Give Peace A Chance

July 19, 2010

I am a product of the 60’s; on campus during the devastating drain of the Vietnam War and all the disillusionment that that decade wrought as it was catapulted from the harmony of the Beatles and the youthful promise of JFK to the depths of alienation and dissent. I understand this generation’s fear and frustration with current events. The impact is everywhere, more poignant for me, perhaps, as I witness the particular angst of my children and their peers, all in their 20’s, as they struggle to find some level of personal peace. In the 60’s, the Peace Symbol defined a messianic dream for a better world. It never lost its meaning, but it faded into the background, like many archeological tokens that when uncovered reveal a cultural history rich with lessons well suited for current affairs. And here we are, 40 years later as history recycles itself and all of a sudden this emblem of hope seems relevant again.

When I saw the new Peace Out Nightshirt (OUT-NS) from P.J. Salvage, I was surprised at my visceral reaction, not only on a personal level but also as a merchant. A simple twist on an established icon, a slight change in design detail or the use of an innovative fabric always defines the P.J. Salvage brand. Rendered in sun dusted colors, the graphic execution of the iconic peace symbol has transformed this traditional sleep shirt style into a contemporary design. But, it is the drape and hand of P.J. Salvage’s phenomenal new “Butter” fabric that provides a unique sensual satisfaction that marks this classic nightshirt as a moniker of contentment. Knit in a special blend of cotton modal, this jersey construction brings a whole new level of softness to the Intimate Apparel Market. Once again, something old is new again.