To be truthful, despite earnest attempts to uphold a gentlemanly standard, a gentleman will always be subject to the possibility of failure. Given that living one’s life in perfection is an impossibility, missteps and mistakes are almost certain to occur. It is an inevitability. Nevertheless, it is paramount that a gentleman understand his shortcoming, and it is more important that he extracts wisdom from his failure. Diligently, he must strive to apply the proper corrective measures to ensure that the esteemed, personal standard he has established is met. Don’t squander precious time persecuting yourself. Moreover, don’t grant time to individuals that want to continuously persecute and shame you. They are vulnerable to same mistakes as you, and constant reminders of your failure can negatively affect your spirit and focus. Privately and quietly – humble yourself. Admit your faults and recognize your error. A gentleman must not seek refuge in denial, instead, exhibit sincere contrition and work to prevent such failures from occurring again. You will emerge a more mature gentleman, fully knowing that you are still susceptible to making mistakes, but understanding how to try to avoid them in the future, and how to better deal with your missteps when it happens again.
Monthly Archives: June 2014
Mr Porter – Sale – Up to 80% Off
Paul Smith Cuff Links – Mr Porter
Literally, I have been patiently stalking a pair of brown suede wingtips from Grenson ever since Mr Porter launched their semi annual sale approximately one month ago. And finally, said suede pair attained the apex of their final reduction – plummeting from an out-of-reach $335 to a just-right $134. Now, if you are a gentleman that would not mind adding a few luxury pieces to his sartorial arsenal without spending an entire paycheck, it might be beneficial to afford Mr Porter a gentleman’s perusal. You just might find the perfect bargain. Happy shopping gents!
Sale Begins Here: http://www.mrporter.com/am/home.mrp
Black Thought
“Having been given, I must give.”
-Paul Robeson
Sometimes, when sequestered within moments of quiet solitude, thoughtful ruminations reveal how incredibly fortunate I am. Fortunate, not in regards to monetary value, rather, fortunate in regards to the many blessings I have reaped tremendous benefit. Yes, I have been given much. Now, I understand that some individuals hold fast to the belief that they earn everything with no, if not minimal, assistance required. Well, sometimes success acts as a vanity whose reflection never grows tiresome to the person looking at it. Look, one cannot be merciless, yet expect mercy. One cannot embrace avarice, yet expect generosity. One cannot espouse hate, yet expect love. Only speaking for myself, I have been granted favor and opportunity. I have been afforded mercy and forgiveness. I have been given love and grace. And because of those realities, it is of the utmost importance that I give back. Giving back – it could arrive in the form of your time, an inspirational word, a much needed hug, or an important professional opportunity. No one ever truly does it on their own. Someone, right now, needs you. And you may need someone. Go ahead, give of yourself and surely you will be given.
Gentleman Essentials – Gaziano & Girling – The Shoe Tree
Because, during its expected utilization for travel, maintaining optimal form and neutralizing odor is paramount.
The TGS Gives Initiative
When I first started this blog in 2008, I had no idea it would attract a small but loyal audience of readers. And I certainly did not expect a myriad of opportunities would be presented to me in the form of reviewing and testing products. Over the past years, I have struggled with the concept of moving beyond the current state of just being a blog. There are plenty of style websites for men in today’s Internet market, so I have made a concerted effort to mix both style and substance in my writing. But to move even further beyond that, I have decided to fuse both my passion for gentlemanly style and community. The concept is still in its infancy, but I wanted to share a preliminary logo that a friend, Mrs. Debrah King, designed for me. The TGS stands for, of course, The Gentlemen’s Standard. And the “gives” suffix is pretty self-explanatory. Well, perhaps, it is not. In an effort to champion positive self-image and foster strong self-esteem amongst young males, I plan to use the opportunities that I have been blessed with to mentor and empower said youth. I’m still trying to clean up my mission and vision statement, but that is where my heart is starting. Now, I would love some feedback on the logo, as I may be prejudiced in my affinity for it. I would love to hear from you.
Also, if you want to consult with the designer about a logo idea of your own, you can contact Debrah at thecutephotographer@yahoo.com – yes, she is also an awesome photographer too.
