I agree with all, except point 1, the tie bar has a practical function and has saved many a tie from various stains. Another professionally produced video, informative and entertaining, 👍
Great video again, thank you! I would respectfully disagree with the tie bar, I find them very useful to prevent the knot from slipping and keeping my tie where it should be, in windy weather.
Ash another video that keeps it simple. keeping the wearer well dressed and without one item standing out above all else making the ensembled set of garments cohesive
Good video and I totally agree about excessive accessorizing. I personally reduced my own outfits to the essentials over the years and feel much more stylish, and also invite less unwanted attention. However,. in general I would rather see someone over-accessorized than not trying at all, and the latter is farm more prevalent in 2021.
Good video. I’d perhaps add the ‘novelty’ or character tie as a surprisingly common faux pas. Surprising now many people you see in the City where when you get up close the pattern turns out to be rugby balls, or Homer Simpson or similar. Just don’t ok - save it for Christmas lunch.
Agree with all those points, Ash ,I would even go one step further and say that a lapel should only be adorned by one accessory and not more: either a pin, a flower/boutonniere or a pocket square.
This is such good advice. I wondered about the tie clip and this helps clear that up. I feel the same way about rings and jewelry. Neither my wife or myself wear them, not because we are hiding anything, but rather we don't enjoy the feeling of a ring on the finger. I also like the advice of not wearing the same color of tie as shirt and suit. I was not sure about that and this has given me some direction in that area.
Loved the video Ash. I agree with all of your points except one.....tie bars. I wear one not only because of the aesthetics but because it provides a function too. The evils of the same colour shirt and tie....don't get me started...lol..
Very good piece. We are in agreement on every point (in particular the scourge of the zany sock), with the exception of the tie bar. Frankly, a knitted monochromatic tie is incomplete without a simple tie bar. In my opinion, of course!
Thank you, Ash, for mentioning the laundry service. This actually reminded me to collect my shirts from my local laundry store today and before the store employees go on a 2 week summer break. You saved my life and style
Completely agree with the tie bar comments! I have shirts made with a monogram in the same colour of the fabric, and placed under the ribs on the left side, so that no one but myself can ever see it, even without a jacket on. In saying that, I tend not to wear cuff links at all, even with formalwear, and have formal shirts made with lovely mother of pearl buttons instead. I love a deep purple, burgundy, forest green or harvest gold sock with casual wear, over the calf of course! Totally agree with the tie and shirt matching faux pas. I also tend to shy away from jewellery, but do appreciate that some wear it very well, if it suits their style. This video reminds me of that classic Dianna Vreeland line “Elegance is refusal”. Great video again Ash!
A tie bar looks better with sombre outfits, with basic patterns and colors. I have a discreet sterling silver one from Huntsman and it is the perfect width and i like to place it diagonally and to push the tie up!
Thanks for this video and I agree. It seems like a lot of RUclips menswear channels advocate for a “more is more” flamboyant style and I appreciate the more classic conservative approach you take.
Ash rarely makes me laugh, he's just not that kind of host, but calling the tie bar a trinket, made me laugh. Funny! Im sure at one time they saved guys from killing themselves in a machinery, but yeah, now not needed. And next, "Forcing a cufflink into service." What a great expression. As always, Ash, great stuff.
Ash, we could be twins or at least brothers. Before I found your channel, I already was dressing almost 100% like you recommend. Complete with GMT Master, Barbour Balfour, Allen Edmund oxfords in brown and black, regimental striped ties, etc. Thank you for reinforcing my style .
Definitely agree with all you've said. 1. Wearing a tie-bar I always associate with bank clerks at the best - and second hand car salesmen at the least. 2. Wearing bracelets, necklaces etc. should be left to the owners of tanning studios. 3. One more perhaps: wearing a tie and a pocket square that are cut from the same cloth.
Excellent video! However, I do feel the tie bar can be a complementary classic gentleman’s accessory. I appreciate your point and view on the tie bar, but I think if a simple and classic tie bar is chosen, it fits well with the classic clean cut gentleman look.
If your jacket is buttoned it holds the tie. When you are in a casual wear it doesn't fit. I would grab a very simple one if I don't wear any other accessory such as a pocket square or lapel pin and making it the only piece of interest. As soon as you combine it with a lapel pin and pocket square it goes over the top.
