The Relevance Of Function
Part of my continuing education in menswear was learning about functional suiting options that one can choose when ordering a custom piece.
The most common function is the TICKET POCKET. This smaller pocket that sits above the larger was mostly used back in the day for holding theater or opera tickets. It’s still found on some off the racks and you can always add one or take it away when going custom. But in our modern day of e-tickets, it’s rare to see it getting much attention in the way of tiny slips of paper. I always add it to my customization options, though, because it proves to be a perfect holder for my mobile phone and is a much better way than to use a dreaded belt clip (shudder).
The second function that I love to make use of is the lapel boutonniere. I still use it for an occasional carnation if feeling quite the dandy but mostly I have found that running my Ipod headphones through it keeps them in place a lot better. It also hides the cable behind the lapel itself making your appearance a little neater. You can use your chest pocket to store your audio device for an even cleaner look but I prefer a pocket square.
The last function I always choose is the pen pocket just under the inside breast pocket. In the world of Ipads, Blackberries, and the stylus, I still prefer to jot down my ideas on a pen and paper. This post was written down with the pen and in the notebook featured below. I want to invest in a really nice affordable notebook and pen but for now I stick with Target brand notebooks and Varsity pens by Pilot.
It may seem like the suit jacket will be weighed down but you don’t have to have everything in there at once. I usually carry most items in my briefcase.
It’s amazing how some things deemed antiquated can become relevant again.
You always stick to the simple things and for that your relevance is manifested. This post is nothing short of great. I know that none of my suits have a ticket pocket but if you say that it can be added then I’m sure going to give it a try.
Thanks
Mxolisi
Thanks for the education Dennis. I never thought about using the boutonniere for my head phones. Good stuff.
Hey man,
Just to let you know I ordered an Indochino suit as my 1st ever suit. Your comments and insights about their suits were a huge factor in my decision to buy from them.
Looking at this post – I did get these options. I didn’t mind getting them since they were free of charge and I always find pockets to be functional (though you wouldn’t catch me wearing Cargo pants).
Keep up the good work!
That lining and button-hole thread is killah! Very Ozwald Boateng.
I always feel like a pack mule with a George Costanza wallet in the inside pocket and car keys in one of the outer pockets.
Man,pilot Varsity pens are the BEST!I,however,insist on 5 star Lil Fat Notebooks *sniff*…..
can’t go wrong with a mini moleskin
Great post Dennis! I just discovered your site and am glad to see others share the same fascination with custom tailoring.