Close Shave: Why You Should Switch To A Safety Razor
When King Camp Gillette invented the first safety razor circa 1900, he probably knew he was onto a good thing. But would he have predicted his design – economical and effective – would still rule the world of shaving 120 years later? In a world of 2.0s, we expect constant iterations to blow old models out of the water. That’s not the case here.
Sure, we’ll acknowledge some more recent razor innovations: multi-blades, moisturising strips, exfoliating bars, vibrating handles, self-heating heads or swivelling balls… did we mention the extra blades? Struggling to reinvent the wheel? Well, you can always tinker around the edges.
Given all this, why do more men use a disposable cartridge razor over a safety razor? The invention of the two-part razor and blades model meant more profit for companies, with cheaper handles that could only be used with their blades, and they became ubiquitous. The more recent startup brands essentially offer the same system, but for less.
Upfront costs might make the safety razor look more expensive, however the real cost lies with the blades which means the venerable safety razor is, over time, a much savvier bet.
Why should you switch to a safety razor?
The case for the safety razor has never been greater – there’s the eco-guilt from all that plastic, and the hefty squeeze on our wallets that’s got us giving over-priced refills the side eye.
“Blades are more affordable long term with less plastic waste produced than a cartridge razor,” says Alex Glover, Head of Retail and Training for ADAM Grooming Atelier at Harrods. “Disposable razors are completely un-recyclable. To put this in perspective every single disposable razor you’ve ever used is now sat in landfill,” says Tom Yates, UK Director of Cut Throat Club, which stocks a wide variety of double edge safety razors, shavettes and cut throat razors.
As the default zero waste option, the safety razor is also king of the irritation free shave, doesn’t clog as easily as cartridges, and offers a ritual that a throwaway razor can never match.
What you need to know about safety razors
Safety razors were invented so that men could shave without the assistance of a barber, yet still carry a perception as riskier than cartridge razors. “A traditional safety razor is just as safe as a cartridge razor,” explains Tom. “The worst that can really happen with both razor types is you nick yourself, which is easier to do when you’re less experienced. A safety razor takes a little getting used to but it quickly becomes second nature.”
With varying features, safety razors offer a more custom shave, such as different handle lengths and thicknesses, light to heavier weight finishes, screw in or butterfly head mechanisms and closed or open combs.
Weight or length?
Cross Knurl Safety Razor
“The weight and handle length is more of a personal preference than having an impact on the actual shave,” says Tom. “A longer handle is helpful if using the razor to shave harder to reach areas, so if you’re only using it on your face the handle length doesn’t really matter.
“A more weighty razor tends to be the preference as it has a feeling of quality and means next to no pressure is required when shaving.”
Butterfly head or screw in?
Henson Shaving AL13
“Butterfly razors have a nice mechanism and don’t need to be separated into bits to add a new blade, which can be handy if you tend to be a bit clumsy before your first coffee,” explains Alex. “this type also has a little bit of control over the blade tension which can help with different qualities or thicknesses of stubble.”
“With a screw head razor you change the blade by taking the razor apart. By unscrewing the handle, you take the old blade out and replace with a new razor, then simply screw the parts back together. Both types of razors make it incredibly easy to replace the blades,” says Tom.
Closed comb or open comb?
The comb style dictates the aggressiveness of the shave. “Closed is more common and safer for beginners,” advises Alex.
“The flat bar under the razor provides even tension. Open has a comb style bar which allows closer shaving, so better for safety razor aficionados and those with very dense beards, but can be more tricky in inexperienced hands.”
How to handle a safety razor
Henson Shaving
For the rookie, there’s a few things to consider when getting to grips with a safety razor. In terms of technique, “it’s important to maintain a 30-degree angle against the skin and to avoid putting any additional pressure on the razor, as just the weight of it alone is enough to cut hair,” says Tom.
“Skin tension must be considered. Try and combine stretching your neck with your head movements, and add in side stretches with your free hand,” advises Alex. “Whichever shaving cream you use needs to allow good razor glide, and consider safe approach of the blades in the direction of shaving to minimise the risk of sliding or catching other areas or facial features.
