I had it drummed into me from an early age ‘buy the best quality you can afford and look after it’ - and, apart from a couple of diversions away toward cheap, or fashionable items, all of which let me down and ended up in the bin, I’ve followed that advice - and it’s served me well. I’d certainly never skimp on footwear, spectacles, a wristwatch, my clothing or fragrance. My only other advice would be ‘don’t be afraid of secondhand’ - the utter bargains I’ve managed to acquire as a result of being creative, or waiting for the right ‘pre-loved’ items to come up for sale - it’s meant that I’ve been able to acquire the quality of items that I’d never be able to afford to buy brand new.
So true! As adults, we probably already have everything we *need*, so only have to look for replacements for things that are too worn out after years of use. And that doesn't come over night: I know that this one pair of winter boots will probably make it through one more season. Now I have almost two years to look for a good replacement. And that goes for almost everything. For consumables, like fragrance, or notebooks, or shoe polish - we probably found our "go to brands" years ago. If they were good enough in 1990, they still will do just fine today. If not: loads of time to shop around. It's not an emergency.
@@PotsdamSeniorabsolutely! Only problem for me is that I tend to look for ‘like for like’ replacements, which can get difficult if it’s an item that’s no longer made……..hence my 2 yr search for a pair of cufflinks (for example) to replace a favourite pair that broke! 😂 well, it’s a hobby!
My wife's from a very humble background. All goods were quality, well thought out, and saved-up for. Her mother always said, "We're too poor to buy cheap things...."
I improved my footwear selection immensely by buying a few quality pairs brand new, and a few good condition quality pairs 2nd hand. I managed to pick up a pair of good condition Church’s and some John Lobb loafers in charity shops last year. Good quality doesn’t need to cost the earth if you have time to invest in searching these things out. Love the channel Ash. Keep up the good work.
I’m a tradesman a joiner so I’ve always invested in the best quality tools I can afford it makes your job so much easier. I enjoy watching your videos and always try my best to dress smart out of work and try to at work as well within my uniform but there’s a funny parallel but opposite in the trade world. A man that comes onto site with all new looking tools and clothes is treated with with suspicion! “all the gear no idea” but a man with well worn but looked after clothes and tools is treated with respect
Overcoats, i just purchased a brand new M and S brown checked tweed overcoat in moon Tweed from eBay, unwanted Christmas present, paid £38.33 plus £6 postage. Gorgeous coat at a bargain price.
Shoes, 100% agree. Skincare, yup. Eyewear, mostly agree, but remember cost does not always equal quality. Outerwear, obviously as a subscriber of this channel I'm going to agree with this this. Fountain pens, although I agree every chap should use a fountain pen over ball points, I disagree they should be expensive. I do own expensive pens, but my favorite is the Jinhao 159, by far the cheapest pen I own, and I have quite a good collection to compare it against.
Unfortunately you're wrong. Every product has it's place and Jinhao is an entry level product for people who want to try out fountain pens before committing to a quality one. A quality writing instrument is so important that it can even modify your handwriting. As anything there are some that are worth the money and others that you're paying mostly for the name (cough cough Montblanc cough cough).
I’ve had a number of fountain pens, but now only use Sheaffer No Nonsense pens. I have several, with different types of nib, and all write beautifully. My oldest No Nonsense is now over 35 yrs old - the nib is perfectly worn in to my writing style. I’ve used more expensive pens, and ended up selling them all - I always went back to the Sheaffer.
Ash I love your tutorials one additional thing I think is worth spending money on is a good quality leather wallet. I polish mine with good quality polish and I have had it for years and it always look good even now it is five years old.
@@simonhodgetts6530 Once you go down the rabbit hole there's no turning back. You start to realize there's a difference between wood, steel, titanium, resin and if you want to get freaky....ebonite. Then the nibs...flex, architect, juicy, fine, etc. totally personalizable. And then you get an antique one. I LOVE my 1909 Waterman that I bought and had restored. It is absolutely mindboggling to me that we used to produce thing that we can still use 115 years later and people complain now about sustainability while using a BIC.
Ash, I second you in all of this. I got a lovely Italian leather briefcase for pocket change just because a couple of seams were broken. I learned to sew and now I do got a briefcase with discrete character and a story to tell. My fountain pen are of great quality and I sewn a pen case out of my fathers old tie. Gets a lovely connection. And yes, Leucthturm Outlines are my choice for journaling. Thanks for another lovely and informative video. All the best!
