This comments section proves there are many different ways a gentleman can dress to express himself. Let's see your outfits. Post them in the Gent Z community and get advice from me and the other members on your style - www.skool.com/gentz
This is a tricky topic that could be explored further. A lot of menswear authorities like to talk about the difference between fashion and style, with style being supposedly timeless and immune to trends. The inconvenient truth is that there are no timeless styles; everything is fashion. Men who consider themselves to wear classic timeless clothing are usually just beholden to the fashion of a previous era, typically the 1930s-1960s “golden age” of menswear. The lounge suit has been worn for about 100 years. Togas were worn for about 1000 years, but you don’t see anybody wearing those these days. We often like to think we’ve reached the end of history, but really all clothing that is considered classic today will eventually become dated if given enough time.
You’re absolutely correct. I do believe there is a difference between fashion and style, but style is not the ultimate solution of timeless elegance we might like to think it is.
Absolutely disagree on hats, boutonnieres and bow ties. Hats: They are a protection and useful item. What would you wear with a suit/blazer in summer and winter? A baseball cap? Awful convination. A flat cap? Not formal enough for a lot of suits, and in fact, they look ridiculous with double-breasted suits and other very formal ones. Fedoras and panamas are the way to go. There is simply no more correct and stylish alternative for some outfits. And just because they are not fashionable nowadays doesn't mean they can't be worn in a good way. If you aren't brave enough to wear them with a suit, you can try them with a wax jacket, tweed jacket, cardigan, etc. If you choose the right one, they look amazing, and they are practical, trust me. There's a reason hat shops still exist... Boutonnieres: If you were a nice one, no one will see it as an outdated thing, but as a curious and sophisticated dandy accessory. KIng charles wears them... Bow ties: Lots of people wear them at weadings, with totally modern suits. (At least here in Spain) I think they are totally fine for celebrations.
Completely agree, I can still find bow ties, hats, and boutonnieres (even if they are rather poor quality) at all of the big department stores at my local mall. I would even argue that knit ties have more of a vintage appearance than these items, due to their popularity in the seventies. Don’t get me wrong, I love knit ties and they look great, but they don’t cultivate the most modern image.
There’s no wrong or right answer here. If you wear those things confidently, I’m sure it looks great. I would feel goofy wearing a boutonniere, myself. To me, that just strikes me as overly formal and old-school. Obviously there are events where one would make sense, but I rarely find myself in such events
I agree in regard to hats. I am bald, and though I wear a baseball cap with my more casual outfits, and sometimes even with a blazer, it's not great for colder days, or more formal ensembles.
Hats are very much a practical part of an outfit. I would not dream of wearing a suit in public without a fedora or panama. For more casual outfits the newsboy cap is a favorite. I also have baseball caps and a Scottish plaid flat cap that reflects my ethnic heritage.
Here in the southwest cowboy hats aren't alien, but even here they definitely stick out in many if not most places. Hats just aren't really worn, which is too bad for me because I kind of need them
I like the outdated stuff as no-one else is wearing it, also living in the country in England things like old Harris tweed keeps you warmer than any modern jackets in the English winter.
This is a great topic and one I often think about commenting but dont want to look mean. In essence a lot of guys with a "classic" style these days are really just wearing a cosplaying 1958. Especially true of many "classic style" RUclipsrs who simply arent wearing realistic clothing - they're in costume and often look faintly ridiculous. It misses the point when all the men they are trying to emulate were not dressed in vintage clothing. They made elegant and well considered choices but within the style of their own era. When Cary Grant said he dressed in the "middle of fashion" that certainly didnt mean dress up in an outfit from 60/70 years earlier. Doing so would have made him stand out massively - the exact opposite of what he wanted his clothing to do. The great news is a well tailored navy suit, crisp white button down shirt, navy socks, and black Oxford shoes will never ever look ridiculous. A classic simple scissor-cut side part without overdoing the greasy pomade will always have a masculine elegance. A simple, classic dress watch will always bring a touch of class. Good manners and gentlemanly conduct will always be a virtue. And so on and on. The point is to avoid dressing anachronistically. Avoid wearing a costume. Adopt the spirit, sophistication, elegance and style of your heroes, without looking like you've come in fancy dress from their era. None of your heroes were in fancy dress.
I used to be the tip to toe vintage guy with period 'everything' and always felt a bit self conscious-not good. One should always feel confident in what he is wearing. Having said this, I love some of the proportions and fabrics used in vintage clothing, so I still wanted to retain a vintage touch while dressing in an overall more 'classic' rather than 'vintage' way. I think a fun way to wear vintage items in a timeless way is to combine them with modern classics. For instance, a tweed jacket from the sixties worn with a 'middle of fashion' modern pair of trousers, shirt and pocket square. Most people will not realize there is a vintage item in the outfit but will simply think you look smart. This way you still get to enjoy the thrill of vintage finds, along with their quality and little quirks that are hard to find in modern clothes, without being too eccentric. The key is moderation. Another way to approach this is to incorporate elements of vintage fashion into made to measure or bespoke items. For instance, if you prefer a three button jacket, MTM is a good option as it is a rare cut these days. A modern three button jacket won't be identical to a vintage jacket, but will incorporate that nod to the golden era of style in a subtle way.
"And the idea that something could truly be classic is something of a fallacy. However, the solution lies in finding a happy medium." Here, here! I am very much loving this video so far.
Also, a man needs balls to wear vintage stuff. Furthermore stuff from back then just looks better and is better made. For example overcoats, hats, caps from the 20s. One has to play around with style to find a unique personal style. Most are way too conservative and will never experience the full potential of menswear. Women love the „vibe“ of people who stand out too. Timeless is not specifically defined and has blurry limits, it‘s so fun to cross these lines or just be on them or play around with them!
I'm a 55-yr. old gentleman (at least I consider myself so) who really enjoys your RUclips channel. I'm thrilled that the younger generations are taking the classic gentlemen baton and carrying on. Even a lot of men my age aren't dressing as well as they could and don't care much about this topic. Keep posting and I will keep watching! Thank you for what you're doing!
I have an interesting case: I do ride a motorcycle a lot daily to the office. How to combine a proper black leather jacket with classic style. I do combine a shirt, a neck tie. Yet I feel that could be more done.
Personally, I've always been more interested in vintage/classic style because I'm a bit of a nerd of the culture of the 1920s to the early to mid 60s, but that's just me!
I love your videos, as a 24 year old man I really now pay attention to these kinds of things and you motivate me to start to dress like a gentleman, I often listen jazz or music of the sort especially when I drive and I also started watching old movies like noir movies from '40
I really like your suits.. they fit very well, and I like the shirt collar with your tie… I don’t like the new collars that don’t extend down past the knot of the tie…. Thanks for your input !!!
I'm going to get measurements for a suit this weekend at Blandin & Delloye, Brussels. As you said, the best of both worlds is to get a classic suit with a modern cut. The suit can be used a whole life for any occasion
I learned a lot from Frank Sinatra on how a gentleman should act and dress (even though he had his setbacks at times). A great book is called "The Way You Wear Your Hat" by Bill Zehme. You will learn A LOT (like carrying breath mints in your pocket for good breath all the time, etc.). Good read!
