Man of Substance – Iman Blyther – Brotherhood

January 14, 2013 By in Brotherly Love 4 Comments

Iman Blyther Brotherhood

  • Brotherhood is an intimate association of men that are not actually blood bothers. It is a fraternity of young men that have grown to become adult men together, overcome many of the same obstacles in life, and have continued to build a relationship with each other over several years.
  • I realized I was part of a brotherhood after I finished my intake process with the Society of African-American Men (S.A.A.M.) while at Michigan Technological University. I was no longer a boy without any siblings, I was transformed into young man that was now part of lifelong friendships – something I had dreamed of my entire life. Being a part of something in which words couldn’t even begin to explain.
  •  S.A.A.M. helped me grow as a man by showing me what it was to be and become a man.
  • It helped me with my confidence and built the kind character for myself that would be respected by all. It also showed me that in order to get respect, I would first need to learn to give it.
  • I would consider myself to be a much better person because of the organization that I joined many years ago. I have been in this brotherhood for more than 15 years now, and I would not trade anything I’ve been through for all the riches in the world. My brothers are all the riches I need.
  • There are many benefits to being a part of such a great group, but the biggest benefit is the friendship. Knowing I can email, call, text, etc anyone at anytime to say, what up, how you doing, how’s your family, what’s new, or even just I love you. It is by far the biggest benefit to being in such a tight-knit group.
  • How has my brotherhood helped me through a tough time? One tough time in particular is when my grandfather passed. Not sure of whom to talk to, I called up some members of S.A.A.M. and they assured me that if there was anything I needed from cash, to a listening ear, to just whatever I needed, I was told to call at anytime, day or night. That right there, assured me that the organization I had joined, was the right one for me.
  • These are men that you can call upon at anytime to laugh with, cry with, argue with or just share some gospel with. It’s a brotherhood for LIFE.

Heritage – Thomas L. Jennings

January 11, 2013 By in Heritage 3 Comments

Thomas L. JenningsThomas L. Jennings was an African-American abolitionist, tailor, and dry cleaner who resided in New York City, New York. On March 3, 1821, Jennings became the first African-American to be granted a patent for his dry cleaning process known as dry scouring – which eventually transformed into modern day dry cleaning. During this era, slaves could not own the rights to their own inventions, as it was legally the property of their owner. Nevertheless, Jennings was a free man and therefore retained the rights of his invention. Jennings was a devout abolitionist who used the profits from his invention to free his family from slavery. He also used his money to further fund the abolitionist agenda. He served as assistant secretary of the First Annual Convention of the People of Color in addition to being the founder and president of the Legal Rights Association. Jennings died in 1856.

Sources:
Jessie Carney Smith, Black Firsts 4,000 Ground-Breaking and Pioneering Historical Events, Visible Ink Press; 2nd edition (December 1, 2002)

Style & Substance – The Floral Pocket Square

January 10, 2013 By in Style & Substance, Uncategorized Leave a comment

HF Floral PSIn the past, my attempts at unearthing a floral pocket square has been a successful operation in futility. Floral pocket squares are sometimes a rare find. Apologies, allow me to restate that last sentence, floral pocket squares with well-defined character are a rare find. Sure, one can locate a floral pocket square of choice at a local department store, but sometimes the visual presentation leaves more to be desired. However, this mosaic of floral pageantry immediately seized my attention. The pocket squares above were available at the now defunct e-commerce site Clad. I swiftly dove into action and ordered both these offerings from Hickey Freeman without hesitation, as $24.90 was a fair price given that they were on sale. The demure touch of a beautiful floral arrangement in the chest pocket is a fantastic way to balance a decidedly masculine aesthetic. I selected the square in blue because I will be able to coordinate it with a number of suit jackets or blazers. Blue is trending big this spring season, so I was very fortunate to discover this beauty before the stock had been depleted. And fortuitously, the brown version was also still available, so ordered that too. Constructed from a light touch of wool and silk, the generously sized square folds effortlessly into my suit jackets beautifully. Now, perhaps floral arrangements don’t tickle your fancy when it comes to clothing. Nevertheless, I strongly suggest you give it a shot. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results.

Boss Hugo Boss – The “Ready Is” Campaign

January 9, 2013 By in Uncategorized Leave a comment

Boss BlackGentlemen, the new year has officially commenced, and Hugo Boss wants to know if you are ready. And when we say ready…we mean…really ready. Launching a fresh campaign entitled “Ready Is…”, Hugo Boss wants the gentleman to be ready for whatever life has in store – from looking stylish as temperatures begin their seasonal dip to exuding a sophisticated presence during after-hour social gatherings. Being ready means smartly anticipating your day or night, and thoughtfully considering the things you can do now to make things go smoother later. And this is all accomplished by employing an alluring scent – courtesy of Hugo Boss. Because, when a gentleman feels ready, confidence naturally follows.