Excellent tips, every one of them. It never occurred to me to make a distinction between high and low quality shoe polish. And, I loved that phrase "nylon abomination".
I have ten days ago purchased a beautiful Brown Tweed Herringbone Jacket at an ungodly price of nearly £300. And that was reduced. But I have got to look after this. I am going to be frightened to wear it. But the girl serving me said this will last you years. I am 57 years young and I still wear heavy duty cargo shorts and a t shirt when I am out in day or night. I don't do ironing 🤬 I hate it. All I got to suss out now is some decent roll neck shirts. Slowly but surely I am smartening my self up. Your channel and its contents inspire me. Thanks 🙏
Totally agree. I march beside you. Shoes and boots? eBay. 90% discount frequently. Skin care? I had an acquaintance comment that I actually look younger in the face and ask how I did it. After shave balm in the morning. At night, a good skin cream, recommended by a skin doctor (Amlactin). I too love good leather goods. They look elegant and do not fall apart. eBay again. Overcoat? Absolutely. Looks fabulous, like you are a true chap. Another eBay. Great video, Ash.
You're absolutely right lasting quality over throw away fashion is the way forward. A few months ago i purchased a beautiful pair of handmade Italian chelsea boots with leather soles. They look and feel fantastic even makes a lovely sound walking on the pavement.
Goodyear welting, or at least Blake stitching, and definitely not the glued ones. I have also been spending a bit more for sunglasses. One big difference is it's easier to find a pair that fits.
Thanks, Ash! I agree about all the items you've listed here. I also choose to spend more money on MTM suits and shirts as I find the fit and feel so much better, and I like knowing the provenance and background of my garments :)
Good morning Ash. I recently purchased a pair of Allen Edmonds $425 green suede stranmocks (brogues) on sale for $299. We saw a week later they went on a clearance sale for $209. I went back to the store and got a credit then purchase another pair of the same shoe in wheat color 🌾 . Does getting two pairs for less than the original price of one. Search for the deals. Cheers Ron
Glad, you mentioned eyewear.. but not only sunglasses, correction glasses are more important.. if you need them, you‘ll wear them all the time. And the first look is in your face.. Really like you mentioned not only the boring wayfarers, clubmasters and aviators.. Invest in high quality glasses like Zeiss or Rodenstock *and* frames like Moskot, JMM or Cartier and ic berlin!
One of the advantages of having healthy skin and nice clothes,is that people come to your aid if you collapse in the street rather than walking past you.😊
Excellent video as always Ash. I'd add a high quality umbrella to the list, James Smith, Fox, Swaine etc. Functional and adds to the look of a well heeled chap.
Good list. Do think you forgot the most import purchase, a good bed. Two times you use the most are your bed and the shoes. Sleeping well makes you feel better and you will look more fresh. I would suggest a good watch before a good pen. I am not saying direct a Omega or Rolex but just a good one. Fountain pens are beautiful and nice, just not nice travelling with them. Air pressure can empty them sometimes. I use a Montblanc ballpoint, not as nice but does the job well. Always liked my eyewear, tried a lot over the year. For me it is only two brands from now on, Serengeti and Persol.
Best choices I ever made were my Crombie overcoat that will last forever . So stylist with a suit at work or jeans and DM’s at a concert . My JM Weston ( France ) Oxford shoes that have done 25 years so far. Took them back to the store in Lyon to get resoled and the specialist was surprised as this model is no longer produced . Most comfortable shoes I ever owned and still wear . Timeless is king .
I use Horace products on my skin. Yes I know they are French. However they are affordable, and they make excellent skincare products. They mostly use natural ingredients too. 👍
I love to cook. I invested into a quality cast iron skillet and a set of excellent kitchen knives. It helped me to bring my cooking skills to the next level.
I absolutely agree with you opinion on shoes, coats and my wife would love to here that a guy is talking about skincare but on this point I don’t think I would spend a lot of money. I would add a good watch to the list.
I agree totally with you on quality clothing and shoes and other items. If you take care of them properly. They will last you a lifetime. I learned my lesson as far a good pair of leather shoes and bags. Especially shoes. Leather shoes with proper care and shining wear well. I bought a pair of cheap shoes and they have broken quickly. I still have my leather shoes and products in tip top condition because I do everything to maintain them without much problem and the feel of leather on your feet is great even comforming to your feet. Thank you Chap for your advice. I have applied most of your advice for better styling and durability.
