Pacesetter of Sportswriter Chic
Laugh if you must, but through longevity if nothing else, Furman Bisher became a fashion horse of sportswriter chic: plaid sportsjackets, garish pants, colorful socks, memorable ties, the occasional white belt and shoe combination... It wasn't an everyday behavior, but an unconscious expression of masculinity and professional tradition that would prompt multiple wives to gasp, "As you really wearing that?"
This caricature captured Furman Bisher on the run in the elements of sportswriter chic-- memorable headwear, plaid sportsjacket, light colored trousers, shoes and belt and journalist's accoutrements. This classic art was signed "Cumming."
Turtleneck & plaid, Superbowl X, 1976.
It must've been in style--note the passerby at bottom left.
It must've been in style--note the passerby at bottom left.
Golf tournament, 1975.
Bisher (2nd from left) poses a conservative foil to the daring trou of partners to his left and right (Phil Harris).
Bisher (2nd from left) poses a conservative foil to the daring trou of partners to his left and right (Phil Harris).
Plaid overload... Furman Bisher (center) with pal Si Burick (right), longtime editor of the Dayton Daily News and honoree of the 1983 J.G. Taylor Spink Award.
Safari chic. Finally sportswriters discover an alternative to plaid!