Tools of the Trade: A Workman Must Always Carry His Tools

There are two phrases that ring loud in my ear, no matter where I'm at. Phrase one "Bloom wherever you are planted." No matter my first day of school, College, or entering the workforce. My mother made it abundantly clear that no matter what, I have an opportunity, scratch that it is my Responsibility to be rooted in the task and grow...GROW BIG might I add. Phrase number two, which leads us into the topic of today, which my Father has drilled into me from the beginning of time. "A Workman, Must Always Carry His Tools."  This phrase, although simple, is very powerful. If you're a computer analyst, you need a computer. If you're a Chef you need a recipe. If you're a Portly Gentleman you'll need the proper tools in your toolbox.

Just what exactly are the " Proper Tools" to being a Portly Gentleman? I'm glad you asked... Each Portly Gentleman is different and requires different tools to complete a CLEAN and stylish look. There are a few essentials in this blog that will move you in the right direction. From Braces (Suspenders), Belts, and Scarves, to Cufflinks, Tie Bars and Pocket Squares. These are all tools that should be in a wardrobe arsenal. Let us start with a classic, pocket squares!
 



The GQ Guide to Pocket Squares Photos 

Pocket Squares at times can be a quandary for us heavy set fellows. More than the style of your pocket square, there is how do you fold it, or even to choose one. Cotton or silk material; there is the unabated question... SHOULD I WEAR ONE?  Drum Role please.... UM MAYBE??? Truly Gents, it's going to depend on your body size. If you're a portly gentleman with the typical, one too many beer belly blues, however you  miraculously still have the chest of college decathlete, then a pocket Square is perfect for lifting those eyes away from your prejudging kegger up to your poppin' pocket square. 

Now truth be told, anyone can wear a pocket square but it takes swag, elegance and grace to all out ROCK the pocket square.

  Tools of the trade hinge upon the type of trade you are in. While I would reason that pocket squares may be used in daily fashion choices, life's destinations may decide otherwise.


A second tool that I find exceptionally useful is a belt or depending on the outfit, braces, not to be confused with suspenders.

Um excuse me, Demetrius, what's the big difference between Braces and Suspenders.

I'm glade to share, BRACES typically use leather or cloth straps to attach them to buttons sewn on the inside of the pants waist. SUSPENDERS, on the other hand, can be fastened with metal clips. For many, this marks the distinction between them. Whether your preference is to wear brace, suspenders or to use a belt. Never I repeat Never Wear a BELT and Suspenders/Braces at the same time. This is a fashion DON'T! Please Portly Gents DO NOT make this mistake, it will only appear as though you need extra strength  keeping your pants up. As far as it goes with belts it's easier to keep it simple Black or Brown leather belts will go with most any occasion and outfit.

Staying on topic, will run through a few more quick tools to make sure that you keep them in your tool box. If you're wearing a French Cuff Shirt, just know cufflinks are optional. You still want to make sure the cuff is secured but if you can't find your cufflinks or have one but lost the other here's a PRO TIP: Twist Ties.  

Several other tools to keep in mind are Tie Bars, Socks and  lapel Pins. Check out the recommended sites by clicking HERE and as always

Stay Classy Gentlemen!