Why did Mark Twain start wearing white suits in 1906?

Answer 1

He didn't want to look "like a crow"?

From the MarkTwainHouse website:

"Twain disdained the standard black suit which society required of professional men: "What can be more depressing than the somber black which custom requires men to wear upon state occasions? A group of men in evening clothes looks like a flock of crows, and is just about as inspiring."

Twain's long-time friend William Dean Howells remembered the moment the white suit was unveiled at a hearing before Congress: "Nothing could have been more dramatic than the gesture with which he flung off his long loose overcoat, and stood forth in white from his feet to the crown of his silvery head." Newspaper reporters were more interested in his unique costume on that December day than in his speech, and articles declaring "MT Bids Winter Defiance" (New York Herald) and "MT in White Amuses Congressmen" (New York Times), among others, appeared the next day."

Answer 2

Mark Twain White Suit

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Why did Mark Twain start wearing white suits in 1906?

Answer 4

I have found that when a man reaches the advanced age of 71 years as I have, the continual sight of dark clothing is likely to have a depressing effect upon him. Light-colored clothing is more pleasing to the eye and enlivens the spirit. Now, of course, I cannot compel every one to wear such clothing just for my especial benefit, so I do the next best thing and wear it myself.
- quote in The New York Times, December 8, 1906

from Mark Twain, aka Samuel Clemens

Answer 5

First--really cute pic for ur icon--Now Twain was so accurate--Just wish he would have added "member of Congress from San Francisco named Pelosi."