With bowties, wingtips, brogues and man bags, one can only hope for the rise of the well dressed man, and the fall of the baggy jean syndrome. Contrary to popular belief, men have many options when it comes to clothing and accessories. And as a grown man, Vans and red skinny jeans are not one of those options. Step into your manhood and discover and embrace what style has to offer.

Growing up, I watched the men in my family, especially my grandad, step out of the house everyday in a button down shirt, slacks, shoes and a tie. Not because he was going anywhere special, but because “that’s how men dressed.” There was no such thing as wearing denim pants or sneakers in public. Sneakers were for working out and denim was for cowboys. In 2011, things have definitely changed but that still doesn’t negate the fact that “dressing up” should change.

When has it become less than masculine to take particular interest in your appearance?  Just because you might not have “it” doesn’t mean you can’t look like it.  With the expansion of the denim line to dark denim and sneakers becoming more sleek, there is hope for the casual look, but in a grown man way. Take a look at what some of our favorite “dandies” had to say about what makes a stylish guy.

Quintell Harcum

A stylish guy expresses himself in a confident and geniune manner. He pays close attention to himself and the world around him and projects that through his style. It’s not just about what he’s wearing but how he’s wearing it and to a deeper extent, why he’s wearing it. A stylish guy tells his story very well through what he wears.  Looking presentable is VERY important because your presentation is your immediate & first communication with the people around you and you would like to tell them something good. It is sign of respect on two ends: It says “I respect/love myself enough to present ‘me’ well to the world” and “I respect you enough to look decent or nice when I share your presence.”

Phillipe Guerrier

What truly makes a stylish guy are many things, one of them is individuality. Individuality is what makes you stand out, whether it be the way you walk, the way you wear your clothes, or the accessories you add to your outfit. Two, it’s good to know a few things about fashion. Because ultimately it requires a substantial amount of knowledge on the mode of dressing to truly look excellent. Being trendy doesn’t necessarily mean that you are stylish,  but being able to wear adornment that is popular during that particular time and mix it with a timeless piece will make you stand out. Three, Knowing the proper cut that compliments one’s body. Four, adding that little touch of individuality whether it be a pair of socks, pocket square, belt, shoes, cuffs, hat, glasses etc.. That is my recipe for Dandyism.

John Woodland

I believe that style is all about dressing for the personality of the individual. If you’re not street, don’t dress street. If you’re not a jockey, give up the riding boots. Dress for who you are and it comes across with your attitude and demeanor. I think of myself as “CrazyGentlemanCool” and I think people understand that because you can see it when you see me. No one wants to admit it, but to most people, what you see is what you get… so presentation is key.

Kia Chenelle