Friday, 11 September 2009

Harvard Marred

Harvard has entered into a licensing agreement for a line of preppy clothing to be marketed under the name Harvard Yard--The Times

From many worthy, few are chosen. No one is more aware of this cruel fact than the thousands denied admission to Harvard each year. In this spirit, we offer a susidiary brand of clothing, The Wait List. Crafted from nearly identical quality materials with approximately the same high degree of workmanship you've come to expect from Harvard Yard, these accessories have slight imperfections which in no way render them unfit for inclusion in the wardrobes of discerning gentlemen. We realize that no one keeps you from reaching for the stars. Why let an imperceptibly flawed inseam prevent you from wearing trousers you might not otherwise be able to afford?

Whether you're raking leaves on a glorious autumn day, overseeing a paid employee doing the raking, or merely watching someone perform manual labor on television, you'll feel at home in our classic oxford shirt. Order burgundy glen plaid or houndstooth to feel more like a Harvard alum ($169).

Our classic Harvard Hoodie is perfect for, let's say, breaking into your own home. Since you're going to be arrested for trespassing on your property, you might as well dress for the occasion ($49; optional ski mask $29).

Do you recall standing glumly in your B.C. sweatpants on the river bank at the Head of the Charles observing carefree, good-looking, gifted youths from prominent families frolicking in front of the Harvard boathouse? Expunge that unpleasant memory with our faded maroon sweatshirt which features something those Harvard undergrads missed out on: 100% polyester fur fleece and kangaroo pockets ($59).

How about breaking open an authentically-aged wicker hamper for your next picnic or tailgate? Our sumptuous tartan blanket, tartan-handled cutlery, tartan-covered beakers and silver (-plated) flasks look like they've been in the family for generations ($319).

Luxuriate in our burgundy-and-white-striped pajamas. Even in August, it gets awfully chilly in Bar Harbor and this jaunty flannel nightwear flatters every build while you sleep easy, secure in all that you and yours have accomplished ($109; "Sleepy" nightcap $19 extra).

Our quilted riding jacket is the perfect fit for one who fits in perfectly. You're no stranger to the equestrian world and our lightweight insulation keeps you toasty while watching others muck out the stalls. Maroon snaps and pocket piping complete your look ($189).

The Wait List Braided Leather Belt is a must-have for dressy or casual events. A secure hidden-zip compartment offers you the option of using this as a money belt. Comes in handy when encountering pesky bellhops, washroom attendants, or Girl Scouts. Simply display your empty wallet and explain, "Sorry, I'm skint at the moment" ($89).

Our signature Crimson Boxers delight women the world over when you drop trou and they exclaim, "You really did go to Harvard!" You've let them in on a special secret they'll never forget. Trust us: it's the veritas ($19).

Ultra-dependable rainwear is synonymous with The Wait List. After all, with the exception of London, who has worse weather than Cambridge? Clad in our breathable burgundy fabric, you'll resemble a linesman at The Game on a sodden November day. Ideal for New England barbecues, hikes, or funerals ($99).

Premium Shetland sweaters (crew-neck, of course) are a required complement to any prosperous person's wardrobe. Available in seven nautical colors, these are so well-made they'll disappoint the Old Guard in only one respect: they won't develop holes ($149)!

Meeting friends after work? Whether you're a physician, lawyer, entrepreneur, or simply wish you were, we present a spiffy blue blazer as the last word in classy comfort. You'll never feel out of place at brunch again ($289).

Don four-pocket Cambridge Cords and imagine what it was like to stroll across the Yard on a winter's morn as a student at the nation's oldest, most prestigious, selective university. Casual, confident, and never conspicuous: that's you! Our 16-wale cotton corduroys are pre-washed to give you a broken-in look from the moment you slip them on ($129).

The Wait List Original Hunting Jacket isn't only for those who shoot duck or grouse. In fact, in these tight times, many of our customers wear this handsome garment while on the prowl for the last thing even Harvard grads ever thought they'd have to hunt for: a job. Lined in top-drawer maroon wool substitute, this jacket is just the thing for working in an office in the Pacific Northwest or for chopping wood in the Boston area ($289).

The Crimson Cravat is the ultimate conversation starter. Embroidered with tasteful depictions of campus buildings whose interiors you may never have glimpsed, you'll resemble the quintessential Harvard graduate whose speech never wavers from one subject: his alma mater. Enjoy your Scotch while others scrutinize your tie and finally blurt out enviously, "You went to Harvard?" ($69; $49 bow-tie.)

Nobody's perfect and nobody grasps this better than the folks at The Wait List. Ours is an inclusive enterprise, accepting of frailty in both humanity and merchandise. No matter where you live, what you do, or where you attended college, you'll wear our colors proud. Above all, you'll remember what your peers who wear Harvard Yard never want you to forget: you've arrived.