The 90s sitcom Frasier is a wonderful little study in sartorial art.
It’s one of my favourite sitcoms ever. The show has such a cosy vibe, and the dialogue is just as brilliant as the physical comedy.
It also feels like a sociological commentary on the aspiration to live a refined life in 90s America. Frasier and Niles are celebrated for their cultural expertise, but also made the show's laughing stock for their occasional petty pretension.
But what I particularly love is how naturally Frasier makes suits part of everyday life.
Frasier and Niles wear tailored clothing constantly, yet it rarely feels overly formal. The warmth comes from the muted colours and interesting mixes of different textures. While Niles wears Armani double-breasted suits, Frasier wears more Ivy League tweeds and cardigans.
Kudos to costume designer Audrey Bansmer for using clothing as part of the storytelling in their long-running sibling rivalry. Their sartorial differences are subtle, but the show simply wouldn’t be the same without them.
Check out this YouTube video where I talk more about the show's sartorial details:
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