Introducing Archibald J. McNeil

Friends, lend me your ears.  

While I’ve been neglectful of my commitment here, it has been for a worthy cause.  The Modern Traditionalist and I have established an enterprise, Archibald J. McNeil.

Archibald J. McNeil is a portal to a world of classically elegant style and grace.  Here we offer appurtenances for maverick gentlemen.  This is not about mere fashion.  This is about life lived well.  Our cuff links are hand made in the United States by a skilled metalsmith of the finest materials.  We ensure each item meets our exacting standards in the humble hope they will satisfy you.  

Our plan is to expand beyond cuff links as soon as possible, but please take a gander, tell us what you think.  Oh, and if you feel so inclined, pass along the good word.  

Happy perusing. www.archibaldjmcneil.com

BTG

Liberty or Death

I wish you a glorious annual celebration of the Declaration of Independence!  We have liberty, but let us remember with all the due that which was wagered in the cause of liberty: a man's sacred honor.

"We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall hang separately"
~Ben Franklin

Let us also keep in mind that this is the day two of the most famous patriots passed fifty years after having signed the hollowed document.  Jefferson and Adams both died on July 4, 1826.  An occasion for sober minds this may seem, we should by all means imbibe grog and be thankful for our sacrosanct liberty.  The Modern Traditionalist and I created a beverage to commemorate this noble day in honor of the Father of these States United, George Washington.  The concoction is named for his solemnity of manner, the Gravitas.  More on that later...now back to celebrating.

BTG

Sartorial Icon: Thomas Crown

One of my favorite films is the Thomas Crown Affair (yes, the 1968 version).  The recent '90s version is entertaining, but the original has far more character, which is often the case in my opinion.  The risqué scene where Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway seduce each other over chess is far more entertaining than the ubiquitous state of undress one confronts in today's films.

What do you get for learn from the man who has everything?  Perhaps, we learn a look is more about an attitude of confidence than mere attire.  His confidence comes through whether sporting a bespoke suit or ball cap.

Interesting waistcoat.

 Pink shirt, Persols & Pin in the collar.

Blue with Prince of Wales.

Mr. Crown is a man about town.  I advise you to note well the nuances of his personal style and the prominence of his comfort as well.  Sure, he's just a character, but it's been said that "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players."

BTG

The Classics: Aviators

Many styles come and go, but few persevere.  I prefer the classic aesthetic.  Few sunglasses have endured as the classic aviator has.  Above are my current pairs.  Having always loved the look, my first pair was procured on a budget during my college days.  They were quickly misplaced.  Keen to keep with the sartorial statement, a second pair was purchased a few years ago on a whim.  I was pleased with my now second (read replacement) set of American Optical aviators.  I was until Randolph Engineering sent me a pair this fall to see - and eventually keep.  They are the genuine article.

At first glance, the differences are hardly noticeable.  The moment you put them into service the distinctions are apparent.  RE frames are curved slightly, contouring to the natural curve or your visage.  This makes them infinitely more wearable on a consistent basis.  They are far more comfortable and block more light because of this simple distinction.  Take a close look at the image below and you see the difference in build quality.  Hinges are important on glasses as they are constantly stressed when used.  The folks at Randolph include a useful cleaning cloth, hard case and maintenance kit with each pair or glasses.  It's a nice touch, but it affirms theirs are built to be repaired not replaced.  That is something to be commended these days as most goods aren't durable.

My AO glasses were quickly weighed, measured and found wanting.  In sum, if you want to look good like the gentleman below you should purchase AOs.  My AOs have held up and have much use left in them, but they aren't as sturdy as their competitor.  If you are, indeed, the man shown below, put your money down and get the best.  Once you go RE, you wont go back.

I didn't purchase the glasses, but I gladly would have. The review is truly my own findings without any input from the manufacturer.  In fact, the glasses are so good I've worn them too often and am in the process of purchasing replacement lenses.  These glasses are a staple in my wardrobe.

BTG

A Leg Up - Thermoregulation

I've seen the issue come up lately and wanted to say my two cents on the matter.  Being Manly did an excellent post on men's shorts over a year ago.  When considering looks alone, pants claim the trophy.  Exculpatory factors do exist in my world.  Respectfully, I must disagree with my The Rt. Hon. Vir Beatum and the conclusion most make, which is to not wear shorts.  The arguments for the aesthetically disagreeable nature of shorts by comparison to long trousers are quite accurate.  Also, one must wear shorts correctly, taking into account time and place.  I prefer the look of a woman's legs to any man's.  Having said that, compliments have been extended on my own legs by members of the opposite sex (and come to think of it, one awkwardly memorable comment from male friend).  So then, were these ladies being polite or do women find men in shorts attractive?