I agree with you on this, especially the shoes and coat. A good pair of shoes will outlast 10 pairs of the disposable rubbish that most places sell. Half the problem is finding a shop that sells good quality kit.
Sunglasses are a great item to spend money on, as they feel solid and look sharp. But for situations where you are at greater risk of losing them, such as water sports or during heavy alcohol consumption, a brand such as Goodr is a fantasic option. They’re relatively inexpensive (~$40), are polarized, and have a classic wayfarer silhouette that will always be in style. Not sponsored or affiliated, just a fan of their product.
Moisturiser, always use a moisturiser with an SPF factor, and you don't have to spend a fortune, Aldi Q10 has been proven in clinical tests to be as good if not better than the big name brands, the Q10 comes in both SPF 20 and 30 and it's £3.50.
I concur completely, Ash, with your observations about items that are worth spending a bit of extra money on. Shoes are the foundations of one's wardrobe, and are often just about the first thing that women notice when they meet a man. Good quality leather shoes are not only stylish and comfortable, but if properly cared for, can last for decades, making them, in the long run, an excellent sartorial investment. Nothing beats a quality top coat that will keep you warm on the frostiest winter days when the temperature dips well below zero. My favourite is a navy camel's hair coat made by Crombie of Scotland which I've enjoyed every winter for the last thirty years. -It always gets compliments, and never goes out of style. I've got a small collection of vintage Mont Blanc fountain pens which are a joy to write with, and which always garner compliments from others whenever I find myself in the position of signing my name or providing an address. -I favour a mauve shade of ink that my wife tells me was used by Virginia Woolf and other members of the Bloomsbury Group. I've got a leather map case made by Roots Canada which I bought when I first went to university back in 1985. It now has a fabulous patina, and looks better after forty years of use than it did on the day that I bought it.
100% agree with your list, although I've never worried too much about my skin. Being a country boy the wear is a badge of honor almost. 😉. Working my whole life on my feet and enjoying the outdoors in my down time. Quality boots / footwear is a must, I could not afford to cheap out!! For leather accessories, since quality and accessibility in my budget has been hard to find. I've taken to making my own smaller leather accessories. I started with a leather notepad cover and wallet combined. Then a leather pocket organizer for my small multi tool and pocket knife as well as a leather pouch for my pipe tobacco. Now I'm starting to work on a small carry bag (haversack style) to start with. As always I enjoyed the video thank you for your time, knowledge and experience!! Cheers 🤠 🥃
Just ordered myself a good looking Carl Frederick wallet as per your review a little while ago. Can’t wait to get it and use it for a very long time. I have also found many fantastic pairs of good quality shoes on Vinted at a fraction of the price new. Thanks for your channel
very good Ash - My son is is in Italy on a Master Tailoring Academy learning from a legend - at 26 years old he keeps harping this - would love to connect off channel
Not all sunglasses suit every facial profile. Have you thought about creating a video that explores how to choose the right sunglasses for different face shapes?
I have have German parachute boots, had them for 35 years this year always use Kiwi shoe polish. But spending 3266 SEK(£250) that is not my cup of tea. Skin care never used it, never will. Eyeweare i have both preskription glasses and preskription sunglasses a must. Overcoat, i own a Burberry threnchcoat has it for 30 years, but i mostly use Taiga jacket, had both of mine for twenty five years + now. I mostly use my Papermate ballpoint pen, made before 1989, i got it from my wife when she was my girlfriend, or a BIC Cristal since it is an iconic design, i never work at a desk. Over night bag of briefcase, do not need them
Shoes, you spend most of your time on your feet. Look for classic UK makes, such as Trickers and Crocket and Jones Often have some great deals at factory or sale times Beware of Loake, often made in more cheaply in India etc.
Warm overcoats are the most difficult items for me to buy. I walk a lot, and ride my bike a lot. Year round, in all weather conditions, because I don't have a car. It needs to be really rainproof, needs a hood because I can't bike with an umbrella, and those kinds of coats or jackets just don't look very nice. But I still need nicer overcoats when I go out dressed as nice as I want to. Roomy enough to fit over a suit, which then looks bad without a jacket underneath so I also need a smaller one. They all come very cheap when bought second hand, but they take up so much space in my warderobe! I hate needing so many items for only one function. I hate winter 😅
I actually love winter. You get to wear an entirely different wardrobe. I’d hate to live somewhere where it was benign samey safe weather 365 days a year.
