Caballero Zapatero
By Izzy
Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero’s suit is no doubt bespoke, but Izzy still objects to the cut and construction. Exaggerated shoulders are fine for matadors, but so much padding in a suit makes it look like the hanger is still inside. Also, while the stiffness of a jacket’s front is a matter of taste, and granting that the suit is a kind of armor in the modern world, there’s no need for it to look and feel like a steel breastplate.
March 10th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Perhaps the suit contains kevlar or other body protective layers giving it the steel breastplate drape.
March 10th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
those are some massive shoulders. wow.
March 10th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Kevlar would indeed be an original choice for an interlining.
March 10th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
There is something weird about the perspective in that shot. His head is forward, but the angle of the shoulders make him look like he’s leaning back. Perhaps it is created by the overstuffed shoulders or perhaps it is caused by the angle of the photograph.
I’m more dismayed by his inability to tie a symmetrical knot myself. Who does he think he is, Casey Affleck?
March 12th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
The one thing that I do like is his tie knot. His knot has nice balance and enough imperfection to give it personality. Notice the lack of a dimple - not easy to do as well as he did.
Many folks obsessed with sartorial matters insist that perfect symmetry is to be avoided with a tie knot and therefore prefer such basic knots as the four-in-hand.
March 12th, 2008 at 10:35 pm
I think it’s indigestion. Some peppers repeating, perhaps?
March 13th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
obviously, it’s a rather goofy angle/photo….but suit coats do indeed need some structure at the shoulder, otherwise it looks sloppy. I think the shoulders look fine.