As a bald guy I NEED a hat for summer sun protection and warmth in colder months (I'm in Toronto). I have three trilbys including a lovely one i got last year at Lock & Co while in London. For more casual wear, flat caps are a good option. One slight eccentricity I am occasionally allowing myself is an Ascot as an alternative to a tie, open collar, or bow tie. I love bow ties but they just don't look good on me. I'm 64 years old so I'm fortunately at a point in life that i can wear whatever I please! 0:02 h
This is a fascinating topic, and I believe it’s quite subjective. In my view, many classic clothing items are often seen as outdated by the majority, especially younger generations. In the U.S., for example, the norm is wearing T-shirts, jeans, and white sneakers, which are considered both casual and, surprisingly, formal by today’s standards. In winter, a nylon jacket is added to the mix, and a backpack is the go-to accessory for carrying items. The distinction between age groups has all but disappeared-children to older adults dress almost identically. In this context, a jacket seems outdated, while a suit is often seen as ultra-outdated or even inappropriate. The debate between classic and vintage styles, in my opinion, mainly concerns those of us who are part of a niche. Sometimes we like to think that we are classic, while others are more modern and fashion-forward, but this perspective is quite personal. To the broader public, both styles may appear vintage or outdated. For me, wearing a suit and tie is the epitome of elegance, especially when the suit is well-tailored, made from fine fabric, in a flattering color, and paired with classic leather shoes and a tasteful tie. However, to the majority-particularly those under 45-we seem completely out of step with the times. It’s unfortunate, but true. They may admire our elegance, yet often view us as eccentric. The only way to wear classic or vintage clothing in today’s world is to not care what others think. While discretion is important, it’s rarely enough to escape being seen as unusual. Still, this won’t stop me from wearing my fedoras, Panama hats, ties, or suits whenever possible. That said, finding appropriate occasions to wear such attire is becoming increasingly rare, if not entirely nonexistent, in the modern world. Do you agree?
As a child I spent weekends at my grandmother's home. We would look through all of her old photographs taken in Los Angeles in the 1940s. I became obsessed with the era. In high school I spent all of my money on vintage clothing from the 30s and 40s. It was much easier to find in the late 1990s! I wore exclusively vintage clothing for about 15 years. Then I discovered Alan Flussers's book "Clothes And The Man". That book broke my notion that everything I wore needed to be vintage. It was incredibly freeing. I soon developed an eye for the classics, and I began to buy clothing based on aesthetics, not time period. Over time I actually sold much of my vast collection of vintage clothing. Made quite a bit of money too! I still have a passion for a great 1930s suit, but I'm just as happy with a 1990s suit made by some obscure tailor so long as it's timeless in design and fits well.
Thanks for sharing. I had a very similar journey. First strictly 30s-50s, then developed an eye for quality and good proportions. Like you said, it makes life easier because I am not a slave to historical authenticity, but just let the golden era inspire me to be classically well dressed.
I am a little on the heavier side, so searching for good clothes for events is always a challenge. Sometimes I get lucky and get something that suits me perfectly, but a lot of times I have to go custom and that kills my budget. One of the other ideas I suppose is clothe searching for a heavier gentleman :D
I kind of think a flat cap would be nice for the more casual side of my classic wardrobe, but it also kind of reminds me of Brian Johnson from AC/DC… Which, while I love them, doesn’t exactly scream classic gentleman 😂
James (I think that's your name, many apologies if not) You should really write a book of the classic style, mens etiquette, mixology etc. I think you could produce a really solid guide for men.
I think it's critical to mention the cut of your suit looks very current. IIRC you get many of your suits from places like Suitsupply, right? Trousers sit at the hips, both the jacket and the trousers trim. The cut is not quite like the early 1900s which is not inherently a problem but that goes to show that a lot of these details have been messed around with through time.
As you delve further into fashion, GentZ, you will find that there are personalizations to the choice of what to wear even within elegant clothing. An example of this is that some men actually look better in narrow ties and some in wide. There is more harmony between one width of tie and their face/body. And each person also has their best colors. It is better to harmonize with your lines, colors and style "type" than it is to follow trends. And so, if a 1960's suit was the very best thing for you because of it's lines, color and style type, then you should hang onto it for life and it will look better on you than anything current.
The style types invented by old Hollywood were gamine, romantic, natural, classic and dramatic. Tom Holland (gamine?) is going to wear a different tuxedo than Roger Moore (classic?) who is going to wear a different tuxedo than Harrison Ford (natural?) who is going to wear a different tux than Samuel L Jackson (dramatic?). They each have different style types and that won't change much through their lives.
My guess is that you are strongly classic (according to the old Hollywood types) and that Is why classic-wear appeals to you so much. However, none of the style types benefits from wearing jammies! (the current style of today).
You are on the safe side if you buy iconic pieces from legacy brands that have not changed their design for the past decades but are widely recognized as classy. Such as the Barbour Classic Beauford Jacket or the LaCoste Polo Shirt or a pair of black half-brouge business shoes by Lloyd.
I just go for vintage or reproduction of vintage cuts, with the 1930s and 1950s being my favourite eras. Some may call it outdated or even cosplaying, but the fact of the matter is: No piece of clothing is timeless and everything is subject to fashion and trends. How old is the 3-piece/2-piece suit? About 150 years if we are generous? Even some early 1920s ensembles would not be regarded as suits in a modern sense, as the transition from coat to jacket was too fluid. So I just go for what eras and outfits looked best in my opinion, without thinking too much about whether it's in some timeless middle ground. Unless we are talking about very well-known stuff, such as bell-bottom trousers, most people won't be able to date outfits. E.g. I once wore plus-fours and nobody thought 1930s, they just didn't know what kind of trousers those were. On the other hand, I've heard people call guys in modern slim-fit suits "1920s", because they wor suspenders and that's the suiting detail they remembered from "The Great Gatsby". Someone with decent knowledge on suiting history will however be able to date most suits, even the supposedly timeless ones.
Great to see your latest offering , you definitely posed me some questions about my own style . I think I pro dominantly I have a vintage lean as I love the 40s and 50s and the mid to late 60s mod era . I love my pleated trousers but keep the leg opening at about 8 inches Some with turn ups and some without . I also wear three and two button suits with flat fronted trousers , doubles breasted suit in plain colours . I think it’s the fact I wear a lot of hats , trilby’s and flat caps and odd bakerboy style . So you see young man you have challenged my very sense of self . Am I dressing like a gentleman or am I merely a caricature ? Keep up your posts and challenging upsold guys who think we know it all .
I have a vintage cafe motorcycle I ride around Tokyo occasionally and I consider myself a modern man. I find it amusing when I see a gentleman’s motorcycle gathering and they all dress like they came out of the twenties and thirties some wearing mustaches from that era. What I do find also is the use of a contemporary fabric is important. Sometimes some fabrics can be a little outdated as well. With regards to watches, I do love a vintage Seiko from the seventies in kanji. Sometimes I will just upgrade the crystal on the watch and it becomes something new and old. Domo arigato.
Bow ties and pocket watches are accessories with a lot of personality. I don’t understand how they so innocently fall into your category of “vintage “. Tissot still makes many pocket watches. In fact I’ve just ordered one!
I think it is funny that so many men (many on UK tv) seem to wear suits that look 2 sizes too small, drainpipe trousers and wear white trainers with them.
