Very good episode Ash. My Grandfather was a steam engine driver, he wore blue overalls for work and even though he was in a very dirty environment, with coal dust and oil, they were always clean when he left the house in the morning and he always had a shirt and tie underneath. But not only did he present himself so well, he made sure that the locomotive that he drove shone - the brass would be polished perfectly and the cab would be cleaned out each evening. His attention to detail is something that I have strived towards all my life, never reaching his level but I continue to see him as a role model even though he passed away som 20+ years ago.
I absolutely understand what you're saying about the decline in civility, Ash. I'm pretty close to your age, and it's always surprising to me when someone who is 20 years old addresses me as "dude" or "bro". This really all comes down to what is instilled at home, and that's where the breakdown is. More parents need to instruct their children in some of the same things you talk about on this channel. Thank you, sir, for holding that torch of civility.
So much wisdom in this video! 😅 I really like your extemporaneous way of speaking instead of reading a script. That's what makes me come back. I also like your straightforward way of speaking too, like the story of the douchebag who wore a tie under his uniform. Hahaha 😂
Great job sir! I’ll always be grateful to my dad who taught me how to play the violin as a kid. Now, at 37, it is difficult to imagine my life without an appreciation for music, which has enabled me to access tremendous perceptual and artistic abilities and see the world in different ways. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your upcoming Rolex video.
Excellent episode. And time goes on. Now us brothers have the task of taking care of the good old windsor knot for our father (97) when he dresses up. It feels like yesterday it was he who tied the knot on my tie when I dressed up for a highscool ball in 1986. Still remember that blue tie with silky texture and that awesome knot..
I'm a long time viewer and much appreciate your efforts. Well done once again. I have took on much of your advice on my journey to Chap Nirvana. Shirts, shoes, ties, watches, suits and caps... thank you!
For chaps in North America, I've recently discovered and enjoyed Spier and Mackay, from Canada. Thus far I've purchased a peacoat, turtleneck / rollneck jumper, and Harrington clone. I am unable to attest to their longevity having only had them a few months, but initial impressions are positive. Additionally, they make trousers and short pants that are high-rise, which seem to be a rarity these days. Cheers, chaps!
Ash, Thank you so much for posting over the Holidays. I’m about your age and have been soaking up your content and advice. My journey to Chap Nirvana has been slow going but with your help we will get there. Keep up the great work my friend.
Many thanks for this Ash, well spoken and I totally agree. One thing I like to ask you for quite some time is, what jacket are you wearing and what boots? I love the jacket, gives you a touch of style and at the same time it blends in so well. Best wishes, Remy
Ash, this content was extremely interesting and relevant. I know you're walking the tightrope on some of these subjects discussed in the episode and you are doing that well. Well done!
Having recently acquired a Datejust I can categorically agree with you, that it's the only Rolex you really need. I'm very keen to hear your thoughts on Rolex, and where you are going with your watch collection. Looking forward to your videos on that subject!
You know, regarding the cultural change, I had a very similar conversation with my girlfriend the other day! I do find a general lack of ambition, or occasionally entitlement, growing these days. On the plus side, it is a slight advantage to those of us of my age group (I am 23) who have ambition and intend to work hard. Great video as always :)
Hello Ash, I also know the watch journey that you mentioned here. I rarely enjoyed it, this constant “wanting to have it”. My watch journey has now come to an end with the JLC Polaris No Date. Great, simple movement, I can measure times with it and, above all, I can read the current time perfectly thanks to the superbly tidy dial. For me it's a great alternative to many other well-known watch brands.
Nice one Mr Ash, l never missed any Edition of these holiday season your lessons made my director to pick me out as the best dressed person at our annual first day at new year meeting. Thanks for the guide.l am 57.
For a short period of time I helped out in the recruitment department of the company I was working for and I was astounded when applicants would address me as “mate”.
