Getting Started

In recent history, more specifically within the past decade, there seems to have been a revival of interest in classic men's style. Yes, as with each decade, there are trends that we will look back on in the coming decades and cringe, and there still are the faint-but-lingering shadows of a disdain for the idea of men dressing up and dressing well. However, with the widespread use of the internet and the popularity of a number of television sitcoms (the most obvious being Mad Men, but there are certainly others) we are seeing a growing number of men showing an appreciation for menswear and striving to dress better.

(Thanks)

But why should you care?

While your motivations might be different, I personally have two reasons as to why I enjoy attempting (sometimes failing) to dress well.

First is it improves our social interactions with others. The immediate examples that I'm used to hearing would be in making a good impression with a potential employer or on a first date. But, in my opinion, these examples, while important, are only a small part of the overall benefits and themselves reserved to a select few occasions. In truth, how we present ourselves does have a good deal of influence on how others perceive us, not just in these select few occasions, but in general, and clothing is a part of this. When you dress well, people treat you better. And while research is limited, there is even reason to believe that it influences how we feel and behave, which I think many people, myself included, would agree with based upon experience alone.

Second, and this is actually my own primary reason, is that I find it fun. There is a wealth of information available to explore, and I enjoy scanning through, learning more and trying out new things. From the history of clothing, spanning its evolution over just the past century, to modern trends and their relation to these vintage styles, there are seemingly endless options to review.

I enjoy the conversations that it's inspired. One of the very inspirations for this blog was the number of men that have approached me on the topic or the amount of times that the idea of fashion has emerged in conversation, even over something so small as a friend of mine wearing a nice watch or colored shoelaces. Everyone I've met, whether man or woman, has an opinion when it comes to clothing, and it's fun to observe the ideas that arise.

And finally is the feeling of it. As I partly hinted above, when you dress well, you feel good. You feel more confident about yourself. There is something about dressing in an outfit that's put together and fits you well that causes you to stand a little taller. At first, when you're trying it, it can feel a little different and awkward, and to tell the truth, I've heard of cases where many men return to their old clothing because of this, but if you keep going, it is a great feeling as you start to see the benefits it provides.

With these things in mind, the purpose of this blog is to serve as a means through which I can share the things that I've learned and the opinions I've acquired over time, and hopefully, you will come to see why I enjoy it so much. In future posts, I will expound upon my ideas and what I aim for with these, but for now, welcome!