When Spurtle encountered a striking figure on Broughton Street yesterday evening, we were delighted.
Throughout August we have rejoiced in unusual visitors to the capital, and immediately asked for this one’s photograph.
The passer-by agreed without fuss, and moved helpfully into a patch of sunshine and dazzling contrasts for our convenience.
‘Are you in a show?’ we enquired.
‘No,’ replied the Enigma.
‘So why are you wearing a costume?’ we blundered on.
There was a pause.
‘This is not a costume,' he continued slowly ... softly. 'This is my customary daily dress.’
A sudden chill filled the air.
‘Where does your daily dress originate?’
‘China.’
End of conversation. It belatedly occurred to us that not everybody dresses the same.
In our defence, Hanfu and Harris Tweed waistcoats aren't an everyday combination even in über-trendy Broughton Street at this time of year. All in all, it’s a radical departure from the norm with certain obvious drawbacks for daily wear given Edinburgh’s blustering climate.
For weddings and ceilidhs, though – as an alternative to the traditionally inconvenient Prince Charlie confections – we like it a lot, and very much hope it catches on.
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@theSpurtle I hope passers-by weren't left too Confuciused after encountering this impressive looking figure.
@theSpurtle Oh he gets around, saw him looking calm and serene in a chaotic crowd next to Greyfriar's Bobby. Hope the hat is waterproof
@theSpurtle pedant alert New Broughton has a capital 'N'. Take a right at Barony Place then it's a gem tucked behind Barony Community Garden
@twistedtartan Not everything is about YOU.
@theSpurtle I know. It's about me :)
@twistedtartan Nnnggh.