Inherently, I am not a violent individual. No – seriously, sincerely I am not. So, some might find it a little peculiar that I be drawn to cufflinks that are made of – wait for it – bullet fragments. Yes, bullet fragments. Composed of recycled, fired bullets; these unconventional cufflinks drip bad boy appeal without any prerequisites that require committing a felony. Designed and manufactured here in the good old United States, we do love our firearms, this rakish gentleman’s accoutrement is available from Bullet Designs, LLC. Great for the environment and great for your own personal style, they clock in at an absurdly low $19.95. I might go ahead and bite the bullet – yeah, that was bad – and order a pair. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
Heritage – Jesse Owens
- Jesse Owens was born on September 12, 1913
- Attended East Technical High School
- Tied world record in 100 m dash at the National High School Championship in 1933
- Attended Ohio State University
- Won a record 8 individual medals in the NCAA
- At Big Ten Meet, broke world records in 220 yd low hurdles, long jump, and 220 yd dash on May 25, 1935
- Berlin Olympics: captured 4 gold medals: 100 m & 200 m sprint, long jump, 4 x 100 m relay in 1936
- Inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 1970
- Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1976
- Living Legends Award in 1979
- Died at the age of 66 on March 31, 1980
- Posthumously awarded Congressional Gold Medal in 1990
Brotherly Love – British Style
Simply the only way to effortlessly execute business casual with casual never being a bothersome issue. Take notes and extract the necessary inspiration to mold your own interpretation.
Style & Substance – The Irregular Pocket Square Fold
With a charismatic corruption of the conservative presidential fold, this particular pocket square presentation conveys an atmosphere of brash confidence- a presentation only reserved for those gentlemen trained in the art of effortless, slightly disinterested elegance. And yes, I am penning another entry that champions the serviceability of the devoted chest pocket companion. Why? Well, because those gentlemen without the luxury of disposal income deserve every stylish, affordable tool in his arsenal to be well-dressed. And the pocket square is a subtle, inexpensive option that should be wisely explored. Nevertheless, this dandy fold can certainly add a dash of debonair to your suit ensemble. Folded in an asymmetric square, this method is most suited for pocket squares with edges trimmed with color. Less structured. Gorgeously disheveled. Check your favorite men’s fashion magazines, this look is definitely trending big right now. And unlike most trends, this one will enjoy some well-deserved longevity. Rock it in style.
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.
Deals & Steals – Allen Edmonds 2 For $300 Factory Seconds
My first four pairs of Allen Edmonds were purchased directly from the store. And then I heard some chatter over the Internet about something called a “factory second”. Not quite up to par to release at full retail, these shoes were sold at select outlets for a discounted price. And so I took a chance. I anxiously ordered a pair over the phone. When my purchase arrived, I placed them side by side with one of my regular pairs. I could not discern any egregious cosmetic differences between the two. Shortly thereafter, my next five pairs were factory seconds, but only when the discounted pricing was compounded with an additional sale. Like the one being offered now. Now, my wife tells me I should not tell people my A & E shoes are factory seconds. Perhaps. But, there is no shame to my sartorial game, and I am always willing to share a sale with a fellow gentleman. So, from now until November 21st, a gentleman can take advantage of this latest sale and snag 2 pairs for basically the price of one. I already gave them a ring and the following inventory is available, but you should check for sizing availability. You should also visit their WEBSITE to see what the models look like.
Available Models: Neumok (all colors), Mayfair, Tampa, Links, Walden, Park Avenue *RS, Fifth Avenue *RS, Strand *RS, MacNeil *RS, Mcallister *RS, Westchester *RS
*RS = rubber sole for models that regularly have leather soles
And the most important information you need – the phone number. Well, my friend, it is 262-284-7158 – that’s the shoe bank. They are open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Standard Time. And if you place an order, don’t forget to have them add you to their mailing list. You’ll get special offers like these delivered right to your inbox. Happy hunting.