Good morning Ash Various bits of sartorial advice I've picked up over the years. Pay careful attention when dressing and grooming, then let it be. Dont fuss with your clothing all day. Never wear more than three colours. And on the subject of jewelry and accessories. Take a quick look in a full length mirror, and take off the first thing that catches your eye. Cheers.
Another fine video with sound advice. Re socks though I do wear bright argyll style socks and nobody ever notices. Thanks again for another great video
I have had some monograms made. A jacket, overcoat but they are inside in case I should lose them. I have two shirts with monogram in front, but they don’t show when I wear a jacket. I do believe that we should tone down. However my socks are a wee bit colourful. It gives more variation to the shoe and trousers and is still discrete. Less is more 👍🏻
Disagree with the tie bar. I wear a tie often, but no jacket and then the tie falls into my lunch -- not fun. Or into the sink when I am washing my hands. Need the the tie bar. Thank you for sharing style tips with the rest of us.
The Gentlemen's Gazette has covered your first point; your'e supposed to sit straight and avoid leaning forward at the dinner table, Bring your lunch to you on your fork and place a napkin on your lap. Secondly, undoing a shirt button and tucking your tie in over your singlet, like the Prime Minister on TV News when visiting a Covid hospital, is more effective (and avoids losing your tie bar down the sink!)
@@rastrats yes but why think about leaning forward and eating posture and undoing buttons when all of that can be effortless with a small piece of metal downwards the tie
Well, I agree with you about the tie bar, but I do like a good pair of socks. I have some with dinosaurs on a background of erupting volcano. Can’t see how that would ever be a problem…….😜
I agree with all of these, sans the tie bar. Tie bars are classic jewelry that have been popular since the 1920's, and throughout all golden age of menswear decades! They keep the tie straight and flat and keep it from swinging in the wind. I'm admittedly confused why one would consider a tie bar "unnecessary bling" but cufflinks perfectly acceptable, but of course, to each their own!
You make a valid point however I don't really think they keep the tie straight and flat. If you're going to stand straight in the same pose you were in front of the mirror all day then sure, but for the most part you're going to be sitting, walking, otherwise moving about and while this is all happening your tie is not going to be straight, it will simply be crooked in the confines of the tie bar.
Hi Ash. I agree with everything you say. However, James Bond AKA Daniel Craig has been seen with a tie clip before. Looks great to me. Any thoughts? Along with his Tom Ford suits, looks dapper with an edge, in my opinion. One accessory not mentioned was the collar bar which should be added to the "are you trying too hard to look stylish " list. Not a big fan at all of collar bars. Reminds me too much of my older brother. I digress.
Hello Ash. I get a free monogram with every purchase. I have the monograms placed inside, shirt collar, trouser waist and inside jackets. Also I like to match my socks to my trousers as close as possible. Thanks for another interesting video and keep them coming.
I’m a bit surprised, but I totally agree with each of the items you mentioned. I guess I’m on that understated classic style. Quick question. What is your take on pocket watches? Too much? Or extra conservatives??
I wonder what is the ideal size for a lapel pin? 1/4"? 1/2? I am thinking anything past 1/2" may be too large with perhaps the exception being a club pin that may be larger than 1/2" but not over 3/4".
Another great video Ash, I have to agree with everything you have said. Any news about the explorer 36 yet. I'm still waiting for the call. Three months waiting now.
A tie bar has its place, just so long as not overdone by combining with too many other accessories. So perhaps not a tie bar and a pocket square together, one or t’other
Great points but I agree with some of the others here that tie bar is now more commonplace and not at all over-the-top in most occasions - as long as you keep the design simple, that is
Having worn a tie for many years, in the office It's the single biggest foley in menswear. It has no practical use, unless strangulation is one, its made of silk, which you cant wash and gets in the way of any practical activity, unless dipping into soup haha
Ive only used a tie bar when the tie doesn't have a keeper ( I hate that!). I also don't like tie pins.Think they ruin the look of the knot of your tie. Agree completely about the monogrammed dress shirts ( only monogram bowling shirts), and cuff-links with a barrel cuff shirt is just flat kitsch-stupid. However I do like colorful socks so long as they compliment your outfit and aren't too bright, flashy, or kitschy. No cartoon characters or zany images of dog heads with bones or the like. I think a striped or dotted pair of socks that compliment your color scheme gives a nice finishing look with the benefit of a touch of pop. On jewelry, though a bit more liberal than conservative in this area, I agree that less is more. No more than two rings on one hand ( I normally wear only one ring period.) and though I enjoy bracelets I'm more likely to wear them with a dressy casual look than with a business casual look, where I will usually wear one bracelet on my right wrist to balance out the wrist-watch on the left. I always feel odd with something on my left wrist and nothing on my right; somehow lop-sided, but that's just me. I think a tasteful tennis bracelet in your more casual dress would look great, is a very masculine statement, and would really match your more conservative style. Great video as ever, my friend!
