, grace, aplomb, vision, expression, irreverence, freedom...a celebration of The Individual, a uniquely American ideal

 

Blogger Unknown said ... (2:39 PM) : 

I love it and it reminds me of the cover of the book Gentlement of Congo by Daniele Tamagni, which came out at the end of 2009. Great book all about Les Sapeurs- a movement of African men (mainly from the Congo region) who are obsessed with high fashion and representing their individual style. This gentleman is like a mirror image of the one on the cover... it's super bizaar. In fact Paul Smith did his whole women's collection for SS10 based on this book AND on this pink suit!

 

Blogger Julia, the Thanksgiving Girl said ... (2:48 PM) : 

Oh definately nothing like that ehre in Moscow! And just look at this color - his outfit is creaming "spring"! :)

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (3:26 PM) : 

bling - as defined by the oxford english dictionary.

wiley kinde - 20th/21st cent. American painter.

16th & 17th century opulence as presented in European and Dutch paintings of the royals and government.

i hate and love his outfit - both for the same reasons. also, pink was originally a masculine.

*sP

 

Blogger Mango Gal said ... (3:50 PM) : 

I keep coming back to this photo. I love the look on his face and his body language, total and complete confidence in his style. That type of confidence is very inspirational. It's the same confidence as the Italian man in the above post who's mixing patterns and accenting with a little green handkerchief. Different styles, but the same confidence.

 

Blogger Charlyndria said ... (4:19 PM) : 

I've seen this guy in March of 2008 in the LES wearing a bright big bird yellow suit with feathers. He has some balls to wear these strange suits and colors.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (4:30 PM) : 

This man exudes personal style. One of the most amazing style moments I've ever had in my life was when I was in Las Vegas the weekend of a Mike Tyson fight, 1998 or 1999. Walking through the MGM Grand casino, I ended up wading through a seemingly endless parade of high-class black urban fashion - men in suits and fedoras of every color imaginable, pocket squares, beautiful walking sticks, ladies in suit dresses, elaborately ornamented hair, glossy nails like rainbow talons. They were AMAZING and I felt pale and boring in comparison. I've never forgotten it.

 

Blogger Izzen said ... (5:08 PM) : 

HE EXCITES ME.

http://izzenxoxo.blogspot.com

 

Anonymous Caroline said ... (5:24 PM) : 

"PS:
You may (or may not) already know this but you see this kind of style in Paris, too. But you have to leave the well-trod Marais/Louvre/St Germain beat and go into the less posh neighborhoods. Spend an afternoon in Barbes, Belleville or in the 94 and you'll definitely get your fill.

cheers-
--haapiwho"

I second this!

Caroline.

 

Anonymous Roses said ... (5:31 PM) : 

Thanks to everyone who posted about Gentlemen of Bacongo. I'll have to check it out.

 

Blogger BobKentNoVa said ... (5:48 PM) : 

You have to be one tough looking hombre to wear a flamboyant suit like this and not have to take any flack about it. This man clearly fulfills that requirement.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (5:58 PM) : 

The interalized classism and racism that comes up in reaction to the black men posted on your block is amazing.

If this had a been a skinny white Italian woman, people would be all over themselves about how wonderful the bright colour was, how individual her style was but because it's a black dude, it's he looks like pimp.

As many non Americans have pointed out you see this look in Africa and in the cities of Europe now and it should inspire not be shamed.

I love the colour and his commitment and comfort in it. it isn't fitted but than again it's not suppose to be.

 

Blogger Sophia L said ... (6:49 PM) : 

What a baller!
and Thanks for adding your little preface Mr. Schuman, but I do like it better when it's not about whether or not anyone likes the style (even you). People forget that a lot of those people photographed got up that morning and decided that was what they were going to wear. Maybe they wear it because they like it, not because they expect to be photographed and put on this site, and so it's silly and mean to pick out what we see as the style flaws. Anyone can duplicate a stylish outfit, but when there's a little (or big) quirk, the outfit is all about who they have decided to be on this day, and that's powerful.
I just love this blog, keep it up!

 

Anonymous T. AKA Ricky Raw said ... (6:58 PM) : 

I couldn't wear that myself, but I'm sure for the type of chicks he's out to impress that suit gets the job done. I imagine he cleans up at places like Sugar Hill on Nostrand Avenue, where I see a lot of dudes in these suits.

