The time comes in a man’s life when he must put away childish things – the low-slung jeans, the funky hair, the rough manners – and act like, well, a gentleman. It’s all about romance (from courtship through marriage) and career (dress code for job interview).
So here are some suggestions on how to clean up nicely.
Since this is the impression you’ll make on the world, get the best you can afford. Comb Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue stores for Zegna, Corneliani, or that American staple, Hickey-Freeman. Or if you’re blessed with a trim physique, the narrow silhouettes of Gucci, Dolce & Gabanna, Prada – but even Hickey-Freeman cuts them slimmer now. A suit or blazer from the top of the food chain – Brioni, Kiton or Oxxford – means bigger bucks but the fabric, fit and durability are well worth it.
As for colors, black may be the new black, but in an office or under the harsh light of a summer day, it looks creepy. Dark blue is hard to beat and looks terrific with tanned or darker skin. Pinstripes have been enjoying a run for several seasons, and a tan suit with a blue shirt is a warm weather pleaser. Ties? Classic stripes just got trendy. No-tie is getting overdone. So for a rakish look, wear a dark slim suit with a white shirt and a plain thin black tie. Kind of Rat Pack meets 21st century playa.
Give your duck-billed platypus shoes of a few years ago to Goodwill. Lace-up oxfords – plain, capped or wing-tipped – are the shoes to wear with that good suit.
Those great traditional shoes will never go out of style, but they will need maintenance: new heels and soles, not to mention shines. Find yourself a reputable cobbler.
If you’re the kind of guy who can use some help, tap the personnel at high-end department stores or men’s shops. Find a not-too-young salesman. When you’re going for timeless quality, trust your elders.
For an old-fashioned trim in a classic environment, make an appointment at your local barber shop. You can also get a manicure, which is actually an old barbershop tradition.
If your lifestyle includes three or more black-tie events a year, you should own a tux. As with suits, look for outlet bargains of fine brands. Don’t bother with a wing-collared shirt or studs; a white French-cuff dress shirt you can also wear with a business suit will do.
And if your black-tie nights are few and far between, try this alternative to an ill-fitting rental. Wear your best dark suit with the above-mentioned white shirt and a solid silver-colored tie. You’ll stand out, but in a good way. And whatever you wear, plain, black dress shoes.
Amazing what a bouquet of flowers can do to express sentiment, beg forgiveness or just say hi in a special way.
Time to sign on the dotted line – at a wedding, at a business deal – or to jot a phone number. A cheap ballpoint will do the job, but how about a Mont Blanc Meisterstuck? Careful. Pens can be addictive and pretty soon you could become a collector of expensive quills. On the other hand, not as dear as collecting vintage Bentleys.
The slang is yesterday – and so is the look it represents. Strip off the posters – unless they’re vintage, in which case, have them framed – and hang some serious art. Are any of your old buds struggling artists? If so, they may sell you a piece or two for a pittance – and if they make it, you have yourself a real investment. Have your art framed at a reputable frame shop.
Unless you’re a hip-hop star or a high-schooler going to the prom, rent a town car, not a limo – it’s what classy celebs, as opposed to showoffs and wannabes, cruise in. So there’s only room for you and your honey? And, is that a problem? Any car service that rents stretch limos should also have unstretched town cars.
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