My darling wife tells me I have no fashion sense. She’s pretty good at this stuff.
I’d say it’s a fair call, I’m not known as a male fashionista – unless that’s in a practical way. What I mean by saying “practical” is more like well worn T- shirts, board shorts or jeans that are actually faded and a little torn through years of service rather than that’s how I bought them.
So with that subtle yet caring attack on my now somewhat deflated dress sense, I checked out my complete wardrobe.
Mmm let’s see, I have my Monday to Friday shirt and pants – work supplied.
Saturday morning you can find me adorned in my “around the yard” well worn hard yakka shirt, old board shorts and a pair of old runners. Subject to the weather I may sport a bucket hat.
For my evening wear, I have my old trackie dacks (track suit pants if your not sure of the vernacular) and my faithful T-shirt, both these items also double as my apparel for Saturday arvo watching the footie.
Sunday’s – Well I set the bar a bit higher – I know, you may find that hard to believe!
A nice pair of walking shorts, just in case a game of golf beckons and a reasonably new T shirt. I may even sport a polo shirt. You have to be prepared. (Isn’t that right Boy Scouts !)
My current stylish footwear incorporates a new pair of runners for just about everything else. I get a haircut when I reckon I’ll get some value – say every couple of months. Let’s not talk about undies or socks.
I forgot to mention my thongs ? (That’s flip flops if you’re not in Australia – not to be confused with a G-string!)
Whilst emotionally dealing with this accusation, I initiated some complex research on what the “Man About Town” is wearing these days. Sadly, I came to the conclusion that maybe Deb does have a point ?
So in an attempt to educate me in the finer points of being a modern well dressed gentleman here’s her 7 tips for “looking the part”.
Combined with a few tips on the modern day Male keeping himself groomed.
1. Have a quality sports jacket that you can mix and match with dress jeans and a t-shirt or Polo shirt.
2. Have a quality pair of casual shoes. For example, boat shoes or similar. Wear these with your dress shorts or jeans to those social gatherings. Wear anklet socks (preferable that don’t show) with your dress shorts and boat shoes. No long walking socks or sandals!
3. Invest in a tailored suit. If you’re ever in Hoi An in Vietnam or Singapore take the time to visit a local tailor, you’ll get a great suit at an incredible price.
4. Have at least two collared, long sleeve business shirt and a quality tie. Make sure the bottom tip of the tie aligns with your belt. Not halfway up your stomach.
5. Have a quality pair of formal shoes or boots that you wear to weddings, funerals or important meetings. Look after them and they will last a life time.
6. Have a quality set of exercise gear that breathes. Wash them regularly, don’t leave them featuring in your gym bag. Include a pair of correctly fitted quality runners. If you suffer from pronation like Reece, make sure your runners give you proper support. Get the right shoes!
7. As Reece does so well – keep an old pair of runners, an old pair of shorts or two, a couple of t-shirts, sloppy joe and a bucket hat for those “Blokey” jobs or outings like fishing.
“Clothes make the man, naked people have little or no influence on society – Mark Twain”
So now we have you dressed. What about grooming ?
1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. There’s nothing worse than working in close proximity with someone who’s breath smells like a toilet.
2. Wear deodorant.
3. Trim your nose and ear hairs. You don’t have to look like you’ve got a cabbage patch growing out of your nose.
4. Get a haircut at every four weeks. Not one that looks like someone cut around the edges of a template. Show some style.
4. Keep your finger nails trimmed and clean. To look at someone’s fingers nails that are storing a heap of filth under them is a sign of really bad hygiene.
All in all it’s about taking pride in how you present yourself to others. Whether it be a mark of respect or when meeting new friends or colleagues, remember first impressions set the stage. Plus, it’s good for your inner self to present as someone who looks after themselves, is organised and informed. You’re also showing self respect.
You don’t have to spend a fortune, but as in any investment in yourself it will always pay great dividends.
With gratitude, thanks again for reading – RD
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