Mr. Luca Di Montezemolo and Mr. Gianni Agnelli. Pay attention how the wrist watch of Mr. Agnelli is over the cuffs, not the other way around.

You have all heard about this charming Italian word, but what is sprezzatura? In plain words, it is a way a man dresses and looks good without looking like he tried too hard. It can be translated as “artful dishevelment”. Italians are the masters of “not caring look” that looks good. Sprezzatura is rooted in their attitude, but where does this attitude come from? 

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Renaissance Man

In the beginning of the 16th century Baldassare Castiglione wrote “The Book of the Courtier” which was a guide for gentleman like himself. He stated that dressing totally effortless was as important as looking good. Since he was writing for the noble men this way of dressing was more of an etiquette and less about attitude.

Today this principle is wide-spread among Italian men and the trend of nonchalant, unstudied, carefree sartorial rebellion has crossed Italian borders and spread around the world.

Italian gentlemen, Mr. Lino Ieluzzi and Mr. Renato Plutino

Learn the rules and then break them

Men’s outfit should never look too perfect according to sprezzatura. Is it trying to say that the men should not follow the rules of matching patterns and colors? No, rules are good but every rule is meant to be broken.

Mr. Lapo Elkann

Once you learn the rules you can start do break them and bend them to your own taste. Once you achieve sartorial perfection it is time to try sartorial nonchalance, the sprezzatura.

If you always follow the rules of matching pocket square to your tie, if your shirt is always starched and if you never bend the rules you will not look original. You will blend in the world of men where everyone knows the rules and dress the same.

But if you do get brave and break some rules, if you do start to dress bravely and nonchalantly you will be seen as a cool man. A man of style. Because style cannot be bought. You either have it or you don’t.

Breaking the rules can be charming and women love charming men. And charm comes with easy-going attitude, charm is totally opposite of the perfection. But how to look not so perfect but yet perfectly cool?

© Club Rubinacci. Mr. Luca Rubinacci. Are you brave enough to bress like this?

How to achieve the sprezzatura?

You should still dress for the occasion. If the occasion is black tie event, then dress appropriately but do make your statement with some detail. Like patterned pocket square, crooked bow tie or a bracelet just hanging loosely bellow your watch.

Implementing some of these details in desired dress code will make you stand out from the crowd. You will not be another guy, you will be that guy.

For events that are not so formal, or for casual occasions you can be even bolder and extend your nonchalance to another level. Let your style shine in these situations. If you are brave enough, try red pants, or a conservative tweed jacket with vest in contesting bright color.

A pocket square that is much brighter than the rest of the outfit you are wearing. A conservative vest with turtleneck sweater and a pair of jeans with some nice cognac colored brogues.

You can mix some expensive modern piece of clothing with some vintage one. Put on some colored socks, no one will expect that. Wear accessories in unexpected way. Try some of the new tie knots, like Eldrige or Trinity knot. Let your charisma be your guide.

Take a notice of the bracelets around this gentleman’s hand. Color of the scarf is noticeable enough.

Don’t overdo it

The beauty of sprezzatura is that there are no rules. There are no do’s and don’ts as long as it looks good.  Although do not overdo it. If you start to fool around too much with your wardrobe you may look silly sometimes and you don’t want to look like a clown.

Have a measure, in everything, not only in your dressing. One, two or maybe even three details will be enough. Don’t overdo it.

If you are uncertain look for inspiration in the masters of Italian sprezzatura like late Gianni Agnelli or his nephew Lapo Elkann. Good example is Luca Di Montezemolo CEO of Ferrari or if you are brave enough try some of the stuff that Luca Rubinacci is doing or Lino Ieluzzi.

While you can learn a lot from these icons of sprezzatura the most important thing about it is that your personality has to be your guide. Don’t be a copy cat. Be yourself, the one and only and if you achieve this you will be remembered where ever you go.

The post The Art of Sprezzatura – Looking Good Without Trying Too Hard first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

It’s fair to say that men should take pride in their appearance and put in the effort to look good. However, can every gentleman really say the same thing for his home? Through no fault of our own, it seems our belongings simply build up and up over the years, until we get the point where we’re stepping over items and twisting around boxes just to get to the coffee machine!

Everyone has a lot of stuff that we don’t always need to have in the house but is still too precious to throw away or sell, which is why self-storage has become a hugely popular option across the world in recent times. Affordable, convenient, and simple to set up, full service storage options are easy to find online and right now the best way to de-clutter your living space! Many of these companies will even pick up and drop off your belongings when it suits you, letting you breathe a sigh of relief that there’s no need to carry heavy things.

If you like the idea of self-storage but are unsure what could be placed in a secure room for months or even years, then here are some items that are probably clogging up a lot of space in your apartment at this moment.

Bicycle or motorbike

For many city dwellers, the thought of riding a bike is purely a summertime or springtime activity! Winter and fall are simply too cold and the roads can be dangerously icy at times. This means that your bike is perhaps taking up valuable space in your home or you’ve even locked it up in your apartment’s basement and don’t feel it’s safe there. Store it away for the 6-7 months when it’s too cold to ride and then bring it out when the weather heats up.

Family heirlooms and artwork

If you’ve managed to inherit several family heirlooms but none of these are exactly your cup of tea, such as large paintings, vases, glassware, or even some armchairs or coffee tables, then self-storage will suit perfectly. You obviously want to keep them because of the sentimental value, as well as potential monetary value in later years, so instead of hiding them in a corner of your apartment, move them into storage instead.

Clothing

A man’s wardrobe should be neat and tidy at all times! They say that if you’re not wearing a clothing item for longer than 1 year, then it’s probably best to sell or give it away. Look through your wardrobe and see which shirts, jackets, or jeans aren’t being worn much and then place them into storage for a year. If you find that you don’t regret doing this and aren’t likely to wear them again, then either try selling on eBay or give away to a thrift store.

Holiday decorations

Christmas, Easter, or even Halloween decorations are great to put up around the home, but because they only happen once a year, then what’s the point of them sitting in boxes collecting dust when not in use? Christmas trees, fairy lights, and costumes can definitely go into storage and brought out when necessary.

Items for Lent

For the Christian faith, Lent is an important time in which you’re supposed to give up something you love for 6 weeks. For some, this means smoking or alcohol, for example, but perhaps you feel like you watch too much TV or play video games too often. It could be that the Lent period will be easier if your games console and TV are placed into storage for the 6 weeks, because not having these items in the house means you can’t break your promise. Who knows, you might not miss them at all and find that you can spend time doing other activities!

The post What Items Can Be Placed in Self-storage? first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

While it’s true that today’s modern men can easily handle grooming tips, it would be fair to say that many believe laundry is still a terrifying and confusing task! For thousands of men, washing machines might as well be a NASA space shuttle for how complicated they look. The good news? Laundry really isn’t that hard, and in this article we’ll give some fantastic tips for gentlemen so that they can easily grasp everything to do with laundry.

Clothing Tags Help You Out

That white tag on your jeans or T-shirt is not just for looks – it provides some advice for how best to wash the item, such as hand wash only, dry clean only, do not iron, and even which temperature is best to set the washing machine for the cycle. To help decipher the laundry symbols, you could also look at Persil’s summary page and learn what all they all mean!

Separate Colors and Whites

To avoid whites turning a deep shade of pink because you threw your red socks into the wash as well, then always make separate washes for colors and whites. A tiny bit of black on an otherwise mostly white T-shirt is fine, but it’s best to avoid colors “bleeding” into your white garments by splitting the two. It might seem like extra effort and annoying to make two washes, but trust us, if it means you don’t get some weird shades on your favorite white shirt, then it’s worth it.

Water Temperature

The tags on the clothing will help you with this, but for a quick reminder, really hot temperatures are best for things like socks, underwear, towels, and bedding, as it kills the dust, grease, etc. much better than a low temperature. Conversely, cold water is better for things made from wool, as hot water may shrink the item. Mild water temperature is usually recommended for jeans, T-shirts, and hoodies.

Some Laundry Items can Last a Bit Longer Unwashed

Photo Credits @montgofarmhouse

When it comes to items that need to be washed every day, underwear, socks, and T-shirts definitely fall into that camp. Jeans can last around a week unless they are particularly smelly or dirty. Button-down shirts, depending on the weather, how close the fit is, and how long it was worn that day, can usually be worn at least twice before heading to the washing machine. Towels can go roughly 5 days and bedding should be switched every 2 weeks.

Types of Washing Cycles

Granted, this is probably where most men fall apart and vow simply to buy new clothing instead of washing, but steady on. Of course, there are many types of washing machines out there, but check this CNET guide for a basic intro on washing machine settings. You’ll have no trouble wondering what the difference is between delicate, permanent press, rinse & spin, or cotton washes afterward.

Using Detergent and Fabric Softener

As a consumer, you’ve got a lot of options when you stand in the laundry aisle at the supermarket. Different detergents from different brands… what’s a man to do? Most of it will depend on your budget and whether you have any particular allegiance to one brand, but in end, it’s safe to say that powder detergents are cheaper but don’t dissolve as well in cold water. Liquid detergents are more expensive and are great at getting out stains like blood, grass, or tomato (and good in cold water).

Pods are quite new in the laundry world and are useful if you hate having to pour out amounts and have no clue how to do this! You simply throw the pod into your washing machine, then the laundry on top, and start up the cycle. You can also use fabric softener in addition to detergent if you like your clothes smelling extra fresh and feeling super soft.

