All things Fine and DANDY

  So much is left to our imaginations upon invoking characters of the Regency era. And intrigue is all the more intense in the case of George Bryan Brummell – arguable founder of Celebrity Culture. It was 'Beau' Brummell (1778-1840) who led London fashion away from the pansy spectacle of bewigged fops. A non-nobleman who became 'Arbiter Elegantiarum' (essentially, Fashion Dictator) as appointed by an enamoured Prince Regent. Beau Brummell was ‘famous for being famous’ and a precursor to the youthful course of Oscar Wilde (1854-1900). And yet the latter lived a life of bon mots that thrive to this day. Whereas attempts to capture the droll hilarity of Brummell’s sayings have always escaped epigram. The fashionista’s abstract jests, observed a contemporary: “ turn upon a single circumstance, the exaggerating of the merest trifles into matters of importance, or treating everything else with the utmost nonchalance and indifference.” (1) If you’re beginning to sen

What is it about human attire that beckons the fullest form of self-expression? Yet so seldom reveals itself. Through the likes of Beau Brummell –  Oscar Wilde, Quentin Crisp, Sebastian Horsley and other jewels of their generation. An  'aristocracy of mind'  will often manifest itself through distinctive dress. Along with assured flair. And even memorable turn of phrase. All of which distinguish the dandy from a clothes horse for fashion designers. Or a simple peacock – seeking attention for its own sake. So let us explore the enigma… delight in sartorial splendour. And marvel at the intriguing manners that maketh – the Dandy! "Life was a funny thing that happened to me on the way to the grave."                                                                              'The Naked Civil Servant' – first of three autobiographies by Mr. Quentin Crisp "A bit too early for coffee... I think I'll have a Scotch."