Got to recommend to the group "True Style : the History and principles of classic menswear"" by G. Bruce Boyer. 2015. In particular the English Country House Look.
As a scientist I am quite happy with bowties and cravattes. Maybe they are a little dated, but I don't have to worry about it hanging in acid or into a bunsenburner
The items you mentioned unfortunately are associated with the nerd tribe (like the fedora fat guy meme), I can see how they can spoil a young mans outfit. Even then, older people usually wore them. Also, its kinda hard to combine and choose a good outfit with a pocket watch, hat (except for panama), or bow-tie without looking quirky.
My personal style would be business casual or caled also a smart casual. I choose polos, shirts , sweaters coats or jackets that would fit both chinos, trousers and jeans making my wardrobe interchangeable and flexible.
That idea of not getting anything "too extreme" is brilliant. Then one could spend a lot of money on excellent timeless clothes and keep them for maybe a decade or more.
Or, like Hugo from Sartorial talks, choose one extreme that becomes an extension of your image. Hugo has chosen massive lapels but eventually you hive up, accept and even expect it. Everything else is just perfect. So, just one odd thing still classy. Too much perfection is too much. :)
My understanding of fashion is that its like a perpetuum mobile and is always in motion. What might look outdated today might be a big thing in 10 years or so. Like the last years we had this 90s revival and maybe 1950s gentlemans clothing and accessories will in some form be fashionable again who knows
I am part of the local steampunk community. I know when I dress that way, it is a costume. It’s fun, but not classic. I try to dress classic every day, but it usually fun to steamounk it up on occasions.
I stand by this principle myself, which is to dress in an understated elegant way, that isn't screaming for attention, but at the same time to distinguish myself from everyone else, through my clothing choices. Altough I think that those detachable club collars and newsboy caps in Peaky Blinders look very cool, if I start to wear them on the street or at school, automatically everyone would take notice and I would stick out too much, and not in a good way. But if I just wear some dress pants, a shirt with a sweater and maybe a knit tie underneath, I would be much better dressed, since I won't be looking like I am trying to cosplay someone or something (a well dressed gentleman always takes this into the account !). Regarding bowties, they should be reserved for evening wear only. Wearing them without part of these dresscodes would look quite nerdy and juvenile, in my opinion. Neckties are much better for daytime occasions. Great video, James, it was highly needed !
I think bow ties can be incorporated classically, though not many mean wear them now, they are still a staple of classic style, a predecessor to the necktie, and I think they can be revived.
I would say that my "average" weekender style is a modern and relaxed, but well put together look. I'll wear chinos or dark jeans with a polo, or a quarter zip knit sweater with wingtip oxfords, but when I go to my extremes (I love the 1930's look of the suits), I will wear a three piece pinstripe suit with a felt fedora and spectator shoes.
Bow ties are still viable for the well-dressed man with a good eye who wants to set himself apart. The bow tie is as classic as menswear gets, and the right one can cap off a modern tailored ensemble with confidence and flair.
I am a big and tall dude (6'4, 260 lbs.), 48 years old, I am just starting to get into classic men's wear (it started with goodyear welted shoes actually some years ago) - and due to my rather short legs and long trunk I have to go MTM (though my first experiment with this was my marriage suit I "have grown out of...", some 15 years ago). Thus I mostly buy new stuff. It's already difficult to find modern stuff in "tall", it's even more difficult to find classic wear in "tall", at least here in Germany.
Nothing wrong with classic newsboy, flat caps and fedoras (fur felt or straw). Honestly the classic cap can go with so much these days and frames the face beautifully.
Plus, they protect the head and face. It's not all about looking good in pictures, is also about apropriate for the weather, wearer, activity, place... If you want a baby face in your 50's, wear a hat. 🤠
@@alexmarques2398 Absolutely! I live in Florida and always have a cotton or linen newsboy on. A Panama when spending a large amount of time outside. Aside from the sun protection, there’s something especially fun and jaunty about a linen newsboy on a hot day.
My personal style is all over the place, as i try to put an outfit with spit and tape. I like retro/vintage clothes but i know i'd look funny i everyday situation. Even wearing trouser on your natural waistline is considered funny or weird nowadays. So i just throw some clothes with older cut, with some newer and call it a day. Probably could look much better, but i also don't like to spend thousands on clothes.
I tend to go for the polo shirts and blazer style. I take most of my inspiration from Bond so if he’s worn it I would find it acceptable (Roger More aside obviously) I have absolutely terrible hair these days so I always accessorise with hat no matter the occasion.
It's both Classic and "outdated" but I do my best to just buy quality clothes that I like and take good care of them. I believe British upper class people don't like "middle class pretenders" which is good because I have a huge crush on a upper class British woman.
One of the ways to know if a questionable item is working for you personally is to take pictures of that style and another and truly ask yourself which looks better. If you are a "classic" style type and try to wear off-beat items, you will look like you are wearing a costume. However, there are men whose features just blend so nicely with a French sailor hat, or a bow tie, or tight pants (hint: tight pants are often good on skinny men). Some men are going to be better "rakish" with their facial hair. For some the very wide tie or lapel is always going to be the right answer and to others the narrow will be. To not cash in on these personalizations is a mistake. For some, a tie with a large pattern is great, for others small pattern, for others no pattern. For some smooth texture, for another rough. You'd think that menswear was boring and without choices but it isn't.
It's also a mistake to try to "fix" yourself to be more middle-of-the road. You are better to lean into whatever you are. Celebrate the type you are. Give up on trying to look taller, shorter, fatter, skinnier, plainer or fancier or like some celeb that you are not. It can be good to find a celeb who IS like you physically and see how he gets pro-styled for parts in movies etc.
Love your outfits Always well dressed I am same with many categories as old soul I would not trade coupe of my vintage cars for anything in showrooms now.
Well, I hope I get the best of the both world - shopping custom suites and trousers from Suitsupply and shirts/trousers from Charles Tyrrwitt, buying factory seconds from famous British shue manufacturers (the famous Crockett and Jones Isley boots for example) as well as classic (and vintage) tweed jackets andovercoats, brogue oxfords and derbies over eBay. All the second life items have arrived like practically new however some of the producers have closed decades ago. It's all about the craftsmanship, style, materials and fit :-)
Hats are most certainly not vintage/dated, you literally see many people today wearing hats (not talking about baseball caps) clearly you’ve never owned a hat before otherwise you’d know how comfortable and stylish they are.
The community is divided on this topic and here’s why. Some men just want to elevate their style, overall appearance and become better versions of themselves. Clothes surely help with that, but other than that i don’t have much interest in them. I don’t care for all the different fabrics and where they’re from etc. walking canes, boutonnières etc seem like a costume to me, i don’t care for these things, im not the son of some british lord. But then there are the style/fashion nerds, which is almost like a subculture who are way more into specifically clothes and accessories like the guys at gentlemen’s gazette who take huge interest in these retro items and clothes and wear them with joy. These are two different mindsets and “hobbies”, if you consider that there’s really not much need to discuss this as to each its own.
