Thrift Store Treasure: My Proper Cloth Sport Coat Find
Hey guys! So, I recently hit the thrift store scene, and let me tell you, it was a total goldmine! I stumbled upon a Proper Cloth sport coat, and I'm still buzzing about it. For those of you who aren't familiar, Proper Cloth is known for its high-quality, custom-made shirts and generally well-made menswear. Finding one of their items in a thrift store is like discovering buried treasure, you know? I wanted to share my recent thrift find and walk you through the details – the price, the fit, and whether it was worth the hunt. Trust me, it's a good story!
The Thrill of the Hunt: Discovering the Proper Cloth Sport Coat
The thrill of the hunt is a big part of the game when it comes to thrifting, right? You never know what you're going to find, and that's the exciting part. I've always loved the idea of finding a hidden gem, and that's precisely what happened with this Proper Cloth sport coat. I was browsing through the jackets, mostly looking at the usual suspects – the outdated and often ill-fitting garments. But then, I saw it. The fabric caught my eye immediately; it had a beautiful texture and a subtle pattern that suggested a quality construction. The tag confirmed my suspicions: Proper Cloth. My heart skipped a beat! You see, I've always admired the brand, particularly their attention to detail and commitment to quality materials. They're not exactly cheap, with their shirts often costing over a hundred bucks. To find one of their pieces in a thrift store? Score!
The coat was a classic navy blue, a staple in any man's wardrobe. It featured a two-button closure, a notched lapel, and a well-defined silhouette, all signs of a tailored fit. The fabric was a blend of wool and something else, giving it a nice drape and a bit of stretch – ideal for comfort and movement. I inspected the stitching, the lining, and the overall construction, and everything seemed to be in excellent condition. There were no obvious flaws, no loose threads, and no signs of excessive wear and tear. It was like someone barely wore it! The fact that this Proper Cloth sport coat ended up at a thrift store at all was a mystery. Maybe it didn't fit the original owner anymore, or maybe they simply decided to donate it. Whatever the reason, I was the lucky beneficiary. At that moment, I knew I had to have it. I grabbed the coat and headed straight for the fitting room, already envisioning how I would style it. The anticipation was killing me. I had to know if it would fit, because if it didn't, my whole day would be ruined! Thankfully, though, it fit like a glove, which made the deal even sweeter.
Assessing the Fit and Quality: What Makes This Proper Cloth Stand Out?
Okay, so let's talk about the details. This Proper Cloth sport coat wasn't just a random jacket; it had some specific features that really stood out. First off, the fit was pretty much perfect. I'm usually a 40R, and this one fit me like it was custom-made, which, in a way, it probably was, as Proper Cloth offers custom tailoring. The shoulders were well-structured, the chest and waist were properly proportioned, and the sleeves were the right length. It was as if this coat was specifically made for me. The quality of the materials was immediately apparent. The wool blend felt luxurious to the touch, and the lining was smooth and comfortable. There were no scratchy materials, which is always a bonus. The stitching was impeccable, which is a sign of great craftsmanship. The buttons were made of high-quality material, likely horn or a similar durable substance. The attention to detail was evident throughout the entire construction.
Then, there's the cut. It's a modern, slim-fit silhouette, which is exactly what I was hoping for. It's not too tight, but it definitely gives off a more contemporary look than a boxier, older style. This sport coat can be easily dressed up or down. I can wear it with a dress shirt and tie for a more formal occasion, or I can throw it on with a t-shirt and jeans for a more casual vibe. The versatility of a navy sport coat is one of its best qualities. You can style it in countless ways. The color is neutral enough to complement almost any other color in my wardrobe. I can pair it with chinos, dress pants, or even dark wash denim. The possibilities are endless. Moreover, the care that has been put into the tailoring is obvious. Proper Cloth pieces are designed to last. The quality construction means that the sport coat should withstand years of wear and tear, making it a great investment.
The Price is Right: How Much Did I Pay For This Proper Cloth Sport Coat?
Alright, let's get to the juicy part – the price! Thrifting is all about finding those incredible deals, right? I am always pumped to find a good deal. So, how much did I shell out for this Proper Cloth sport coat? Drumroll, please... I snagged it for only $30! Seriously, $30 for a jacket that probably retailed for several hundred dollars originally? It's the ultimate steal! I could hardly believe my luck. It's a huge win, especially considering the quality and the brand name. It's safe to say that I got my money's worth and then some. When you consider the quality of the materials, the construction, and the brand recognition, it was a no-brainer. This purchase alone made the whole thrifting trip worthwhile. You just can't get that kind of value anywhere else. It's the thrill of the hunt, the excitement of finding something unique, and the satisfaction of knowing you got a great deal. That's what makes thrifting so addictive, in my opinion!
Styling the Proper Cloth Sport Coat: Outfit Ideas and Inspiration
Now comes the fun part: styling the Proper Cloth sport coat! I'm already brainstorming outfit ideas, and I can't wait to put them into action. Here are a few ideas to get you guys inspired:
- Smart Casual: Pair the sport coat with a crisp white dress shirt, some dark wash jeans, and brown leather dress shoes. Add a pocket square for a touch of personality.
- Business Casual: Combine the sport coat with a light blue Oxford shirt, some khaki chinos, and loafers. A knitted tie would add a nice touch.
- Elevated Weekend: Style it with a fine-gauge knit sweater, some gray flannel trousers, and suede chukka boots. This look is perfect for a date night or a casual get-together.
- Layering: For colder weather, layer a crew-neck sweater under the sport coat. Accessorize with a scarf and gloves.
I think the key to styling a sport coat like this is to keep things simple and let the quality of the coat speak for itself. The navy color is versatile and goes with almost anything. The key is to find the right balance of formality and comfort. Consider the occasion, the weather, and your personal style. Don't be afraid to experiment! Try different combinations of shirts, pants, and shoes until you find what works best for you. Add accessories like a pocket square, tie, or belt to elevate your outfit. Don't be afraid to break the rules, but always make sure your outfit reflects your personality and makes you feel confident.
Final Thoughts: Was it Worth the Thrift? The Verdict
So, was this Proper Cloth sport coat worth the thrift store trip? Absolutely, without a doubt! It was a fantastic find, and I couldn't be happier with it. It's a testament to the fact that you can find high-quality items at affordable prices if you're willing to put in the time and effort. This experience reminds me why I love thrifting so much. It's a sustainable way to shop, a way to find unique pieces, and a chance to express your personal style without breaking the bank. The whole experience just makes me happy.
The quality of the coat, the perfect fit, and the amazing price make it a true winner. It's a versatile piece that I know I'll get a lot of wear out of. If you're looking for a great sport coat, or any other quality menswear, I highly recommend checking out your local thrift stores. You never know what treasures you might find! You might just stumble upon your own hidden gem, like I did. Happy thrifting, everyone! Keep your eyes peeled for those hidden gems. You never know what you'll find when you least expect it.