Hello Ash, and Happy New Year! I'm a relatively new subscriber to your channel, and have to say, I've enjoyed every episode of The Chap's Guide to date. One thing I particularly appreciate, is how you articulate your thoughts, and the vocabulary you often use to do so. I have to admit, there are words at times that I'm unfamiliar with, even with English being my native tongue. I always make a point to write them down on a note pad, to later look up in the dictionary. I'm sure others do the same. I think it's great that you don't "dumb down" your choice of words;, but rather force your viewers to rise to your standards, bettering and enhancing their own vocabulary skills in the process. I think how we speak and converse, is equally important as how we present ourselves visually. There's no point in putting in the effort to make ourselves look like dapper gentleman, only to open our mouths and prove ourselves, poorly read idiots. All the best in the coming New Year, and I'm looking forward to watching more of your very inspirational content.
Leading - By - Example is something many chaps have forgotten these days. I'm often staggered by the lack of personal care and attention to detail shown by tutors in todays education system, sometimes also by mentors within the business world.
Hi Ash lovely account as usual. In regards the last question I have been addressing a similar issue with gym wear and it’s use actually in a gym which I attend regularly. I was dead ended with the usual plethora of high vis clothing and trainers that did nothing for me. I rolled back to the quiet luxury/ivy league preppy phenotype that I have embraced all my life and came up with a uniform that set me apart but also flattered my build. It’s basically built in blue and white: plain blue shorts or running trousers combined with white polo shirt (collar popped!) under a blue unbranded sweatshirt topped off with plain white sneakers and a technical Harrington style jacket for the colder months. If things get a bit sweaty then I swap out the polo and perhaps switch shoes depending on the activity but you get the idea! Thanks again.
I wear simple clothing when exercising, I never chase branded items, other than with my running shoes, where I always buy Brooks, as they have worked out well for me over the years.
Re the blue collar style: Whenever I see a 1950ies flick, chances are that someone wearing an overall or a boiler suit is also wearing a cravat. Now that is incredibly stylish - and it takes no effort at all. Or on a slightly higher level: I think I saw once a photograph of racing driver Graham Hill wearing a scarf under his racing driver overall. That really looked gentlemanly.
Sir I don't know you realized but your channel is perfect for English learners due to your British accent with quite clear one. You can also advertise in this way.
BTW I also agree 100% about the dangers of the hype surrounding Rolex (and one or two other brands.) And, just to be clear, by "hype" I think we are really talking about "emotional/psychological manipulation! This was brought home to me while out Christmas shopping. My brother-in-law (who has a kind of 'layman's knowledge' of watches) pointed to a steel Patek Nautilus in a vintage dealer's window, and said: "that's one of the ones that people want, isn't it?" Now that kind of hit me. Which "people"? All people? Most people? Famous people? Sexy people...? As far as I am concerned _knowledgeable people_ in Patek circles, real connoisseurs, would in many cases NOT want a 5711... Yet he somehow had a point - "people" want one all right! Of course, the notion that there are "ones that people want", also rather unavoidably implies that these "people" _don't want the other ones,_ doesn't it!? I think it was at that moment that I understood why Thierry Stern shocked the world by discontinuing the steel reference 5711. To his credit, he just was NOT going to have Patek become like AP - i.e. making variations of one reference that "people want" - and then being reliant on the fickleness of these "people" to go on wanting it forever... In the case of Rolex there is a whole eco-system of fanboys, influencers grey-marketeers, etc, who have completely mastered this game. "People" know what they want all right - it is the high volume pseudo-rare industrially produced watch which is going to transfer the maximum amount of money from said "people" into the pockets of dealers - one way or another!!
Very true, I was in our favourite shop just a week ago with a friend, who had 'got the call' for a long awaited Exp 2. I joined him for the watch pick-up experience. It was quite a task to sit through 90-mins of being told how 'lucky' my friend was to have been permitted to spend £8K+ on a fairly basic, steel watch (alleged 5+years waitlist now). All the usual BS about investment value and exclusivity. I actually tried on a 36mm Day Date in everose (£32K), "I can get one of those for you in a month or so, as you are a special customer" says the sales agent. I bet he could - because they can't shift the things! I have not been able to put a Rolex on my wrist for a while now, for some reason I'm seeing the brand as played-out and tarnished. It could just be me, but I think the tide has turned for the mighty crown.