It just boils down to dated versus classic. For example, wearing a monocle or a top hat would obviously be dated, but I think other pieces, like a fedora, can still be argued for
@Gent.Z well, I use some charity shops (which are like thrift shops I think) and also vinted although that ones not as good because you can't return anything
James, you are talking about three things here apart from Classic, yet your title only says outdated. While retro is generally within your lifetime, vintage can be before you were born but less than 100 years. My point is this, there is a difference between Outdated and Vintage, and that difference is Intent. If you are intending to dress classic yet have a skinny tie or a super wide tie, a three button suit, etc., then you are outdated and not classic. However, you can wear the same (to a point) for a vintage look but it needs to be well done with more being vintage than retro. The key is that you should never look outdated, even if you stand out as vintage. I am in the middle but sometimes I'll have a vintage piece with a modern outfit if it works well, mainly overcoats which always seem to look classic no matter the era.
i disagree about hats. Very practical items in summer, with my fair skin and sensitive eyes(light gets round my sunglasses. Bow ties are ridiculous though i met a prof who looked great with one, so i can concede for the right person. Watches, cufflinks (mostly) rings trousers (mostly#) i buy new. better fits. Shirts are mixed, new and old in similar numbers, typically nmew for more casual. But i prefer shirts, colder and warmer than tshhirts. Coats mixedm some very nice new and old. Blazers, sportscoats and suits secondhand for cost and quality. Shoes mostly new, but some unused old ones etc. high quality ones.
100% disagree with you on hats. Felt hats and flat caps are the only appropriate hats to wear with a suit, or really any non "athleisure" clothing, they're practical, timeless, stylish, and keep the wind and rain out of your hair. I haven't stepped out the door without a flat cap, fedora, or straw hat in many many years. No outfit is complete without a hat, and you shouldn't step out the door without one.
This needed to be said. Thank you! This is where gentleman’s gazette misses the mark for me, sometimes. Once we start talking about Monicals, top hats and boutonnieres, we are veering into 1920s cosplay
@@bizarre_razor absolutely. GG is definitely still great, and the type of content depends on the host, with Rafael being the most traditional, Preston being second most traditional, and Kyle and the newer host being a little more modern in how they blend the classic style
Gentleman’s Gazette is an incredible channel and I have a ton of respect for Raphael. We have a different approach when it comes to style, but that’s what makes RUclips such a wonderful and diverse resource.
@@Gent.Z he really does. Can’t knock the guy for having a very decisive and distinct sense of style, but, like you, it’s not what I would embrace. I feel like Preston and Kyle are more dialed into where my personal tastes are
I don’t have much of a disagreement with your argument about “vintage,” but I do have a bit to pick with your lead image. The outfit of an odd jacket, trousers and Faire Isle sweater could be taken right from a Ralph Lauren advertisement. The only thing vintage in the photo is the facial hair.
What do you think of way Christians Tate classy style and his suits Why I love wear traditional black suit with white dress shirt look It always looks timeless Personally I have copied that from Tom Ford signature look
Great video as always, James. I’m bald, so wearing a hat outdoors isn’t an option for me. So then not comes down to what type of hat to wear? For those reasons, I’m wearing a Panama hat in the summer and fedora in the other three seasons. I’m not going to wear a baseball cap with a jacket, and even a flat cap is way too informal.
I recommend Hornskov Hats from Denmark. Their hats are investment pieces . Handmade with beautiful construction , design and crucially .. fit. To misquote a great writer on style .. there are two kinds of crazy , those who think they are Napoleon and those who think you can buy a good cheap hat .
In regards of something being classic or timeless - in my opinion, there is no such thing as classic/timeless piece of clothing. Everything change, even plain, white t-shirt. The beautiful suit you are wearing here is....outdated. Firstly, because most suit jackets now have more narrow lapels; secondly, because very few people are wearing suits daily. Trousers are in, with the low rise. Even a polo shirt is seen as something formal, compared to what people wear on streets. Wearing a tie is definitely outdated, as you barely can see anybody sporting it (except few OLDER gentleman's and more dandy people). High waisted trousers are outdated, for over 20 years now, even tho they make your body look better (just like wide lapels). etc etc
Your outfit looks nice with the exception of the belt. With a suit the paints should have either side adjuster or braces. Belts break up the line of a suit. Also with braces pants hang better. I have all my pant made with a fish tail back and buttons for braces.
That’s just your opinion. If he likes the way he looks and feels, including that belt, he should stick with it. The least manly thing one can do is change to please the taste of others
As I'm all about personalization, I wonder if some men benefit from breaking up the line with a belt and others do not. Let your mirror tell you. There are very few rules that apply to everyone. But like you, I adore a man in suspenders and think they have both comfort/fit and style benefits.
Classic style is itself another sub-culture. Very little contemporary tailoring fits this Cary-Grant-find-the-middle classic definition. How many men dress like him nowadays? So it's actually sub-culture all the way down if you decide to attend to your appearance. And there are myriad sub-cultures and no middle, no standards. Truth is, most men pay little or no attention to any style unless they must and prefer "comfort" to any effort or style--- and that is worse than all.
This comments section proves there are many different ways a gentleman can dress to express himself. Let's see your outfits. Post them in the Gent Z community and get advice from me and the other members on your style - www.skool.com/gentz
This is a tricky topic that could be explored further. A lot of menswear authorities like to talk about the difference between fashion and style, with style being supposedly timeless and immune to trends. The inconvenient truth is that there are no timeless styles; everything is fashion. Men who consider themselves to wear classic timeless clothing are usually just beholden to the fashion of a previous era, typically the 1930s-1960s “golden age” of menswear. The lounge suit has been worn for about 100 years. Togas were worn for about 1000 years, but you don’t see anybody wearing those these days. We often like to think we’ve reached the end of history, but really all clothing that is considered classic today will eventually become dated if given enough time.
You’re absolutely correct. I do believe there is a difference between fashion and style, but style is not the ultimate solution of timeless elegance we might like to think it is.
Just today I was wearing Plus fours/sixes like Tintin in your pp
Absolutely disagree on hats, boutonnieres and bow ties.
Hats: They are a protection and useful item. What would you wear with a suit/blazer in summer and winter? A baseball cap? Awful convination. A flat cap? Not formal enough for a lot of suits, and in fact, they look ridiculous with double-breasted suits and other very formal ones. Fedoras and panamas are the way to go. There is simply no more correct and stylish alternative for some outfits. And just because they are not fashionable nowadays doesn't mean they can't be worn in a good way. If you aren't brave enough to wear them with a suit, you can try them with a wax jacket, tweed jacket, cardigan, etc. If you choose the right one, they look amazing, and they are practical, trust me. There's a reason hat shops still exist...
Boutonnieres: If you were a nice one, no one will see it as an outdated thing, but as a curious and sophisticated dandy accessory. KIng charles wears them...
Bow ties: Lots of people wear them at weadings, with totally modern suits. (At least here in Spain) I think they are totally fine for celebrations.
I wear bowties relatively informally, a real treat for a Sunday :)
Mind you I also own a hat, so what do I know lol
Completely agree, I can still find bow ties, hats, and boutonnieres (even if they are rather poor quality) at all of the big department stores at my local mall. I would even argue that knit ties have more of a vintage appearance than these items, due to their popularity in the seventies. Don’t get me wrong, I love knit ties and they look great, but they don’t cultivate the most modern image.
There’s no wrong or right answer here. If you wear those things confidently, I’m sure it looks great. I would feel goofy wearing a boutonniere, myself. To me, that just strikes me as overly formal and old-school. Obviously there are events where one would make sense, but I rarely find myself in such events
I agree in regard to hats. I am bald, and though I wear a baseball cap with my more casual outfits, and sometimes even with a blazer, it's not great for colder days, or more formal ensembles.
