All things Fine and DANDY

  "There are too many Smiths, and I don't care for Smythe. My father's content to worry along in the old-fashioned way, but I've decided to strike out a fresh line. I shall found a new dynasty". So began the search for distinction of P.G. Wodehouse's 'Ronald Eustace Smith' over the course of several storylines. (And always with a silent 'P' - "as in psychic") In the way of Evelyn Waugh who basked in the inspiration of dandies at Oxford, Wodehouse was gifted Psmith - in all his exquisite nuances: "The character of Psmith, of whom you are about to read (unless you decide on reflection to watch television instead) is the only thing in my literary career which was handed to me on a plate with watercress around it . . . Rupert D'Oyly Carte was long, slender, always beautifully dressed and very dignified.  His speech was what is known as orotund, and he wore a monocle. He habitually addressed his fellow Wykehamists as "Comrad...

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 Nak...