Posted by Ben on January 30, 2002 at 18:04:07:
In Reply to: Re: "Looking Sharp on Today's Episode" posted by Bob the Bartender on January 30, 2002 at 16:22:14:
I wish that Barnabas would follow his cousin's stylish example and wear more blazers and sports coats. I don't know, but with that same drab navy blue suit, Barnabas is starting to look like a cross between Richard M. Nixon and Steve McGarrett of Hawaii 5-0.
I think Barnabas' dreary and ultra-formal wardrobe effectively reinforced who he was: a gentleman raised in the refined, society culture of the 18th century, who is now forced to adapt not only to the 20th century, but to the turbulent changes defining the 1960s.
It appears that Barnabas had to emerge into modern society with little or no advice on fashion. He probably thought the Edwardian suits vaguely captured the spirit of a bygone century, and so he felt comfortable in them, even if the Collinsport Gentlemen's Shop didn't have his size (or wasn't open at night). I would have loved to hear Carolyn compliment him on his Beatlesque sense of fashion, and then see his bewildered reaction.
I'd give Barnabas more fashion points than Nixon, whom I found far more drab and un-stylish (even when he grew his hair and sideburns longer and adapted the "dry" look in the early '70s, in an effort to look "mod").
I'm always amused that Barnabas' least formal outfit is that lounging robe, which drapes over his shirt and tie and suit pants. It would be a stitch (no pun intended) to see him in pullover sweaters, turtlenecks, and jeans (bellbottoms, of course). I mean, does he really have to stay dressed up while lying in his coffin? And even if he updates most of his wardrobe, I don't think he'll ever part with that cape.
Bob the Bartender, who is looking forward to meeting you, CastleBeee, along with Gerard, Jean, Steve, Midnite, Ringo, Ben, ProfStokes, and the rest of the Dark Shadows gang in 2003!
Thanks for mentioning me, Bob, but do you really mean 2003? I'm sure we'd all love to see you at the Fest this year.
Ben