The post Top Laundry Tips That Any Man Could Handle first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

Men’s fashion changes every now and then but if you’re a stylish man, you’ll have specific habits that will make you stand out anywhere you go.

Apparently, taking care of yourself and being fashionable are great ways to boost your self-confidence and make you comfortable socializing with other people.

If you look up to Tom Ford and other famous, fashionable men, you’ll also want to be stylish and well-groomed all the time.

For some tips, here are 10 of the most common habits of stylish men.

Looking After Their Underwear

A stylish man takes care of all his clothing staples, especially his underwear. He always keeps his clothing in great condition and regularly visits a dry cleaner.

If you have ample time, you can wash your clothes yourself or even hand wash your underwear if you really want to take good care of them.

Stylish men don’t just focus on their outside clothes but cherish everything they wear beneath them, so always look after your underwear.

Knowing the Basics

If you’re a stylish man, you’ll know the basics when it comes to fashion and stylishness. From clothes to shoes to accessories, you’ll know the current trends and fashion pieces will suit you.

Fashion is a no-brainer to you if you are stylish and there’s no need to ask for advice from friends or relatives because you’ll know which ones to get for every event and occasion.

Shop in different clothing stores to always stay on the vibe of fashion trends.

Investing in a Good Cologne

Fashion is not all about trendy clothes and accessories but it is also about how great you smell. Stylish men have a signature scent which adds to their character and personal style.

It may be difficult to find that perfect scent that will suit your personality so you may choose among fresh and classic fragrances such as Burberry and YSL.

Having a Grooming Routine

You can wear the most fashionable clothes and most stylish accessories but if you have messy hair, ungroomed beards and unpleasant smell, you can’t be called a “stylish” man.

Bad grooming can have a huge impact on your overall appearance so it is important to take good care of your whole body. Most stylish men have a grooming routine not only for their hair but also for their face and skin.

Monthly Visits to a Reliable Barber

As far as grooming is concerned, having regular visits to the barber is a must. Men’s hair grows so fast that you need to have a haircut every month.

No matter how busy you are at work or with your personal life, don’t ever neglect your growing hair. Look for a reliable barber where you can entrust your hair grooming needs every month.

Attention to Details and Quality

Stylish men are admired by many for nothing. They don’t just pick their clothes, accessories and other fashion items without checking the quality first.

Before they buy something, they make sure it is of the best quality and not only consider its appearance.

Stylish men are also very attentive to details. From storing the pocket squares to picking a wristwatch, they make sure everything is done neatly but with style.

Brand Open-Mindedness

Stylish men are open-minded when it comes to brands. They don’t buy luxurious brands just to show off but they buy them only when they have high quality.

Because they value quality over brands, they assess every piece of clothing thoroughly to see if it is worth the price.

They also have this ability to mix high street and designer brands to make their style as unique and as interesting as possible.

Organized Wardrobe

When you take a look at a stylish man’s wardrobe, the first thing you will notice is that it is very organized. Before you suspect them of having OCD, know that this is a natural thing for them.

Everybody loves a clean and organized wardrobe and it also makes it easy for them to choose the clothes and accessories they are going to wear.

From shoes to suits to ties, you will see they are properly and neatly hung or folded in their designated places.  

Keeping Work Out Clothes at the Gym

Sometimes, you’ll see some men in cafes or restaurants wearing gym clothes. Apparently, this is not a habit of a stylish man.

They leave their workout clothes in the gym and they take some time to dress up if they are going to meet someone in a public place, especially in a restaurant.

They love to look good and fresh all the time and not disappoint anyone with their sweaty and exhausted look.

Not Dishing Out Style Advice

Stylish men don’t brag about their looks and won’t tell you if you don’t look good or if you have a bad taste in fashion.

They don’t dish out advice just because they know they are stylish. Nonetheless, if you will ask them for advice, they will do it with pleasure and be honest without hurting your feelings.

The post 10 Habits of a Stylish Man first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

Minimalism is one of the hottest trends in home decor right now, and a life philosophy as well. For some people, the challenge is trying to tame the mess on their kitchen counters.

Others want to create a simple kitchen so they can maximize their workspace and minimize their stress. But building a beautiful and functional minimalist kitchen can be difficult if you don’t know where to start.

Here’s a quick start guide to building the minimalist kitchen of your dreams.

Clear Out the Clutter

There’s no point organizing what you really shouldn’t keep. The first step to getting a minimalist kitchen is clearing out the clutter.

It may start with throwing out old magazines and receipts, but it should continue with the decorative items you don’t care about anymore.

In fact, you can set all of the small appliances and utensils aside for a while. Slowly add back what you really do use. After a month or so, you’ll know what you can live without.

Go ahead and let go of a dozen knives or so. If you find that you’re struggling to find a knife that works well when you’re handling various tasks, upgrade to a quality chef’s knife and get rid of the clunky knife set.