I have worn them in the past and liked them, I usually opt for a belt or side adjusters on my slacks, but the use of braces works very well too. I may dig mine out and try them again.
I’m going to have to disagree with you on a couple points. First, the tie bar. I don’t wear them all the time, but, depending upon the knot I choose to use in tying the tie, the back blade doesn’t always extend to the loop or the manufacturer’s label. Occasionally I wear a tie bar that belonged to my father. I have dozens of photos of my father and his friends from the 1940s, with all of them wearing suits and ties, and with tie bars as the only visible jewelry. So when I choose to wear a tie bar, it’s usually one of his. The only other time that I might wear the tie bar is to show my university affiliation. The second disagreement has to do with wrist jewelry. Some people in the United States wear a simple band with the name of a soldier, usually a family member, who was either killed or missing in action in a conflict. This tradition was started during the Vietnam War, and has continued through the US ‘s more recent conflicts. Despite these small disagreements, your point on less is more is well taken
Excellent metaphor of the cake with too many ingredients, Ash, being compared to the overdressed man. I am not a fan of tie bars, and in fact have never worn one. And I would say much the same thing about collar bars, and even cuff links -except for the most formal of occasions. I like the idea of wearing a boutonniere in my jacket lapel on formal occasions, but find this a bit excessive for everyday wear, and somewhat over-the-top. The fact is, in this day and age of dismal dressing, if you wear a shirt with a collar, long pants, and a jacket and tie, you might as well be Fred Astaire wearing top hat, white tie, and tails compared to the legion of men you see dressed in the slob's uniform of sneakers, baggy cargo shorts, graphic t-shirts, and baseball caps. If grown men would just stop wearing baseball caps, I"d be a happy chap.
It may be an unusual or not recommended thing to do; I cannot find videos on how to wash and iron a suit in your 'Back to Basics' series. Do you plan to make such videos?
It's interesting. In my town, wearing a tie has the same effect as wearing neon socks. People think, who does this guy think he is?! Mr Fancy pants over here! Maybe you can say a few words on what the difference is, for those who do not know.
I love socks with multiple collars but some socks are ridiculous. J won't wear my Kermit the frog socks out of the house or at a sleepover party with the kids.
I've been debating buying a bowtie but I've been told they're way out of style and too formal for the likes of me, anyway I can always make one with my Victorian cravats or my Regency neck cloths...
You are right on, Ash, as always. I like to be casually arrogant rather than "flamboyant" and erudite versus boisterous. The world needs more class and less "bling bling". Thanks for the show. William from Dublin ( Ohio ).
I've warn a tie bar in younger years, I agree they are pointless. To be honest I don't wear a tie most of the time and only wear one for a special occasion. My style tends to be less formal and I have more of a country style. In doing this I do not wear the shirt with cufflinks. On socks I ocasionally wear brighter colours, but chose them very carefully to match what I'm wearing. I also have blues and browns when a brighter colour does not fit. In the summer I think when you are already in bright light colours, a brighter sock work well. I wouldn't restrict yourself to just dark blue etc. But don't choose those awful stripes socks or ones with a goose on, go for the patterns that match the clothing.
I think there is a case for this with Crazy Johns socks. He ( the owner and entrepreneur ) has Down syndrome and make funds available for handicapped charities. Check out his website. A great cause with a very motivated man.
I also HATE zany 'dress socks' (a trend nowadays even in good menswear stores) and I am firmly in the camp of somber solid socks (OTC is best) that nobody is going to notice you are wearing. I know this has loosened up as a 'rule' but still I think it's a terrible message for a man to exude that he's trying to express flamboyant personality quirk with his hosiery.
