Sartorial Suggestions: Back 2 the basics: PaiRing the ParKa

Certain elements of fashion never cease to bring back fond memories of my childhood. Not only do they give me the chance to reminisce on styles and trends that have fallen by the wayside never to be resurrected, but I'm also able to see what has stood the test of fashion's ever-changing timeline. The Parka has indeed held its place on the sartorial spectrum as one of the most versatile pieces a man of any age & taste level could have in his closet and has done so unapologetically! I can remember the bulky, faux fur-lined hood, heavy-duty zipper and pockets scattered about and covering practically every inch of this garment. As much as it may have felt like a straightjacket, weighing down my just barely 4-foot frame at that time, I could never deny that it kept me warm in even the harshest of Northeastern winters. The name Parka and Anorak are used interchangeably to describe this coat who's original purpose was to keep the Caribou Inuit (early bands of caribou hunters who lived in Northern Canada) warm during hunting excursions. Originally made from either caribou or seal skin and rubbed with fish oil to stand against moisture, the Parka clearly has street cred making it a mainstay in today's market of flimsy fashion trends. Both fashionable and functional, the Parka has parked its hefty, down feather-stuffed body on our store racks and is in it for the long haul. But don't worry, it'll keep us warm every step of the way!