Get rid of the dishware you aren’t really using. Consolidate your cookware to what you really use. The biggest step you can take is dumping appliances. Don’t hold onto a panini press or espresso machine on the hope you’ll eventually use it.

And try cooking with only the stove and oven before you assume you have to keep your microwave.

Change Your Color Scheme

Minimalism is more than having as few physical items as possible in the room. It also relies on a clean, simple visual palette.

The goal is a solid color palette, and neutral colors are considered better. However, this doesn’t mean everything has to be the exact same shade. But you should use colors in the same color family. For example, use a mix of light grey and white or varying shades of grey.

While you’re at it, take a look at all your fixtures. Minimalist home decor is simple and sleek. The simplest way to get this look is by changing out your faucet for a modern chrome fixture. Replace the handles on your cabinets and drawers with something that matches the new aesthetic.

Minimize Waste Production

Minimalism means using as little as possible. It is also a philosophy that seeks to minimize waste. Donate items instead of throwing them in the trash.

Look for reusable items like glasses and stainless steel water bottles over single-serve plastic water bottles. And seek environmentally friendly options where possible.

For example, you could switch to environmentally friendly K-Cups, which are compostable. Compostable is more than recycling or buying a biodegradable product – it is better.

You can add these coffee pods to your composting bin and create soil in just a few weeks instead of adding to the landfill.

Store Everything Appropriately

Neatly organized storage is a major component of a minimalist kitchen. After you’ve thrown out unused or expired spices, take the time to organize your spices in an attractive spice rack.

Consider hanging your pots where they’re readily available when you need them. Put food staples in sleek glass containers so that they’re safe but make it easy to tell how much you have and what is in each container.

Put things you rarely use but want to keep in closets or on shelves behind what you regularly use.

Conclusion

Your kitchen is one of the most frequently used rooms in the house. This is why applying minimalist philosophy to the space can make such a difference in your life.

The post Quick Start Guide to the Minimalist Kitchen first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

The watch worn on a gentleman’s wrist speaks volumes about who he is. It is an essential piece of his wardrobe and a subtle way of letting others know that he is courteous, punctual and lives his life with integrity.

His watch is more than a timepiece-it is also a fashion statement. And yet, it is also more than just a fashion statement. It separates the gentlemen from the boys.

At its core, a watch is supposed to provide a convenient way to tell the time. If it doesn’t serve this most basic function, the timepiece is nothing more than an elaborate bracelet. But you don’t want a bracelet-you want a watch.

This means that, though there are many things to consider when purchasing a watch, the quality of the piece should be on the top of your list. You want it to work. And you want it to last.

This brings me to another important aspect of the piece that’s going to grace your gentlemanly wrist: a watch can also be an investment, not just in your look, but in your future.

This doesn’t mean you need to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars for a Rolex. But that also doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a Rolex.

The luxury watch market, steeped in tradition and prestige, is slowly adjusting to the needs of a new generation of watch consumers: millennials.

Their purchasing habits of buying second-hand and demanding quality for less money has forced luxury watch brands to take notice.

This has created a market where you can get your hands on a timeless timepiece without breaking the bank.

Gettin’ Thrifty with It: Buying Second-hand Watches

Long gone are the taboos of buying second-hand. Vintage is back, and it’s here to stay. The second-hand watch market is one of the most aggressively-growing sectors in the watch industry.

Buying pre-owned luxury timepieces is akin to purchasing a fine wine: there’s history behind it. It is also more likely that you’ll find a quality piece for less than the retail price.

And, if you’re lucky, the purchase might end up becoming a good investment, and may even appreciate in value. Just steer clear of fashion watch brands-those only depreciate in value.

Entry-Level Luxury

Photo Credits @seikowatchofficial

Luxury watch brands have also been taking notice of millennials’ demand for quality at more affordable prices. This has led to more brands making more entry-level watches, starting at $300.

These are great pieces that often come along with the best service that top brands are known for, name recognition, and the possibility of appreciating value.

Luxury-watch expert Ariel Adams has come up with a helpful list of things to pay attention to when buying an entry-level watch.

Further, whether you decide on a traditional Swiss Longine or the Japanese Grand Seiko line, online platforms like Chrono24 have helped make the purchasing process transparent, helping both sellers appraise their pieces and buyers get the most value for their money.

These platforms ensure to the best of their ability that you’ll end up really getting the perfect watch.

Today’s luxury watch market is more accessible, less risky, and with more options than ever before. If you haven’t done so already, now’s the time to start looking for that perfect timepiece.

The post Finding Your Perfect Watch Doesn’t Need to Break the Bank first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

When turning a house into a home, it’s hugely important to think about things that are both necessary and add a bit of nice decoration. If you’ve already got the main components in your home, such as a couch, bed, TV, kitchen table, etc., then now’s a great time to include some flair and really make your living space your own. After all, if you want to host a great party, then make sure your place is looking incredible for your guests.