 

Anonymous T. AKA Ricky Raw said ... (7:01 PM) : 

Speaking as a black man myself, the real irony is that you'll oftentimes find the most visceral, knee-jerk reactions to a picture like this not from the white people but from the middle to upper-class blacks. Black squares can be more classist to poor blacks than some of the snobbiest whites.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:06 PM) : 

@ Erinie, your words could very well have been mine, it's about a great photo, clearly he's a confident person. i love fashion as much as the next person but i applaude those who have their own style regardless of what fashion dictates. beats walking down bedford ave in williamsburg NY where everyone looks the same....bo-ring! all you fashionistas out there, please try to think outside of your confined box!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (7:39 PM) : 

I should hate this, but I don't. It's interesting that he still looks quite masculine despite being dressed head-to-toe in pink.

 

Blogger samvt said ... (7:54 PM) : 

Sorry....all I can think of when I look at this is "pimp"

 

Blogger TheHypeAround... said ... (8:49 PM) : 

First of all, let's be a bit careful about throwing the terms racist and racism around. People have made comments that he looks like a pimp, 70's throwback, pimp daddy etc. Clearly the gentleman's outfit has a strong resemblance to that particular iconoclastic reference. Such an outfit may have a different cultural reference in, say Cuba or South Africa, but not here in America. Pimp is as pimp does.

And for the few posters who simply can't understand why some black viewers of Scot's blog might not be as enthused about this portrait versus say, one of Jeffrey Banks, I say chill. It's just an opinion.
I applaud this guy for wearing this outfit with such attitude but man, it's a bit much.

 

Anonymous JJ said ... (10:50 PM) : 

Makes you wonder where he is going...I can't imagine a venue where this is an appropriate look.

 

Blogger Brandon Jones said ... (10:54 PM) : 

one day early for anti bullying day. :)

 

Anonymous Nariya said ... (11:15 PM) : 

Love how the hat sits low and straight over his brow.

 

Blogger Paige Joost said ... (11:16 PM) : 

I personally love this post, as I do all your posts. I sort of chuckle when I read people's comments of what they would change about it or when they analyze every little detail. I never seem to do that with your images, I simply absorb them and try to figure out what it is that you want the reader to understand when viewing it.

This one is completely unique to America, and that principle itself is beautiful. Your posts continue to surprise and inspire all of us, and I love that about the blog...not just "beautiful" street style....it is thought provoking. This is something we need more of in the world today.

 

Blogger Ninjagaiden78 said ... (11:18 PM) : 

I think his confidence is what makes the outfit. Fantastic!

windowshop78.blogspot.com

 

Blogger Kathleen said ... (11:21 PM) : 

You are right, only in America. I am not sure what to say in this case. Attitude comes to my mind immediately. Attitude and B - l l s! You have to be very sure of yourself when you dress in this manner,
very sure!

 

Anonymous G.Payton said ... (11:43 PM) : 

Thank you Scott for including diversity on so many levels. It's a great shot.

 

Anonymous Stacey Kay said ... (12:51 AM) : 

Crazy Crazy Crazy! So unexpected, but this is why we love you!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (1:24 AM) : 

This is not an example of American style...it is as much an anomaly here as it is anywhere else in the world.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:23 AM) : 

that's funny - I am from Eastern Europe, but last week I was on some trip to New York and saw thi svery same person, while walking over the Brokklyn Bridge, waring the same pink hat and some quite sick pink fur coat. Also took a pic of him, but not quite so good :) So that's double good for me - nice pic and a nice memory of NY :)))

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:36 AM) : 

Well, I could see wearing this over the weekend, but on a Monday???
LOL

 

Anonymous T. AKA Ricky Raw said ... (11:49 AM) : 

Someone wrote:
This is not an example of American style...it is as much an anomaly here as it is anywhere else in the world.

Just because it doesn't represent YOUR corner of America doesn't mean it's an anomaly here. I'd argue there are more Americans that dress like this than dress like hipsters.

There's more to America than Lower East Side Manhattan and Williamsburg Brooklyn.

 

Blogger Isabelle Lafleche said ... (11:51 AM) : 

UNREAL! Fantastic photo!!!