@@funkychickenthesecond2102I agree to a point. Real winter, freezing cold, with snow and ice, is lovely. But that windy rainy weather hovering around zero degrees we had over the last few years thanks to the warming climate? I can do without.
Next time anyone needs a new pair of sunglasses make sure you get not only uv protection but also polarised - makes a huge difference in reducing glare and your eyes don't get tired.
Best skincare regime, drink two litres of water a day, moisturizer from within, if you don't, try it for a month, you'll notice a big difference on your skins appearance.
Disagree on the coats - its about appropriate clothing for the situation you are in. I recently brought a Uniqlo goose down overcoat with synthetic covering, because I was travelling somewhere with -20 Celsius weather (I went up a mountain where it reached -30c). I also wore some extremely unfashionable British Army ECW gear. If I wore a wool overcoat in that weather, it would have been unsafe.
I am looking at three pair of my cognac color Church's shoes. Also, one pair of my new Florsheim shoes in a similar color. What's the difference? Oh I know. The Church's shoes are better built and have better leather. That leather is clear to see and to feel as I place my hands on it, especially compared to the so called leather of the Florsheim shoes. However, spending that much more money on the Church's is hardly worth it to someone on a budget. Keep your shoes polished. Condition the leather. This I do advise.
Quality costs money, yes...but what if your budget doesn't allow that? If, for example, someone wants to have great outfits but only lives of unemployed benefits. They can't afford bespoke stuff. Same goes for all the other items you mentioned.
I disagree of the shoes section, as you often educate us to avoid paying full price on them but rather get them far cheaper second hand. I will add paying good money on a good suit, is a very good investment. Most of my suits are MTM from Suitsupply. While they’re modestly priced comparing to the staggering prices of Saville Row bespoke (and even RTW) suits, they aren’t cheap. And once you get your fit right, a well tailored suit from quality materials is an amazing investment.
I think puffer jackets are poor. A wax jacket is much better. I'm with you on footwear and sunglasses or specticles. I'm not sure on skincare i have some misturiser which wasn't expensive. It's a shame people don't take more pride in their apperance, I was in the local tesco the other day and there was a young man in his dressing gown pajamas and slippers. I supose it's a free country and if he can walk around like that maybe I should stop being self concious about standing out from the herd.
Good morning Ash and the assembled Chappage. Saturday routine, breakfast and TCG. Shoes, agree. I seldom have the need of good footwear though. Ignore the Kiwi haters, I used it for years until I discovered Saphir through this channel. Skincare, whatever works for you. I have reached a point where I never have used anything and probably never will. Sunglasses, agree. I think I'll dive in this year. A Polarised lens is a must for me, as my 20yo Ray-Bans bear testimony. Outerwear, agree. On a Vinted search for one currently. Desk wear, were I in such a role, I would be all over this. I do like a fountain pen. My writing improves when using ink. Leatherwear 🤔 oh, briefcases, not "specialist" attire 😉. Not something I can envisage needing 😔. Top points as always.🫡
I had it drummed into me from an early age ‘buy the best quality you can afford and look after it’ - and, apart from a couple of diversions away toward cheap, or fashionable items, all of which let me down and ended up in the bin, I’ve followed that advice - and it’s served me well. I’d certainly never skimp on footwear, spectacles, a wristwatch, my clothing or fragrance. My only other advice would be ‘don’t be afraid of secondhand’ - the utter bargains I’ve managed to acquire as a result of being creative, or waiting for the right ‘pre-loved’ items to come up for sale - it’s meant that I’ve been able to acquire the quality of items that I’d never be able to afford to buy brand new.
So true! As adults, we probably already have everything we *need*, so only have to look for replacements for things that are too worn out after years of use. And that doesn't come over night: I know that this one pair of winter boots will probably make it through one more season. Now I have almost two years to look for a good replacement. And that goes for almost everything.
For consumables, like fragrance, or notebooks, or shoe polish - we probably found our "go to brands" years ago. If they were good enough in 1990, they still will do just fine today. If not: loads of time to shop around. It's not an emergency.
@@PotsdamSeniorabsolutely! Only problem for me is that I tend to look for ‘like for like’ replacements, which can get difficult if it’s an item that’s no longer made……..hence my 2 yr search for a pair of cufflinks (for example) to replace a favourite pair that broke! 😂 well, it’s a hobby!
My wife's from a very humble background. All goods were quality, well thought out, and saved-up for.