Vintage furniture

IKEA is all well and good, as the items are easy (more or less) to assemble, not hugely expensive, and a breeze to transport from the warehouse to your home. However, the one thing these items do lack is a bit of personality. Even if your wardrobe looks great, you just know that thousands of other men have exactly the same thing in their own bedroom, so where’s the fun and individuality of that? While we’re not saying that everything in your abode has to be vintage and retro, just adding a few small pieces here and there makes a big difference.

A coffee table from the 1950s, a lamp from the 90s, or even some cutlery and plates from the 80s are all nice touches that show you take a bit more effort to care about your home than the average person. You can find all these items in flea markets and thrift shops, and while some can be a bit tricky to transport, it’s all part of the fun and you can enjoy the reward once it sits proudly in your home.

Smart speaker

Vintage furniture looks to the past, but smart speakers are all about the future. These handy little voice-controlled gadgets can do everything from controlling the lighting and heating to playing music and reading the news. The great thing about smart speakers, particularly the market leaders in Google Home or Amazon Echo, is that they can be tailored to fit your life. If all you want is something that can play music and answer a few burning questions, then you got it. Plus, they’re cool-looking things and new functions can even be installed if you want to search for the best Alexa skills.

Artwork from new artists

In a similar way to the furniture point from before, it’s great to find artwork which not many other people have. Van Gogh and Picasso prints are amazing, of course, but it’s a beautiful thing to support new and upcoming artists who are trying to find their feet. Society6 has some cool wall art from talented yet not well-known painters and photographers. Get some art that really speaks to you, rather than picking up something just because it’s from a big name.

Plants and more plants

Seriously, who doesn’t love plants? They look awesome, provide us with oxygen, and help purify the air in rooms. Best of all, they are far easier living things to take care of than a pet! A bit of water and sunlight is all they require, and you’ve added a functional yet good-looking item into your home. The cactus, lily-of-the-valley, bamboo, and snake plants are often considered to be some of the best plants for apartments, as they are simple to take care of, cheap, and don’t take up much space.

The post Cool and useful items to add to your home first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

Pleated and flat front pants.

In this article I will talk about difference between pleated and flat front (non pleated) pants. So, if you are in the store shopping for a pair of pants you should know if pleated one will suit you more or if your best option are flat front pants. What’s the difference you will ask! Well it depends on your body type, but we will get into this a bit later.

What Are Trousers?

Trousers is a name for a type of tailored pants. They are meant to keep the eyes focused on the wearer’s face without attracting attention to the bottom half of the body.

A good pair of trousers creates a sleek profile whether a gentleman is in motion or standing still. Trousers can be casual as well as formal, as they allow men to carry all of the necessities like a phone, wallet, and sets of keys.

They have pockets that are of a proper size and the shape does not cause pants to bulge outwards. If you put items in the pockets and notice bulging at the sides, then your trousers may not be ideal. You can even get the pockets adjusted to ensure that every item you need fits.

Trousers can be tailored and custom-fitted to your frame and build to the fit is perfect. They should follow the line of the natural shape of your body, being wide at the waist and tapering down to the ankles with no fabric hanging down or swaying. They shouldn’t bunch up around the thighs, as this means they are too tight.

Tradition and Trends

Traditionally most trousers were pleated. Today, most pants are flat front. Pleats are considered old-fashioned. Flat front trousers were very popular in the middle of the 20th century, but in the 80’s with its baggy style, pleated pants had a revival. Later it all changed for the more lean, slim looking silhouette and flat front pants came back. It seems that flat front pants come back and go out of fashion, but pleated pants are always present making them more traditional.

Tip: Over at Nordstrom they have a great selection of pleated pants!

Differences Between Pleated and Flat Front Pants

Pleats are creases on the front of the pants, with two of them on both sides. The material is folded and sewed before it is attached to waistband. In flat front pants material lies flat. Pleated pants are worn on the waist, just above your hip bone. This also means that pleated pants have a higher rise. Flat front pants are worn bit lower, on your hips, making them slim looking and better fitting.

Pleated Pants

Since pleated pants have higher rise this makes them more generous in the middle. As you might have guessed pleated pants are better suited for larger men. If you have large back and large bottom you should definitely choose pleated pants.

They will give you more freedom of movement and you will feel more comfortable. Wear them on your waist since if you wear them on your hips, your thighs will look huge.

Another detail that should be added to pleated pants is cuffs. If you opt for pleated pants you should add cuffs, because this will complete the classic look of your pants, and it will add weight to your pants making fabric drape naturally.

Slimmer men can wear pleated pants only in a suit combination, never alone by themselves since if worn alone they will make extra room around middle section and this will look sloppy.

