Too often, the 21st century construction of masculinity is just a little bit too alien. We live in a world where you can communicate with someone half the world away, carry thousands of songs with you on a tiny device and dress in the same luxurious garments as our modern idols and celebrities. Despite these advancements, men caring about their image and appearance is still questionable; a little “off”. It’s something that society sets in stark contrast to our ideas of the quintessential English gent. Films and literature have told us that all women really need is a muscle-bound hero, or a devoted simpleton.
Now, I’m not about to break into a feminist deconstruction of The Godfather (despite its alpha-male dominated hierarchy) or The Notebook for giving women everywhere elevated hopes of menfolk (we’re not building you a house, just accept it and move on), but these images aren’t reality.
But this doesn’t mean, men, that we can’t strive for better. Of course, you’re not going to turn into Daniel Craig or Brad Pitt overnight – and I for one have already accepted the fact I’ll never be on Made in Chelsea, but that’s Caggie’s loss. There are still little ways we can embrace and cultivate a new appearance, Chaps, so follow this simple man-ifesto to switch into a different gear this new year…
The Smell of Success
If you’re a member of the countless legions of men who opt for a single everyday scent, then perhaps it’s time to stand out. That old bottle, a well-thought Christmas present from a kindly relative some years ago, has to fade into the background. Replacing it should never be an option: aftershave lasts for such a length of time that settling into a groove can mean reeking of the same unfortunate smell for years at a time. To go forward, sometimes you have to take a little step back.
Bang by Mark Jacobs looks like an aesthetic wonder from 2112, but the aroma is anything but futuristic; it’s a throwback to the age of musky leather and tobacco. Imagine your dad chopping wood for the fire whilst fending off the bears. IN CANADA, that’s the level of proto-masculine musk we’re talking here.
Of course, remember to mix things up a little, change your scent daily. One for night and one for the day no longer fits the modern world, so think sensibly and sensually.
If blood, sweat and tears in a bottle isn’t really your thing, then consider Jean Paul Gaultier’s new Kokorico; it’s made a splash in the perfume world, so splash some on. Cocoa beans (bear with me on this) combine with fig leaves (keep bearing…) and the crisp freshness of sandalwood to deliver a powerful hit of manliness.
Cut Above the Rest
The barnet, the locks and the birds nest – there are almost as many names for the fun follicles on your head as there are styles.
The days may be short, but your hair definately shouldn’t be. Opt for the oxymoronic ‘controlled chaos’ and have your hair cut with a choppy fringe and side wings, a throw back to Britpop aesthetics and relaxed days this winter.
If you fancy going for something a little more extreme, head to your banterous barber and ask for shortest back and sides, leaving it markably longer on top. For all your hairdressing needs, I can only send you to Cads, near the Blue Bicycle. Friendly staff and a modern masculinity create the perfect experience. Don’t worry if you don’t like the look at first, it’ll really grow on you.
Fashion a Gentleman
Twenty-twelve is the year to invent, reinvent, embrace and disregard. Those wardrobe staples that were so integral to you last year may need to be reconsidered. Change those mustard chinos, now found on man in the world, for some dark red cords. Not only does it smarten and sharpen the look, but getting colour into your wardrobe will help you sail through the awkward winter-spring transition.
Update your collection of shirts and tshirts. Now, I realise that checks aren’t leaving the world of gents’ fashion any time soon, but that doesn’t mean you can’t shake it up a bit. Opt for this Fred Perry piece buttoned up to the top to really stand out from the checked crowd.
Just follow these three simple sartorial steps to climb up the lad-der of new age manliness.