The unwritten rules of menswear

Unwritten rules - TGJ.01

Whilst we are avid advocates of the idea that rules are meant to be broken, there are some things in menswear that simply should never be done. Men’s style is steeped in tradition and with that tradition comes a set of values and ideals that have been imprinted in the minds of the sartorially aware – and those that know, know.

MATCH YOUR LEATHERS , Traditionally, your shoes, bags, belts, wallets and watch straps should be finished in a matching leather. Mixing black with brown is difficult to pull off.

NEVER WEAR SQUARE-TOED SHOES, This is a big no. Square-toed shoes should be banished. Forever.

YOUR TIE SHOULD BE DARKER THAN SHIRT, This allows the tie to be the focal point. You don’t want to look like you’re in a 90s boy band.

BUTTON THE RIGHT BUTTONS, The bottom button of your suit jacket and waistcoat should always remain undone, as when it’s buttoned it restricts your movement and doesn’t allow the jacket to move freely.

ALWAYS UNBUTTON YOUR SUIT WHEN YOU SIT DOWN, Related to the above. You should also do it back up when you stand.

TIE KNOT, Whether you go for a Windsor, half Windsor or four-in-hand, traditionally your tie knot should always be done up tight enough so that the collar behind it doesn’t show.

FIT IS KEY, It doesn’t matter if you splurged £4000 on designer clothing, if it doesn’t fit it simply won’t look good.

SOCK LENGTH, Your socks should be pulled up high enough so that when you sit down there is no leg showing.

YOUR POCKET SQUARE SHOULDN’T MATCH YOUR TIE, This will look like you’ve tried way too hard. Don’t do it.

YOUR TIE SHOULD TOUCH WAISTBAND, Any longer will look gangly. Any shorter and you’ll look like you’re back in school.

Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?

Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.

Click here to find out more