Nice video. However, I disagree with your statement about the tie bar. Tie bars are functional, unless you’re wearing a waste coat (aka a vest). As per many of the comments that viewers left in the comment section, it seems that you are out numbered on this point. I would also like to say. I would not wear a lapel pin and a pocket square at the same time, like you are. I would do one or the other. Not both
So in summary, a dandy can't be a chap? I and many of my friends would offer a strong counterpoint to that. Why are only women allowed the trinkets? I myself am on a mission to prove that straight men can be as fabulous as gay ones. Conservatism? Pah!
One man's dandy is another man's clown - I think it's all relative. My own style favours conservatism, but I absolutely appreciate those chaps, who have embraced more flamboyant styling. Hats off to you sir!!
Excellent video! However, I do feel the tie bar can be a complementary classic gentleman’s accessory. I appreciate your point and view on the tie bar, but I think if a simple and classic tie bar is chosen, it fits well with the classic clean cut gentleman look.
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Definitely agree with everything except point number 1....I'll never give-up my tie bar haha. :) Great video and thanks for sharing!
I agree with all, except point 1, the tie bar has a practical function and has saved many a tie from various stains. Another professionally produced video, informative and entertaining, 👍
Very nice video, well done. At last, an elegance expert who is not afraid to state that monograms have nothing to do with true elegant style.
It looks tryhard unless you're from some old money family.
Great video again, thank you!
I would respectfully disagree with the tie bar, I find them very useful to prevent the knot from slipping and keeping my tie where it should be, in windy weather.
Ash another video that keeps it simple. keeping the wearer well dressed and without one item standing out above all else making the ensembled set of garments cohesive
Good video and I totally agree about excessive accessorizing. I personally reduced my own outfits to the essentials over the years and feel much more stylish, and also invite less unwanted attention. However,. in general I would rather see someone over-accessorized than not trying at all, and the latter is farm more prevalent in 2021.
Good video. I’d perhaps add the ‘novelty’ or character tie as a surprisingly common faux pas. Surprising now many people you see in the City where when you get up close the pattern turns out to be rugby balls, or Homer Simpson or similar. Just don’t ok - save it for Christmas lunch.
Agree with all those points, Ash ,I would even go one step further and say that a lapel should only be adorned by one accessory and not more: either a pin, a flower/boutonniere or a pocket square.
This is such good advice. I wondered about the tie clip and this helps clear that up. I feel the same way about rings and jewelry. Neither my wife or myself wear them, not because we are hiding anything, but rather we don't enjoy the feeling of a ring on the finger. I also like the advice of not wearing the same color of tie as shirt and suit. I was not sure about that and this has given me some direction in that area.
Glad it was helpful!
Loved the video Ash. I agree with all of your points except one.....tie bars. I wear one not only because of the aesthetics but because it provides a function too. The evils of the same colour shirt and tie....don't get me started...lol..
Very good piece. We are in agreement on every point (in particular the scourge of the zany sock), with the exception of the tie bar. Frankly, a knitted monochromatic tie is incomplete without a simple tie bar. In my opinion, of course!
Thank you, Ash, for mentioning the laundry service. This actually reminded me to collect my shirts from my local laundry store today and before the store employees go on a 2 week summer break. You saved my life and style
Completely agree with the tie bar comments! I have shirts made with a monogram in the same colour of the fabric, and placed under the ribs on the left side, so that no one but myself can ever see it, even without a jacket on. In saying that, I tend not to wear cuff links at all, even with formalwear, and have formal shirts made with lovely mother of pearl buttons instead. I love a deep purple, burgundy, forest green or harvest gold sock with casual wear, over the calf of course! Totally agree with the tie and shirt matching faux pas. I also tend to shy away from jewellery, but do appreciate that some wear it very well, if it suits their style. This video reminds me of that classic Dianna Vreeland line “Elegance is refusal”. Great video again Ash!
A tie bar looks better with sombre outfits, with basic patterns and colors. I have a discreet sterling silver one from Huntsman and it is the perfect width and i like to place it diagonally and to push the tie up!
11:30 Could you elaborate further on why ties & pocket squares shouldn't match? What about badges?
Thanks for this video and I agree. It seems like a lot of RUclips menswear channels advocate for a “more is more” flamboyant style and I appreciate the more classic conservative approach you take.