Flat Front Pants

These pants are great for slimmer man. They will make your silhouette more smooth and straight. They should be worn on hips, but they have to fit you perfectly.

Also you should leave your pants cuff free, since they do not need extra weight at the bottom. Slimmer men can wear cuffs on their pants only if the pants are from heavier fabric. Tweed or such, which is worn in winter cold days. In this way the pants will drape better.

If you are a larger modern man you should avoid flat front since it will be too tight for you and they will feel uncomfortable. Flat front pants will also emphasize your belly.

If you are somewhere in the middle, neither big, neither slim, you should try both options and see how they feel. Sit down in them, walk around, stand up and be sure they are comfortable in every situation.

Try them out with pairing suit jacket and see how it looks, but your comfort must be your priority . If you think you need some alternations to the pants, ask for them.

Tailored fit is definitely worth the money.

The post Style Dilemma – Pleated or Flat Front Pants first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

© Rotomedia

Table etiquette or table manners are so neglected in today’s world. Not only table etiquette but etiquette in general. In this and in next articles I will talk about etiquette and I will try to sharpen your skills in this domain. These skills are something that can easily be thought but it takes practice before it becomes natural to you. 

Women love guys with manners. You can be the most handsome guy in the world and have loads of money but if you don’t know how to handle yourself you won’t go very far. This is why proper manners are important. People will perceive you differently and they will look at you with more respect if you know how to properly behave at the table, on the street, in business meetings, anywhere where there is some sort of social interaction. Trust me, it is like that. People look kindly on people with good manners. Especially today when few men can behave properly.

So, today we will talk about restaurant seating etiquette, restaurant manner and other conduct that a proper gentleman should know.

It does not matter if you are in a fancy restaurant, your local diner or if you are a guest at friend’s home. The same rules apply.

Restaurant Etiquette

Photo Credits: @29_yirmidokuz

If you are planning a nice dinner with a lady friend or other guests in a restaurant, there are some rules that gentleman always follow when it comes to restaurant seating etiquette and other conduct.

1. If you are on a date with a gorgeous woman and when entering any restaurant you come in first. Why? It’s because the inside of the restaurant is unfamiliar territory and every gentleman’s obligation is to protect his lady companion in all unpleasant situations that may arrive.
2. When inside the restaurant, a man is walking in front.
3. Men is choosing the table at which they will sit (of course if you have a reservation that you cannot choose, your table is already chosen).
4. If you had no reservation and you have to choose a table, you will choose the proper size of the table that suits you and your company. If it’s only you and your lady, you won’t sit at a table for six persons.
5. If it’s winter time and your lady is undressing her coat, you and only you are helping her undress.
6. If your lady is wearing a hat, she is not obligated to take it down.
7. If you are wearing a hat or a cap, you should take it off as soon as you enter the restaurant.
8. When taking a seat at the table man should help his lady by stepping behind her and pulling the chair out and then bringing it back in as she is preparing to take a seat. Although today this is not a common sight since the waiter or maître d’ will escort you to the table and help lady take her seat. If this is the case, you should let them help her. No need for you to insist.
9. Restaurant seating etiquette for a couple calls for the man to sit facing the exit of the restaurant. The man should always be in a position to watch and be aware of activities in order to protect his lady should anything untoward happen.
10. As for how should two couples sit at a restaurant, each couple should sit on opposite sides of the table, depending on the seating arrangement of the establishment. The men should be facing each other on opposite sides of the table – the same goes for women.
11. When choosing a meal, a woman chooses first. You are only here to transfer her order to the waiter.
12. When you think of who orders first a restaurant, it will always be the woman. Your server should start from the oldest woman at the table, but since you will be stating her order to the waiter you should place the woman’s order before yours. If you are in a business setting, there is still no question of who orders first, man or woman – the woman will order first, and your order will be placed after.
13. If she is not so hungry and chooses some simple meal you will also choose a similar one, because you don’t want her to sit and bore herself while you are eating your six course meal.
14. You and only you are responsible for the wine. The wine list is yours, but you should always ask your lady what wine she likes and what would she like to drink.
15. If you are planning to drink the whole bottle let her choice prevail. If she prefers red wines and you prefer white wine, of course you will order red one.
16. It is your obligation to fill woman’s glass if it is empty. In many restaurants waiter will do it but that doesn’t mean that you have to wait for him. You can do it.
17. When communicating with the staff of the restaurant, be polite. No need to shout and wave at them. Be discreet.
18. By no means do not flirt with waitresses. It is an insult to the woman that’s with you.
19. If you have any complaints with the meal or with the service tell the waiter to call maître d’ and explain him what your complaints are.
20. When the meals arrive you will wait till your lady companion starts to eat. If you are on a business lunch you will let your boss start first. At your friend’s house you should let the host start first.
21. While speaking you don’t need to shout. No one at the table next to you has to know what are you talking about, and they don’t care. The exception is when you are laughing, but when you laugh you don’t need to tear down the walls with your laughter.
22. If you set up a meeting in the restaurant, come on time. It is better to come 15 minutes earlier than 5 minutes late. Especially if you are having a meeting with a woman. It is rude to let her sit at the table by herself.
23. You should pay the bill, especially if you are on a first date with a woman. Only if she insists on splitting the bill you will do so.
24. If you and your lady had a coat, you should help her put on a coat.
25. While leaving the restaurant, the man will hold the door and let the woman exit first.