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (1:43 PM) : 

I liiiiike it!!!! im from germany and ive never seen something like that over here. i think a touch of colour would definetly benefit my country. the people like it more grey and blue here.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (2:30 PM) : 

To everyone mentioning in Congo, sorry, the U.S. version came first. These sort of over the top, brightly colored pseudo-zoot suits have been popular in the black community for a very long time. I think the Congolese guys have taken it to the next level, but you've got to give props to fellows like this.

 

Anonymous Janell said ... (2:39 PM) : 

this is this guy's idea of fashion. it is his estilo and for that reason alone it is valid.

 

Blogger indigo warrior said ... (3:22 PM) : 

It takes some stones to wear a pink suit. Particularly for a man. I like it, because *he's wearing it and it's not wearing him*. What was his shirt and tie like. I see some pink in there, but I'm curious.

I bet he's a very interesting man, beyond the clothes.

 

Anonymous key said ... (3:51 PM) : 

it is what it is and this guy can pull it off. i love his hattitude. (is he wearing pink lip gloss?)

 

Blogger ClosetConfections said ... (4:40 PM) : 

I grew up in Detroit and saw many outfits like this growing up (especially around Easter), lol. If you had captured his feet as well, I wouldn't be surprised if he was wearing a pair of matching "gators".

Now, would I ever date a man who dressed like this...? Ummm... probably not. I do however, appreciate the aesthetic and find it fun to look at.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (9:51 PM) : 

I love his style! He looks both fierce and gentle, and he's clearly a brave man with a powerful sense of self. The suit has a nostalgic edge in its fit and details, and I like that I can't tell whether it's vintage formal-wear or a supermod take on the old school.

About the racism seeping through some of the comments: I do believe that when people of European descent call African-American men "pimps," it's not a neutral comment--it carries some nasty connotative baggage. (And I say this as a European-American.)

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (10:36 PM) : 

In full agreement with Goldilocks. Funny how the word pimp and homeboy is repeated over and over again because a black man is wearing color. But these words aren't mentioned when Lupo (the Italian) sports bright colors. Hmmm--why is that?

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (12:03 AM) : 

Not great tailoring, but amazing color! Love the confidence to wear this... And frankly, i think he looks less vulgar (and vain) than Lino (Monday's pic)...

 

Blogger MAMADOU FALL said ... (1:54 AM) : 

This guy lives in my neighborhood in the Lower East Side.

Biggest Heart Ever, i love the suit i just wish he would wear it a little closer to the body.

other than that, much love to him
he is being himself

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (8:45 AM) : 

OMG!Break fashion laws much? LOL Scott, really???

 

Blogger pinky said ... (9:52 AM) : 

in your face baby. KAPOW.
if you don't like it, don't look. this guy is representing.
AWESOME.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:45 AM) : 

For all the people saying that he looks like a clown, get a grip style is not something you buy. Fashion is something you buy and this man clearly has his own style, if he had on a skirt instead of pants you would have marveled at him instead of belittling him. This gentleman has his own point of view which should be applauded. If you call this silly you might as well say a Thom Browne suit silly. just because its not your style doesn't mean its stupid. I would never wear this but I love it. His style is not recognized in Milan but it is recognized throughout the USA every Sunday in black churches.

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (11:54 AM) : 

pink

http://bulbizar.blogspot.com/

 

Blogger secret38 said ... (2:16 PM) : 

wintage sartorialist
love what you say about not getting this is Europe - you don't, not even here in UK really, and for all that is bad in the States the genuine racial and cultural mix-up it truly fab
-ps. best bit, the big hat

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (3:15 PM) : 

Definitely a Sapeur.
"A Sapeur has to live by the rules of elegance. For instance he will never combine more than three colours in one outfit. In terms of age, profession, personality, taste and looks Sapeurs differ but are all member of the Society for Advancement of People of Elegance (SAPE). The Sape originated in the eighties and still remains a much admired and copied phenomenon. Most of the Sapeurs originate from Congo and use this lifestyle to better their life. In order to afford this, a lot of the Sapeurs comb the markets for second-hand garments".
The pictures by Daniele Tamagni (Gentlemen of Bacongo) are currently on show in Amsterdam:
http://www.princeclausfund.org/en/what_we_do/calendar/index.shtml

 

Anonymous Anonymous said ... (5:13 PM) : 

he looks a HOT MESS the suit is very ill fitted but the color is Marvellous

 

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