Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

The Guide to Cufflinks

Jan 15 2018

The T-bar is the most widely available type of cufflink. The hinged bar swings shut to let you push it through a buttonhole and then opens to keep the cufflink in place. It easy to put on and take off, and comes with just about any decoration imaginable. However, the decoration is only on one end of the cufflink, dressing only one side of your cuff. The fixed bar gives a decorative element on both ends of the cufflink, so your cufflink is dressy from any viewing angle. Because there are no moving parts, fixed bar cufflinks tend to be quite long lasting. Hold the larger end and press the smaller end through each buttonhole. The chain cufflink has two decorative elements connected by a chain instead of a solid bar. Grasp the smaller end and press it through each set of buttonholes one at a time. Once through, simply rotate it...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Raising the Bar: The Collar Pin

Oct 01 2016

You already know that paying attention to your accessories sets you apart from the crowd. One accoutrement that quickly gives an air of elegance to an ensemble is a collar pin. This refined tool gives the knot in your tie more visual importance and stability. It’s perfect for days when you want to look your best—and want the confidence that comes from stylish dressing. Many notable gentlemen of style have been known to sport a collar pin, from Fred Astaire and Steve McQueen to Tom Ford and Daniel Craig. Its rarity is part of its appeal, as its use shows considerable sartorial savvy. If you enjoy the collar pin but prefer a less noticeable approach, put aside the more common safety pin style and try the barbell style. Whichever collar pin you prefer, make sure to pair it with a substantial tie knot for best effect....

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Pocket Squares: Silk or Cotton?

Jun 01 2016

The type of fabric used to create your pocket squares determines the weight, dressiness, and appropriate folding methods. A silk pocket square adds color without weight. The lightweight, flexible fabric is more difficult to fold-but looks fantastic when simply gathered into a “puff” and slipped into the pocket. Silk also has a glossy sheen that is your best choice in formal occasions, as it’s inherently dressier than cotton. A cotton pocket square is matte rather than shiny, making it eminently suitable for everyday businesswear and summer suits. Cotton’s relative stiffness makes it easy to fold and achieve crisp edges if desired. Rather than limiting yourself to pocket squares made of only one of these fabrics, we suggest you collect several cotton and several silk, so that you can be prepared with the perfect square for any occasion....

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

The Secret Power of Cufflinks

Apr 01 2016

Many people save their cufflinks for only formal occasions, but if you do that, you’re missing an opportunity to put them to work for you in a variety of situations. Cufflinks are a “hidden” tool you can use to send the right message to those around you. Cufflinks, whether subtle or stand-out, give visual emphasis to every handshake. Whenever you’re looking to make a great impression—at a sales presentation, team meeting, or dinner party—wear cufflinks. These small accessories immediately bring a sense of power and elegance to your ensemble with minimum effort. The wise wear cufflinks to demonstrates mastery over all the elements of their ensemble....

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Principles of the Wallet

Jul 15 2015

Unlike its predecessors, the wallet of today doesn’t need to hold a myriad of tiny family photos, store credit cards, and paper receipts. However, even with all the changes in what people carry with them, wallets are not obsolete—they offer a safe home for your essentials, protecting them from the wear and tear of traveling with you each day. Choosing a Wallet When you’re selecting your next wallet, consider these points: A slim wallet will not create unsightly bulk when carried in a pocket. Top-grain leather gives long-lasting durability with premium visual appeal. Make sure your wallet has only the essential card pockets, as these add layers of cloth and leather. Keep only the essentials in your wallet; carry larger or rarely used items in a briefcase or travel bag. The color of leather is not of primary importance, but you may opt to coordinate your wallet with your belt and shoes. Wearing a Wallet The best place...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

How to Tie a Bow Tie

Nov 10 2014

More gentlemen are finding a bow tie to be a perfect accessory in a variety of occasions. They’re not just for college professors anymore—bow ties are a fantastic option for anyone looking to add a distinctive flair to his wardrobe. There’s a practical side to wearing a bow tie. They never find their way into your dinner or twist themselves around—and they’re easier to tie than you may think. Here’s how to tie a bow tie without losing your cool: Place your tie around your neck, with one end slightly longer than the other. Cross the longer end over the shorter one, then bring that same longer end under the shorter and up, next to your neck. Pull the ends until the knot is comfortably snug. Fold the shorter end in half sideways, so that it looks like a bow and is thinnest in the middle. Bring the end with the fold across to...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Folding Silk Pocket Squares: 3 Simple (& Debonair) Methods

Mar 17 2014

Pocket squares offer a quick, inexpensive way to add flair and color to your suit. For the best effect, learn these easy (and non-fussy) folding methods and you’ll get even more mileage out of that small square of color. Flat Fold Lay your pocket square flat. Fold it in half from left to right, then fold it in half from bottom to top, leaving the bottom edge just short of the top. Tuck in your pocket with a slight angle that points to your shoulder. The Puff Lay your pocket square flat. Pick up the center and let the corners hang down. Flatten as many of the creases as possible so it will lay more smoothly in your pocket. Grasp it around the middle with the opposite hand and gently tuck into your pocket. Single Point Lay your square flat with one corner pointing up. Pull the bottom corner up to meet the top corner. Now...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Carrying Your Work

Dec 31 2012

Whether you're transporting a pile of papers, packing a laptop, or just carrying a few odds and ends that don't fit in a pocket, you'll want to find the style of carrying case that fits your needs. Briefcases: Nothing says enduring, traditional quality like a fine leather briefcase. Look for well-built hardware and a perfect fit between the case and lid. Portfolios: If you need to bring only a few papers or a thin computer, a thin portfolio-type case may work well. Choose one with a sturdy zipper or strap Satchels: For hands-free convenience, consider a satchel bag. Make sure it's rigid enough to hold its shape, or it may end up looking awkward and bulky....

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Choosing Belts: Four Classic Belt Styles

Jul 02 2012

Pairing a belt with clothing can be a tricky business: you want it to look perfect with today's outfit, and yet coordinate with several outfits. Each type of belt has its own built-in style. Here are five classic belt styles for different looks. Canvas- With its relaxed look, the canvas belt works well with casual-wear such as chinos or corduroys. Tans and browns work best with khaki slacks, while darker belts look best over darker trousers. Plaited- While dressier than a canvas belt, plaited leather belts are still on the relaxed end. Wear them with a sport jacket and trousers, or with your more casual suits. Black leather- A black belt with a brass or silver buckle is a perennial favorite for good reason: it can be worn any time you're wearing black shoes, whether you're wearing a fine suit or trousers without a coat. Brown leather- Brown leather belts...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

Accessories & Jewelry

Tie Quality

Jun 04 2012

Ties add more than a splash of color to your work attire - the quality of your tie contributes to your image as well. The next time you're selecting new ties for your wardrobe, make sure they are of long lasting, high-quality workmanship. When measuring tie quality the first consideration is the "hand" or feel of the tie. Check that the fabric feels pleasant to the touch. A scratchy or stiff tie is likely to be of lower-quality fabric than one that simply feels luxuriant. This "touch test" applies equally well to thick and thin fabrics. Next, check the manufacture's tag to see what type of fabric you're holding. Silk or wool ties are generally preferable to synthetics. The natural elasticity of these fibers will stretch better around the neck, leading to a longer useful life in your wardrobe. Once you've approved the feel and fabric of the tie, check the details. Finer...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry