The boys of summer fashion: Purple suits and Kool-Aid T-shirts

John Naughton's wardrobe gave the season a colorful look

What makes an otherwise normal man decide to wear an orange T-shirt featuring the trademark smile of the Kool-Aid Man in public?

Or shamelessly appear at the Iowa State Fair wearing a flamingo-themed suit? Or visit the Minnesota State Fair wearing a purple suit and hat? How about the time he dressed up for the Barbie movie wearing a Ken-inspired Western shirt and cowboy hat?

That was me. Sorry if your fashion taste is offended. Summer officially ends today. The season started June 21 — and now it’s time to review some of my questionable fashion choices.

Orange you glad for the summer? This Kool-Aid Man-inspired T-shirt was fun to wear. (Photo by John Naughton.)

As you, the readers, may recall: I retired from The Des Moines Register in 2019 after a 31-year career as a sportswriter. It’s fair to say that occupation is known for its share of casual or even tacky dressers. My wardrobe, which always tended to aim for its share of Halloween (or any other holiday) garb, has been known for colorful outfits. Retirement and discarding the traditional work attire has offered me a chance to dress for fun.

This summer was no exception.

The Kool-Aid Man T-shirt appeared several times. Once was at Valley Junction Farmers Market. It’s definitely not something that everyone recognizes. A visit to a UPS Store nearby got a compliment from the clerk (and perhaps a little preferential treatment.

Hawaiian shirts are a fun summer choice in Iowa’s hot and humid climate. (Photo by John Naughton.)

I’m a regular visit to the Polk County Westside Community Center in West Des Moines, where guests over 60 years can enjoy a free lunch. The crowd there has encouraged my colorful outfits with their kind words. To the crowd of mostly folks in their 80s, I’m The Guy Who Wears Bright Colors.

So be it.

Shorts and Hawaiian shirts are popular choices, along with my hats — from fancy fedoras to classic Kangol flat caps.

Summer color splash

In the photo gallery: Orange and fuchsia was a colorful combination for an outdoor concert. The Barbie Movie inspired my Ken costume worn to a group movie night. Orange and blue is a strong color combination. The Flamingo Suit was worn at the Iowa State Fair. The Minnesota State Fair? Purple works. (Photos by John Naughton and accomplices.)

The State Fair outfits were a lot of fun and drew lots of attention and photos from the big crowds.