I try to hit the 'normal guy' zone, opposed to the eccentric levels.
Ash rarely makes me laugh, he's just not that kind of host, but calling the tie bar a trinket, made me laugh. Funny! Im sure at one time they saved guys from killing themselves in a machinery, but yeah, now not needed. And next, "Forcing a cufflink into service." What a great expression. As always, Ash, great stuff.
Ash, we could be twins or at least brothers. Before I found your channel, I already was dressing almost 100% like you recommend. Complete with GMT Master, Barbour Balfour, Allen Edmund oxfords in brown and black, regimental striped ties, etc. Thank you for reinforcing my style .
Definitely agree with all you've said.
1. Wearing a tie-bar I always associate with bank clerks at the best - and second hand car salesmen at the least.
2. Wearing bracelets, necklaces etc. should be left to the owners of tanning studios.
3. One more perhaps: wearing a tie and a pocket square that are cut from the same cloth.
Excellent video! However, I do feel the tie bar can be a complementary classic gentleman’s accessory. I appreciate your point and view on the tie bar, but I think if a simple and classic tie bar is chosen, it fits well with the classic clean cut gentleman look.
If your jacket is buttoned it holds the tie. When you are in a casual wear it doesn't fit. I would grab a very simple one if I don't wear any other accessory such as a pocket square or lapel pin and making it the only piece of interest. As soon as you combine it with a lapel pin and pocket square it goes over the top.
Good morning Ash
Various bits of sartorial advice I've picked up over the years.
Pay careful attention when dressing and grooming, then let it be. Dont fuss with your clothing all day.
Never wear more than three colours.
And on the subject of jewelry and accessories.
Take a quick look in a full length mirror, and take off the first thing that catches your eye. Cheers.
Great tips. Thanks for sharing
Another fine video with sound advice.
Re socks though I do wear bright argyll style socks and nobody ever notices.
Thanks again for another great video
I have had some monograms made. A jacket, overcoat but they are inside in case I should lose them. I have two shirts with monogram in front, but they don’t show when I wear a jacket.
I do believe that we should tone down.
However my socks are a wee bit colourful. It gives more variation to the shoe and trousers and is still discrete.
Less is more 👍🏻
Another incredible video, hats off to you “chap”. I’ve learned a lot from your channel, thanks for the advice
Ash, I agree with you,
As usual some pertinent points made. Like your calm and concise presentation style. Look forward to lots more my good Sir.
Disagree with the tie bar. I wear a tie often, but no jacket and then the tie falls into my lunch -- not fun. Or into the sink when I am washing my hands. Need the the tie bar. Thank you for sharing style tips with the rest of us.
The Gentlemen's Gazette has covered your first point; your'e supposed to sit straight and avoid leaning forward at the dinner table, Bring your lunch to you on your fork and place a napkin on your lap.
Secondly, undoing a shirt button and tucking your tie in over your singlet, like the Prime Minister on TV News when visiting a Covid hospital, is more effective (and avoids losing your tie bar down the sink!)
@@rastrats yes but why think about leaning forward and eating posture and undoing buttons when all of that can be effortless with a small piece of metal downwards the tie
I am glad find your channel, well done!
Well, I agree with you about the tie bar, but I do like a good pair of socks. I have some with dinosaurs on a background of erupting volcano. Can’t see how that would ever be a problem…….😜
I agree with all of these, sans the tie bar. Tie bars are classic jewelry that have been popular since the 1920's, and throughout all golden age of menswear decades! They keep the tie straight and flat and keep it from swinging in the wind. I'm admittedly confused why one would consider a tie bar "unnecessary bling" but cufflinks perfectly acceptable, but of course, to each their own!
You make a valid point however I don't really think they keep the tie straight and flat. If you're going to stand straight in the same pose you were in front of the mirror all day then sure, but for the most part you're going to be sitting, walking, otherwise moving about and while this is all happening your tie is not going to be straight, it will simply be crooked in the confines of the tie bar.
Hi Ash. I agree with everything you say. However, James Bond AKA Daniel Craig has been seen with a tie clip before. Looks great to me. Any thoughts? Along with his Tom Ford suits, looks dapper with an edge, in my opinion. One accessory not mentioned was the collar bar which should be added to the "are you trying too hard to look stylish " list. Not a big fan at all of collar bars. Reminds me too much of my older brother. I digress.
