On Nuance

I  recently borrowed (thanks Dave!) the inspirational book THIS GUY - Portraits of Modern Men's Style by Photographer Jamie Ferguson.

I'm struck by how much inspiration I found in this beautiful book.  

I’d recommend this book to anyone slightly interested in creating your own unique take on modern dressing.

What immediately made an impact was this exchange by Gene Krell - Creative Director for Conde Nasté in Asia (Vogue, GQ, etc)

“I have it written into my GQ contract that I will never do a ‘best-dressed list’ as it negates the very idea of the true meaning of self-esteem and the importance of individual creative muscle.  

Where often, seemingly, the only consideration seems to be one’s economic or social status.

Menswear, above all, is about nuance, the shape of a tie, the fold of a hankie.  It’s virtue actually changes very little.  

I am an extremely insecure person and tradition therefor offers a sense of comfort for me, and the beauty of a well-made garment has it’s place in society; it can be admired without the sacrifice of ones moral compass.”

Floored.

Never has a paragraph distilled down the entire goal of the service I aim to provide.

You may recall in last week's note about dressing for a wedding.  

On the surface, my recommendations could seem boring.

 A navy suit, white shirt, navy tie — a uniform of mine.

But you see, the nuance is what separates the stylish to the “out of the box” guy.

When the fit is the focus, the palette reserved, the nuance is where the power will lie.

It’s the subtle difference in shade, texture or execution that elicits a different form of expression.  

One many can’t put their finger on.

Also, his mention of tradition offering a sense of comfort is brilliant.

You see, menswear, in the classic sense, hasn’t changed all that much.

Yeah, proportions may come in or go out, but the classic notch lapel, two-button ain’t going anywhere.

Embrace that, and master your nuance.  

Watch more doors open for you.