In short, much of my life has been spent in the dreary cold climates of the middle Western states of America.  Yes, I wore shorts as a boy, even suits with shorts.  My blood is of Irish, German and French lineage.  The Irish being the vast majority must have something to do with my personal thermometer - as it is always ready for a cold and damp climate.  I'm very nearly perennially excessively warm, even when others are chattering their pearly whites and fighting to keep extremities from hypothermia.  Perhaps this make me exothermic? In any case, I endeavor to keep from perspiring without added external variables like weather.

For undergraduate studies, New Orleans was my home.  More sweltering places are few and far between.  Yes, here I frequented the Bermuda as was the necessary convention to beat the heat.  Frequently, oppressive humidity and heat taught me great love for the short.

Today, I am settled in the District, formerly swamp land, with all due tropical meteorological significances. It is once again necessary don the short pants for sake of thermoregulation.  When on days like today the temperature approaches triple digits with similar figures of humidity, the short is a savior.

Length is an entirely problematic.  These days the term shorts seems to be a misnomer...

These are not short.  Equally problematic are the too short shorts...

This really flatters no man.  Then again I wont be telling these Gents to bare less leg...

Navy SEALs at Buds from Valet Mag

 Tom Selleck as Magnum PI, the character was a Navy SEAL 

Then again:

As Bond could wear just about anything (from here)

From Unabashedly Prep

These are perfectly acceptable forms or resort wear in my opinion, but let's keep this length for destination holidays.  As for the adequate length, shorts should sit above your knee when standing while concealing your undergarments, especially when sitting.  Evidently, Mr. Selleck makes the cut.  The fit should be close to the body so as not to sag off the frame.  See below for length and fit.

My personal choice from J.CREW

From Unabashedly Prep

JFK and Jackie (from here)

I resolve to wear shorts, of proper length, at the proper time and with the proper majesty.  Ideally, few will notice I have them on if I've played my part well.

BTG

Not Nattering: Jefferson's Ten Rules

There is value in codifying a list of rules to guide your future behavior.  You probably do it all the time without realizing.  These days, it seems we make more to do lists for the completion external endeavors. For instance, I make to-do lists daily and weekly.  I do this for personal and professional tasks.  To do what Jefferson's has above requires quite a bit of introspection and reflection to know even where to begin.  

It would behoove us to reflect then write down areas where we can improve based on past behavior.  Make a quarterly appointment with yourself to sit for quiet introspection about how you can improve.  Jefferson's rules are a great starting point for everyone.  George Washington, Ben Franklin and others took a crack at it also.  MT and I have a framed copy of TJ's rules in our office at home above where we keep our house keys.  Once in a while, I find myself breaking the rules.  In particular, the first and fourth rules seem to sneak up on me from time to time.  The point is I recognize it.  I have begun to question myself in the moment.  Sometime between TJ's and our own, we discarded the goal of perfecting ourselves  (or maybe it's just me).  We are caught up in our profession, or like affairs, instead of the business of self-actualization.  Let us no longer forgo this noble ambition.

BTG

Article of Affection: My Double Monks

Yes, these are the much discussed Sid Mashburn Double Monk straps made by Alfred Sargent.  Yes, they are mine.  Yes, I love them.  No, I don't sleep with them on my feet.  I procured them in late January this year to mark the conclusion of a very significant program I completed at work.  They feel as good on my feet as it does to know that program is over.  I have long been fascinated by monk strap shoes especially the clean simplicity of their design combined with their unique functional charm.  My father introduced them to me when we were on vacation in England and Ireland.  There I acquired a pair of Church & Co. tan brogue monk straps until my foot sadly grew.  If those shoes ever cross my path, there won't be a hesitation.  Having seen the post on A Headlong Dive, it occurred to me I needed to share this purchase here.  

The Pavlovian Response may have had me at this point.

Fresh from the box.