@@TheChapsGuide You know Ash, I'm not entirely sure that "our favourite shop" actually IS my favourite shop any more? When the staff at a particular store lie to you repeatedly, you kind of lose the love for 'em... Of course I do understand they aren't in an easy situation. I could believe their R-deliveries have been screwed murderously tight over the last 24-36 months. But I have (without going into specifics) had a number of things said to me over the last couple of years which I know _for a fact_ to be incorrect and untrue... I have much more spend history with another firm from (broadly speaking) our part of the S/W. I would probably do well to concentrate on building a relationship with them going forwards, I think. (Key point: spend history is 100% what the game is all about - it's just that some ADs are open and frank about the fact, while others play BS games and toss around empty promises - probably just to try and keep your general custom.)
Nice reflections Ash! The last comment of the guy with the Inflated ego and shirt with tie under his overall reminded me of very wise advise that I was given. That advice was to pay very very close attention when I going the extra mile in any thing I do to be aware and make the destinction between feeding my Ego or feeding my Pride. Feeding my Ego is to try, and feel the need to impress others, Feeding my Pride is to impress myself. I always try to go for the latter but it's a thin line. Long story short, it summed up in a quote and book by Ryan Holida: "Ego is the enemy". it's a good read :-)
Many men at my job wear t-shirts, often with logos and imagines; as well as jean. I wear short sleeve polo shirts at work and never jeans. Had several interviews for the job I already had, but to go part time then full time took interviews. Wore a suit every time to the interview; they know me in a polo but the suit was for respect of those interviewing me. When I gave a presentation to the directors I wore dress shoes/wool dress pants/dress shirt. You can be blue collar, but take every chance to dress a bit sharper when the situation calls for it. Does your workplace have a family day? Show up better dressed than you do at work, after all, you'll be showing up with your wife and kids. Always take time to show the world your best.
A chap might find it useful to own a small modest collection of four or five carefully selected watches. A Day-Date in a precious metal for formal occasions, a Datejust for Day-to-Day business wear, an Explorer for outdoor explorations and casual wear (short-sleeve polos and T-shirts, etc.) and a Sub for sports and water-sports activities. The Pepsi should be ideal for traveling but in reality the Explorer might be a better alternative as it flies under the radar.
In SoCal, USA I usually refer to strangers much younger than I am as 'buddy'. It seems to work just fine and I never get any negative responses. Referring to them as 'young man' or 'boy' might be offensive. I can't really call anyone 'sir' if they don't look mature enough. My old school dad used the term 'boss'.
Ash. As for shirts here in the US Brooks Brothers Paul Frederick and arrow are very good quality. As for the problem with children it is just what you said people are outsourcing the raising of their children. Parents need to be more hands on. At work in the factory I wore blue jeans and a blue chambray button down shirt when my associates wore T-shirts. And at the shop I made sure the uniform shirt was clean and pressed wore chinos and dress shoes. As did a couple of other of my associates. The remainder wore jeans and trainers. Most shops I visit today don't care how they dress. Best regards Ron
Do you shave your head or keep it trim at a 2 or 3 blade? im very thin on top. not sure if i should razor whole lot or just leaved it trimmed around back and sides, what would A Chap do ? 😊
I would not spend too much on a dinner suit shirt, as it is likely to be worn quite rarely (in most cases), but if you really want to spend big, there is no shirtmaker better than Turnbull & Asser.
Dear Ash and community, Regarding watches, I own my grail watch, which is the 861 Omega Moonwatch on a steel bracelet. My collection is still cherished, but since I got the Moonwatch 2 years ago, there is no need for another at the moment. Much to my distress and delight (😂) the collecting is paused, if not ended for now. I own two IT companies and currently I am investing solely into that. Next watch, sometime? I am curious myself. What are your next watches? My regards, Tim
Good question. I am definitely on a watch journey and have entered a new phase of mindset. I am certainly steering away from Rolex and Tudor (terribly overexposed now) and am finding resonance with Oris and CWC. I'm wearing a Kuoe right now, had it for 2-years and still enjoy it's simplicity. It's a complex path.