Her mother always said, "We're too poor to buy cheap things...."
I improved my footwear selection immensely by buying a few quality pairs brand new, and a few good condition quality pairs 2nd hand. I managed to pick up a pair of good condition Church’s and some John Lobb loafers in charity shops last year. Good quality doesn’t need to cost the earth if you have time to invest in searching these things out.
Love the channel Ash. Keep up the good work.
Your way of explaining everything logically is convincing indeed.
I’m a tradesman a joiner so I’ve always invested in the best quality tools I can afford it makes your job so much easier. I enjoy watching your videos and always try my best to dress smart out of work and try to at work as well within my uniform but there’s a funny parallel but opposite in the trade world. A man that comes onto site with all new looking tools and clothes is treated with with suspicion! “all the gear no idea” but a man with well worn but looked after clothes and tools is treated with respect
Wise words! Your experience is similar to mine.
I'd say quality shoes is a big investment in your appearance and well being.
Overcoats, i just purchased a brand new M and S brown checked tweed overcoat in moon Tweed from eBay, unwanted Christmas present, paid £38.33 plus £6 postage. Gorgeous coat at a bargain price.
Shoes, 100% agree. Skincare, yup. Eyewear, mostly agree, but remember cost does not always equal quality. Outerwear, obviously as a subscriber of this channel I'm going to agree with this this. Fountain pens, although I agree every chap should use a fountain pen over ball points, I disagree they should be expensive. I do own expensive pens, but my favorite is the Jinhao 159, by far the cheapest pen I own, and I have quite a good collection to compare it against.
Unfortunately you're wrong. Every product has it's place and Jinhao is an entry level product for people who want to try out fountain pens before committing to a quality one. A quality writing instrument is so important that it can even modify your handwriting. As anything there are some that are worth the money and others that you're paying mostly for the name (cough cough Montblanc cough cough).
I’ve had a number of fountain pens, but now only use Sheaffer No Nonsense pens. I have several, with different types of nib, and all write beautifully. My oldest No Nonsense is now over 35 yrs old - the nib is perfectly worn in to my writing style. I’ve used more expensive pens, and ended up selling them all - I always went back to the Sheaffer.
Ash I love your tutorials one additional thing I think is worth spending money on is a good quality leather wallet.
I polish mine with good quality polish and I have had it for years and it always look good even now it is five years old.
@@simonhodgetts6530 Once you go down the rabbit hole there's no turning back. You start to realize there's a difference between wood, steel, titanium, resin and if you want to get freaky....ebonite. Then the nibs...flex, architect, juicy, fine, etc. totally personalizable. And then you get an antique one. I LOVE my 1909 Waterman that I bought and had restored. It is absolutely mindboggling to me that we used to produce thing that we can still use 115 years later and people complain now about sustainability while using a BIC.
I agree with you sir❤
The best 'investment' advice I've watched in a long time.
Ash, I second you in all of this. I got a lovely Italian leather briefcase for pocket change just because a couple of seams were broken. I learned to sew and now I do got a briefcase with discrete character and a story to tell. My fountain pen are of great quality and I sewn a pen case out of my fathers old tie. Gets a lovely connection. And yes, Leucthturm Outlines are my choice for journaling. Thanks for another lovely and informative video. All the best!
Excellent tips, every one of them. It never occurred to me to make a distinction between high and low quality shoe polish. And, I loved that phrase "nylon abomination".
What an amazing briefcase…
I agree with all of your tipps but the bonus one really thrills me. WOW !!!
I have ten days ago purchased a beautiful Brown Tweed Herringbone Jacket at an ungodly price of nearly £300.
And that was reduced. But I have got to look after this.
I am going to be frightened to wear it. But the girl serving me said this will last you years. I am 57 years young and I still wear heavy duty cargo shorts and a t shirt when I am out in day or night.
I don't do ironing 🤬 I hate it. All I got to suss out now is some decent roll neck shirts.
Slowly but surely I am smartening my self up.
Your channel and its contents inspire me. Thanks 🙏
Totally agree. I march beside you. Shoes and boots? eBay. 90% discount frequently. Skin care? I had an acquaintance comment that I actually look younger in the face and ask how I did it. After shave balm in the morning. At night, a good skin cream, recommended by a skin doctor (Amlactin). I too love good leather goods. They look elegant and do not fall apart. eBay again. Overcoat? Absolutely. Looks fabulous, like you are a true chap. Another eBay. Great video, Ash.
