Ever had that one piece of clothing that you just could not part with? Sure you did, we all did that at some point in our lives. For me, the moment of truth has arrived. It is time to replace my 1992 members only Jacket.
I have literally had this thing for 20 years. What is more scary- that I have been the same shape, and size, since I was 13 years old, or that this thing is still wearable?
That is me on the bottom wearing the jacket in Toronto. It was 3 years old at that point. I can’t find a photo, but I even wore the thing on the Maid of the Mist in Niagra Falls.
This jacket traveled with me to Denver 3 years later for Star Wars Celebration, and was positively drenched with rain, and covered with mud. It was like woodstock. This thing has been through hell, but still protects me from the non-harsh elements.
As I look at the jacket, I can see the wear and tear of 2 decades on it. A few small rips now grace the arms, joined by a larger one on the back. The inner lining has long since failed, with numerous shreds of polyester hanging inside. The zippers and the buttons on the shoulders still work, but the pockets have holes in them. It has long since lost its ability to “break wind”, the chilly New England nights swoosh through the fabric as if it were cheesecloth. Forget about rain protection, that died in the late 90’s, just before Celebration.
So, why do I still have it?
Its the oldest piece of clothing I have continuously owned. All my shirts and pants from the early 90’s are now gone. Although I have purchased a few vintage ties online, they have really only been in my possesion a year or so. I got the jacket when I started High School. It was not even in fashion anymore, but the black MO jacket was still cool enough (unlike its blue and grey counterparts). Now, this May I will finally be getting m Bachelor’s Degree. No matter how hot it is that day…under my robes will be this Jacket, with me- its only member left.
The Skinny from the Fatty 