“Never wipe the razor with tissue as there can be sharp protrusions at the sides of the razor head. And take your time. Maybe don’t start your first safety razor shave on a Monday morning. Do it at the weekend when there’s less time pressure.”
Look after your blades
MÜHLE 4 Piece Safety Razor Shaving Set
The more you care for the blades, the more use you can get from each one. “A single blade can probably be used at least twice, especially if just edging a beard,” says Alex. “Each blade also has two sides which further extends the lifespan.
“Ensure your razor is stored in dry conditions, ideally on a stand, to prevent the blade from dulling. And don’t forget to store used blades in a tin. You can get razor sharps tins online and these would need to be disposed of safely.”
How to prepare for a wet shave
The best shaves are all in the preparation, so have everything you need to hand before you begin. “It’s a good idea to shave after a shower and use a pre softening product if your hair is coarse,” Alex recommends.
“Hot towels are ideal but not always practical. Lather should be fresh and wet and warm. Keep an eye on the balance of shaving soap and water – get that wrong and you create problems. The lather texture should slip between your fingers. If bubbles collapse it’s not soapy enough and won’t do its job. If it feels greasy it’s too soapy and will create razor drag.”
If you want to avoid shaving irritation, it pays to prep.
Expert Recommended Safety Razors
Your chin hairs will be in even safer hands when you pick a reliable name. Edwin Jagger, Gillette, Mühle, Merkur, Parker and Henson are some of the best brands in safety razors. “If you’re just starting out then I’d recommend opting for a cheaper safety razor to see if the shaving technique is for you. If it is, then like most of the community, you’ll likely want to upgrade to one of the more established brands,” explains Tom.
“Best thing to do is visit a shop which sells a wide variety of brands and have a hold to feel the weight,” Alex advises. “Like a good pen or a dart, you’ll know when the weight feels right in your hand.”
Henson AL13 Razor
Made in Canada in the same factory that machines satellite components, the Henson AL13 is a truly precision instrument. The Henson head design is notable for two reasons: the blade is fixed at the 30-degree angle; and it extends at precisely 33 microns, the width of the average human hair. This eliminates the work of finding the right angle, so you can be extra confident you’re getting a super-close shave with minimal risk of nicks, and you can flash your personal style with uncommon colour choices such as tan, steel blue and copper.
All of which has garnered this razor 4,551 five star reviews.
Buy now at Henson Shaving
Edwin Jagger DE89 Long DE Safety Razor
A solid choice to suit meatier paws, this hand polished, chrome plated Edwin Jagger razor has a longer, lined handle and is made in Sheffield.
With a closed comb it takes a lighter touch than you might expect. Just take care not to drop it too often, as happy reviewers point out, it’s not entirely indestructible.
Buy now at Amazon
Merkur 34c
With it’s shorter, thicker and knurled handle the Merkur 34c is made from chrome and polished steel. It has an overall heftier feel and feels solid in the hand with a good grip. The head and closed comb screw tightly into the mechanism and the ridged tip at the end gives weight to the balance.
“[The] Merkur brand has been around for over 100 years,” says Tom. “It’s a little more on the premium side and is a common choice with our customers, both beginners and the more experienced shaver.”
Buy now at Amazon
Roche R1
A good starter razor with an interesting finish is the Roche R1 in gun metal grey. This handsome razor has a longer handle than the Merkur, looks pricier than it is and gives good performance.
“This is a cheaper alternative that is also good quality. We’ve had good feedback from this razor and comes in quite a bit cheaper than other brands,” says Tom.
Buy now at Cut Throat Club
ADAM Grooming Atelier Safety Razor
With strong roots in Turkish barbering tradition, the master barbers at ADAM use their own safety razor for all wet shave treatments. This stylish razor has a closed comb and a handle crafted from dark ironwood. Perfectly balanced, it fits snugly into the hand for secure strokes.
Buy now at ADAM Grooming Atelier
Feather AS-D2
Ready to invest? Go for the Feather. “This is a renowned razor in the shaving enthusiast space and gets glowing reviews across the internet. It’s quite an expensive razor so it’s probably not the first choice for someone just starting out due to the high cost,” says Tom.
