People of the XXIst century grow accustomed to all things machine-made. Craftsmen of all kinds are steadily replaced by automata which do the same job more quickly, more efficiently, some might say - more dilligently. And while this may be true with regard to sweatshops, I think no machine can surpass a person with many years of experience in his or her trade. However, there is a much more important, fundamental difference. Things made by machines which have no souls lack souls themselves.
This is especially reflected in clothing, where the subtle irregularity of the handiwork is a quality, something sought for, rather than a mark of a shoddy product. Where all threads have a story to tell and combined form a garment which, even when made in a very simple pattern, can be considered intricate - for the handiwork of an artisan is seen in every detail. Something speaks from within such clothes. Something which I like to call a soul, even though I do not believe in such things. I cannot deny, however, that I am attracted to it.
Handmade ties from Drakes of London are therefore one of my many passions.
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