Okay, I gotta focus on this one... I need to ignore talking about the beautiful soul songs these guys produced. I need to ignore the empowering message they sent out to millions of people. I need to ignore the influence they've had over so many musicians since their time. Why? Because this segment is about style, not the overall awesomeness that is The Impressions. So, dig this detail below from their The Never Ending Impressions LP:
Fred Cash, Sam Gooden, and, of course, Curtis Mayfield just bustin' out a mellow hang in well-cut suits, thin ties (and an ascot), and those beautiful short-brimmed fedora hats. I've said it before, but what gets me about images like this is not only the style of the clothing, but the confidence with which it's worn. Many times, I see photos of Moddish fellows looking stiff in their suits, like they're too worried about looking 'sharp.'
Take a note from The Impressions above... sometimes you just gotta ease in to that clothing you're in. The more confident you look while relaxing in those clothes, the more slick you'll come off.
And let's get into those hats! Short brim with the fronts pulled down... my fave style of head-wear. And Curtis Mayfield really has it goin' on, with that hat slightly tilted to his right. It don't get more jaunty than that!
Well, I can't talk about The Impressions without leaving you with some of their music. Without a doubt, the below song is still my absolute fave, bringing me back to my early soul discoveries. Also reminds me of the days when I had the power to go out to the In'n'Out soul club in San Francisco on a Tuesday night and dance ALL NIGHT LONG, and still get up for work the next day. This song was always the highlight of the evening:
Enjoy and have a most stylish weekend!
Another great choice. You may have seen this already, but if not, check out this film clip - some great tailoring to analyse:
ReplyDeletehttp://showstudio.com/project/the_new_faces
Nicole, I saw these sessions a while ago but haven't delved into them yet. I've been trying to wrap my head around it to think of how to approach it.
DeleteBut you're totally right, some really great tailoring and looks going on here! Not sure if I want to 'Sharp Style' it or talk about other aspects of the film in general.
In a sea of identikit soul group outfits, the Impressions always stood out. All three of them have their own particular take on the ' The Look', individuals but united in a style. Check out the cover of 'Keep On Pushing', as an example. Musically and stylistically a cut above. Great choice. Ozy Pete.
ReplyDeleteParamedic Pete, you are spot on! In fact, check out that cover to 'This is My Country' (and play it tonight, of course).
DeleteThey each have their own look and are killing it in the white suit, electric blue suit, and even those pink pants... in a ghetto! So much to dig about them.