Bruce Boyer's latest. Easily one of the most delightful reads on men's attire that I've come across.
Sounds like a conference paper title, eh?
Spent a delightful 90 minutes or so last night perusing True Style and came across a few pointers that are worth pondering when we consider how we present ourselves to the world. Especially since we are now in the midst of the (sadly) frenetic Christmas and New Year's season with its various gatherings and parties that, hopefully, at least, some men will dress for. These are taken from Chapter 16, entitleed 'Maxims', of Mr. Boyer's book:
12. Clothes talk. In fact, they never shut up. And if you don't hear them, perhaps you aren't the intended audience.
16. Being inappropriately dressed has the potential to be more embarrassing than saying something stupid.
22. Dressing decently should be a matter of politeness, if nothing else.
24. Clothes are social tools, like language, manners, and a sense of humor.
With those ideas in mind, I humbly request that we not make a habit of appearing at special holiday occasions looking/smelling/behaving like we've slept at the bottom of of the laundry hamper for the last six or seven days. Even if you plan on a small dinner with the immediate family on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, shave and dress before the meal. . . for them.
So, are you listening guys? Say it with me. Put on a a pressed shirt in white or light blue, creased wool pants, and some kind of blazer or sports jacket that isn't borrowed and actually fits you. Add a belt, some dark or Argyll socks, and a pair of non-dusty loafers. If you want to get really crazy, toss on a festive wool tartan necktie. Don't forget your pocket square, which shouldn't match your tie. There you are. Cool, casual, and pulled together as well as appropriate for the (special) occasion.
Remember. It ain't gonna kill you to look nice once in a while. Not only will you set a good example for any children in the picture, but spouses, partners, and significant others will also appreciate your efforts whether they comment on it, or not.
-- Heinz-Ulrich
P.S.
This marks the 400th posting here at Classic Style for the Average Guy. Thank you for dropping by and suffering through my sometimes strident, and always pompous meanderings.
This NY Times piece is not at all profound, but if it has a wide readership, we might see a few people being more appropriately dressed:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/08/your-money/dress-the-part-and-its-easier-to-walk-the-walk.html
Thank you! Very interesting, and it just underscores what I was always told, in one way or another and child and youngster. Amazing how so many people have forgotten this same idea and continue to argue against it.
ReplyDeleteBest Regards,
Heinz-Ulrich von B.
Well said Stokes. Though my Christmas in Australia will be quite warm, there is no doubt that despite the heat (expected 40C) there can still be an elegant, cool look that sets the tone for a great day!
ReplyDeleteHave enjoyed your posts immensely this past year! Thank you.
An instructive post, Heinz-Ulrich! Well said!
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