Made from 100% stainless steel, with a weighted head, the impeccable textured grip is aesthetically pleasing as well as super practical.
Buy now at Amazon
Mühle R41 Chrome DE Razor
Generally, but not exclusively for the more experienced shaver, the Mühle R41 uses a screw in mechanism. The open comb gives a more aggressive shave which works well for thicker, coarser stubble types and stronger beard growth, sensitive skin and those who don’t shave every day.
The weight of the head does most of the work for you, so approach with a lighter touch.
Buy now at Muhle
King C. Gillette Double Edge Razor
Attainable on most budgets, the King C. Gillette safety razor harks back to the original model. It comes with Gillette’s own blades, but you can replace them with any brand.
Using a screw in mechanism, this platinum coated, stainless steel razor is great for edging, sideburns and beard lines. It feels nice and weighty, and gives a close, comfortable shave. A longer grip would be a welcome addition.
Buy now at Amazon
The post Close Shave: Why You Should Switch To A Safety Razor appeared first on Ape to Gentleman.
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By: Jessica Punter
Title: Close Shave: Why You Should Switch To A Safety Razor
Sourced From: www.apetogentleman.com/switch-safety-razor/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=switch-safety-razor
Published Date: Wed, 08 Mar 2023 09:00:36 +0000
Grooming
The Complete Guide to Growing a Beard at Every Age
Beards are not just a trend; they’re a journey. A journey that evolves with you as you age. The process of growing a beard is a fascinating blend of genetics, hormonal changes, lifestyle and personal grooming habits. Each age brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. In this comprehensive beard growing guide, we’ll explain what to expect and explore how to grow and maintain a healthy beard at any age, backed by scientific insights and grooming expertise.
Before we dive into age specifics, it is important to understand the fundamental drivers of beard growth. Some of these we can control, others we cannot.
Genetics and Beard Growth
Genetics determine the number of hair follicles a person has, including those for beard hair. The density and distribution of hair follicles are largely determined by genetic factors inherited from your parents. These factors influence not only the number of follicles but also their responsiveness to hormones like testosterone, which affects beard growth and density. Thus, the ability to grow a thick or full beard is significantly influenced by one’s genetic makeup.
Hormones and Beard Growth
Testosterone, along with its derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT), plays a pivotal role in beard growth. These hormones are responsible for kickstarting the beard growth process during puberty and maintaining it throughout life. Testosterone stimulates the hair follicles, transforming the soft, fine vellus hair into the coarser, darker terminal hair that forms the beard.
DHT, in particular, is critical for initiating and maintaining facial hair growth. However, the sensitivity of hair follicles to these hormones varies among individuals, explaining why some men grow thicker beards than others. It’s a complex interplay between genetics, hormone levels, and the body’s response to these hormones that ultimately determines the characteristics of your beard. This is why some guys with “low” testosterone can still grow amazingly thick and full beards and some men with “high” testosterone struggle.
Diet, Exercise, and Their Impact on Beard Growth
A balanced diet rich in vitamins (like Biotin, Vitamins A, C, E), minerals (such as Zinc and Iron), and protein plays a crucial role in promoting healthy hair growth, including your beard. Foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, lean meats, and dairy products are excellent for supporting hair health.
Regular exercise boosts overall health and improves blood circulation, which can positively affect hair growth by delivering more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. Additionally, weight training can increase your testosterone levels which positively impact beard growth.
Conversely, certain factors can negatively impact beard growth. Poor nutrition, stress, lack of sleep, and smoking can all inhibit beard growth. A high stress lifestyle can particularly take a toll, as stress hormones like cortisol can adversely affect testosterone levels and, consequently, beard growth. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle are key to promoting not just a healthy beard, but overall well-being.
Now that we have the fundamentals, let’s dive into the age specifics!
Beard Growth in Teens and Early 20s
It seems like there is always one guy in high school with a full beard that would make any man envious. Just like that one 7’ tall guy at school, this is not the norm! So if you are in high school and struggling to grow your face fur, there is not need to worry. Your beard is just getting started. This ramp up stage typically lasts until your early 20s.
During these years, genetics play a pivotal role in determining how your beard will develop. You might notice patchy areas or uneven growth, which is entirely normal. The key during this phase is patience.