@@DonLalo-27 Bow ties are absolutely not dated. Many people use them.
Hats are very much a practical part of an outfit. I would not dream of wearing a suit in public without a fedora or panama. For more casual outfits the newsboy cap is a favorite. I also have baseball caps and a Scottish plaid flat cap that reflects my ethnic heritage.
Me, as well. I typically wear a trilby or a fedora or a flat cap for a more casual look.
We should bring back hats! Back in the day everyone wore them and not only was a hat practical, but really stylish.
Something with a brim against the elements for me, try to be not too conspicuous 😁🎩
Here in the southwest cowboy hats aren't alien, but even here they definitely stick out in many if not most places. Hats just aren't really worn, which is too bad for me because I kind of need them
I like the outdated stuff as no-one else is wearing it, also living in the country in England things like old Harris tweed keeps you warmer than any modern jackets in the English winter.
Lol I'm one crisis away from moving to the Irish country and wearing flat caps and big comfy sweaters every day like Eoin Reardon
Some vintage accessories are wonderful. Your watch being a great example.
Yes, just choose wisely. Not all at once. That's the definition of elegance, isn't it?
@@alexmarques2398Thank you. Yes I agree. No need to go overboard on accessories
@@alexmarques2398 Correct, understatement is the name of the game
This is a great topic and one I often think about commenting but dont want to look mean. In essence a lot of guys with a "classic" style these days are really just wearing a cosplaying 1958. Especially true of many "classic style" RUclipsrs who simply arent wearing realistic clothing - they're in costume and often look faintly ridiculous.
It misses the point when all the men they are trying to emulate were not dressed in vintage clothing. They made elegant and well considered choices but within the style of their own era. When Cary Grant said he dressed in the "middle of fashion" that certainly didnt mean dress up in an outfit from 60/70 years earlier. Doing so would have made him stand out massively - the exact opposite of what he wanted his clothing to do.
The great news is a well tailored navy suit, crisp white button down shirt, navy socks, and black Oxford shoes will never ever look ridiculous. A classic simple scissor-cut side part without overdoing the greasy pomade will always have a masculine elegance. A simple, classic dress watch will always bring a touch of class. Good manners and gentlemanly conduct will always be a virtue. And so on and on.
The point is to avoid dressing anachronistically. Avoid wearing a costume. Adopt the spirit, sophistication, elegance and style of your heroes, without looking like you've come in fancy dress from their era. None of your heroes were in fancy dress.
I love Brooks Brothers the most! I always look for Brooks Brothers in thrift stores.
eBay has an abundance of Brooks Brothers clothing too. Thanks for your comment
I also go for the 'medium' proportions. Never too large or too skinny, too long or too short. That's where the timeless proportion lies.
That’s absolutely the way to go if you want to look as timeless as possible
I used to be the tip to toe vintage guy with period 'everything' and always felt a bit self conscious-not good. One should always feel confident in what he is wearing. Having said this, I love some of the proportions and fabrics used in vintage clothing, so I still wanted to retain a vintage touch while dressing in an overall more 'classic' rather than 'vintage' way.
I think a fun way to wear vintage items in a timeless way is to combine them with modern classics. For instance, a tweed jacket from the sixties worn with a 'middle of fashion' modern pair of trousers, shirt and pocket square. Most people will not realize there is a vintage item in the outfit but will simply think you look smart. This way you still get to enjoy the thrill of vintage finds, along with their quality and little quirks that are hard to find in modern clothes, without being too eccentric. The key is moderation.
Another way to approach this is to incorporate elements of vintage fashion into made to measure or bespoke items. For instance, if you prefer a three button jacket, MTM is a good option as it is a rare cut these days. A modern three button jacket won't be identical to a vintage jacket, but will incorporate that nod to the golden era of style in a subtle way.
"And the idea that something could truly be classic is something of a fallacy. However, the solution lies in finding a happy medium." Here, here! I am very much loving this video so far.
@@jeremiahbok9028 thank you. 🙏
Loving the content, James! Hope you come to New York soon. From one old soul to another.
Thank you, Ben. NYC in 2025 for sure.
@@Gent.Z excellent!
Also, a man needs balls to wear vintage stuff. Furthermore stuff from back then just looks better and is better made. For example overcoats, hats, caps from the 20s. One has to play around with style to find a unique personal style. Most are way too conservative and will never experience the full potential of menswear. Women love the „vibe“ of people who stand out too. Timeless is not specifically defined and has blurry limits, it‘s so fun to cross these lines or just be on them or play around with them!
Yes, but I do use bow tie anyway (like a dandy)! 🦋
I appreciate you showing us your outfit at the end of the video!
I'm a 55-yr. old gentleman (at least I consider myself so) who really enjoys your RUclips channel. I'm thrilled that the younger generations are taking the classic gentlemen baton and carrying on. Even a lot of men my age aren't dressing as well as they could and don't care much about this topic. Keep posting and I will keep watching! Thank you for what you're doing!
I have an interesting case: I do ride a motorcycle a lot daily to the office. How to combine a proper black leather jacket with classic style. I do combine a shirt, a neck tie. Yet I feel that could be more done.
Very good topic to cover, always muuch appreciated, Thank you James
Glad you enjoyed it
tweed suits are best.
Personally, I've always been more interested in vintage/classic style because I'm a bit of a nerd of the culture of the 1920s to the early to mid 60s, but that's just me!
Classic vintage . with a bit of prep in the mix .
Very nice. Thanks for your comment
I love your videos, as a 24 year old man I really now pay attention to these kinds of things and you motivate me to start to dress like a gentleman, I often listen jazz or music of the sort especially when I drive and I also started watching old movies like noir movies from '40
I really like your suits.. they fit very well, and I like the shirt collar with your tie… I don’t like the new collars that don’t extend down past the knot of the tie…. Thanks for your input !!!
Those collars aren’t new, those are spear point collars and have been around since the 1930’s.
Can you make a video on how to find personal style? Or how to dress if you're a short man?
I'm going to get measurements for a suit this weekend at Blandin & Delloye, Brussels.
As you said, the best of both worlds is to get a classic suit with a modern cut. The suit can be used a whole life for any occasion
I learned a lot from Frank Sinatra on how a gentleman should act and dress (even though he had his setbacks at times). A great book is called "The Way You Wear Your Hat" by Bill Zehme. You will learn A LOT (like carrying breath mints in your pocket for good breath all the time, etc.). Good read!
As a bald guy I NEED a hat for summer sun protection and warmth in colder months (I'm in Toronto). I have three trilbys including a lovely one i got last year at Lock & Co while in London. For more casual wear, flat caps are a good option. One slight eccentricity I am occasionally allowing myself is an Ascot as an alternative to a tie, open collar, or bow tie. I love bow ties but they just don't look good on me. I'm 64 years old so I'm fortunately at a point in life that i can wear whatever I please! 0:02 h
This is a fascinating topic, and I believe it’s quite subjective. In my view, many classic clothing items are often seen as outdated by the majority, especially younger generations. In the U.S., for example, the norm is wearing T-shirts, jeans, and white sneakers, which are considered both casual and, surprisingly, formal by today’s standards. In winter, a nylon jacket is added to the mix, and a backpack is the go-to accessory for carrying items. The distinction between age groups has all but disappeared-children to older adults dress almost identically. In this context, a jacket seems outdated, while a suit is often seen as ultra-outdated or even inappropriate.
