TH E
AM E RICAN
GE NTRY T H E
H A N D B O O K
O F
C LAS S AN D D I STI N CTI O N F O R
T H E
M O D E R N DAY G E NTLE MA N
A
t GENTRY, we believe life is lived in the details. The final moments, the finishing touches, the respectful nods to tradition and heritage. These are the characteristics of a distinguished class of Gentlemen known as The American Gentry. GENTRY is a modern rethinking of classic men’s accessories inspired by the golden era of menswear, a time when attention to the finer points made all the difference. It harkens back to a time when thick plumes of smoke and the aroma of aged brandy effortlessly wafted around the debates and discussions of serious men in slick suits. The accessories found in every GENTRY box provide the sartorial details that push a man from forgettable to timeless. This is our Handbook of Class & Distinction, a modern man’s pocket guide to the basics of aesthetic refinement. In these pages are notes on etiquette from Gentlemen around the globe on how to apply the polishing touches on your public persona. We are by no means the final word on style. But with a proper education and the appropriately executed accessories, every man can be his own role model.
NECKWEAR
“A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life” –Oscar Wilde T H E A RT O F T H E K N OT Almost as much as the tie itself, the knot speaks volumes to your taste, your demeanor, your style and your place in the room. Together the necktie and the knot still enjoy status as the most expressive piece in a man’s wardrobe.
THE FOUR-IN-HAND
T H E P R AT T/ S H E L B Y
THE WINDSOR
THE HALF WINDSOR
Prudent, simple and slightly awkward with its
A smaller, less severe looking Windsor best
The most elegant knot with an air of Brit dandyism,
“The American Knot,” as it’s often referred to,
asymmetrical cinch, this is an easy and informal
paired with narrow collared shirts. This knot is
this balanced equilateral triangle lends itself to a
works well with light and medium weight fabrics
knot that achieves a deliberately sharp yet
appropriate for nearly any occasion. If ever in
neat dimple and trim finish. Best matched with
and should be wide enough to fill the center space
effortless look. Best paired with a collar that has
doubt, this compact knot will reassure everyone
wide-spread collars and thicker tie materials. An air
of your collar. Bold and unwavering, this knot is
a smaller spread for casual occasions.
that you know exactly what you’re doing.
of formality and confidence guaranteed.
best donned in formal and business settings.
1
2
1
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
4
3
4
4
5
6
4
5
6
5
6
7
8
9
5
7
T H E B OW T I E Master this, and you’ve already arrived. Only for the most dapper Gentleman. The uninitiated need not apply. 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
ACCESSORIES
COLLAR CLIP
POCKET SQUARE
TIE BAR The final pieces a man chooses to finish his wardrobe can prove the most consequential. It is with those small details that a man effortlessly becomes the object of admiration and respect. By paying attention to the particulars, a man can speak volumes to his individuality and style.
THE COLLAR CLIP
THE TIE BAR Designed to keep your tie in place, this smart adornment is the de rigueur Gentleman’s accessory, conveying both style and stature. The tie clip should slide in from the wearer’s right to grip both the tie and the placket of the shirt around the middle of the sternum. Etiquette dictates the tie clip be worn during the day.
THE TIE PIN The very subtlety of a keenly executed tie pin will not only maintain a sharply hung tie, but will also imbue its wearer with an air of personal sophistication. Tack your tie pin about a third of the way down the middle of your necktie and fasten the T bar through the closest button hole. Etiquette dictates the tie pin be worn at night.
A staple in the early to middle part of the 20th century, the collar clip is an oft forgotten piece of utility and fashion. Designed to maintain a crisp and steadfast collar, this piece adds precision and elegance. Decorum calls for pinning the clips to the tips of the collar and allowing the chain to hang behind the knot. Best paired with a sense of entitlement and unshakable panache.
THE POCKET SQUARE
THE SQUARE A look for formal black tie affairs. Only ½ inch of fabric should stick out of the pocket. The exposed edge should be razor sharp and flush to the jacket. A nicely ironed press square will never lead you astray.
THE ONE POINT The most common fold, this method is well suited to complement a necktie and narrow lapel. Certainly the most appropriate for any dapper Gentleman.
THE TWO POINT Clean and crisp, well suited for sport coats and casual looks. Best paired with a clean black tie and white pocket square.
T H E F LU T E / P U F F A fold for those who consider themselves flashy by old school standards. Most suited for unconventional, dashing and impetuous Gentlemen.
A sartorial man will always have this piece at the ready to complement, or even substitute, for a necktie. Generally made from lightweight cuts of silk or linen, when folded correctly, these small squares of fabric will provide a window into the character and intentions of its wearer.
Life lived in details.
w w w. g e n t r y m a n . c o m