Label Etiquette

Today I’d like to address the issue of labels. We all know what they are: irritating little tags that poke into the back of your neck and make you itch.

Sometimes they stick out of your collar and you know nothing of the matter until some kind soul approaches and tucks it in neatly for you. Depending upon their manner, you are thankful, sheepish, or utterly humiliated.

The important point here is that clothing labels are by nature supposed to be hidden. This means inside your clothes. Not visible to the public.

Sometimes clothing manufacturers attach temporary labels to the exterior of their garments. This is usually for some kind of informational or promotional purpose.

…clothing labels are by nature supposed to be hidden.

One such example are the labels the Paddington Coat Factory attach to their coats, proudly proclaiming the fabric content to be 80% wool, 20% cashmere – that 20% is a huge selling point! No doubt this is to avoid the alarming tendency of the hoi polloi to paw the coat about, trying to ascertain this very information.

But I digress. Once you have purchased the item; taken it home and lovingly unwrapped it; and tenderly hung it on a padded satin hanger, it is permissible – nay, let us say imperative – that you untack the label and throw it into the bin immediately.

Unlike the otherwise impeccably attired gentleman pictured above, arm lovingly nestling his amour, I see absolutely no reason to advertise a designer’s name on your sleeve. Unless of course you heart them very much.