I can understand the appeal of Turnball & Asser shirts and its legacy in shirt making. What do you think of Budd Shirts as (Kirby Allison) is a massive fan of them and they do look as beautiful and classy as any other fine British bespoke shirt maker. Budd just like Turnball & Asser are bespoke so the cost is high of cost so like average joe's like ourselves it means having alot of savings to get anything bespoke from Saville Row and the surrounding streets! Cheers Ash
Very interesting comments about the break-down in manners and respect. While the reasons for these things are inevitably complex and involving a number of factors, my feeling is that bad behaviour of all kinds will always have a tendency to sprout up and flourish _if it is allowed to happen without clear consequences._ We could start with schools. Ash, you are just a little older than I am; so you and I both know that there was a certain level of respect towards teachers which was demanded in British schools in our day - and it was enforced. Now I'm not talking about corporal punishment, kids getting the cane I'm the headmaster's study or stuff like that (although that actually would have been a thing in our parents' day!) But there were things that youngsters just would not have gotten away with. I remember one nutter at my school who (to put it delicately) "exposed himself" to the playground attendant. He was expelled from the school almost right on the spot - and taken home to his mum in the headmaster's car!! Would that happen today? Or would he be offered counselling? Would _he_ become the victim in the scenario? Worse, would the playground attendant be the one who ended up getting falsely accused of something and fired? Well, I really do wonder... (And please don't get me started on this fruitcake notion of pupils "identifying" as X Y or Z!🙄)
As they say in the Army - The standard that you walk past is the standard that you accept in your life. In other words, if you see it and don't take action, you are basically saying you find that situation acceptable.
I see this decline in civility as one of the most disastrous consequences of the interconnected world and the internet of things. What was meant to make the world smaller and welcoming has made it dysfunctional and rude, at least in most Western countries.
I feel like the education system is a dumpster fire now. It's all top heavy in administration and politics, but the people who do the educating are paid garbage salaries.
I don't believe it's fair to say that one would be ashamed to embark on the Rolex journey. If you have the means and you like the brand, why shouldn't you aim for only one watch.
I will start by saying i enjoy all your content, along with this video series. You hit a lot of nails on the head today. There is a young woman on RUclips from North Korea. She defected and is now telling her experiences. It is frightening the like comparisons from our schools to North Korea schools. The tactics they used there are being used here in North America, alomg with so much more. The blue collar worker advice was awesome. I was in law enforcement and have worked other side jobs throughout my life (oil field, farm, tow truck driver) Taking the time to clean your boots. Infact making the wise investment in quality leather steel boots and taking care of them. Inside and out. Clean the inside with a mixture of white vinegar and saddle soap, then use leather oil conditioner inside as well. Itll help prolong the boots as well help with unfortunate smells. I also invest in quality leather work gloves and eye protection. As you said, such steps will always show pride and professionalism. Well ive rambled on long enough, as always thank you for your time and efforts. Sincerely Greg from Alberta, Canada.
Very good episode Ash. My Grandfather was a steam engine driver, he wore blue overalls for work and even though he was in a very dirty environment, with coal dust and oil, they were always clean when he left the house in the morning and he always had a shirt and tie underneath. But not only did he present himself so well, he made sure that the locomotive that he drove shone - the brass would be polished perfectly and the cab would be cleaned out each evening. His attention to detail is something that I have strived towards all my life, never reaching his level but I continue to see him as a role model even though he passed away som 20+ years ago.
@@walkerskii totally agree. I do my best to adapt to his way of thinking and the wonderful way he treated everyone around him.
I absolutely understand what you're saying about the decline in civility, Ash. I'm pretty close to your age, and it's always surprising to me when someone who is 20 years old addresses me as "dude" or "bro". This really all comes down to what is instilled at home, and that's where the breakdown is. More parents need to instruct their children in some of the same things you talk about on this channel. Thank you, sir, for holding that torch of civility.
The oak lodge festive series was great Ash. I hope you are able to do this again next year! Thanks!
" Chap Nirvana" is a great turn of phrase.
I liked this Q&A. Difficult to pinpoint why. Straight-talking, passion and humour - a winning trinity
So much wisdom in this video! 😅 I really like your extemporaneous way of speaking instead of reading a script. That's what makes me come back. I also like your straightforward way of speaking too, like the story of the douchebag who wore a tie under his uniform. Hahaha 😂
Thank you sir.