You're absolutely right lasting quality over throw away fashion is the way forward. A few months ago i purchased a beautiful pair of handmade Italian chelsea boots with leather soles. They look and feel fantastic even makes a lovely sound walking on the pavement.
Goodyear welting, or at least Blake stitching, and definitely not the glued ones.
I have also been spending a bit more for sunglasses. One big difference is it's easier to find a pair that fits.
Thanks, Ash! I agree about all the items you've listed here. I also choose to spend more money on MTM suits and shirts as I find the fit and feel so much better, and I like knowing the provenance and background of my garments :)
Good morning Ash. I recently purchased a pair of Allen Edmonds $425 green suede stranmocks (brogues) on sale for $299. We saw a week later they went on a clearance sale for $209. I went back to the store and got a credit then purchase another pair of the same shoe in wheat color 🌾 . Does getting two pairs for less than the original price of one. Search for the deals. Cheers Ron
Glad, you mentioned eyewear.. but not only sunglasses, correction glasses are more important.. if you need them, you‘ll wear them all the time. And the first look is in your face.. Really like you mentioned not only the boring wayfarers, clubmasters and aviators.. Invest in high quality glasses like Zeiss or Rodenstock *and* frames like Moskot, JMM or Cartier and ic berlin!
Great list! I would add a few well made caps/hats, they can last a lifetime with a little tlc and really assist with the skin care.
One of the advantages of having healthy skin and nice clothes,is that people come to your aid if you collapse in the street rather than walking past you.😊
A good vintage straight razor from Sheffield...
Excellent video as always Ash. I'd add a high quality umbrella to the list, James Smith, Fox, Swaine etc. Functional and adds to the look of a well heeled chap.
Excellent channel.
Good list. Do think you forgot the most import purchase, a good bed. Two times you use the most are your bed and the shoes. Sleeping well makes you feel better and you will look more fresh.
I would suggest a good watch before a good pen. I am not saying direct a Omega or Rolex but just a good one. Fountain pens are beautiful and nice, just not nice travelling with them. Air pressure can empty them sometimes. I use a Montblanc ballpoint, not as nice but does the job well.
Always liked my eyewear, tried a lot over the year. For me it is only two brands from now on, Serengeti and Persol.
Best choices I ever made were my Crombie overcoat that will last forever . So stylist with a suit at work or jeans and DM’s at a concert .
My JM Weston ( France ) Oxford shoes that have done 25 years so far. Took them back to the store in Lyon to get resoled and the specialist was surprised as this model is no longer produced .
Most comfortable shoes I ever owned and still wear .
Timeless is king .
Absolutely. 👍
I use Horace products on my skin. Yes I know they are French. However they are affordable, and they make excellent skincare products. They mostly use natural ingredients too. 👍
I use them too and totally agree! They are excellent for their price, and I have really seen results on my face. Highly recommended!
I love to cook. I invested into a quality cast iron skillet and a set of excellent kitchen knives. It helped me to bring my cooking skills to the next level.
I absolutely agree with you opinion on shoes, coats and my wife would love to here that a guy is talking about skincare but on this point I don’t think I would spend a lot of money.
I would add a good watch to the list.
I agree totally with you on quality clothing and shoes and other items. If you take care of them properly. They will last you a lifetime. I learned my lesson as far a good pair of leather shoes and bags. Especially shoes. Leather shoes with proper care and shining wear well. I bought a pair of cheap shoes and they have broken quickly. I still have my leather shoes and products in tip top condition because I do everything to maintain them without much problem and the feel of leather on your feet is great even comforming to your feet. Thank you Chap for your advice. I have applied most of your advice for better styling and durability.
I agree with you on this, especially the shoes and coat. A good pair of shoes will outlast 10 pairs of the disposable rubbish that most places sell.
Half the problem is finding a shop that sells good quality kit.
Ash, if you haven't tried Tomoe River paper I 1000% recommend it. It's amazing with a fountain pen.
Agree fully ! Ties would be another item I would spend more money on. Thanks.
Sunglasses are a great item to spend money on, as they feel solid and look sharp. But for situations where you are at greater risk of losing them, such as water sports or during heavy alcohol consumption, a brand such as Goodr is a fantasic option. They’re relatively inexpensive (~$40), are polarized, and have a classic wayfarer silhouette that will always be in style. Not sponsored or affiliated, just a fan of their product.