Unlike Mr. Simmons of AHD, I did not call Sid Mashburn to place my order, but instead joined Taigan, where Sid Mashburn has an online store.  After placing my order, the genial and obliging gents at Sid Mashburn called me to confirm my order.  They wanted to make sure I would be satisfied and had ordered the correct size, which was a half size down per their recommendation.  The purchase has been more than satisfactory.  Perhaps the only issue is it left me wanting more...

The initial shine to protect them with my go to penny loafers bottom right.

More on the belt and shades later.

Despite the current trend to leave shoes in disrepair, I will be taking care of these excellent shoes for many years to come.  The shoes were made by Alfred Sargent in England.  The company's blog has many brilliant pictures of their quality products.  Without question, I will go back to them for more.  Mine are breaking-in nicely.  I love wearing them with just about anything.  They always attract a comment or approving glance from the well turnedout.  Classically styled quality footwear will always get the job done.

BTG

Tie Tuesday: The Ascot

Recently, MT and I were in Italy for a much needed holiday.  Among the items procured, an ascot/cravat.  A curiosity had long been building in my mind about them and I caved.  Here is the result...

BTG

And I may need never recover from this youthful folly.  The simple truth is: who doesn't want silk around their neck?  I also learned that the ascot worn as above is known as a day cravat.  Apparently, ascots are also the name for the article worn on the outside of the shirt under the collar for more formal occasions, like weddings, which I had thought was a cravat.  (I still prefer the bow tie for formal occasions.)  Far from an expert on this, I'll refrain from expatiating on the history of the garment's evolution, but suffice it to say it was interesting research.  In any case, I have since found the ascot to be a sensible and stylish alternative to the open collar, albeit unconventional and best applied irregularly. Not to mention a comfortable choice.  Who else has been known to wear such attire?

Caine

Pacino

Grant

Sure there are some less exceptional Ascotists, but don't let that dissuade you.  Give it a go, even if only in the privacy of your own home. You may never go back.

BTG

Sabbatical (of sorts)

BTG Original - Inspired by Reggie Darling

A recent event has liberated my soul from a compromising set of circumstances causing a dissonant resonance that caged my creativity.  The bothersome buzzing has ceased.  I'm happy to report of my return to this endeavor.  Nearly a year between posts is simply shameful.  I regret having left this venture to rest for such a period.  Now, I vow to remain much more faithful to this creative outlet.  Thank you for bearing with me.

BTG

Warm Weather Wear

We are back to the warm sticky weather of the District.  These driving loafers are my favorite shoes.  Excellent shoes for running errands all over town, especially if you drive as I do.  No, I am not one of those reckless people, but I do enjoy employing the manual shift maneuverability of my MINI.  Best of all, these shoes fit like a glove making them second nature to my stride.  

The Modern Traditionalist and I were running errands this morning in anticipation of a few friends' arrival this evening for a quaint cookout.  Among our chores, MT took me to Garden District to pick up some herbs for our balcony garden.  It's an excellent place to procure choice vegetation.  She has pick up almost all our thriving flora there.  The thriving though is more likely due to her diligent green thumb.

Here are some critter shorts I'll be sporting now that the season is here. Have a wonderful weekend!

BTG

Open Mouth Mastication

Open mouth mastication is completely unacceptable.  In my new occupation due to the location of my desk, I have the misfortune of suffering the audible sounds of such a person.  Carrots and apples, no less, are the foods of choice.  I am confounded by this brazenly crass behavior.  The fact is the behavior is commonplace in modern society.  Such a lack of etiquette is the result of poor parenting; moreover, it is the product of an inconsiderate person, who takes no interest in elevating their stature.

This matter led me to consult the only volume containing answers on how to handle this situation, Etiquette.  Here is what it says: "All the rules of table manners are made to avoid ugliness.  To let anyone see what you have in your mouth is offensive; to make a noise is to suggest an animal; to make a mess is disgusting."  Emily Post's Etiquette, p.g. 485, 1955 edition.  This week, I could take it no more.  I had to address the situation with the culprit.  They have since endeavored, due entirely to my indefatigable correction, to chew with their mouth closed in near silence.  Indeed, I, like Mr. Jefferson, tremble for my country if this is the condition in which the mass majority of parents release their children into society.

Thanks to The Modern Traditionalist for the quote.  When we visited Charlottesville back in February, she purchased this vintage copy of Etiquette, which happens to be the last edition edited by Emily Post.