Great job sir! I’ll always be grateful to my dad who taught me how to play the violin as a kid. Now, at 37, it is difficult to imagine my life without an appreciation for music, which has enabled me to access tremendous perceptual and artistic abilities and see the world in different ways. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your upcoming Rolex video.
Excellent episode. And time goes on. Now us brothers have the task of taking care of the good old windsor knot for our father (97) when he dresses up. It feels like yesterday it was he who tied the knot on my tie when I dressed up for a highscool ball in 1986. Still remember that blue tie with silky texture and that awesome knot..
Ties do conjure a lot of nostalgia for me too. It may well be why I love them so much.
I'm a long time viewer and much appreciate your efforts. Well done once again. I have took on much of your advice on my journey to Chap Nirvana. Shirts, shoes, ties, watches, suits and caps... thank you!
Glad to help
Excellent insights Ash, particularly your thoughts on education!
For chaps in North America, I've recently discovered and enjoyed Spier and Mackay, from Canada. Thus far I've purchased a peacoat, turtleneck / rollneck jumper, and Harrington clone. I am unable to attest to their longevity having only had them a few months, but initial impressions are positive. Additionally, they make trousers and short pants that are high-rise, which seem to be a rarity these days.
Cheers, chaps!
Are you Canadian Sir?
Fabulous answers Sir , I couldn’t agree more. Thank you for taking the time to answer my question with as much thought and detail as you did.
Any time!
Ash, Thank you so much for posting over the Holidays. I’m about your age and have been soaking up your content and advice. My journey to Chap Nirvana has been slow going but with your help we will get there. Keep up the great work my friend.
You are so welcome!
Many thanks for this Ash, well spoken and I totally agree. One thing I like to ask you for quite some time is, what jacket are you wearing and what boots? I love the jacket, gives you a touch of style and at the same time it blends in so well. Best wishes, Remy
It's just a Costco utility jacket (£16) and my boots are Ariat Burford wellingtons.
Great video, had a chuckle about the last topic. Appreciate all the Oak Lodge content.
Ash, this content was extremely interesting and relevant. I know you're walking the tightrope on some of these subjects discussed in the episode and you are doing that well. Well done!
Thanks Ash, I enjoyed this year’s content. Good work.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Well done Sir, a very good fireside chat.
Having recently acquired a Datejust I can categorically agree with you, that it's the only Rolex you really need. I'm very keen to hear your thoughts on Rolex, and where you are going with your watch collection. Looking forward to your videos on that subject!
You know, regarding the cultural change, I had a very similar conversation with my girlfriend the other day! I do find a general lack of ambition, or occasionally entitlement, growing these days. On the plus side, it is a slight advantage to those of us of my age group (I am 23) who have ambition and intend to work hard.
Great video as always :)
You will be in the minority, which does give you the edge. Good luck young sir!
2:40 I know exactly what kind of men they are, brothers of mine. Good chaps are everywhere, indeed!
Very enjoyable Ash.
Hello Ash, I also know the watch journey that you mentioned here. I rarely enjoyed it, this constant “wanting to have it”. My watch journey has now come to an end with the JLC Polaris No Date. Great, simple movement, I can measure times with it and, above all, I can read the current time perfectly thanks to the superbly tidy dial. For me it's a great alternative to many other well-known watch brands.
Thanks Ash.
Any time!
I have a feeling we also have a different definition of gentlemen's club here too.
Nice one Mr Ash, l never missed any Edition of these holiday season your lessons made my director to pick me out as the best dressed person at our annual first day at new year meeting. Thanks for the guide.l am 57.
Fantastic!
Hi Ash, an enjoyable watch and I agree with you...
For a short period of time I helped out in the recruitment department of the company I was working for and I was astounded when applicants would address me as “mate”.