UPTOWN Gentleman: The Stylish Guy’s Winter Scarf
When a gentleman is presented with the opportunity to smartly accessorize his look, he should readily take advantage of any and all accoutrements that are at his disposal. Over the lifespan of this weekly column, we have explored a broad range of accessories that have included everything from wool pocket squares to vibrant striped socks. Today, we are going to discuss a gentleman’s accessory that is often used this time of the year, but not widely considered an accent piece — the scarf. In terms of function, a gentleman only requires his scarf to perform but one task, and that task is to keep him warm. Fashion, on the other hand, arrives at a distant second. Nevertheless, if a gentleman is going to wrap one around his neck for all to see, it might as well look great. Right? This winter, rethink the purpose of your scarf; here is how.
Okay, don’t let my latest UPTOWN post frighten you. Yes, a gentleman can wear a stylish scarf. And no, it doesn’t have to cost you a bundle. But, for the sake of a good read, please check out my current offering and extract a few ideas for good use. Then, check back here next week for some inexpensive options to stock your closet with. Until then, check out the story HERE and enjoy!
Style & Substance – Striped Berry & Gray Socks With Loafers
It’s true, I have not summoned the necessary courage to deploy the impossibly trendy, unapologetic no-sock presentation at work. Hey, a wise gentleman recognizes his sartorial limitations. Besides, it was a tad bit nippy outside today in good old Michigan. Thus, I smartly retrieved a cool pair of striped, cotton Hugo Boss socks from the bottom dresser drawer and headed out to work. During a brief meeting this morning, a co-worker quickly noticed my whimsical hosiery. She seemed to like them. She thought they could make for a great uni-sex sock. Well, I don’t know about all of that, but they look pretty good on these manly dogs. Woof!
Heritage – Carter G. Woodson
- Carter Godwin Woodson was born on December 19, 1875
- Graduated from Douglass High School in 1897
- Became principal of Douglass High School in 1900
- Earned his Bachelor of Literature degree from Berea College in 1903
- Earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from University of Chicago in 1908.
- Earned doctorate from Harvard University in 1912
- Historian, educator, author, publisher, and journalist
- Founder of Association for the Study of African-American Life and History in 1915
- Authored The Education of the Negro Prior to 1861 in 1915
- Founded The Journal of Negro History 1916
- Became Dean of the School of Liberal Arts at Howard University in 1920
- Founded The Associated Publishers in 1920
- Authored The History of the Negro Church in 1922
- Established Negro History Week in February 1926, which later expanded to Black History Month
- Authored The Mis-Education of the Negro in 1933
- Founded the Negro History Bulletin in 1937
- Died at the age of 74 on April 3, 1950
Style & Substance – The Tweed Suit
GQ – Dwyane Wade – Will Welch
To be perfectly honest, I am still not a supporter of the whole relaxed, whimsical presentation of a loosely knotted necktie. If you are going through the entire knotting exercise, a gentleman should just complete the look and tighten it up. That is just my humble opinion. But that is neither here or there, today we are looking at the tweed suit, executed properly here by Dwyane Wade. Forgetting that Mr. Wade plays for the loathsome Miami Heat, the man knows how to dress, or at least he hires the proper staff to dress him. Here, his suit is perfectly contoured to his proportions-nothing excessively slim; just appropriately tailored for his stature. And a quick note to gentlemen who still rock the six button suits: Wade stands 6 foot 4, but he opts here to sport a two button suit-and it looks fantastic! Keep that in mind. Tweed jackets have enjoyed a history of being bulky and itchy, but contemporary versions have reduced the mass and refined the fabric. The result: a definite winner for the winter season. And the v-neck sweater and newsboy cap? That’s a nice touch too. Just tighten that necktie!
