Don Cornelius September 27, 1936 – February 1, 2012

During my college years, the Soul Train line would inevitably break out during a party. No collective group ever got together and planned it, it just spontaneously erupted, and everyone in the surrounding area fell into step. Don Cornelius was a creative genius that brought a significant slice of African American culture into the homes of the masses for 35 years. I won't ramble today. All I have to say is: rest in peace Don Cornelius.

Father Time

Esquire

So, a few weeks ago I discovered a lone gray whisker discreetly hidden away in my beard. Over the past few months, I have allowed my beard to thicken, so I am tethered to a routine maintenance of combing and trimming. During one such grooming regimen, I spotted the aging culprit in the mirror. Initially, I surmised that perhaps the light was hitting a stray hair at an odd angle that afforded the appearance of a white strand. I was incorrect. Hastily, I retrieved my wife's tweezers and carefully extracted the rogue rascal from its follicle on site-good riddance. Nevertheless, as my growth progressively increased, I once again spied the gray fellow in the mirror. This time, however, I did not desperately ransack my home looking for those tweezers. It is what it is. I am blessed to have lived a long enough life to witness the birth of a few gray hairs. I welcome this new phase in my life. Besides, I heard a rumor that a salt & pepper beard on a man of color is quite handsome and dignified. I can dig that.

Better Luck Next Time

Well, my bid to secure the senior procurement specialist position at my job has come to an unfortunate, disappointing end. They have decided to go in another direction to fill the opening. Well, I have heard that before. Nevertheless, my job believes in promoting from within and shaping career paths. Therefore, I was granted the opportunity to hear feedback from my interview, and I was presented with guidance to better myself for future opportunities. So, what do I need to do? Well, management would like for me to demonstrate more leadership skills in the workplace. My work ethic is perfectly fine, but they would like to see if I can effectively lead and offer guidance to new hires here in the office. They would also like for me to take the lead over an office committee or group if it arises in the future. All in all, I am pleased with my effort. I certainly have the tools to perform the job well. Now, I just have to prove that I can effectively utilize those tools as a leader. My objective clear. And I am ready for the challenge!

UPTOWN Gentleman: Knock Your Socks Off

All things considered, there are but a few select elements on a gentleman’s person that are hidden away from the public eye. His undershirt. His underwear. His socks. Now, under normal circumstances, the undershirt and underwear are totally obscured from view, or at least they should be. A gentleman’s socks, well, are definitely subject to being unexpectedly fully-exposed. Trust this: Eventually, you will visit a household that mandates the removal of your shoes. Don’t be the guy with the socks that are dingy, full of holes, or — God forbid — both. And yes, we have discussed socks recently, but perhaps the point requires further conversation. Spring is ahead and stores are already stocking their inventory with bright, vibrant offerings. This is what you should be wearing in the months ahead.

Check out the remainder of my article over at UPTOWN Magazine HERE. Again, I just want to thank everyone for checking in and reading my articles. I have been writing for UPTOWN for nearly a year now. Your support is truly appreciated. Thank you again.

Jack Black Dry Erase Ultra-Calming Face Cream

Jack Black Dry Erase Ultra-Calming Face Cream

For this gentleman, winter weather can be brutally unforgiving on the skin. Unfortunately, I have been blessed with the skin condition eczema. Thus, low humidity and cold temperatures only work to exacerbate the condition. Thankfully, my skin only becomes irritated on the lower extremities, but my face still suffers from bothersome dryness. Well, and right on time, I was able to receive a sample of a new moisturizer offered by Jack Black. Their new Dry Erase Ultra-Calming Face Cream is just what is needed during these winter months. I am not ashamed to admit, but it was not long ago that I used regular lotion for my body and face.

However, the face can be sensitive, so I decided to dive into the world of moisturizers. Some moisturizers can be watery with an overpowering scent. The Jack Black offering has a light, clean scent with a nice creamy texture that readily absorbs into the skin. Some products require multiple applications, but this moisturizer only required maybe a nickel sized amount to do the job. It restores flexibility to my skin, and as an added bonus: it softens my beard. Take note, it is slightly expensive, but a little does travel a long way. So, resist the urge of squeezing ridiculous amounts into your palm. This is definitely a moisturizer that I will be adding to my regular grooming regimen. Check it out if you can.

Hydrate: NEW Dry Erase Ultra-Calming Face Cream

A powerful, non-greasy moisturizer, the Dry Erase Ultra-Calming Face Cream fights fine lines, flakiness and tightness, leaving skin deeply hydrated, visibly firmer and radiant. The unique formula mimics the structure of skin lipids, trapping in moisture and aiding in the repair and replenishment of the skin’s natural protective barrier. Fortified with skin comforters from nature and science, it calms irritated skin and helps reduce redness.

Price: $38.00 (2.5 oz)

Gent Hints- The Garment Drying Rack

There are some items in a gentleman's wardrobe that should never see the inside of a Whirlpool clothes dryer. Never. An extra large magically transforms into an extra medium. Socks mysteriously disappear as if it ventured into the Bermuda Triangle. Or, socks emerge battered and misshapen after tossing around for 30 minutes in extreme heat. Do yourself a favor and invest in a quality garment rack. Yes, THAT garment rack, the one you see your lady hanging her brassieres and other delicate undergarments from. She has already figured out certain clothing should steer clear of the clothes dryer.