Hello Ash, and Happy New Year! I'm a relatively new subscriber to your channel, and have to say, I've enjoyed every episode of The Chap's Guide to date. One thing I particularly appreciate, is how you articulate your thoughts, and the vocabulary you often use to do so. I have to admit, there are words at times that I'm unfamiliar with, even with English being my native tongue. I always make a point to write them down on a note pad, to later look up in the dictionary. I'm sure others do the same. I think it's great that you don't "dumb down" your choice of words;, but rather force your viewers to rise to your standards, bettering and enhancing their own vocabulary skills in the process. I think how we speak and converse, is equally important as how we present ourselves visually. There's no point in putting in the effort to make ourselves look like dapper gentleman, only to open our mouths and prove ourselves, poorly read idiots.
All the best in the coming New Year, and I'm looking forward to watching more of your very inspirational content.
Happy New Year to you sir. I am pleased that you enjoy the videos. Best wishes, Ash
Leading - By - Example is something many chaps have forgotten these days. I'm often staggered by the lack of personal care and attention to detail shown by tutors in todays education system, sometimes also by mentors within the business world.
Hi Ash lovely account as usual. In regards the last question I have been addressing a similar issue with gym wear and it’s use actually in a gym which I attend regularly. I was dead ended with the usual plethora of high vis clothing and trainers that did nothing for me. I rolled back to the quiet luxury/ivy league preppy phenotype that I have embraced all my life and came up with a uniform that set me apart but also flattered my build. It’s basically built in blue and white: plain blue shorts or running trousers combined with white polo shirt (collar popped!) under a blue unbranded sweatshirt topped off with plain white sneakers and a technical Harrington style jacket for the colder months. If things get a bit sweaty then I swap out the polo and perhaps switch shoes depending on the activity but you get the idea! Thanks again.
I wear simple clothing when exercising, I never chase branded items, other than with my running shoes, where I always buy Brooks, as they have worked out well for me over the years.
Re the blue collar style: Whenever I see a 1950ies flick, chances are that someone wearing an overall or a boiler suit is also wearing a cravat. Now that is incredibly stylish - and it takes no effort at all.
Or on a slightly higher level: I think I saw once a photograph of racing driver Graham Hill wearing a scarf under his racing driver overall. That really looked gentlemanly.
Sir I don't know you realized but your channel is perfect for English learners due to your British accent with quite clear one. You can also advertise in this way.
So nice of you
BTW I also agree 100% about the dangers of the hype surrounding Rolex (and one or two other brands.) And, just to be clear, by "hype" I think we are really talking about "emotional/psychological manipulation! This was brought home to me while out Christmas shopping. My brother-in-law (who has a kind of 'layman's knowledge' of watches) pointed to a steel Patek Nautilus in a vintage dealer's window, and said: "that's one of the ones that people want, isn't it?" Now that kind of hit me. Which "people"? All people? Most people? Famous people? Sexy people...? As far as I am concerned _knowledgeable people_ in Patek circles, real connoisseurs, would in many cases NOT want a 5711... Yet he somehow had a point - "people" want one all right! Of course, the notion that there are "ones that people want", also rather unavoidably implies that these "people" _don't want the other ones,_ doesn't it!? I think it was at that moment that I understood why Thierry Stern shocked the world by discontinuing the steel reference 5711. To his credit, he just was NOT going to have Patek become like AP - i.e. making variations of one reference that "people want" - and then being reliant on the fickleness of these "people" to go on wanting it forever...
In the case of Rolex there is a whole eco-system of fanboys, influencers grey-marketeers, etc, who have completely mastered this game. "People" know what they want all right - it is the high volume pseudo-rare industrially produced watch which is going to transfer the maximum amount of money from said "people" into the pockets of dealers - one way or another!!
Very true, I was in our favourite shop just a week ago with a friend, who had 'got the call' for a long awaited Exp 2. I joined him for the watch pick-up experience. It was quite a task to sit through 90-mins of being told how 'lucky' my friend was to have been permitted to spend £8K+ on a fairly basic, steel watch (alleged 5+years waitlist now). All the usual BS about investment value and exclusivity. I actually tried on a 36mm Day Date in everose (£32K), "I can get one of those for you in a month or so, as you are a special customer" says the sales agent. I bet he could - because they can't shift the things! I have not been able to put a Rolex on my wrist for a while now, for some reason I'm seeing the brand as played-out and tarnished. It could just be me, but I think the tide has turned for the mighty crown.