For the day, BOSS BOTTLED incorporates a soft, smooth and sophisticated character that subtly extends the wearer’s confident and assertive personality. Apple, cinnamon and vanilla tempered with a combination of sensual woody notes produce a daring, delicately soft and sensual, yet distinctively masculine scent. Come darkness, BOSS BOTTLED NIGHT has a purposeful, edgier character that imbues the wearer with a personal magnetism that attracts others. Infusing him with the confidence that will make him feel irresistible at night, the scent artfully blends rich woody and powerful musky notes in the base.

So, what are you ready for this year? Hugo Boss Fragrance wants you to join the conversation. Share your “readyism” on Twitter using the hash-tag #ReadyIs, or alternatively you can visit readyis.com and share your wisdom there. Submit your comment and enter to win a BOSS bag– and once your readyism is posted, you will receive an email notification from the site. The good people at Nike Communications were kind enough to send me samples of both fragrances, and my preliminary impression is this is a great fragrance to start the new year off with. Be sure to check back here for a full review. Until then, get ready and let us know how you’re ready!

UPTOWN Gentleman: Top It Off With The Right Topcoat

January 8, 2013 By in UPTOWN 2 Comments

Acne TopcoatThere are but a few wardrobe staples that a gentleman absolutely, positively must possess in his fashion collection. And given the time of season, we have found it appropriate to highlight an indispensable garment that should be hanging in your closet – the overcoat. Sure, you probably have jackets and light wool coats galore, but if you are a gentleman of a mature age, trust me, you really need an overcoat. And by mature age, I mean you are a guy that will find himself in adult situations such as job interviews, weddings, funerals, classy dinners, and the list can go on forever. Therefore, it would be intelligent that you own an overcoat that coincides with the sophistication of the moment – whatever that moment may be. To ensure that you are smartly prepared, here are a few suggestions…

I’ll admit, it took me quite a few years before I invested in a good topcoat. Actually, I invested in two, one in dark navy and the other in camel. And you if you haven’t yet, perhaps it is time you did. Trust me, I wouldn’t steer you in the wrong direction. Check out my topcoat entry over at UPTOWN Magazine and give it some thought.

The Mr Porter Paperback

January 4, 2013 By in Style & Substance Leave a comment

Mr Porter BookEsquire has its own style manual. GQ has its own style manual. Hell, even Details has its own style manual. Well, it would now appear that luxury e-commerce site Mr Porter has published its paperback version of a gentleman’s go-to guide for exquisite, impeccable style. Compiled by Mr Porter’s Editor-in-Chief Mr Jeremy Langmead, this style guide is an amalgamation of sound advice that ranges from tips from contemporary style icons to lessons in gentlemanly etiquette that strives to refine your swagger. Mr Porter Paperback: The Manual for a Stylish Life, that’s the full title and it’s only Volume 1, certainly looks the sartorial part. Looks like I will be ordering a copy to add to my book collection – I’m a semi-hoarder. I’ll be sure to check back in with a review. For ordering information, please visit Mr. Porter HERE for more details.

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Black Thought

January 4, 2013 By in Black Thought Leave a comment

frederickdouglas“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”

-Frederick Douglass

As a parent, it is absolutely paramount that you ensure your child’s maturation is nurtured and cultivated for maximal, positive growth. To be certain, there are a myriad of unfortunate realities that work tirelessly to undermine and hinder your child’s development. Harsh realities such as poverty, crime, low self-esteem, bullying, and poor academic performance can lead to self-destructive behavior that regretfully transitions into adulthood. Moreover, if that adult decides to have children, there is a high risk that self-destructive behavior will be consciously or subconsciously transferred to the subsequent generation. Truth: Some of the biggest bullies, critics, and abusers live right in the household. And that is a reality that we cannot tacitly accept. We have to do better. We must become increasingly more active by protecting and educating our youth, ensuring that they are intelligently prepared for the life that awaits them. We have to encourage. We have to impart meaningful wisdom. We have to enlighten them. We must unconditionally love them. We must fortify the integrity of their spirit and reinforce the foundation of their character. They deserve our parenting best – let’s get to work.

The Standard #22

January 2, 2013 By in Standard, Uncategorized 10 Comments

PS HatI am perfectly cognizant of the reality that traditions change as time progresses with each successive decade after the last. Behavior and culture from, say, 1950 is decidedly different from that of 2013. Nevertheless, there exists a few key behavioral attributes that have weathered the ever-transforming landscape of gentlemanly conduct. Whether referred to it as displaying the correct etiquette or possessing proper manners; there are certain standards that are resolutely non-negotiable. For instance, it is widely assumed that a gentleman should remove his hat when entering a home, a restaurant, an institution of worship, or any venue that demands deference. Walking into a funeral with your cap twisted to the side? Stop it. Wearing an over-sized cap at the dinner table? Absolutely not! Now, if this is common knowledge to you, I would highly recommended forwarding this post to any guy that is oblivious to this fact. Seriously, you would be surprised, or perhaps not, at the number of men who are unaware of hat etiquette. Now, will the world implode if you rock your hat indoors. Certainly not. But that is not point. It is paramount that a gentleman display proper form, especially in the presence of lady. And it also silently communicates to a young, impressionable male that you have code that entails dignity, respect, and tact – never a bad thing to have.

Happy New Year!