Your body is still adjusting to the changes brought on by puberty, including fluctuating hormone levels. To support your beard’s development, focus on a healthy lifestyle. A diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can boost hair growth. And while a healthy lifestyle promotes better hair growth, it won’t override genetic factors.
Proper skin care is crucial. Gentle cleansing and moisturizing can provide a healthy foundation for hair growth. Avoid over-trimming or using harsh products that could damage your developing beard.
At this stage you likely won’t need a beard oil but should definitely be using a beard friendly moisturizer like HYDRATE that supports healthy skin and beard growth without clogging your pores…you’ve got enough acne to worry about.
It is also important to use a pH balanced cleanser like CLEANSE that properly cleans your face without over-drying which can lead to a vicious cycle of excess oil production and breakouts.
Beard Growth in Mid-20s to 30s
Your mid-20s to 30s are often considered the golden years for beard growth. As a matter of fact, most men don’t hit peak beard growth until their early to mid thirties. This is when testosterone, the hormone primarily responsible for facial hair growth, peaks. You’ll likely notice your beard becoming fuller and more robust.
This is the perfect time to experiment with different beard styles and find what suits you best.
Establish a beard care routine that includes regular washing, exfoliating, and and moisturizing to keep your beard and the underlying skin in top condition. We’ve created a skincare line specifically designed for men with facial hair that takes all the guess work out of your grooming routine. You can learn more about our beard care products here.
Grooming tools like a good quality trimmer, a boar bristle brush, and scissors are essential for maintaining the shape and health of your beard.
Beard Growth in the 40s and 50s
As you enter your 40s and 50s, you might start noticing some changes. Your beard may grow slower, and gray hairs may begin to appear. This is due to a natural decrease in testosterone levels and the aging process affecting your hair follicles.
Adjust your beard care routine to these new changes. If you experience thinning, consider using gentle supplements designed to support hair health.
Embracing the gray can add a distinguished look to your beard. If it is not your vibe, there are beard dyes available. And while there are no pills or supplements proven to reverse the graying process, there have been several scientific breakthroughs that will hopefully lead to products that actually reverse graying.
If you’re not already using a beard oil in addition to your moisturizer, now is the time to add it in. This is because your body will start producing less sebum (oil) which leads to dry, coarser facial hair.
Beard Growth in the 60s and Beyond
In your 60s and beyond, the rate of beard growth might slow down further, and the texture can change, becoming coarser or wirier. This is partly due to decreased sebum production, leading to drier hair, and changes in the hair follicles themselves.
At this stage, comfort and health should be your priority. Opt for softer grooming tools to accommodate more sensitive skin. Keeping your beard and skin hydrated is more important than ever. If you prefer to keep the grays at bay, choose gentle, natural coloring products that are kind to your skin and hair.
Growing a beard is a personal and evolving journey unique to every man. From the first signs of facial hair in your teens to the distinguished look of a mature beard, each phase of growth brings its own challenges and rewards. Embrace each stage, care for your beard with patience and dedication, and enjoy the transformation. Remember, your beard is a reflection of your life’s journey – wear it proudly!
HOME
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By: Nicholas Karnaze
Title: The Complete Guide to Growing a Beard at Every Age
Sourced From: www.stubbleandstache.com/blogs/blog/the-complete-guide-to-growing-a-beard-at-every-age
Published Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2023 22:09:27 +0000
Did you miss our previous article…
https://mansbrand.com/horizontal-vs-vertical-stripes-fact-and-fiction-about-striped-clothing/
Grooming
Horizontal vs. Vertical Stripes | Fact and Fiction About Striped Clothing
Q: I’ve heard in the past that horizontal stripes make someone look wider and vertical stripes make them look taller and thinner. But I keep seeing studies going back and forth whether this is true. Who do I believe?
A: Three decades or so of research on this question have yielded inconsistent results. A more recent study seems to show that this is because the answer is actually more complicated than we all would like.
BACKGROUND:
There’s a famous optical illusion called the Helmholtz Illusion, discovered by a man named Helmholtz in 1867.
- Which of these squares looks thinner and taller than the other? Most people would say the left square looks thinner and taller.