The debate between classic and vintage styles, in my opinion, mainly concerns those of us who are part of a niche. Sometimes we like to think that we are classic, while others are more modern and fashion-forward, but this perspective is quite personal. To the broader public, both styles may appear vintage or outdated. For me, wearing a suit and tie is the epitome of elegance, especially when the suit is well-tailored, made from fine fabric, in a flattering color, and paired with classic leather shoes and a tasteful tie. However, to the majority-particularly those under 45-we seem completely out of step with the times. It’s unfortunate, but true. They may admire our elegance, yet often view us as eccentric.
The only way to wear classic or vintage clothing in today’s world is to not care what others think. While discretion is important, it’s rarely enough to escape being seen as unusual. Still, this won’t stop me from wearing my fedoras, Panama hats, ties, or suits whenever possible. That said, finding appropriate occasions to wear such attire is becoming increasingly rare, if not entirely nonexistent, in the modern world. Do you agree?
As a child I spent weekends at my grandmother's home. We would look through all of her old photographs taken in Los Angeles in the 1940s. I became obsessed with the era. In high school I spent all of my money on vintage clothing from the 30s and 40s. It was much easier to find in the late 1990s! I wore exclusively vintage clothing for about 15 years.
Then I discovered Alan Flussers's book "Clothes And The Man". That book broke my notion that everything I wore needed to be vintage. It was incredibly freeing. I soon developed an eye for the classics, and I began to buy clothing based on aesthetics, not time period. Over time I actually sold much of my vast collection of vintage clothing. Made quite a bit of money too!
I still have a passion for a great 1930s suit, but I'm just as happy with a 1990s suit made by some obscure tailor so long as it's timeless in design and fits well.
Thanks for sharing. I had a very similar journey. First strictly 30s-50s, then developed an eye for quality and good proportions. Like you said, it makes life easier because I am not a slave to historical authenticity, but just let the golden era inspire me to be classically well dressed.
I am a little on the heavier side, so searching for good clothes for events is always a challenge. Sometimes I get lucky and get something that suits me perfectly, but a lot of times I have to go custom and that kills my budget. One of the other ideas I suppose is clothe searching for a heavier gentleman :D
Wear whatever U want; just be aware it could be conspicuous 😁🍻
I kind of think a flat cap would be nice for the more casual side of my classic wardrobe, but it also kind of reminds me of Brian Johnson from AC/DC… Which, while I love them, doesn’t exactly scream classic gentleman 😂
James (I think that's your name, many apologies if not)
You should really write a book of the classic style, mens etiquette, mixology etc.
I think you could produce a really solid guide for men.
I think it's critical to mention the cut of your suit looks very current. IIRC you get many of your suits from places like Suitsupply, right? Trousers sit at the hips, both the jacket and the trousers trim. The cut is not quite like the early 1900s which is not inherently a problem but that goes to show that a lot of these details have been messed around with through time.
As you delve further into fashion, GentZ, you will find that there are personalizations to the choice of what to wear even within elegant clothing. An example of this is that some men actually look better in narrow ties and some in wide. There is more harmony between one width of tie and their face/body. And each person also has their best colors. It is better to harmonize with your lines, colors and style "type" than it is to follow trends. And so, if a 1960's suit was the very best thing for you because of it's lines, color and style type, then you should hang onto it for life and it will look better on you than anything current.
The style types invented by old Hollywood were gamine, romantic, natural, classic and dramatic. Tom Holland (gamine?) is going to wear a different tuxedo than Roger Moore (classic?) who is going to wear a different tuxedo than Harrison Ford (natural?) who is going to wear a different tux than Samuel L Jackson (dramatic?). They each have different style types and that won't change much through their lives.
The nice thing about this is that you can work your way toward your best look and when you find it you will be a little less at the whim of fashion.
My guess is that you are strongly classic (according to the old Hollywood types) and that Is why classic-wear appeals to you so much. However, none of the style types benefits from wearing jammies! (the current style of today).
Some of the style types are a bit more dependent on looking "current" such as gamine and dramatic.
You are on the safe side if you buy iconic pieces from legacy brands that have not changed their design for the past decades but are widely recognized as classy. Such as the Barbour Classic Beauford Jacket or the LaCoste Polo Shirt or a pair of black half-brouge business shoes by Lloyd.
I agree, these pieces are safe bets
Perhaps your most controversial video. I enjoyed it. I might bend a few of the precepts you've espoused.
Best
Tony
I just go for vintage or reproduction of vintage cuts, with the 1930s and 1950s being my favourite eras. Some may call it outdated or even cosplaying, but the fact of the matter is: No piece of clothing is timeless and everything is subject to fashion and trends. How old is the 3-piece/2-piece suit? About 150 years if we are generous? Even some early 1920s ensembles would not be regarded as suits in a modern sense, as the transition from coat to jacket was too fluid. So I just go for what eras and outfits looked best in my opinion, without thinking too much about whether it's in some timeless middle ground.
Unless we are talking about very well-known stuff, such as bell-bottom trousers, most people won't be able to date outfits. E.g. I once wore plus-fours and nobody thought 1930s, they just didn't know what kind of trousers those were. On the other hand, I've heard people call guys in modern slim-fit suits "1920s", because they wor suspenders and that's the suiting detail they remembered from "The Great Gatsby". Someone with decent knowledge on suiting history will however be able to date most suits, even the supposedly timeless ones.
Great to see your latest offering , you definitely posed me some questions about my own style . I think I pro dominantly I have a vintage lean as I love the 40s and 50s and the mid to late 60s mod era . I love my pleated trousers but keep the leg opening at about 8 inches
Some with turn ups and some without . I also wear three and two button suits with flat fronted trousers , doubles breasted suit in plain colours . I think it’s the fact I wear a lot of hats , trilby’s and flat caps and odd bakerboy style . So you see young man you have challenged my very sense of self . Am I dressing like a gentleman or am I merely a caricature ? Keep up your posts and challenging upsold guys who think we know it all .
You're doing great, no outfit is complete without a trusty hat to go on top!
I have a vintage cafe motorcycle I ride around Tokyo occasionally and I consider myself a modern man. I find it amusing when I see a gentleman’s motorcycle gathering and they all dress like they came out of the twenties and thirties some wearing mustaches from that era. What I do find also is the use of a contemporary fabric is important. Sometimes some fabrics can be a little outdated as well. With regards to watches, I do love a vintage Seiko from the seventies in kanji. Sometimes I will just upgrade the crystal on the watch and it becomes something new and old. Domo arigato.
Bow ties and pocket watches are accessories with a lot of personality. I don’t understand how they so innocently fall into your category of “vintage “. Tissot still makes many pocket watches. In fact I’ve just ordered one!
A fascinating video, and very will put together :)
One minor correction, "Moss Bros" is pronounced as Bros are short for Brothers, rather than Bross
I think it is funny that so many men (many on UK tv) seem to wear suits that look 2 sizes too small, drainpipe trousers and wear white trainers with them.