I use the garment rack to primarily hang my socks to dry. Because, and let us really think about this, a gentleman's socks does not require the same drying time as heavier garments. Socks are lightweight. Yet, most men toss the entire laundry load in, and then leave their socks to be baked alive. Garment racks are really inexpensive, a gentleman can purchase quality one at Target for as little as $25.00. You can even lay out your sweaters if you desire-cotton sweaters that is. I sincerely hope you're not tossing your wool sweaters in the wash. If you are...we may have to do a Gent Hints on washing.

Standard Recommendations- Forsyth of Canada Necktie

Contrary to widespread belief, neckties are not required to be terribly expensive, nor are they mandated to be a popular brand name. Many quality neckties fly silently under the radar as they are overshadowed by larger companies with better advertising and wider distribution. On a routine trip to Von Maur, I was lucky enough to discover Forsyth of Canada neckties. Now, I am not a devout follower of any particular brand that offers neckties, as I am willing to give any company a legitimate chance. On that day, the Forsyth neckties displayed were pretty impressive. Beautiful patterns-a gentleman requires options. Great weight and thickness-perfect for attaining that coveted tie dimple. Soft, yet incredibly resilient woolen texture-necessary for withstanding the rigors of knotting. And the price was respectable, retailing at approximately $60.00, it was a fair asking price for a quality wool necktie. Nevertheless, I patiently waited for a price reduction that was inevitable, so I was able to score a good deal. Forsyth of Canada is definitely a necktie that I will be checking for in the future. Give them a shot if you ever come across any.

Style & Substance- The Ike Behar Wool Pheasant Necktie

Yes, those are my neckties. And yes, I am currently breaking a rule of style for myself. Not too long ago, I vowed that I would never wear a necktie with an animal motif. It just did not seem like my style. No way was I going to drop some serious coin on a necktie emblazoned with stampeding elephants. Nevertheless, my stance softened when I saw a collection of Ike Behar neckties quietly resting on a display table at Von Maur. If I were going to take a chance on an animal motif, this would be the perfect opportunity. Eventually, I knew I would be able to score a super deal. How did I know? Well, I know my area pretty well. I knew most gentlemen around these parts would possess the same apprehensions I had concerning neckties with a flock of pheasants. Secondly, a majority of gentlemen here only purchase neckties of the silk variety. As good fortune would have it, the prices for these neckties dropped around the same time as the local temperatures did. Therefore, I was able to scoop up a pair for a cool $22.00 each. One blue. One olive. My wife really isn't a fan, but we'll see after I marry them to the right suit, dress shirt, and pocket square. Here are few pictures below.

UPTOWN Gentleman: Guide To The Pocket Square

A gentleman’s studied approach to dressing well could be considered by some to be a form of elegant art. And if so considered, the presumed dapper gentleman should fancy himself an artist. And as an artist, it is crucial he utilize every tool at his disposal to render a visual that is both impeccable and stunning. Men’s suits, shoes and shirts are always granted favorable attention, but minute sartorial details are sometimes sorely missed. One of those details often left behind is the gentleman’s pocket square. That changes today. Here are the only pocket squares you will ever need in your arsenal. Read on at UPTOWN Magazine for the rest!

Dare To Have A Dream...Make It Reality

Style & Substance- The Armoury

The well-dressed gentleman should never be fearful of coordinating unlikely color companions. To be sure, experimentation with various colors in one's wardrobe is loaded with potential risk. Nevertheless, with the proper execution, the resulting presentation can be a wonderful display of a sophisticated touch. Nothing communicates finesse more than a harmonious arrangement of gorgeous hues. For example, the fine gentleman over at The Armoury were kind enough to post an absolutely killer combination of a dusty teal necktie and somber pink dress shirt. Set against the backdrop of a sweet heather gray suit, this is simply a beautiful ensemble. Seriously, this picture had a brother feverishly searching his local mall for a necktie that was similar. Unfortunately, the search continues. No worries, I have plenty of preexisting color options in my closet already, all primed to be coordinated with wicked aplomb. And with the gentlemen at The Armoury providing the visual inspiration, I can't go wrong. Neither should you.

Style & Substance- Armstrong & Wilson Pocket Square

Armstrong and Wilson

Always on the lookout for some jazzy pocket squares to add to the collection, I spotted these fantastic pocket companions a few months ago. However, I have been grossly negligent in performing my blogging duties, and I have yet to highlight these dynamic pocket squares properly. Established in 2009 by Esquire's "Best Dressed Real Man In America" finalists Ontario Armstrong and Clifton Wilson, the duo have reinvented the classic pocket square with an array of funky pattern & color-along with a signature button detail. A gentleman will definitely garner plenty of attention when accessorizing his suit with one of these beauties. Now, this type of unique charm is not cheap, so expect to drop anywhere from $55.00 to $110.00 per square. Fabric options include linen, cotton, wool/cashmere, and cashmere. Do yourself a favor, go check out Armstrong & Wilson to view the collection. You won't regret it.