Gentlemen’s Review – Tommy Bahama – Tommy Bahama Compass
It has been quite the busy month here at The Gentlemen’s Standard. I have been blessed with the opportunity to examine a bevy of products and offer personal insight to the reading audience. It has definitely presented a challenge, as the luxury of time is scarce nowadays, but I am extremely thankful nonetheless. Now, today we are evaluating another fragrance that perfectly complements the progression of warmer temperatures. Allow me to frame the picture for the audience: cream linen suit, open collar dress shirt, brown loafers – no socks, and a Panama hat. That is what I envisioned upon my initial introduction to Tommy Bahama Compass. This looked like a bottle that should be sitting on top of a sharp gent’s dresser while getting attired. Flipping open the top (an interesting feature) of the diamond-shaped bottle, I was wondering if this current offering compared favorably to a previous favorite of mine – Tommy Bahama for Men. Well, let us take a gander.
Observations
Top Notes: Lemon, Grapefruit, Violet
Middle Notes: Pimento Lavender, Clary Sage
Base Notes: Cedarwood, Amber Gris, Tonka Bean, Cistus
First impressions: The fragrance is resolutely smooth and effortless. Of all three notes, none overly dominates the other. Each note cascades into the following note quietly and discreetly. This is not a fragrance that is going to commence with an abundance of loudness, rather, this is a scent formulated for more intimate quarters. So, due to its distinct lightness, a gentleman does not have to be bashful with its application. However, it is still advised that one should not bathe in it either. Depending on your preference and body chemistry, I would guess 4 sprays from the nozzle should suffice.
Tommy Bahama Compass appears to best worn indoors during the daytime. Standout notes include lemon, grapefruit, and lavender. And no, the smell is not too feminine, just soft and pleasant. The ending notes definitely won’t go unnoticed, but they won’t be in your face either. If the affair is mellow and relaxed, this may be the summer cologne for you. This scent will not go unappreciated indoors. It can probably work outside as well, but you may want to apply just a touch more if that is the case. And even with an additional spritz or so, the scent is so light, you won’t have to worry about burning nearby nostrils. This is a sure thumbs up for the summer.
Tommy Bahama 1.7 oz $54.00 or 3.4 oz $69.00 – Available at Tommy Bahama, Macy’s, Dillards, Lord & Taylor or any fine men’s department store
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.
Gentlemen’s Review – Vince Camuto – Vince Camuto Homme
Well, spring has settled in nicely, and summer is patiently awaiting in the wings for its annual, highly anticipated appearance. As temperatures have reached a pleasing and comfortable range, the gentleman will surely discover himself enjoying the beauty of outdoors; perhaps near a cool, refreshing body of water. With that possibility taken into account, the timeliness of today’s review could be fortuitous for some gentlemen with outdoor summer excursions scheduled on their calendar. Introduced just this year, Vince Camuto Homme promises a fragrance that will ” liven your spirit and whisk you away to a land of beloved scents and gorgeous landscape. A place you will always want to be, a scent you will always want to wear.” Recently, I’ve been tapped to sample the new 2014 offering and offer some insight. I am always humbled when I am chosen to offer insight. So, let’s get to work.
Observations
Top Notes: Lemon, Ozone Accord, Gin
Middle Notes: Fennel, Blue Cypress, Juniper Berry, French Lavender
Base Notes: Atlas Cedarwood, Hot Musk, White Birch, Artemisia
Opening the package, one cannot help but recognize the beautiful bottle. The bottle itself, encased in what appears to be blue leather, is a rather heavy and dense glass. Don’t make a mistake and drop this on a toe! Centered right in the middle of the bottle: a metal seal of approval from the Vince Camuto brand. Gorgeous. It should be noted that my wife thought the bottle to be too opulent. I thought is displayed a great touch of sophistication and masculinity. Now, while presentation is key, a gentleman isn’t buying cologne to look at the bottle – no matter how pretty it is. Unless, of course, you keep it on the dresser to impress a visiting lady friend. But, I’m married, and my wife wasn’t impressed with the bottle. So, let’s explore what the actual fragrance smells like.
