Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society The Dandy: Dressing in Defiance
May 13, 2025
Peter K. Andersson, historian and author of ‘The Dandy: A People’s History of Sartorial Splendour’, joins the discussion on the rebellious flair of dandyism. They delve into how dandyism defies societal norms and its significance in black culture. The conversation also highlights the role of fashion in shaping identity and critique, alongside the adaptation of dandy aesthetics from the 19th century to contemporary styles. Get ready for a witty exploration of how personal style can challenge and redefine societal expectations!
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Author's Personal Dandy Journey
- Peter K. Andersson shares how his teenage love for bow ties and tweed sparked his lifelong interest in dandies.
- This personal connection inspired his historical research and eventual book on dandyism.
Origins of Dandyism
- Dandies originally emerged in the Regency era as men obsessed with elegant, often aristocratic, fashion.
- Beau Brummel is credited with shaping this style, popularizing the sober black suit.
Dandyism's Paradoxical Nature
- Dandies embody paradoxes: masculine yet effeminate, upper and lower class simultaneously.
- Criticisms of effeminacy and womanizing highlight society's confusion around dandy identity.