As the vernal equinox ushers in the arrival of spring in 2025, Chicagoans are yearning for bursts of color amid the lingering chill.
With nature slowly preparing to dazzle, residents are taking matters into their own hands, opting to wear attire that encapsulates the vibrancy of the season they wish to embrace.
Jeffrey O’Malley, a 34-year-old candle assembler, explained his thoughts on fashion during a chance encounter at a bus stop this month.
“It was such a dreary day that I wanted to wear colors that cheered me up and popped out against the gray sky,” he said, reflecting a common sentiment among city dwellers longing for warmth and brightness.
O’Malley further shared his admiration for the work of Piet Mondrian, noting how he enjoys invoking the artist’s use of primary colors in his outerwear choices.
On his way home from work, he showcased a cozy yet sophisticated look, meticulously coordinated to highlight his attention to detail.
From his stylish ensemble, O’Malley provided a detailed list of the sources for his outfit, revealing the passion behind each piece he wears.
“The day you saw me, I was wearing a vintage wool flatcap by Kangol that I found a few years ago at Andersonville Antiques, a cherry-red chore coat by Le Mont Saint Michel (which I was thrilled to get on sale), a vintage indigo scarf I bought from Kopi Cafe’s boutique, Navajo-Churro wool mittens made by the Weaving Mill in Humboldt Park (I really admire Emily and Kendall there and urge people to support their work!), Todd Snyder checked wool pants from eBay (which a coworker kindly hemmed), and my umbrella was left behind by an old roommate . . . as it falls apart, I continue to repair it,” O’Malley shared with pride.
His eclectic style, filled with texture and personality, is primarily shaped by his discoveries in thrift stores, antique shops, and the occasional online treasure he finds on eBay.
Yet O’Malley admits that shopping for clothes isn’t a favorite pastime—his wardrobe has been developed over time, with patience and a good eye for quality finds.
“I used to live near Unique on [Elston between] Irving Park and Addison. That place had some beautiful men’s clothes. Brown Elephant in Andersonville will have good finds. Uniqlo has pants that fit me, given how short I am. Otherwise, I browse eBay every now and then,” he said of his favorite shopping spots.
O’Malley draws inspiration from various sources, including his grandmother Iris and his wife Heather, both noted for their exceptional style.
He also finds creativity in watching films from the ’60s and observing the fashion of peers working in coffee shops.
“I tend to prefer playfulness and pieces that will last [instead of] trends,” he noted, showcasing a timeless approach to style.
Despite the bus arriving quickly, O’Malley and I engaged in a brief discussion about his fashion choices while snapping photos.
Before he boarded, O’Malley emphasized his preference for low-tech living, noting, “Technology is great but only insofar as it serves human connection.”
His decision to avoid social media impacts how he engages with the world, stating, “Not having social media, I feel like I have to look at the world around me for inspiration.”
He observes both friends and fellow Chicagoans as greatly as he examines styles found in older films and art history.
“In reading a book, an article of clothing gets mentioned that stands out and draws my attention,” he explained.
To elevate one’s style, O’Malley recommends looking to art for inspiration, particularly how painters utilize color.
“Also, it’s always refreshing to step outside the box and experiment,” he concluded, encouraging a playful approach to fashion in the midst of winter’s fading grasp.
With the arrival of spring, the streets of Chicago are soon set to bloom with newfound color and eclectic expressions of style.
image source from：https://chicagoreader.com/city-life/street-view/color-style-clothes-street/
