Meeting in The Hague
In the week before Christmas, I met Mr. Schaper, a charming older gentleman in The Hague. He lives in a quiet square just behind a busy shopping street. He wears a beautiful checkered suit, a classic coat, and a cool cap. Of course, I would like to know more about his clothing. He likes to tell it during a cup of coffee.
Schaper (1931): “My wife was always the one who made sure I was dressed properly. I worked as a lawyer in a large office, it was a busy job. I didn’t allow myself to spend much time on clothing. But I remember that a friend came to visit once in a nice suit with pointed, cut-open lapels, which was new at the time (around 1970). I was impressed by that, the suit was custom made in London.”
English tailored
“Because the pound was so low at that time, it was interesting to have a suit made in England. So this is a tailored made suit by Airey and Wheeler in London. On the inside, you can see my name. After that, I ordered two dark blue suits. For the second blue suit, the tailor suggested: “Let’s add a little gaiety …” He meant a very light waist of the jacket. It was an excellent idea. I regularly get a compliment about it. Fortunately, my figure has not changed so I can still wear these suits.”
Vital
Mr. Schaper radiates a vitality that I wish all of us to have when we are 88! What is his secret? “Apparently I have the good genes and I am cheerful by nature, that certainly helps too. In addition, I recently started pilates lessons at Aspire Pilates. That certainly benefits my mobility and health.”