Definitely outdated; I look like Burty Wooster as portrayed by Hugh Laurie in 'Jeeves & Wooster'. But hey, I Like it. 😁
Got to recommend to the group "True Style : the History and principles of classic menswear"" by G. Bruce Boyer. 2015. In particular the English Country House Look.
As a scientist I am quite happy with bowties and cravattes. Maybe they are a little dated, but I don't have to worry about it hanging in acid or into a bunsenburner
I wear Panama hats and a fedora. But I added it with classic menswear. I definitely get compliments. Even free food etc.
The items you mentioned unfortunately are associated with the nerd tribe (like the fedora fat guy meme), I can see how they can spoil a young mans outfit. Even then, older people usually wore them. Also, its kinda hard to combine and choose a good outfit with a pocket watch, hat (except for panama), or bow-tie without looking quirky.
My personal style would be business casual or caled also a smart casual.
I choose polos, shirts , sweaters coats or jackets that would fit both chinos, trousers and jeans making my wardrobe interchangeable and flexible.
That idea of not getting anything "too extreme" is brilliant. Then one could spend a lot of money on excellent timeless clothes and keep them for maybe a decade or more.
Or, like Hugo from Sartorial talks, choose one extreme that becomes an extension of your image.
Hugo has chosen massive lapels but eventually you hive up, accept and even expect it. Everything else is just perfect. So, just one odd thing still classy.
Too much perfection is too much. :)
My understanding of fashion is that its like a perpetuum mobile and is always in motion. What might look outdated today might be a big thing in 10 years or so. Like the last years we had this 90s revival and maybe 1950s gentlemans clothing and accessories will in some form be fashionable again who knows
Excellent advice! Thanks.
I’m a clash of both Classic and Vintage but I prefer Vintage
Thanks for your comment
I am part of the local steampunk community. I know when I dress that way, it is a costume. It’s fun, but not classic. I try to dress classic every day, but it usually fun to steamounk it up on occasions.
I stand by this principle myself, which is to dress in an understated elegant way, that isn't screaming for attention, but at the same time to distinguish myself from everyone else, through my clothing choices. Altough I think that those detachable club collars and newsboy caps in Peaky Blinders look very cool, if I start to wear them on the street or at school, automatically everyone would take notice and I would stick out too much, and not in a good way. But if I just wear some dress pants, a shirt with a sweater and maybe a knit tie underneath, I would be much better dressed, since I won't be looking like I am trying to cosplay someone or something (a well dressed gentleman always takes this into the account !). Regarding bowties, they should be reserved for evening wear only. Wearing them without part of these dresscodes would look quite nerdy and juvenile, in my opinion. Neckties are much better for daytime occasions. Great video, James, it was highly needed !
I think bow ties can be incorporated classically, though not many mean wear them now, they are still a staple of classic style, a predecessor to the necktie, and I think they can be revived.
Fair or not, I just associate bowties with the grandpa or Poindexter look
@pensivepenguin3000 I go for doctor who or the ink spots. As the doctor says "Bow ties are cool!"
I would say that my "average" weekender style is a modern and relaxed, but well put together look. I'll wear chinos or dark jeans with a polo, or a quarter zip knit sweater with wingtip oxfords, but when I go to my extremes (I love the 1930's look of the suits), I will wear a three piece pinstripe suit with a felt fedora and spectator shoes.
1930’s suits have a superior cut to modern suits, they draped so much better and were very comfortable (mostly because of the high-waisted pants).
Bow ties are still viable for the well-dressed man with a good eye who wants to set himself apart. The bow tie is as classic as menswear gets, and the right one can cap off a modern tailored ensemble with confidence and flair.
I am a big and tall dude (6'4, 260 lbs.), 48 years old, I am just starting to get into classic men's wear (it started with goodyear welted shoes actually some years ago) - and due to my rather short legs and long trunk I have to go MTM (though my first experiment with this was my marriage suit I "have grown out of...", some 15 years ago). Thus I mostly buy new stuff. It's already difficult to find modern stuff in "tall", it's even more difficult to find classic wear in "tall", at least here in Germany.
Nothing wrong with classic newsboy, flat caps and fedoras (fur felt or straw). Honestly the classic cap can go with so much these days and frames the face beautifully.
Plus, they protect the head and face. It's not all about looking good in pictures, is also about apropriate for the weather, wearer, activity, place...
If you want a baby face in your 50's, wear a hat. 🤠
@@alexmarques2398 Absolutely! I live in Florida and always have a cotton or linen newsboy on. A Panama when spending a large amount of time outside. Aside from the sun protection, there’s something especially fun and jaunty about a linen newsboy on a hot day.
My personal style is all over the place, as i try to put an outfit with spit and tape. I like retro/vintage clothes but i know i'd look funny i everyday situation. Even wearing trouser on your natural waistline is considered funny or weird nowadays. So i just throw some clothes with older cut, with some newer and call it a day. Probably could look much better, but i also don't like to spend thousands on clothes.
I tend to go for the polo shirts and blazer style. I take most of my inspiration from Bond so if he’s worn it I would find it acceptable (Roger More aside obviously)
I have absolutely terrible hair these days so I always accessorise with hat no matter the occasion.
I'd say, I'm modern conservative. I am the rare exception in my line of work who actually wears leather boots almost all the time
Just wearing real shoes instead of trainers makes you better dressed than 75% of men these days.
It's both Classic and "outdated" but I do my best to just buy quality clothes that I like and take good care of them. I believe British upper class people don't like "middle class pretenders" which is good because I have a huge crush on a upper class British woman.
One of the ways to know if a questionable item is working for you personally is to take pictures of that style and another and truly ask yourself which looks better. If you are a "classic" style type and try to wear off-beat items, you will look like you are wearing a costume. However, there are men whose features just blend so nicely with a French sailor hat, or a bow tie, or tight pants (hint: tight pants are often good on skinny men). Some men are going to be better "rakish" with their facial hair. For some the very wide tie or lapel is always going to be the right answer and to others the narrow will be. To not cash in on these personalizations is a mistake. For some, a tie with a large pattern is great, for others small pattern, for others no pattern. For some smooth texture, for another rough. You'd think that menswear was boring and without choices but it isn't.
It's also a mistake to try to "fix" yourself to be more middle-of-the road. You are better to lean into whatever you are. Celebrate the type you are. Give up on trying to look taller, shorter, fatter, skinnier, plainer or fancier or like some celeb that you are not. It can be good to find a celeb who IS like you physically and see how he gets pro-styled for parts in movies etc.
Love your outfits
Always well dressed
I am same with many categories as old soul
I would not trade coupe of my vintage cars for anything in showrooms now.
It's timeless
Well, I hope I get the best of the both world - shopping custom suites and trousers from Suitsupply and shirts/trousers from Charles Tyrrwitt, buying factory seconds from famous British shue manufacturers (the famous Crockett and Jones Isley boots for example) as well as classic (and vintage) tweed jackets andovercoats, brogue oxfords and derbies over eBay.
All the second life items have arrived like practically new however some of the producers have closed decades ago.
It's all about the craftsmanship, style, materials and fit :-)
I would prefer to be the guy on the right thank you very much
Hats are most certainly not vintage/dated, you literally see many people today wearing hats (not talking about baseball caps) clearly you’ve never owned a hat before otherwise you’d know how comfortable and stylish they are.
