Finding Dandy: Prince Street

As I was getting off the subway, I saw a guy who I thought would be perfect to photograph for the blog. I was hoping to follow him up to the street so I could pull him aside and ask for a photo, but I lost him in the crowd. But then as I turned down Prince St., I was delighted to find a funky-looking guy sporting a bow tie. I asked him for a photo and he said he would only permit me to do so for $2!! I realized then that I was looking at a dandy of the panhandler variety. Needless to say, I refused and walked away.

A few blocks later, I realized that the first guy was walking about 10 paces ahead of me. Still feeling stung from my previous photo request, I was too shy to approach him. So I took a photo of him from behind. Not the same effect but oh well. I have to figure out a better way to approach guys for a photo.

C.H.

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On The Town: Campbell Apartment

Tonight I had a drink at Campbell Apartment in Grand Central Terminal. The self described "cocktails from another era" lounge has been on my to do list for years. This truly spectacular space was originally the office of '20's mogul John W. Campbell. The moment I walked in I was truly transported into the world of flappers and speakeasies. Although management imposes a dress code (no jeans, no shorts, no tennis shoes), I found no dandies (present company excluded, of course). What a great bit of Old New York!

C.H.

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Finding Dandy: Union Square

I spotted this guy while walking down into the subway. Love the argyle socks. Love the bag. It just goes to show that even when dressing casually you can add a little flair.

C.H.

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Mad Men (And Fine Dandys)

AMC’s “Mad Men” was featured in today’s New York Times Magazine in anticipation of the second season’s premiere on July 27. I couldn’t be more excited as it is one of the finest shows currently on tv. The creators have done a tremendous job in transporting us to the far off, distant world of a 60’s New York City advertising firm. From a Fine and Dandy perspective, I truly appreciate that the characters dress up to go to work. Casual Fridays did not apply back then. The fedoras, the slim cut suits, the pocket squares, the tie bars, the narrow ties, the occasional bow tie. Ahhh… Fine And Dandy heaven.

C.H.

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The Tonys

Last night I was lucky enough to be invited to the Tony Awards at Radio City Musical Hall. In this dressed-down world we live in it’s so interesting to see how guys deal with “black tie” attire. I saw plenty of guys who pulled out the same wrinkled tux they’ve been wearing for the past 20 years and you could tell it was a chore for them. And then of course, there were the guys wearing the ill-fitted rental. But then there were the guys who embraced the rare opportunity to get dressed up and obviously paid attention to the small details.

I can’t recommend it enough: every guy should own a tux. There’s something classy about having your own tux tailored to your exact measurements. A classic style of course, so that it is timeless and will last for most of his adult life. And then mixing it up with the details: cuff links, pocket squares, shoes, socks. Tie or bow tie (or neither). Cummerbund, vest, or neither. Studs or no studs. Various shirts.

So I found myself fascinated with the fashion at the awards and the gala afterwards. The pocket square was very popular from the small and subtle to overflowing out of the breast pocket. One guy sported white wingtips highlighted in silver glitter (a bit much). And then there were the handful of guys wearing white dinner jackets. Definitely a statement. Not all of them were successful. Could you pull it off?




C.H.

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The First

This is it. My first blog post. Although my on-line shop isn’t opening until fall, I’ve decided to begin my blog so I can share my excitement as I prepare for the launch. My concept is simple. Selling fine things for the new millennial dandy. That guy who likes to get a little dressed up. Who pays attention to his appearance. And appreciates a bit of yesteryear in his look (but in a modern sort-of-way). Accompanying my online shop will be this blog in which I share my thoughts about men’s style. Stay tuned…

Charles Henry

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