If your glasses are in danger when you drink alcohol.. you‘ll probably drink too much.. Drink less, but better quality..🍷🍾🍸
Moisturiser, always use a moisturiser with an SPF factor, and you don't have to spend a fortune, Aldi Q10 has been proven in clinical tests to be as good if not better than the big name brands, the Q10 comes in both SPF 20 and 30 and it's £3.50.
I concur completely, Ash, with your observations about items that are worth spending a bit of extra money on.
Shoes are the foundations of one's wardrobe, and are often just about the first thing that women notice when they meet a man. Good quality leather shoes are not only stylish and comfortable, but if properly cared for, can last for decades, making them, in the long run, an excellent sartorial investment.
Nothing beats a quality top coat that will keep you warm on the frostiest winter days when the temperature dips well below zero. My favourite is a navy camel's hair coat made by Crombie of Scotland which I've enjoyed every winter for the last thirty years. -It always gets compliments, and never goes out of style.
I've got a small collection of vintage Mont Blanc fountain pens which are a joy to write with, and which always garner compliments from others whenever I find myself in the position of signing my name or providing an address. -I favour a mauve shade of ink that my wife tells me was used by Virginia Woolf and other members of the Bloomsbury Group.
I've got a leather map case made by Roots Canada which I bought when I first went to university back in 1985. It now has a fabulous patina, and looks better after forty years of use than it did on the day that I bought it.
100% agree with your list, although I've never worried too much about my skin. Being a country boy the wear is a badge of honor almost. 😉.
Working my whole life on my feet and enjoying the outdoors in my down time. Quality boots / footwear is a must, I could not afford to cheap out!!
For leather accessories, since quality and accessibility in my budget has been hard to find. I've taken to making my own smaller leather accessories.
I started with a leather notepad cover and wallet combined. Then a leather pocket organizer for my small multi tool and pocket knife as well as a leather pouch for my pipe tobacco. Now I'm starting to work on a small carry bag (haversack style) to start with.
As always I enjoyed the video thank you for your time, knowledge and experience!!
Cheers 🤠 🥃
Just ordered myself a good looking Carl Frederick wallet as per your review a little while ago. Can’t wait to get it and use it for a very long time. I have also found many fantastic pairs of good quality shoes on Vinted at a fraction of the price new. Thanks for your channel
Hope you enjoy it!
very good Ash - My son is is in Italy on a Master Tailoring Academy learning from a legend - at 26 years old he keeps harping this - would love to connect off channel
Ash@chapsguide.co.uk
Not all sunglasses suit every facial profile. Have you thought about creating a video that explores how to choose the right sunglasses for different face shapes?
I have have German parachute boots, had them for 35 years this year always use Kiwi shoe polish. But spending 3266 SEK(£250) that is not my cup of tea. Skin care never used it, never will. Eyeweare i have both preskription glasses and preskription sunglasses a must. Overcoat, i own a Burberry threnchcoat has it for 30 years, but i mostly use Taiga jacket, had both of mine for twenty five years + now. I mostly use my Papermate ballpoint pen, made before 1989, i got it from my wife when she was my girlfriend, or a BIC Cristal since it is an iconic design, i never work at a desk. Over night bag of briefcase, do not need them
Shoes, you spend most of your time on your feet. Look for classic UK makes, such as Trickers and Crocket and Jones Often have some great deals at factory or sale times Beware of Loake, often made in more cheaply in India etc.
Warm overcoats are the most difficult items for me to buy. I walk a lot, and ride my bike a lot. Year round, in all weather conditions, because I don't have a car. It needs to be really rainproof, needs a hood because I can't bike with an umbrella, and those kinds of coats or jackets just don't look very nice.
But I still need nicer overcoats when I go out dressed as nice as I want to. Roomy enough to fit over a suit, which then looks bad without a jacket underneath so I also need a smaller one.
They all come very cheap when bought second hand, but they take up so much space in my warderobe! I hate needing so many items for only one function. I hate winter 😅
I actually love winter. You get to wear an entirely different wardrobe. I’d hate to live somewhere where it was benign samey safe weather 365 days a year.
@@funkychickenthesecond2102I agree to a point. Real winter, freezing cold, with snow and ice, is lovely. But that windy rainy weather hovering around zero degrees we had over the last few years thanks to the warming climate? I can do without.
Next time anyone needs a new pair of sunglasses make sure you get not only uv protection but also polarised - makes a huge difference in reducing glare and your eyes don't get tired.