Standard Recommendations – The Shoe Liner
Okay, so the thought of bypassing your trusted hosiery, as you slide into your loafers, has definitely aroused your interest. An earlier post about wearing loafers with your suit has sealed the deal. That’s it, you are sold. However, the idea of strutting around the office with your naked feet housed within your favorite leather slip-ons, well, that doesn’t sound terribly appealing – at all. Especially if you want to kick off the shoes and stretch your toes, trust, no one wants to see your dogs barking underneath your desk. Please spare your coworkers the sight and keep those bad boys locked inside a kennel. Now, if going totally barefoot is not your cup of tea, yet you still want a no-sock appearance, a cool pair of shoe liners may be the best option for you. Take these shoe liners from Johnston & Murphy for example. They’re absorbent, machine washable, and anti-microbial. And, a gentleman can still manage a no-sock appearance, maintain the integrity of his insoles, and calm the fears of his dogs breaking their leash. Thanks in advance.
Brotherly Love – Suit Supply
If a gentleman is going to go with a no-sock presentation, he definitely has to look like this. Boom!
Heritage – Cab Calloway & The Nicholas Brothers
The Nicholas Brothers were a famous African-American team of dancing brothers that consisted of Fayard & Harold Nicholas. A friend of mine sent me a video of their famous routine from the movie Stormy Weather and it was simply amazing. Their style of tap dancing was a composite of acrobatic technique, fabulous athleticism, and fearless innovation. Growing up in Philadelphia, neither brothers had any formal dance training. They would eventually go on to become stars of the jazz circuit during the height of the Harlem Renaissance. They also had successful careers performing on stage, film, and television. With all due respect to modern performers of today; nothing matches the sheer energy that the Nicholas Brothers display when they launch into their routines. No CGI or stunt doubles required. Ladies and gentlemen – enjoy.
The Standard #19
The sharply styled, contemporary gentleman is fully cognizant of his immediate surroundings. He surveys the landscape around him and makes intelligent sartorial decisions. Once assigning himself to the notion that people do not notice what you are wearing, this gentleman has experienced a maturation process that speaks quite to the contrary. He is wiser and more seasoned now. He understands that people will take a snap mental inventory of his presentation. One’s appearance can be a subtle indicator of social status and character. Yes, your attire is a non-verbal form of communication; your clothes articulate a message and people readily listen.
Well, who comprises the audience that is so attentive observant? Your current or potential employer certainly notices. Man is not judged by resume alone. No. Sophisticated attire could be that extra 10 percent you require to differentiate yourself from the next applicant. In this economy, you might need it. Your first impression should be a lasting impression.
Speaking of impressions, observe your lovely lady’s eyes widen and the corners of her mouth curl into a sly smile when she sees your effortless elegance. Yes indeed, every woman loves a sharp dressed man; never underestimate that fact. Ponder the impression you leave on the youth and especially your own children when they absorb the gentleman’s confidence and class.
There is power in your presence, wield it wisely. Your peers even record mental notes. Please. Men are all about competition. Females usually take flack for their ritualistic judgment of each other, but do not be fooled; men want to bring sartorial A game to the table too. We are just a little more disguised with our attitude. We attempt to act like we don’t care, but we do. Employer. Spouse. Co-worker. Sibling. Son. Daughter. No matter the person, recognize that they recognize what your style articulates about you. Dignified. Confident. Masculine. Intelligent. Trustworthy. Definite characteristics the contemporary gentleman should exude.
Style & Substance – The Wool Bow Tie
Quite a few years ago, the incomparable bow tie staged a furious return to the world of men’s style. Championed by a few well-dressed dandies, fearless gentlemen across the nation secured at least a couple to seamlessly weave into their wardrobe. Wise move gents. But, before we could become buried beneath a superfluous heap of whimsical cloth, or driven to insane irritation because of its exaggerated usage, the trend leveled off and the bow tie became an ordinary, contemporary staple in a gent’s closet. Demonstrating surprising sartorial sustainability, the bow tie appears to be here to stay. And not as a silly or quirky conversation starter, we are of course adults here. No, these bow ties are serious. Not convinced? Check out the seriousness of this wool flannel offering from Phineas Cole. Devoid colorful polka dots (although those are popular this fall) or rambunctious animal motifs, this bow tie coveys a quiet sophistication requisite of a refined gentleman – a standard we should all seek to retain.