But that seems to go against the conventional wisdom that horizontal stripes make a person look fatter/wider. Wouldn’t it be the other way around?
- A number of studies have tested this effect and have found conflicting results. Why would fashion work differently than this famous optical illusion?
- Three Japanese researchers noticed some interesting patterns in the previous research. They all presented pictures of models wearing either horizontal or vertical stripes. However, they weren’t using the same models: some were fat and some were thin. Additionally, they were all shaded differently. And finally, they were presented in various orders.
- These researchers decided there were multiple factors at play here and published a study testing their hypotheses in the journal i-Perception in 2013.
- The researchers did a number of studies testing the possibility that three factors were influencing all the previous research on this subject that has been conducted:
Whether the model is slim or fat.
Whether previous judgments of other people influence later judgments of different people.
Whether judgments are so varied between people that the whole thing isn’t very useful.
EXPERIMENT:
- 31 undergraduate students (63% female) were recruited for the study.
- The students were placed in a chair and put their chin in a chin rest that ensured that their eyes were a certain distance from a computer screen.
- A number of computer images were flashed in the screens depicting people wearing clothing with either horizontal or vertical lines.
- The size of the images was digitally altered to be either slim or wide.
- Two figures were shown side-by-side for 1.8 seconds. One had horizontal stripes and the other had vertical stripes. Then, participants were to judge which of the images were fatter and press a key indicating their response.
- This method was done 20 times with slim figures and 20 times with fat figures, or with the fat figures first and then the slim figures.
RESULTS:
So what do you think – is conventional wisdom true for fashion, or is the Helmholtz Illusion the main driving factor?
- The conventional wisdom was not found to be true. Horizontal stripes don’t make people look fatter and vertical stripes don’t make people look slimmer and taller.
- BUT sometimes the stripes didn’t really make a difference at all.
Which factors influenced whether the Helmholtz Illusion held true for the figures?
- Size of the Model:
- YES. Slender models look even thinner with horizontal stripes (supporting the Helmholtz Illusion and going against conventional wisdom).
- But this effect was not as strong for the wide models – for wide models, the type of stripe BY ITSELF actually didn’t have as much of an influence at all.
- Order of Presentation:
- YES. Here’s an interesting result. When SLENDER models were shown first to people, and then wide models, the Helmholtz Illusion was strongest of all (Horizontal stripes make people seem taller and slenderer) for both groups. This applied to both fat and slender images. Again, conventional wisdom does not seem to hold.
- When the wide models were shown first, the type of stripe did NOT seem to matter for anyone.
- Variance Between Observers:
- YES. Significantly, the researchers found that, even though there were noticeable results when they compared averages, there was a wide variety of results across all participants.
DISCUSSION:
So how do we interpret the results of this experiment? Here are some important conclusions that can be inferred from the results:
In no case was the conventional wisdom found to be true. Horizontal stripes did not, on the whole, make someone look wider. Vertical stripes, on the whole, did not make a person look taller and slimmer.
In fact, where there was an effect, it supported the opposite conclusion.
Horizontal stripes made slender people look taller and slenderer.
On the fatter models, the kinds of stripes made much less difference.
People’s judgments seemed to be more influenced by what models they had previously judged.
For some reason (that the authors did not fully understand) when participants judged a large group of slender people first, the Helmholtz Illusion got very strong.
What does this mean for laypeople?
It means that when we view a person, we are mentally comparing them to people we have already seen.
Here’s the (very strange but scientifically supported) bottom line:
- If a fat person is going to an event full of thin people, horizontal stripes may actually make them look slimmer and taller.
Why? The researchers weren’t sure.
Finally, there was another big take-away:
There was so much variation between participants in the study that the researchers concluded that stripes may not really, on the whole, make that huge of a difference.
This would explain why all the previous studies since the ‘80s were inconsistent.
This makes it seem like, unless you want to make a calculated, complex decision based on the results in this study, you might make your fashion selections based on other factors instead of whether the stripes are horizontal or vertical.
Whenever science doesn’t seem to go one way or the other, I say trust your own personal judgment.
