My ONE Listicle

7/2/2020

In my defense, this was a sample piece written for a different website that offers this type of article. I am not a fan of this format, but since I just had my 30th birthday, I figured I might as well share this piece of writing on the topic of style in this new age bracket.

"10 Things EVERY MAN Should Own By Age 30!"

1) Resoleable Dress Shoes

By your third decade on this earth, you’ve been tested and weathered by the rigors of life; much like the patina of a quality shoe, your character has been enriched by these trials!

High quality shoes made from premium full grain leather can survive decades of use when properly cared for. The sole of any shoe will inevitably wear out, but the uppers of goodyear welted and blake stitched footwear can be attached to a new sole without trouble.

That is not an option, however, for the unfortunate majority of dress shoes. The average mall-brand dress shoes are crafted from “genuine leather” -- scraps of low-grade cowhide glued together and painted to appear uniform. These uppers are cemented to their soles, rather than stitched, which does not lend itself to refurbishing.

As you come into your 30’s, it is time to shed the mindset of disposability, and get into the habit of investing in yourself. A pair of resoleable shoes that mature alongside you are indispensable for this journey.

2) A Quality Work Bag

Your 30’s are a time for building and defining your career; the practice run is over, and now is the time to shine! You must show the world that you mean business, and there’s no better way to do it than brandishing a handsome, professional, and sturdy work bag

A proper briefcase elevates an otherwise-slouchy appearance, while a well-groomed and stylish outfit is cheapened by visibly low-quality luggage. A man invested in his work surely invests in what he carries his work in.

3) Business Cards

As a professional, you will be inspected by your dress shoes, your briefcase, and then once introductions are said and done, by your business card. Just as sharp footwear and a dignified work bag elevates your aura, so too can you distinguish yourself and your personal brand with tasteful, sturdy business cards.

The first step to success is showing up; the second is leaving your contact information.

4) A Tailored Suit

Far too many men coast through their 20’s without investing in a suit that does them justice.

Yes, the white collar office has become increasingly casual, and yes, many hard-working men in physical jobs will never wear a suit to work. Even so, there are times when all men must present themselves with polish to indicate respect for both the occasion and for themselves.

When that time comes for you, a well-fitted suit is the only choice! More specifically, a wool suit in gray or navy is where you should start. You can create a myriad of looks with a suit in either color, depending on your selection of shirt, footwear, and accessories

5) Dark Wash Jeans

All men wear jeans: young men, old men, and 30 year old men alike! Skinny jeans, ripped jeans, acid-washed jeans, -- we all have our denim vices, and that’s okay. But every man that’s 30 and above must own a slim pair of dark wash jeans.

Unlike their more distinctive counterparts, conservative jeans can be paired with a sport coat and button-down as easily as sneakers and a t-shirt. Whether you’re wearing them to a casual office, an after-hours rendezvous, or weekend brunch, well-fitted denim signals that you’re refined yet relaxed -- polished, but not uptight.

6) Cotton Chinos

7) A Sharp Winter Coat

It’s all too easy to throw decorum to the wind when faced with winter’s frigid bite. Even the most dapper among us have, at some point, succumbed to the temptation of shiny puffer jackets. But again, as a man grows in years, so too must he raise his standards of personal presentation.

As such, it behooves you to invest in a sharp winter coat that compliments your wardrobe and lifestyle, so that you may conquer the elements and look good doing it!

8) A Full-Length Mirror

There are two reasons for why you, a man of style, must own a full-length mirror in a well-lit room:

The first of which is that -- no matter how deep your knowledge of style -- it’s hard to get dressed in the dark. Without a mirror, you’re only one step removed from doing so.

Perhaps more importantly, a mirror encourages you to take an earnest look at yourself. You’ve put effort into curating a wardrobe that conveys your poise and character; you’ve put effort into learning about menswear and style. Are those efforts paying off?

Reflection, refinement, and accountability are of the utmost importance to a grown man. A full-length mirror will both enhance your style and encourage you to engage in those habits.

9) A Gym Membership

The overarching theme of growing into manhood is investment in yourself, in your appearance, and your success. While a handsome briefcase, some nice shoes, and a tailored suit are all quintessential pieces of this puzzle, so too is the vessel carrying you through this world: your body.

Part of manliness is embracing your physicality. Aside from lending itself to a pleasing appearance, regular exercise is proven to increase your long-term health, boost your mood, and sharpen your mind!

10) A Therapist

The world’s top businessmen, top athletes, and top achievers all agree on one thing: success is 90% mental. As such, maximizing your potential means optimizing your mental health!

An exquisite wardrobe means nothing if you don’t have the confidence to stand tall. A powerful physique is only as strong as the will that wields it. All of the money and fame in the world cannot buy you happiness.

Nor can that be granted to you by a therapist. Yet having a professional help you to reflect, grow, and heal will empower you to find it.

As with footwear, your adventures and experiences imbue a depth of character that can be gained only by walking the walk. And as with footwear, proper care is the difference between a cultivated patina and neglectful deterioration.

Every man in his 30’s should have the former. It’s first on the list!

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