Table Etiquette

Photo Credits: @29_yirmidokuz

When dining, your restaurant manners should be at a level of perfection. A proper gentleman keeps these essential rules in mind while seated at the table.

1. Once when you start to eat you should never leave spoon, fork or knife on the table. Their place is on the plate.
2. While having a pause between bites you should leave your fork and knife on the plate in the shape of a letter “X”. If it’s easier for you to remember, place your fork in position of 8 o’clock and knife in position of 4 o’clock. In this way waiter will know that you are not finished yet (if the waiter is educated in table etiquette, and I have seen so many that are not).
3. When you finish with each course your knife, with the blade turned in and fork placed beside each other on the plate diagonally from upper left to lower right. 10 to 5 o’clock.
4. You hold a fork in your left hand and knife in a right hand. This is the European way. In US people use this method to cut, meat for example, and then they switch fork to the right hand to eat. I think you should stick to the European way. It’s more practical.
5. When seated you should place your napkin on your lap. Large dinner napkins should be folded in half after opening and before placing on one’s lap. The golden rule of restaurant manners is that you should never blow your nose on a napkin. This is a definite no-no.
6. When finished with the meal you should place your napkin to the left of your plate. Never put it on a plate.
7. If you have to leave the table for a moment you should place your napkin on the chair.
8. When eating meat, you should cut one small piece at a time.
9. Don’t take big bites and don’t talk with your mouth full.
10. When eating soup, tip the bowl away from you and scoop the soup up with your spoon.
11. Soup should always be taken (without slurping of course) from the side of the spoon.
12. Wait until you’re done chewing to have a drink.
13. Avoid slouching and don’t place your elbows on the table while eating although it is okay to prop your elbows on the table while conversing between courses.
14. Take your time while eating. Dinner is not a sprint race. It’s a social gathering, not a medieval feast.
15. Use your utensils from the outside in. The fork farthest to the outside is the one you should use for the appetizer. When the next part of the meal comes, use the next outermost fork, and so on. The same goes for the spoons and knives. If you’re in a fancy restaurant you might be lucky enough to have waiters who will remove any utensils you won’t need.
16. If you accidentally burp, have a hiccup or if you spill something, apologize quietly to nobody specifically but to yourself.
17. You may eat chicken and pizza with your fingers if you are at a barbecue, finger buffet or very informal setting. Otherwise proper restaurant manners always call for using a knife and fork.
18. Hold a stemmed glass by the stem! This is to prevent cold drinks, such as white wine from becoming warmed by your hand.
19. In a restaurant, it is normal to pay for your food by putting your money on the plate the bill comes on.
20. Don’t reach over someone’s plate for something, ask for the item to be passed over.
21. If you don’t know which is your water-glass, bread plate or napkin, always follow “OK rule”. Make OK signs with both hands. The left one is forming letter “b” for bread and the right one is forming letter “d” as for drinks. So, now you will know on which side goes which item.
22. Always say ‘excuse me’ when you leave the table.
23. Do not put your cell phone on the table.
24. Do not use your cell phone during dinner. If you are expecting an urgent call, excuse yourself and do the conversation elsewhere.
25. There is no need to tip the waiter an obscene amount. Don’t show off. You are not Frank Sinatra.
26. This is more of a style tip but good to know: if you are wearing suit or only a jacket, each time you sit down you should unbutton one button. Each time you stand up again, you should re-button the jacket button.
27. Last and most important tip is: always saying ‘thank you’ when served something. It is a sign of appreciation.

If this may seem long list, trust me it is not. There are more rules but I wanted to keep it simple and to present you with the must have list. If you follow these rules you will keep yourself out of the faux pas situations and you don’t want to embarrass yourself on a business lunch or on a first date with a stunning woman. If you have some more questions not covered by this list, write it down in the comments section and I will be glad to answer.

The post Table and Restaurant Etiquette – 50 Essential Tips first appeared on Modern Gentleman.

Hats are making a major comeback in the fashion world. Arguably, a hat is the most powerful accouterment in a man’s arsenal, and depending on how it is worn, it can either make a convincing or a regrettable impression. You don’t want anything to do with the latter, so learn the rules of wearing a hat and wear it the gentleman way. Whether you’ve just purchased your hat, or you’ve been wearing it for ages, there are some essential rules and tips on wearing a hat that you probably don’t know. In this article, you’ll learn how to wear a hat correctly and the etiquette of wearing it. Read on.