@@TheChapsGuide You know Ash, I'm not entirely sure that "our favourite shop" actually IS my favourite shop any more? When the staff at a particular store lie to you repeatedly, you kind of lose the love for 'em... Of course I do understand they aren't in an easy situation. I could believe their R-deliveries have been screwed murderously tight over the last 24-36 months. But I have (without going into specifics) had a number of things said to me over the last couple of years which I know _for a fact_ to be incorrect and untrue...
I have much more spend history with another firm from (broadly speaking) our part of the S/W. I would probably do well to concentrate on building a relationship with them going forwards, I think. (Key point: spend history is 100% what the game is all about - it's just that some ADs are open and frank about the fact, while others play BS games and toss around empty promises - probably just to try and keep your general custom.)
Nice reflections Ash! The last comment of the guy with the Inflated ego and shirt with tie under his overall reminded me of very wise advise that I was given. That advice was to pay very very close attention when I going the extra mile in any thing I do to be aware and make the destinction between feeding my Ego or feeding my Pride. Feeding my Ego is to try, and feel the need to impress others, Feeding my Pride is to impress myself. I always try to go for the latter but it's a thin line. Long story short, it summed up in a quote and book by Ryan Holida: "Ego is the enemy". it's a good read :-)
Very, very good piece of advice there sir. Thank you for sharing it.
Many men at my job wear t-shirts, often with logos and imagines; as well as jean. I wear short sleeve polo shirts at work and never jeans. Had several interviews for the job I already had, but to go part time then full time took interviews. Wore a suit every time to the interview; they know me in a polo but the suit was for respect of those interviewing me. When I gave a presentation to the directors I wore dress shoes/wool dress pants/dress shirt. You can be blue collar, but take every chance to dress a bit sharper when the situation calls for it. Does your workplace have a family day? Show up better dressed than you do at work, after all, you'll be showing up with your wife and kids. Always take time to show the world your best.
A chap might find it useful to own a small modest collection of four or five carefully selected watches. A Day-Date in a precious metal for formal occasions, a Datejust for Day-to-Day business wear, an Explorer for outdoor explorations and casual wear (short-sleeve polos and T-shirts, etc.) and a Sub for sports and water-sports activities. The Pepsi should be ideal for traveling but in reality the Explorer might be a better alternative as it flies under the radar.
In SoCal, USA I usually refer to strangers much younger than I am as 'buddy'. It seems to work just fine and I never get any negative responses. Referring to them as 'young man' or 'boy' might be offensive. I can't really call anyone 'sir' if they don't look mature enough. My old school dad used the term 'boss'.
Hello there ash! Any plans to return to Philadelphia in the near future?
Quite possibly, but not in 2024 sadly.
Ash. As for shirts here in the US Brooks Brothers Paul Frederick and arrow are very good quality. As for the problem with children it is just what you said people are outsourcing the raising of their children. Parents need to be more hands on. At work in the factory I wore blue jeans and a blue chambray button down shirt when my associates wore T-shirts.
And at the shop I made sure the uniform shirt was clean and pressed wore chinos and dress shoes. As did a couple of other of my associates. The remainder wore jeans and trainers. Most shops I visit today don't care how they dress. Best regards Ron
Its a sign of th times sadly, but at least we can keep up the standards and set the tone for the future.
Do you shave your head or keep it trim at a 2 or 3 blade? im very thin on top. not sure if i should razor whole lot or just leaved it trimmed around back and sides, what would A Chap do ? 😊
I trim it weekly using an old Babyliss head shaver (10-years old). Mostly because I could not be fussed with the head shaving effort.
Hello, off topic but anyone know the style or better yet the maker of this green coat/over shirt worn here? Thanks
What shirt makers/brands would you recommend for black tie ?
I would not spend too much on a dinner suit shirt, as it is likely to be worn quite rarely (in most cases), but if you really want to spend big, there is no shirtmaker better than Turnbull & Asser.