The waxed 'stache 😂😂😂😂😂
Could you talk about pant length and what are appropriate ways to gauge what looks good?
The community is divided on this topic and here’s why. Some men just want to elevate their style, overall appearance and become better versions of themselves. Clothes surely help with that, but other than that i don’t have much interest in them. I don’t care for all the different fabrics and where they’re from etc. walking canes, boutonnières etc seem like a costume to me, i don’t care for these things, im not the son of some british lord. But then there are the style/fashion nerds, which is almost like a subculture who are way more into specifically clothes and accessories like the guys at gentlemen’s gazette who take huge interest in these retro items and clothes and wear them with joy. These are two different mindsets and “hobbies”, if you consider that there’s really not much need to discuss this as to each its own.
Where does classic end and cosplay begin I've often asked myself? I'm afraid I have to disagree with the pocket watch
It just boils down to dated versus classic. For example, wearing a monocle or a top hat would obviously be dated, but I think other pieces, like a fedora, can still be argued for
My wardrobe is only suit supply and Massimo dutti, some say i dress like a billionaire, some say i look like their uncle
I'm a girl so I don't know if I count in this, but I buy my stuff second hand
That's interesting to hear. Do you like to shop at thrift and vintage stores or do you use online sites?
@Gent.Z well, I use some charity shops (which are like thrift shops I think) and also vinted although that ones not as good because you can't return anything
The video we needed
Will you ever come by Washington, perhaps around Seattle?
Yes
Hey there Gent Z what is the make of your 1951 wrist watch?
@@matthewr6572 Bernex
James, you are talking about three things here apart from Classic, yet your title only says outdated. While retro is generally within your lifetime, vintage can be before you were born but less than 100 years.
My point is this, there is a difference between Outdated and Vintage, and that difference is Intent. If you are intending to dress classic yet have a skinny tie or a super wide tie, a three button suit, etc., then you are outdated and not classic. However, you can wear the same (to a point) for a vintage look but it needs to be well done with more being vintage than retro. The key is that you should never look outdated, even if you stand out as vintage.
I am in the middle but sometimes I'll have a vintage piece with a modern outfit if it works well, mainly overcoats which always seem to look classic no matter the era.
Sorry, misspelled "gentleman".
i disagree about hats. Very practical items in summer, with my fair skin and sensitive eyes(light gets round my sunglasses. Bow ties are ridiculous though i met a prof who looked great with one, so i can concede for the right person. Watches, cufflinks (mostly) rings trousers (mostly#) i buy new. better fits. Shirts are mixed, new and old in similar numbers, typically nmew for more casual. But i prefer shirts, colder and warmer than tshhirts. Coats mixedm some very nice new and old. Blazers, sportscoats and suits secondhand for cost and quality. Shoes mostly new, but some unused old ones etc. high quality ones.
100% disagree with you on hats. Felt hats and flat caps are the only appropriate hats to wear with a suit, or really any non "athleisure" clothing, they're practical, timeless, stylish, and keep the wind and rain out of your hair. I haven't stepped out the door without a flat cap, fedora, or straw hat in many many years. No outfit is complete without a hat, and you shouldn't step out the door without one.
This needed to be said. Thank you! This is where gentleman’s gazette misses the mark for me, sometimes. Once we start talking about Monicals, top hats and boutonnieres, we are veering into 1920s cosplay
Yes, Gent Z does cover a niche that I find lacking sometimes in GG. Both are great though!
@@bizarre_razor absolutely. GG is definitely still great, and the type of content depends on the host, with Rafael being the most traditional, Preston being second most traditional, and Kyle and the newer host being a little more modern in how they blend the classic style
Gentleman’s Gazette is an incredible channel and I have a ton of respect for Raphael. We have a different approach when it comes to style, but that’s what makes RUclips such a wonderful and diverse resource.
@@Gent.Z he really does. Can’t knock the guy for having a very decisive and distinct sense of style, but, like you, it’s not what I would embrace. I feel like Preston and Kyle are more dialed into where my personal tastes are
I like outdated style pieces, but stay clear from past trendy items. So no skinny ties or giga butterfly bowties
I don’t have much of a disagreement with your argument about “vintage,” but I do have a bit to pick with your lead image. The outfit of an odd jacket, trousers and Faire Isle sweater could be taken right from a Ralph Lauren advertisement. The only thing vintage in the photo is the facial hair.
Bow tie still more practical for doctors, artists or academics than tie. It doesn't get on the way.
What do you think of way Christians Tate classy style and his suits
Why I love wear traditional black suit with white dress shirt look
It always looks timeless
Personally I have copied that from Tom Ford signature look
Great video as always, James.
I’m bald, so wearing a hat outdoors isn’t an option for me. So then not comes down to what type of hat to wear?
For those reasons, I’m wearing a Panama hat in the summer and fedora in the other three seasons.
I’m not going to wear a baseball cap with a jacket, and even a flat cap is way too informal.
I agree, being bald myself. But with a huge head (hatsize 64) I still haven't found a good fitting Panama nor Fedora yet...
I recommend Hornskov Hats from Denmark. Their hats are investment pieces . Handmade with beautiful construction , design and crucially .. fit. To misquote a great writer on style .. there are two kinds of crazy , those who think they are Napoleon and those who think you can buy a good cheap hat .
I rather enjoy shopping second hand.
In regards of something being classic or timeless - in my opinion, there is no such thing as classic/timeless piece of clothing. Everything change, even plain, white t-shirt.
The beautiful suit you are wearing here is....outdated. Firstly, because most suit jackets now have more narrow lapels; secondly, because very few people are wearing suits daily. Trousers are in, with the low rise. Even a polo shirt is seen as something formal, compared to what people wear on streets.
Wearing a tie is definitely outdated, as you barely can see anybody sporting it (except few OLDER gentleman's and more dandy people). High waisted trousers are outdated, for over 20 years now, even tho they make your body look better (just like wide lapels).
etc etc
Gent zee?????
Why not Gent Zed???
You sound English
Your outfit looks nice with the exception of the belt. With a suit the paints should have either side adjuster or braces. Belts break up the line of a suit. Also with braces pants hang better. I have all my pant made with a fish tail back and buttons for braces.
That’s just your opinion. If he likes the way he looks and feels, including that belt, he should stick with it. The least manly thing one can do is change to please the taste of others
As I'm all about personalization, I wonder if some men benefit from breaking up the line with a belt and others do not. Let your mirror tell you. There are very few rules that apply to everyone. But like you, I adore a man in suspenders and think they have both comfort/fit and style benefits.
Most of my trousers and suits are worn with side adjusters. Wearing a belt is a nice way to create variation in my looks.
Classic style is itself another sub-culture. Very little contemporary tailoring fits this Cary-Grant-find-the-middle classic definition. How many men dress like him nowadays? So it's actually sub-culture all the way down if you decide to attend to your appearance. And there are myriad sub-cultures and no middle, no standards. Truth is, most men pay little or no attention to any style unless they must and prefer "comfort" to any effort or style--- and that is worse than all.
«This video is not for saying its anything wrong with wearing retro style» u just shitted on bowties so yeah it is😂😂😂😂😂😂
We men?*
Outdated. Hell yeah.
I have no idea what my style would be called. Wear a shirt or pique with jeans and nice shoes. Put on nicer pants if I'm going somewhere special.