Ernest Alexander Blog Journal Entry: Worn In

Purchasing something new has to be on the top of the list of confidence boosters and pick me ups. When you acquire a new pair of shoes, a fresh button-up, or that new bag you've been eyeing it's exciting, but it's almost too perfect. It has no scuffs, scrapes, or scratches, and definitely no personality. There's absolutely nothing wrong with newness and admiring your purchase for a while. The reason you made the purchase is probably, partially due to the craftsmanship. My protocol for new purchases, especially shoes, is to let them sit for a few days - sometimes even weeks and I won't touch them. But, nothing really feels like yours until it's worn in to fit your lifestyle. That new bag you bought doesn't remain clean, and it shouldn't. It should start to show that you toss your bag over your shoulder on your way to work everyday, you jam your newspaper and coffee mug in the back pocket every morning, or that time you got caught in a downpour on the way to the gym. It's only then that the bag gets its identity. Think about it this way: You see a guy wearing a great shirt, he doesn't mind that his double-breasted pockets are a bit frayed, so neither do you. Probably the best example of a man with great style who knew a thing or two about wear and tear is Fred Astaire. It's a well-known fact that Mr. Astaire would throw his newly purchased suits against a wall to minimize the newness. I guess the point is nothing is supposed to stay new, things are down right more comfortable and look better worn in.