Good look today, very American. :)
Best skincare regime, drink two litres of water a day, moisturizer from within, if you don't, try it for a month, you'll notice a big difference on your skins appearance.
Totally agree! 🤙🏻
Two litres, Jesus.
Hi Ash
For eyewear, have a look at Banton Frameworks. A Glasgow based company.
Amazing jacket !
Look for made in UK, look to support small business and you will get great service, good quality and be doing the right thing.
I use magenta ink. Goodness knows what that says about my personality 😊
Disagree on the coats - its about appropriate clothing for the situation you are in. I recently brought a Uniqlo goose down overcoat with synthetic covering, because I was travelling somewhere with -20 Celsius weather (I went up a mountain where it reached -30c). I also wore some extremely unfashionable British Army ECW gear. If I wore a wool overcoat in that weather, it would have been unsafe.
State the obvious - there is a good reason why woollen overcoats are not worn skiing!
I think another item for spending money for gentlemen is a pocket knife such Gray Taylor's masterpieces.
I got a genuine Crombie overcoat from a charity shop for £10! Felt a bit guilty.
I am looking at three pair of my cognac color Church's shoes. Also, one pair of my new Florsheim shoes in a similar color. What's the difference? Oh I know. The Church's shoes are better built and have better leather. That leather is clear to see and to feel as I place my hands on it, especially compared to the so called leather of the Florsheim shoes. However, spending that much more money on the Church's is hardly worth it to someone on a budget. Keep your shoes polished. Condition the leather. This I do advise.
Quality costs money, yes...but what if your budget doesn't allow that? If, for example, someone wants to have great outfits but only lives of unemployed benefits. They can't afford bespoke stuff. Same goes for all the other items you mentioned.
Hi Ash, are you by any chance related to Ian Duncan Smith ? The resemblance is remarkable 👍
He is my older sister.
🤭👍🏴
Just buy from thrift stores . I recently bought €250 Magnanni boots in perfect condition for €12.
Which of the Kaweco pens became your preferred writing instrument? I'm a bit indecisive between the DIA2 or Supra...
Dia 2 with a broad nib is very much my daily writer. Looks great too!
It is vain to do with more what can be done with less. William of Oakham.
Ok, comrade .
How do you spell the name of the notebook maker? Nice tie
Leuchtturm. Translates to "lighthouse" in englisch
Leuchtturm
I disagree of the shoes section, as you often educate us to avoid paying full price on them but rather get them far cheaper second hand.
I will add paying good money on a good suit, is a very good investment.
Most of my suits are MTM from Suitsupply. While they’re modestly priced comparing to the staggering prices of Saville Row bespoke (and even RTW) suits, they aren’t cheap.
And once you get your fit right, a well tailored suit from quality materials is an amazing investment.
I think puffer jackets are poor. A wax jacket is much better. I'm with you on footwear and sunglasses or specticles. I'm not sure on skincare i have some misturiser which wasn't expensive. It's a shame people don't take more pride in their apperance, I was in the local tesco the other day and there was a young man in his dressing gown pajamas and slippers. I supose it's a free country and if he can walk around like that maybe I should stop being self concious about standing out from the herd.
I had a ‘Superdry’ puffer jacket given to me. Looks awful, about as waterproof as a paper bag. Useless. I’ll stick to my wax jacket!
We modern chaps not us modern chaps. We face many challenges, not us face many challenges.
Kiwi? Really?
If you want to protect your skin, you would also be advised to invest in a proper hat, and wear it consistently.
Kiwi good quality brand?
I disagree...
Yeah kiwi polish is garbage. I prefer Lincoln or Angelus.
i only write with vintage fountain pens, i actually enjoy restoring them.
Good morning Ash and the assembled Chappage.
Saturday routine, breakfast and TCG.
Shoes, agree. I seldom have the need of good footwear though. Ignore the Kiwi haters, I used it for years until I discovered Saphir through this channel.
Skincare, whatever works for you. I have reached a point where I never have used anything and probably never will.
Sunglasses, agree. I think I'll dive in this year. A Polarised lens is a must for me, as my 20yo Ray-Bans bear testimony.
Outerwear, agree. On a Vinted search for one currently.
Desk wear, were I in such a role, I would be all over this. I do like a fountain pen. My writing improves when using ink.
Leatherwear 🤔 oh, briefcases, not "specialist" attire 😉. Not something I can envisage needing 😔.
Top points as always.🫡