REFERENCE
Ashida, H., Kuraguchi, K., & Miyoshi, K. (2013). Helmholtz illusion makes you look fit only when you are already fit, but not for everyone. I-Perception, 4, 347-351. Link: https://ipe.sagepub.com/content/4/5/347.short
The post Horizontal vs. Vertical Stripes | Fact and Fiction About Striped Clothing appeared first on Real Men Real Style.
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By: Antonio Centeno
Title: Horizontal vs. Vertical Stripes | Fact and Fiction About Striped Clothing
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/horizontal-vs-vertical-stripes/
Published Date: Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:29:48 +0000
Grooming
Harvey Specter Style
There’s a lot to envy about Harvey Specter.
The outrageous confidence, the power, the prestige…
The sharp comebacks… and the ultra-sharp suits.
Harvey dresses like he does everything else – strategically.
“People respond to how we’re dressed…
So like it or not, this is what you have to do.”
Everyone’s appearance sends a message – and everything about his says loud and clear:
“I’m not about caring, I’m about winning.”
Of course, he does care – he cares about Mike, he cares about Donna, and he cares about his personal code of ethics. But that’s not the message he chooses to send. There’s nothing soft about his look.
”If they think you care, they’ll walk all over you.”
Read on to find out how to get the sharp and powerful Harvey Specter look.
Okay, let’s break this down. What are the main elements of Harvey Specter’s style strategy? Number 1, of course, has to be…
1. The Suit
Harvey is virtually ALWAYS seen in an expensive suit. Gabriel Macht, who plays him, says: ‘He’s a man of style… we really wanted him to be this man’s man. A real masculine, strong, Steve McQueen-type of guy who could pull off a three piece suit and make it a modern thing, wide lapels and all.’
How does Harvey pull off his suits? Using two things you can learn right here at RMRS – confidence and the style pyramid of fit, fabric, and function. The fit of his suits is always on point, which takes extra effort for men with a tall body type (Gabriel Macht is 6’0.5?/183cm.) The fabrics are top quality – early season suits were mostly dark high twisted worsted wool, but recently he’s wearing silk-wool blends that add an unusual shine.
And as for function (appropriateness for the situation)? As a workaholic hotshot lawyer, Harvey lives for high-powered formal situations where a suit is required. He doesn’t suit up when it’s outright inappropriate… which means we see him in something else a good 2% of the time.
Harvey has a medium contrast complexion and dresses well for it, most often pairing gray, charcoal, and occasionally navy or black suits with white shirts. Gray and white form a sleek, classic combination that shows he means serious business.
Where a man with just one or two suits might stick to solid colors and maybe a pinstripe, Harvey has a wardrobe of different suit patterns including sharkskin, Prince of Wales checks and stripes – he prefers the bolder rope stripes to pinstripes (pinstripes are just one thread wide, rope stripes are several.)
He wears a slim fit with high armholes and strong structured shoulders – highlighting his athletic physique. Wide peak lapels give him a powerful broad-shouldered ‘v’ shape – the key to wearing them like he does is to get the gorge of the lapel not too high and not too low. If it peaks out over your shoulders, it is too much, and if it is too low it looks too old school.
Peak lapels are more formal – he sets himself apart by wearing them (except sometimes when he’s in a three-piece suit, which is more formal anyway). Because they’re more common on a tuxedo, on a business suit they suggest authority and/or arrogance.
Taking a deeper dive into suit jacket details, the big flap pockets on his jackets are a little unusual with peak lapels; jetted pockets are more normal.
You might expect to see a three-button suit on him because he’s a ‘buttoned up’ character and it would suit his tall athletic build. However, Harvey knows TWO buttons are the best choice for a single-breasted suit with peak lapels. It’s a classic elegant look that’s been around since the 1920s – two buttons leave room for longer lapels and accentuate them more.
His jacket cuffs, on the other hand, are as formal and buttoned-up as they get, with four buttons on each. The more buttons on the cuffs, the more formal the jacket, with single buttons denoting a sports jacket.
Pants are slim but not tight, with an ironed crease down the front, no pleats, no break and usually no cuffs. This suits his strict character – very neat and no fuss.