The introduction is refreshingly sweet and clean, as there is an aquatic feel to it when you spray it on. The notes of citrus are fresh and very dominant throughout the top note. Now, the beginning is not terribly strong, and you might be tempted to liberally coat yourself with the fragrance, but I would not recommend such a generous application. The transition to the middle and base notes is pretty swift, and both those notes are far stronger than the top note. So, I would advise administering some restraint and afford yourself 3-4 sprays around the wrists and neck. Again, don’t go overboard. Otherwise, you will carry the risk of the scent being obnoxiously strong during the close of the fragrance, which is deep and woodsy.
Vince Camuto Homme would probably work best either indoors or outdoors, transitioning from late afternoon to early evening. Because of its warm dry-down, I would definitely lean towards wearing this cologne outdoors. Pool. Beach. Lake. All of these options would be a great complement to this scent. It displays an extended longevity, so a gentleman won’t have to worry about it disappearing throughout the course of the day. Now, if you are looking for something new for the year, especially this summer, I would definitely recommend visiting a department store nearby and sampling a spritz or two. It could be a nice addition to your collection.
Vince Camuto Homme 1.7 oz $57.00 or 3.4 oz $70.00 – Available at Vince Camuto, Macy’s, Dillards, or any fine men’s department store
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.
Brotherly Love – Bespoke Twins – Mark & Marlon Austin
Gentlemen’s Review -Lacoste – Eau De Lacoste L.12.12 Pure White
Eau De Lacoste L.12.12, inspired by the original polo tennis shirt designed by founder Rene Lacoste, was initially launched by the eponymous company in 2011. Now in 2014, Lacoste is celebrating their tradition with a limited edition relaunch of that fragrance. Borrowing from the simplicity of the white L.12.12 polo tennis shirt; the fragrance itself is housed within a discreet white bottle with the iconic crocodile affixed to the upper right hand corner, and with L.12.12 Limited Edition stamped in neon yellow in the bottom corner. The bottle also sports a textured pique panel running down both sides. And now, lets examine the fragrance itself.
Observations
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Cardamom Seed, Rosemary, Cedar Leaf
Middle Notes: Tuberose, Ylang Ylang, Olibanum
Base Notes: Atlas Cedar, Vetiver, Leather, Suede Accord, Georgywood
Upon the initial application, one will discover that the top notes are remarkably intense – especially the hints of citrus. With an unabashedly bold introduction, a gentleman might be astonished and alarmed by the heavy notes in the beginning. With those facts on the table, it would be wise to employ a feather-light touch when dispersing the aromatic contents. For best results: Direct the spray nozzle center mass, an arm’s length away from the body, and fully depress the spray nozzle once. Trust – you only require one light mist.
The transition to the middle and base notes is a little smoother. As long as you don’t get overzealous with the initial blast, the remaining notes will settle nicely with a long-lasting, masculine scent that will be noticeable without being overbearing. The wood, leather, and suede lend an earthy splash, but it is very subtle. Personally, I would recommend this scent for any function that transpires outdoors. The fragrance is afforded the opportunity to breathe a little, and it is strong enough to stand up to the varying smells that await outside. With Father’s Day approaching, this may great gift idea to consider.
Eau De Lacoste L.12.12 Limited Edition 3.3 oz. $65.00 – recommended retail price at any fine men’s department store
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.
Black Thought
“Never get to the point where you will be ashamed to ask anybody for information. The ignorant man will always be ignorant if he fears that by asking another for information he will display ignorance. Better once display your ignorance of a certain subject than always know nothing of it.”
-Booker T. Washington
Well, as the expression goes: there is no such thing as a dumb question. So true. As sometimes stubborn gentlemen, we retain this idea within our thick skulls that we know everything. Nothing could be further removed from reality-we simply don’t know everything. Yet, some gentlemen live their existence as if they do. When faced with subject matter that bewilders the mind, they occasionally conjure up imaginary facts and present them as truth. Listen, there is absolutely nothing incorrect about asking questions and increasing one’s knowledge. Better to look the fool once than be a fool forever right? Set aside the arrogance. Put away the pride. We all can benefit from the blessings of another with greater knowledge than our own. Weary are the legs of the gentleman supporting the weight of his own hubris. We don’t know everything. It’s wise to cease acting like it.