Pipe Band dress predictions for the next decade

[PinellasPaul]

I quite like the look of these "new" style cuffs! Like them very much.

[OC Richard]

That's a lovely vintage Argyll jacket, too bad the ones made nowadays usually don't have quite as nice detailing.

There was a recent thread about the "gauntlet" cuffs on Argyll jackets

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...ll-cuff-96289/

[PinellasPaul]

I remember when stores tried to earn your business for the long-term by providing the very best service humanly possible. And manufacturers tried to earn long-term brand loyalty by making the very best product that they could possibly make.

Now it's all about low cost manufacturing, partly because younger people today don't really understand value. All they see and understand is price. There is an online/magazine consumers group that tests a wide variety of products, and I know they make an honest effort. But with the knowledge and experience I have from my career in appliance repair, I know they miss a notable quantity of times.

And regarding service, businesses to some degree seem to reward loyalty less and therefore get less, to some degree, they train folks less to the detriment of their customers. And of course they are pressured to lower expenses from international competition and other factors. And it's all just a downward spiral where quality and service are diminished yearly.

When I buy, I endeavour to buy the best of those things that I wish to last. Because well-made things generally do last exponentially longer. I don't mind paying $150-$200 for a fine fur felt hat, as the first one I bought, an Akubra, has lasted 35 years, so far. When I leave this world, it'll probably still be in good enough shape to wear for some poor bloke with a size 63 noggin.

But fine, well made - not expensive, things are further and further in between. And that's a sad, sad state of affairs, ladies and gents.

- Paul

[OC Richard]

I don't mind paying $150-$200 for a fine fur felt hat, as the first one I bought, an Akubra, has lasted 35 years, so far.

Ah you're talking my language now. I have a fine Akubra Cattleman and a couple Stetson Stratoliners. Love them.