2. The Shirts
Harvey mostly wears plain white dress shirts – again, the most formal color. He also favors pale blue, and occasionally a gingham or stripe. The tall semi-spread collars accentuate his ‘v’ shape.
His shirts are very well fitted and always let a sliver of cuff show outside his jacket. He usually prefers simple classic button cuffs, but occasionally goes for the fancier French cuffs and cufflinks.
3. The Accessories
“Get your skinny tie out of my face and get to work.”
Harvey’s ties are always silk – navy grenadine is a favorite. Dark purple and black are other favorite colors. His look is VERY monochrome – it’s part of the character.
His ties vary between 3 and 3.5 inches wide, a classic width. He doesn’t wear anything too young and trendy. His wider ties and lapels contrast with Mike’s skinny ones and make him look more powerful.
He favors the full Windsor tie knot – a powerful, formal, ‘serious business’ knot that marks him out as a guy who knows how to dress and looks great with his wide lapels and semi-spread collars.
He’s rarely seen without a dimple in his ties, showing he knows how to dress and pays attention to the details. The one time his tie dimple is off center, Donna notices something is wrong!
With a tux he wears a diamond-pointed bow tie instead of the normal shape. That’s quirkier than you’d expect from him, but it’s like the peak lapels – sharp and pointed – which suits his aggressive and incisive mind.
He always wears a pocket square in a square Presidential fold, usually white or gray. A white pocket square in a square fold is as formal as they come and suits his businesslike, no-nonsense image. You won’t see him with a flower in his lapel – this is a hard and sharp look, nothing soft or romantic on this determinedly unemotional guy. To finish the look, he chooses simple and bold metal cufflinks.
Earlier in the series, Harvey was seen wearing a bold statement chronograph watch with a leather strap – a status symbol meant to mark him out as a successful man. The watch has since disappeared because of the technical constraints of filming for TV. Gabriel Macht says:
‘As great as the show is, it really doesn’t lend itself to detail. Other than some necklaces you might see Jessica wear, you don’t see any jewelry.’
#4. The Shoes
Because of the nature of TV, you don’t often see Harvey’s shoes, and they’re not a big focus of his costume. He’s been seen in black cap-toed derbies, and black or brown oxford brogues – all classic smart dress shoes, although brown full brogues are a bit more casual than you’d expect from him.
5. Casual Clothing
Aside from the suit, he’s been seen in a classic black button-down shirt; well-fitting jeans; a white or heathered grey henley; beige chinos; and a navy v-neck and coat over a white shirt. (Not a casual shirt, by the way, just a dress shirt like he’d wear to the office – showing his wardrobe, like his life, is mostly work.)
6. The Hair
In 2011 Gabriel Macht said of Harvey’s original slicked-back do, “It’s supposed to be the modern version of the old-style man’s haircut, sort of like Gregory Peck or Cary Grant.”
But as more sides of the character have emerged his hair has evolved- now it’s more vertical, but still strict and structured, featuring a tight side-part (on the left side) with a subtle pompadour in the front.
To get this look, you need the sides cut short (not buzzed) and some length on top.
Run a strong hold gel (or pomade for less shine) through towel dried hair then blow dry on a low heat while combing the front upwards. The longer you blow-dry the front, the more volume you’ll get.
Then apply more gel and use your comb to cut the side-part and sculpt the front hair up and back. Fix with a little hairspray.
If you prefer his earlier slicked-back style, you want a similar cut with squared-off sideburns and a square neckline and shaved part. Again, apply some gel to your hair before blow-drying, then comb it back with pomade and set with hairspray.
I don’t recommend that every man dresses exactly like Harvey Specter. It’s a very stark monochromatic look, and for guys with more fun and warmth in their personalities, it might not suit you. You can emulate his confidence without exactly copying his look.
What I DO recommend is that you copy Harvey Specter in dressing strategically. Think about what YOUR message is, and make sure every stitch on your body and every hair on your head communicates it.
‘Get it through your head – first impressions last.’
The post Harvey Specter Style appeared first on Real Men Real Style.
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By: Antonio Centeno
Title: Harvey Specter Style
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/harvey-specter/
Published Date: Mon, 04 Dec 2023 18:04:09 +0000
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