Take a look at the first 25 seconds of the clip below and you'll get a good sense of the issue with which I dealt.  

BTG

Recommended Reading

Courtesy of The New York Times

It's back! And thank God.  According to The New York Times, " While those shiny shoes and irksome studs are still in exile, the bow tie has had a springtime resurrection worthy of spring itself."  Yes!  I completely, wholeheartedly disagree with any other evening neck wear.  Read the article here.

BTG

My Timbuk2

Now that I am no longer commuting to work via car, I have a renewed love for my daily commuting companion.  This is my Timbuk2 bag.  It has withstood more than 5 years of abuse including many thousands of travel miles for work and pleasure.  No, it is not the most beautiful or elegant bag one could choose to carry on a daily basis, but it does everything you need it to do.  The only other bag that has ever come close to handling every situation is a LL Bean book pack.  Even those fall prey to weather being as they are not water resistant.  This has kept my items safe and dry in many inclement situations.

I recently added this Cocoon Grid-it organizer to keep things in their place.  This is a wonderful little invention for those of us who like to keep things organized while in transit.  I like to have a multifarious assortment of items with me, just in case.  The organizer keeps each item findable.  Whether attaché case, shoulder bag, messenger bag, back pack, book pack, satchel, briefcase, tote bag or, yes - for the ladies, purse there is a Grid-it organizer for you.  They even offer a luggage size.  No, I was not solicited for any kind of coverage of this product.  It is a great product for frequent traveller and commuter alike.  

Sure a beautifully crafted case is more ideal to complete the elegant gentlemanly persona I prefer, but none are as functional as my simple messenger bag.  For occasions that dictate, I use a more elegant canvas and leather shoulder bag.  There is no doubt I would rather use a beautiful leather briefcase to carry my wares to and from the office daily.  The issue there becomes: how do I multitask effortlessly?  Reading the paper is made easy with this over the shoulder bag.  Also, in the event of inclemency, there's no need to fret about any electronics in tow; moreover, I do not need to worry about the case itself being damaged.  

In sum, this messenger bag has treated me very well over the years and I don't foresee abandoning it for another option anytime soon.  I welcome your suggestions or comments on daily commuting appurtenances.

BTG

An Addition

The Modern Traditionalist and I have a new addition in our ranks.  Meet Lord Quincy.  I am not one to extol those, who treat their animals as children.  I am here proving that "dog people" can be "cat people".

Formerly named Bones, we adopted Q, as we have come to call him, just over two weeks ago from a local shelter.  He was at one time living on his own and was recovered alone from a parking lot.  Quincy has certainly adjusted from life on the street as seen below resting on his favorite cashmere throw after reading about WWI with me.

Quincy is proving to be a delightful addition to our lives.  I've always been a real "dog person".  Here it  seems, Q is cat for a "dog person".  He sees you off in the morning and greets you upon return in the evening.  Q aims to please from the moment you arrive.  What cat greets you with a wagging tail and a wet tongue?  He does.  His favorite activity is rolling on his back while receiving belly rubs.  Q enjoys showing off his hunting skills when chasing his toys around the apartment.

He simply does not act like a conventional cat.  For instance, when you call, he comes to you.  I believe he fancies himself a bird dog, a faithful labrador.  In this respect, he is picking up exactly where his predecessor, Rudy, left off.  Rudy - AKA the Furry Eccentric - was a unique feline in much the same way. We are happy to have little Q.  He is a dog in a cat's body.

BTG

Contemplations

Gratitude to Google

Ferris Bueller had it right, "life moves pretty fast.  If you don't stop to look around every once in a while, you might just miss it."

Upon Reflection of recent days reserved for restoration of mind and body, I've come to realize that has not actually happened.  Days have been filled with endless list making and box checking.  I must be doing something wrong.  The particulars have amassed tremendous proportions from neglect.  We have all been overworked or busy to the point of letting things fall by the wayside.

How can I keep up with it all? Mobile devices don't seem to help, but rather further hinder your ability to accomplish tasks without interruption. They bring the worst side effect of all: inability to disconnect and shut off. I am all for the added productivity and enjoy the benefits of connectivity, namely the genius of Google anywhere.

So I suppose the answer is that you don't keep up with it.  Life is imperfection done well.  Learn to like it!  Thus, I decided on a few days ago no more box checking for me. It's R&R from here on out.

BTG