@@TheChapsGuide thank you for the answer
Dear Ash and community, Regarding watches, I own my grail watch, which is the 861 Omega Moonwatch on a steel bracelet. My collection is still cherished, but since I got the Moonwatch 2 years ago, there is no need for another at the moment. Much to my distress and delight (😂) the collecting is paused, if not ended for now. I own two IT companies and currently I am investing solely into that. Next watch, sometime? I am curious myself. What are your next watches? My regards, Tim
Good question. I am definitely on a watch journey and have entered a new phase of mindset. I am certainly steering away from Rolex and Tudor (terribly overexposed now) and am finding resonance with Oris and CWC. I'm wearing a Kuoe right now, had it for 2-years and still enjoy it's simplicity. It's a complex path.
I can understand the appeal of Turnball & Asser shirts and its legacy in shirt making. What do you think of Budd Shirts as (Kirby Allison) is a massive fan of them and they do look as beautiful and classy as any other fine British bespoke shirt maker. Budd just like Turnball & Asser are bespoke so the cost is high of cost so like average joe's like ourselves it means having alot of savings to get anything bespoke from Saville Row and the surrounding streets! Cheers Ash
I have yet to have the pleasure of a Budd shirt, but I can only imagine it will be of equal standard to T & A.
Can anyone explain why a dinner suite doesn’t require shirt studs but a full tuxedo (black tie) outfit does?
I think the studs are personal choice/optional, opposed to expected wear. I generally go either way.
Very interesting comments about the break-down in manners and respect. While the reasons for these things are inevitably complex and involving a number of factors, my feeling is that bad behaviour of all kinds will always have a tendency to sprout up and flourish _if it is allowed to happen without clear consequences._ We could start with schools. Ash, you are just a little older than I am; so you and I both know that there was a certain level of respect towards teachers which was demanded in British schools in our day - and it was enforced. Now I'm not talking about corporal punishment, kids getting the cane I'm the headmaster's study or stuff like that (although that actually would have been a thing in our parents' day!) But there were things that youngsters just would not have gotten away with. I remember one nutter at my school who (to put it delicately) "exposed himself" to the playground attendant. He was expelled from the school almost right on the spot - and taken home to his mum in the headmaster's car!! Would that happen today? Or would he be offered counselling? Would _he_ become the victim in the scenario? Worse, would the playground attendant be the one who ended up getting falsely accused of something and fired? Well, I really do wonder... (And please don't get me started on this fruitcake notion of pupils "identifying" as X Y or Z!🙄)
As they say in the Army - The standard that you walk past is the standard that you accept in your life. In other words, if you see it and don't take action, you are basically saying you find that situation acceptable.
Not gonna lie.. I replayed 27:22 a few times :D
Glad you liked that bit. I did too!
I see this decline in civility as one of the most disastrous consequences of the interconnected world and the internet of things. What was meant to make the world smaller and welcoming has made it dysfunctional and rude, at least in most Western countries.
I feel like the education system is a dumpster fire now. It's all top heavy in administration and politics, but the people who do the educating are paid garbage salaries.
First day at work.
I don't believe it's fair to say that one would be ashamed to embark on the Rolex journey. If you have the means and you like the brand, why shouldn't you aim for only one watch.
I will start by saying i enjoy all your content, along with this video series.
You hit a lot of nails on the head today.
There is a young woman on RUclips from North Korea. She defected and is now telling her experiences.
It is frightening the like comparisons from our schools to North Korea schools. The tactics they used there are being used here in North America, alomg with so much more.
The blue collar worker advice was awesome. I was in law enforcement and have worked other side jobs throughout my life (oil field, farm, tow truck driver)
Taking the time to clean your boots. Infact making the wise investment in quality leather steel boots and taking care of them. Inside and out. Clean the inside with a mixture of white vinegar and saddle soap, then use leather oil conditioner inside as well. Itll help prolong the boots as well help with unfortunate smells.
I also invest in quality leather work gloves and eye protection.
As you said, such steps will always show pride and professionalism.
Well ive rambled on long enough, as always thank you for your time and efforts.
Sincerely Greg from Alberta, Canada.
Cheers Greg, hope the New Year treats you well. Best wishes, Ash
@@TheChapsGuide merry Christmas happy new year to you as well!!