January 1, 2013 By in Uncategorized 4 Comments

happy new yearHappy New Year ladies and gentlemen. I pray that you have a blessed, prosperous, and safe 2013. Thank you for all your support and readership in 2012, and let’s do bigger things in the year ahead!

Brotherly Love – Devon Scott

December 27, 2012 By in Brotherly Love 2 Comments

Bro Love - Devon Scott 2Stylish addition by way of intelligent subtraction. This winter season, demonstrate a little discipline and abstain from loud, gaudy patterns and colors. Stripped down to the polished basics, a gentleman can still exude a stately sophistication, even when his chosen sartorial palette is quietly unassuming.

Source: Esquire

The Standard #21

December 27, 2012 By in Standard Leave a comment

barack-obama-familyThe gentleman should never underestimate the magnitude of a cheerful, happy disposition-especially when that attitude is displayed towards his children. Sure, discipline is a vital function required to raise children. However, the totality of child rearing must be equal parts discipline and equal parts love. He cannot levy seventy-five percent discipline and only twenty-five percent love. And that discipline cannot be driven by anger. That would be unwise. Listen, a gentleman cannot walk around with a scowl etched on a rigid face of granite all the time. Smile. Laugh. Sing. As a father, it is incumbent that he sets the appropriate tone and atmosphere for his household. Children need to witness him being more than that guy who trudges to and from work. Tired. Irritable. Unhappy. Trust this: children are much more perceptive than you award credit, and they absorb the negatively charged climate that you have helped create. Stop. The time has arrived for you to glide through the door and welcome your family with a fresh, joyous attitude. They deserve it. You deserve it. Will it be like that everyday? Probably not. Nevertheless, trust that your efforts will not give audience to blind eye. Your children will definitely notice, and they will love you even more. Feels fantastic doesn’t it?

Style & Substance – Colored Footwear

December 23, 2012 By in Style & Substance Leave a comment

Colored LoaferFantastic news friend, that sartorial bandwagon for Now-And-Later flavored footwear is still stationed outside, so now is the perfect opportunity to procure a ticket and hop aboard. Honestly, the foreseeable future appears to be stocked with an array of colorful kicks for gentlemanly consumption, so purchasing a cool pair seems less risky than, say, a year ago. Having invested in a few pairs myself, I have concluded that shoes not tinted in standard shades of black or dark brown are actually worthy investments. They smartly afford an outfit added depth and new perspective. So, instead of reaching for those tried and true hues, now a gentleman can complement a faint hint of green in his sport shirt, pick up the shade of burgundy in his watch band, or synchronize with the light blue in his pocket square. Boom – dressing has never been this fun in quite some time. Take advantage gents – take advantage.

UPTOWN Gentleman: Stylish Shades of Grey

December 21, 2012 By in UPTOWN Leave a comment

Bad-Polo Ralph Lauren Knit HatThere are few words that can be used to adequately define grey — sartorially speaking that is. Graceful. Dignified. Regal. Stately. And although many gentlemen treat grey as an afterthought, or an unwanted alternative to black, grey actually affords a myriad of fashion options for any guy willing to incorporate a little in his wardrobe. So, how is grey capable of this? Well, grey isn’t exactly just grey. Meaning, there are numerous shades and tints which constitute grey in general, which in turn allows for varying levels of intensity. It could be a light, soft heather grey. Conversely, it could be a dark, solemn charcoal. Therefore, a gentleman’s presentation is never at risk of being tediously monochromatic. Trust, grey has its rewards. Here are a few ways to wear it smartly.

Hello good people, it’s that time to check out my current post over at UPTOWN Magazine, check me out right HERE!

Style & Substance – Allen Edmonds Wingtip Brogues

December 18, 2012 By in Style & Substance 4 Comments

Lombard I Lombard II Lombard III Lombard IVMust-have: a cool pair of medium brown brogue wingtips in your footwear repertoire – striped socks optional.

Gent Hints – Breaking In My Shoes

December 18, 2012 By in Gent Hints Leave a comment

Grenson BrogueIt is not unusual for a gentleman to liberate a pair of newly purchased oxfords from its box and discover that they are a little snug. Of course, it would be wise to try said oxford on in the shoe department before you submit payment. However, say, you are in a rush, or you ordered a stylish pair from an Internet site. Well, taking your kicks for a sartorial test drive really is not an option. In those circumstances, “breaking in” your footwear may be required. Now, your brogues may not be excruciatingly tight, but a little room or flexibility would be welcome. And so, I have employed a little routine that I utilize for fresh kicks out of the box. For the record, I am referring primarily to dress shoes for this blog entry. So, before I even think about sliding into my leather soled purchase; I retrieve a nice, moderately thick pair of white athletic socks. As best I can, I carefully put on my shoes and walk around the house – as if they were slippers. Now, as they are new with the sole being untouched by the outside elements, I don’t have to worry about transferring dirt to the carpet – or getting admonished by my wife. So, I walk around a bit to afford them a little ease, a little give to the leather. And by the time I wear thinner dress socks at a later date, the fit is just fine. Alternately, you can visit a shoe cobbler and have them stretched professionally. I prefer my method – it’s cheaper.