Probably one of the most popular men, at least at this time of the year, who is immediately recognized by his unique clothes, is none other than—you got it!—Santa Claus. In my article yesterday entitled Santa Sizzles, I described the traditional dress of the jolly ole’ plump Santa; namely, in red pants and coat with a white collar and cuffs, black boots and belt, and a red conical hat.
This image was largely popularized in North America by the “Father of American Cartoon,” Thomas Nast (1840-1902). Call him what you may—Father Christmas, Saint Nick or Nicholas, Kris Kringle, or just Santa—the image has stuck!
Historically, this legendary figure did exist as a 4th- century Greek bishop, Nicholaos, from Lycia, which is part of modern-day Turkey. So how did he wind up in the North Pole on a sleigh wearing a red costume?
As most societies interpret their new found faiths in light of their previous beliefs, so too Saint Nick has been interpreted and reinterpreted over the centuries, from the ancient Germanic holiday traditions of Yule to modern-day advertising of Coca Cola.
We’ve come a long way right up to the song, “I Saw daddy Kissing Santa Claus.”
Well, you may not feel like kissing Santa, but if you are a modern urban male and in the holiday spirit, there’s a menswear line for you: 4Boys Gear.
