As a follow-up to this week’s earlier post about J. Press’ new cinch-back trousers, contributing writer Christopher Sharp sent in the above image showing buckle-back trousers in their original context.
The source: Gentry magazine
The year: 1954
The campus: University of North Carolina
The trousers: “Ivy League Narrows”
Paired with: Shell cordovan penny loafers
Note that the shoes and trousers are the same price. Today Alden’s Leisure Handsewn Moccasin in cordovan sells for $589.
Kind of makes the $375 J. Press trousers look like a steal. — CC
Christian writes: “Note that the shoes and trousers are the same price.”
Yes, and $18.95 adjusted for inflation per the CPI equates to $159.89 in today’s dollars. So what accounts for the extra $430 that Alden tacks on top of inflation?
Nice work, Mazama! If other ads are available, it would be great to graph the cost inflation over the dacades.
I like that the ad has “21″ knee, 18″ bottom” on the trousers.
“Stillwater worsted”:
http://burrillvillehistory.net/content/view/30/28/
Horween Cordovan:
http://vimeo.com/4814754
The “extra” $430 is due to a combination of factors; I’d guess that the rarity of cordovan leather (only two producers in the world now, according to shellcordovan.com) and the cost of handsewing, especially by a domestic shoe maker, are significant.
I would add that hide prices are up according to the Horween website. There are fewer horses available now compared to 1954 and sourced from a greater distance. Skilled craftsman are needed throughout the process. I am sure there are regulatory and environmental costs associated with the productions.
“Yes, and $18.95 adjusted for inflation per the CPI equates to $159.89 in today’s dollars. So what accounts for the extra $430 that Alden tacks on top of inflation?”
Suckers?
Great work, Christian. It’ so refreshing find a voice such as yours these days. I have been reading some of your old articles and in my book you are the authentic voice of Ivy and Trad.