The Tramp

Illustration By Ellinor Forje

You know, I finally figured out what it is I love so much about this outfit. I’m almost annoyed with myself for not realizing it sooner, because the answer is embarrassingly simple: she looks like Charlie. The lady is a tramp.

Of course, the look itself isn’t new. It’s been done before. But have we ever seen it executed this completely outside the pages of an editorial spread, where the entire objective is to look as though you have no fixed address, possibly no concept of time, and yet remain impossibly well put together?

As I mentioned before, the cultivated pauper aesthetic has been perfected many times prior to my own moment of revelation: the Olsen twins, Brad Pitt, Keanu Reeves, Kate Moss, Helena Bonham Carter, who fully committed to the bit, Johnny Depp, likewise, and then, naturally, Benicio Del Toro. Luh ya, papi. The disheveled haircut I can understand. But the trucker cap? That remains a mystery. The people demand answers.

But back to Chaplin, if you’ll indulge my infatuation for a moment. Anyone who defies authority in the name of humanity is already alright in my book. (Lucky Luciano is also alright in my book, same principle, entirely different motivation. I refuse to be judged.) And if that same person can articulate their rebellion with elegance and wit? Finished.

"City Lights," "The Great Dictator," "The Kid," "The Gold Rush," and "Modern Times" remain only a fraction of the astonishing legacy left behind by Chaplin. I also recommend "Chaplin" (1992), with Robert Downey Jr. alongside what feels like half of Hollywood, a film remarkably faithful to what is known of Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin’s life. There’s also one glorious moment in which Charlie channels Nijinsky.

And, naturally, an abundance of exquisite retro fashion.

Which reminds me, before I forget, note to self: add “Bowler Hat, Charlie Chaplin, Alexander DeLarge” to the list of personal icons.