I wear a uniform - not because of work demands, not because I am the oldest student left behind at St. Cosmas of Aphrodisia's Preparatory School (it's a real Catholic saint, I swear), and not because I am a convicted felon writing to you from deep inside the state penitentiary. I wear a "uniform" because I am a creature of habit, laziness, and ultra low-maintenance.
As much as I love, ponder, and design fashion, my own personal style can best be described as "Mr. Rogers revisited." On any day of the week, you will probably find Mr. Tiny wearing a version of the iconic look made famous by Fred Rogers - in his casual, I'm-home-so-it's-time-to-get-comfy-and-change-my-shoes state. Unwittingly, I have created a small collection of a wardrobe item that is almost always associated with golfers, octogenarians, or both - the cardigan.
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| Mr. Tiny's cardi collection Winter white, yellow, orange, the many shades of red, black, navy, aqua, baby blue, gray, and tan. |
In calling it a collection, I get mildly self conscious. It is like the scene in the original Hairspray when, during the audition process for "The Corny Collins Show," Penny is asked how many sweaters she owns. Honestly, what is the right answer to that question? Obviously five was too few, but is thirteen enough? Too many? Most of my sweaters are vintage, but I am not snobby on that issue as the same came to me courtesy of the thrift store's discount day.
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| One of my favorites to wear is this aqua/deep green, acrylic cardigan with an embroidered monogram. Everyone asks what the letters stand for and I have fun making names up or saying that it was a hand-me-down from an oddly-shaped giant. |
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| Obviously, I have no shame, as with this tag you have woven proof of my size and my official relegation to shopping in the "For big men" department. Not only do I like the tag's font, this piece of "exclusive sportswear" makes me feel like the Squire of Canyon Square. |
A cardigan is so often a part of my outfit that I feel nearly naked without one.
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| And nobody wants to see me naked...nobody... |
It is a wearable security blanket. It is a finishing touch. It is a layer that offers warmth without too much (and very unnecessary) bulk. It is an homage to one of the best creators, writers, performers/puppet voices in the history of children's programming.
"Garden of Your Mind" - Fred Rogers
An exceptional use of Auto-Tune
What do you think of Mr. Tiny's cardigan obsession; is it bordering on the pathological? Obviously I haven't gone too crazy - no stripes, multi-colors, or patterns. What about you? Is there a wacky tacky wardrobe staple without which you would just cease to live?
Cheers!
Mr. Tiny