Thank you for the reminder: less is more, and take things of instead of putting things on.
P.S. Agree with you about the tie bar.
I wear my socks loud and proud.
Hello Ash. I get a free monogram with every purchase. I have the monograms placed inside, shirt collar, trouser waist and inside jackets. Also I like to match my socks to my trousers as close as possible. Thanks for another interesting video and keep them coming.
Great video again Ash.
Glad you enjoyed it
I’m a bit surprised, but I totally agree with each of the items you mentioned. I guess I’m on that understated classic style.
Quick question. What is your take on pocket watches? Too much? Or extra conservatives??
Good question - perfect for my video Q & A , thanks.
I wonder what is the ideal size for a lapel pin? 1/4"? 1/2? I am thinking anything past 1/2" may be too large with perhaps the exception being a club pin that may be larger than 1/2" but not over 3/4".
I agree with the excessive jewellery, but what about a watch chain with a pocket watch, does that get a pass since it serves a function?
I think we can let that one slide through!!
You should contrast this with a video on sprezzatura.
Another great video Ash, I have to agree with everything you have said. Any news about the explorer 36 yet. I'm still waiting for the call. Three months waiting now.
I’ve an update video on the Explorer out on Wednesday.
Great👍
A tie bar has its place, just so long as not overdone by combining with too many other accessories. So perhaps not a tie bar and a pocket square together, one or t’other
Class whispers.
Great points but I agree with some of the others here that tie bar is now more commonplace and not at all over-the-top in most occasions - as long as you keep the design simple, that is
Less is more!
So I hear the socks should match the shoes, the pants and the shirt. Which is actually correct?
I always try and blend the colours rather than set and hard and fast rules.
that was never said in my school report
Having worn a tie for many years, in the office It's the single biggest foley in menswear. It has no practical use, unless strangulation is one, its made of silk, which you cant wash and gets in the way of any practical activity, unless dipping into soup haha
Thoughts on bright red trousers?
I have a pair and wear them regularly. It's all about context and when you wear them.
Ive only used a tie bar when the tie doesn't have a keeper ( I hate that!). I also don't like tie pins.Think they ruin the look of the knot of your tie. Agree completely about the monogrammed dress shirts ( only monogram bowling shirts), and cuff-links with a barrel cuff shirt is just flat kitsch-stupid. However I do like colorful socks so long as they compliment your outfit and aren't too bright, flashy, or kitschy. No cartoon characters or zany images of dog heads with bones or the like. I think a striped or dotted pair of socks that compliment your color scheme gives a nice finishing look with the benefit of a touch of pop. On jewelry, though a bit more liberal than conservative in this area, I agree that less is more. No more than two rings on one hand ( I normally wear only one ring period.) and though I enjoy bracelets I'm more likely to wear them with a dressy casual look than with a business casual look, where I will usually wear one bracelet on my right wrist to balance out the wrist-watch on the left. I always feel odd with something on my left wrist and nothing on my right; somehow lop-sided, but that's just me. I think a tasteful tennis bracelet in your more casual dress would look great, is a very masculine statement, and would really match your more conservative style. Great video as ever, my friend!
What is your position on braces, which I find more comfortable then a belt.
I have worn them in the past and liked them, I usually opt for a belt or side adjusters on my slacks, but the use of braces works very well too. I may dig mine out and try them again.
I’m going to have to disagree with you on a couple points. First, the tie bar. I don’t wear them all the time, but, depending upon the knot I choose to use in tying the tie, the back blade doesn’t always extend to the loop or the manufacturer’s label.
Occasionally I wear a tie bar that belonged to my father. I have dozens of photos of my father and his friends from the 1940s, with all of them wearing suits and ties, and with tie bars as the only visible jewelry. So when I choose to wear a tie bar, it’s usually one of his. The only other time that I might wear the tie bar is to show my university affiliation.
The second disagreement has to do with wrist jewelry. Some people in the United States wear a simple band with the name of a soldier, usually a family member, who was either killed or missing in action in a conflict. This tradition was started during the Vietnam War, and has continued through the US ‘s more recent conflicts.
Despite these small disagreements, your point on less is more is well taken
Excellent metaphor of the cake with too many ingredients, Ash, being compared to the overdressed man.
