There’s a subculture of men’s clothing fans known as “trads”. They wear clothes that are inspired by (or, preferrably, actual vintage) traditional American menswear. It’s more of an Ivy League / Martha’s Vinyard look than Mad Men.

Brooks Brothers is the most mainstream retailer they’ll shop at. (Brooks Brothers invented the button-down collar in 1896, which is what I think of as being the item that best defines trads.) Ralph Lauren is inspired by traditional Americana, but trads are looking for the actual look, not a modern take.

Most trads are middle-age and of a build that is flattered by a sack suit (although I know a few exceptions). The Ask Andy About Clothes forum is their headquarters. Trads do a lot of research into quality clothing, so they’re on my radar even if I don’t follow their style (although I’m sure some would beg to differ).

I recently came across this wonderful blog called The Trad. Each post starts out discussing a piece of clothing or other material good that a traditionally-minded gentlemen might wear. The posts usually end with a quirky bit of creative nonfiction. Here’s a recent favorite:

During an after work drinks party I wound up sitting across from a friend’s very attractive assistant. I was bumming Marlboro Lights from her and she was drinking as many Miller Lights as I could order.

Five or six beers in to the night she arched an eyebrow (I wish I could do that) and said, “That’s a very attractive suit. ” I blushed visibly. “Do you like it?” I said. “Mmmm, very much,” she said. I explained to her it was Made To Measure and not custom and explained the difference adding, “I picked the color of the lining myself.” She smiled, “Show me your lining.” I unbuttoned my jacket and parted the lapels. She shifted in her seat and whispered, “Oh, I think I’m getting wet.”

I only remember thinking, “If this is what Made to Measure can do — What in the hell happens with bespoke?”