Hat-wearing Etiquette

Hat-wearing, just like many other things, has its set of rules. While it’s not a must that you strictly stick to these rules on every single occasion, you’re expected to abide by them when attending formal events. Below are some hat-wearing rules you need to know:

1. Removing the hat

A gentleman should take off his hat when indoors—it’s acceptable. However, if you are in a pub, you can get away with it—no one will bother whether you’ve removed your hat or not. Outdoors is where the problem comes in. Under what circumstances should a man remove his hat? Well, it is generally accepted that a gentleman should remove his hat when he’s being introduced or when he’s saying goodbye to a woman.

It’s surprising, however, that some gentlemen don’t do this. If our forefathers adhered to this, who are you not to? As a gentleman, you need to know the situations which you are required to take off your hat!

2. Tipping the hat

Tipping of hats is an etiquette you cannot afford not to have as a gentleman. You must have noticed that some men tip their hats. Well, tipping of hats has been and is still an important way of expressing gratitude or acknowledging something. And although it is only done to ladies, it is considered very polite. When you are required to give a profound apology, just tip your hat. Similarly, when a lady thanks you, tip your hat.

3. Hat-wearing confidence

This is more of a necessity than a rule. As a gentleman, you need to wear your hat with a lot of confidence—it’s the only way you’ll be able to pull it off and look good. If you need inspiration on this, consider watching the white and black films of the 50’s.

How to wear a hat correctly

Are you wearing your hat correctly? Perhaps you’re not. Wearing a hat correctly goes beyond merely fitting it on your—it’s more of matching your hat with the current situations. Here are tips on how to wear a hat correctly:

1. Figure the angles

Many hats look good when tilted at a particular angle. Sun hats look best when tilted towards the back of the head while fedoras look best when tilted towards the eyes. A beret, on the other hand, looks best when angled towards the side. If you feel that a hat does not look right, angle it in one direction or another. Try to personalize it.

2. Change your hairstyle

Most hats look best with hair styled around the face or those drawn back. If you are to avoid �hat head’, then opt for sleek designs. As a gentleman, you are in charge of your hair, and no one should force you to choose a particular hairstyle. However, consider changing your hairstyle when you decide to wear a hat—it’s for your own good.

3. Wear the right hat for the right clothes

You want to wear your hat like a gentleman, right? Be cautious of the type of hat that you wear. Does it go well with your outfit? Common sense will always guide you to choose the perfect hat for the right outfit; therefore, if your common sense tells you that a particular hat does not go with your outfit, the chances are that it doesn’t! You can’t, for instance, put on a wool suit and wear a straw garden hat. That will be odd!

4. Match your hat with the season

If you are like most men, then you hate looking odd. Honestly, how will you feel when people refer you as an odd-looking fellow just because of a hat? Of course, it hurts, and you may even be tempted to throw the hat away. But you don’t have to; just match your hat with the current season. For instance, if it’s winter, wear a hat meant for the winter. If you have a sun hat, put it way until the winter is over. Doesn’t be a walking fashion disaster; protect your personal image by wearing the right hat at the right time.

5. Match your hat with occasions

So, you want to take your girlfriend out to watch movies. Great! But what kind of a hat are you going to wear? Men, this is just a piece of advice, don’t wear tall hats to the movies. Similarly, if you have an indoor event, don’t wear a sun hat.

There are many types of hats that you can choose to wear. The above tips will not only guide you on how to wear a hat correctly but also help you to know the rules of wearing a hat. If a hat is not for you, well then you could always try one of these new and trendy snapback caps.

A Few Gentleman’s Hat Suggestions

Photo Credits: @thehatstore

When it comes to being a gentleman, the hat you wear should symbolize this distinction. Not every hat is considered elegant, so you should know which styles to invest in for your wardrobe and which ones to avoid.

Trilby Hat

This hat can be worn with your everyday outfits. They have a short brim that curves upwards subtly in the back and downward in the front to keep the eyes shielded from sunlight.

Fedora

For more formal occasions, the fedora is a nice go-to. It has a wide brim and its raised height gives off a slightly dominating appearance.

Bowler

The bowler is part of a more traditional era of gentleman’s hats; the style was designed in 1849. It is hard with a very short brim that is rolled and features a grosgrain band.

Homburg

This hat is worn strictly as a formal hat and works best in the evening. The brim curves upwards all around and it also has a grosgrain band, though it is thicker than the band on bowler hats.

Flat Cap

This hat is one of the more casual traditional hats for gentlemen. They are usually made of tweed, a firm yet soft fabric, and the style is versatile, so it can be worn informally in most practical situations.

The post How To Wear A Hat The Gentleman Way first appeared on Modern Gentleman.