April 28, 2012

Yves Saint Laurent once said “Fashions fade, but style is eternal.” I couldn’t agree more. This is not to say I don’t believe there is a place for fashion, quite the contrary in fact. A suit that fits like a glove or quality pair of shoe will never go out of fashion. Whilst fashions within such items may change and evolve, the foundations upon which a stylish, iconic and influential item is built remain the same. As a proud disciple of the fashion industry, I respect that each individual has their own style. However, in this piece I have attempted to display what I believe to be essential items for the “modern gent” in today’s ever-changing society.

1. Dockers Chino

Given the recent boom in chinos sales, how are we able to choose a top quality trouser, one that is both stylish and comfortable? Simple answer, why not wear one of the originals? Dockers, a sibling of the Levi family, have created their Alpha Khaki, a tapered fitting chino. In their own words this is “where jeans end and khakis begin.” They even challenge you to “Find a better slim fitting khaki. Go Ahead. Try”…. I can’t.

2. Hugo Boss Shirt

The white shirt. Every man needs at least one top quality, well-fitted white shirt. This is it. Fashion over function? Why not have both. This shirt, created by the Hugo Boss Black Label, has an extra slim stretch cut combined with an accentuated cut away collar. Worn under a blazer, this is your staple, so much so, that I would consider buying two.

3. Paul Smith Tote

I think you should always spend that little bit more when it comes to both shoes and bags. Not only because these are the items that you use on a daily basis but they can also be the difference between an outfit looking great or an outfit looking stand-out. This Paul Smith tote is a great day to day bag. Canvas and leather always works well together and this is no exception.

4-5. Duchamp Blazer & Pocket Square

This season, Duchamp has blown me away with a piece that is both quirky and understated. White button detailing and a floral print on the inside make this a great jacket for the summer. Combine this blazer with one of their iconic printed pocket squares to give you that little bit of a “Je ne sais quoi” factor.

6. American Crew Forming Cream

There is a reason why American Crew is one of the leading salon brand’s created specifically for men. Formulated with men in mind, they offer an extensive range of hair products tailored for a variety of hair styles and this American Crew Forming Cream is my personal favourite especially if, like me, you are looking for that suave 60’s style made famous by programmes such as “Mad Men.”

7. Midori Notebook

As far as accessories go, the Midori Notebook is the ultimate timeless classic. Like a fine wine (another essential for the modern man!), this item just gets better with age. Whether you are trading for Morgan Stanley or traveling the world with a castaway beard, this item is perfect for jotting down your deepest thoughts.

8. Baxter Face Wash

With the evolution of the “modern gent” it is now frowned upon to not take care of our skin. For this reason, I suggest that you look no further than “Baxter of California”. A company born in the heart of a surfer’s paradise, today “Baxter of California” provides new cutting-edge men’s products. Fragrance free and natural it is all about keeping skin in shape. This face wash from the other side of the pond is great for deep cleaning and has anti-inflammatory plant extracts to soothe your skin.

9. Hugo Boss Suede Belt

Made in Italy, this Hugo Boss belt, crafted from the finest leather is absolutely essential in completing that elegant look. Gone are the days when a belt is used only for keeping your trousers up. Adding a belt to match your shoes is a great way to complete an outfit, but like most accessories, make sure it matches. Put quite simply, a belt which has this much class will turn a great look into an inspirational one.

10. Grenson Shoes

Whilst there are many top quality footwear brands in the world of fashion today, in my opinion Grenson is truly inspirational in every way. The brand, born in Northamptonshire in 1866, oozes class from every orifice and is consistently able to boast top quality craftsmanship. This shoe is no exception. Rich brown suede coupled together with discreet beige stitch detail and a contrasting bold lace puts a modern twist on the classic brogue.