I am not a fan of tie bars, and in fact have never worn one. And I would say much the same thing about collar bars, and even cuff links -except for the most formal of occasions.
I like the idea of wearing a boutonniere in my jacket lapel on formal occasions, but find this a bit excessive for everyday wear, and somewhat over-the-top.
The fact is, in this day and age of dismal dressing, if you wear a shirt with a collar, long pants, and a jacket and tie, you might as well be Fred Astaire wearing top hat, white tie, and tails compared to the legion of men you see dressed in the slob's uniform of sneakers, baggy cargo shorts, graphic t-shirts, and baseball caps.
If grown men would just stop wearing baseball caps, I"d be a happy chap.
It may be an unusual or not recommended thing to do; I cannot find videos on how to wash and iron a suit in your 'Back to Basics' series.
Do you plan to make such videos?
Possibly in the future
It's interesting. In my town, wearing a tie has the same effect as wearing neon socks. People think, who does this guy think he is?! Mr Fancy pants over here! Maybe you can say a few words on what the difference is, for those who do not know.
I love socks with multiple collars but some socks are ridiculous. J won't wear my Kermit the frog socks out of the house or at a sleepover party with the kids.
I've been debating buying a bowtie but I've been told they're way out of style and too formal for the likes of me, anyway I can always make one with my Victorian cravats or my Regency neck cloths...
You are right on, Ash, as always. I like to be casually arrogant rather than "flamboyant" and erudite versus boisterous.
The world needs more class and less "bling bling".
Thanks for the show.
William from Dublin ( Ohio ).
I've warn a tie bar in younger years, I agree they are pointless. To be honest I don't wear a tie most of the time and only wear one for a special occasion. My style tends to be less formal and I have more of a country style. In doing this I do not wear the shirt with cufflinks.
On socks I ocasionally wear brighter colours, but chose them very carefully to match what I'm wearing. I also have blues and browns when a brighter colour does not fit. In the summer I think when you are already in bright light colours, a brighter sock work well. I wouldn't restrict yourself to just dark blue etc. But don't choose those awful stripes socks or ones with a goose on, go for the patterns that match the clothing.
I AM! How did you know?!
I think there is a case for this with Crazy Johns socks. He ( the owner and entrepreneur ) has Down syndrome and make funds available for handicapped charities. Check out his website. A great cause with a very motivated man.
I also HATE zany 'dress socks' (a trend nowadays even in good menswear stores) and I am firmly in the camp of somber solid socks (OTC is best) that nobody is going to notice you are wearing.
I know this has loosened up as a 'rule' but still I think it's a terrible message for a man to exude that he's trying to express flamboyant personality quirk with his hosiery.
I don't understand why everyone doesn't wear OTC socks, as they're so much more comfortable and you don't have to worry about them sliding down.
The only person who can wear a tie that's the same as their shirt is John Wick
Nice video.
However, I disagree with your statement about the tie bar. Tie bars are functional, unless you’re wearing a waste coat (aka a vest). As per many of the comments that viewers left in the comment section, it seems that you are out numbered on this point.
I would also like to say. I would not wear a lapel pin and a pocket square at the same time, like you are. I would do one or the other. Not both
Must agree Ash we shouldn't look like a fop. Allways conservative like Boe Brummell
Respectfully disagree about the tie bar. I have several that I've inherited and I love to wear them.
Your title for this video is erronious as the Too should have been used instead of To
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The pocket watch for me always looks to try hard. I just feel it's playing dress-up in today's world rather than well dressed.
I agree, its an item from a by-gone era.
So in summary, a dandy can't be a chap? I and many of my friends would offer a strong counterpoint to that. Why are only women allowed the trinkets? I myself am on a mission to prove that straight men can be as fabulous as gay ones. Conservatism? Pah!
One man's dandy is another man's clown - I think it's all relative. My own style favours conservatism, but I absolutely appreciate those chaps, who have embraced more flamboyant styling. Hats off to you sir!!
you dont like tie bars?? UNSUBSCRIBED XD. no just kidding.
Excellent video! However, I do feel the tie bar can be a complementary classic gentleman’s accessory. I appreciate your point and view on the tie bar, but I think if a simple and classic tie bar is chosen, it fits well with the classic clean cut gentleman look.