How to Dress Like a British Gentleman

Bring class to your business attire by dressing British style.

You are what you wear. The way you dress directly affects the way you feel about yourself and the way others relate to you. The British seem to understand this intuitively, as dressing well has always been an important part of their culture. The proper British gentleman knows that dressing in a sophisticated manner leads to greater respect, both from others and from yourself.

Instructions

1. Find a suit that compliments your personality and complexion. If you have light skin, wear a darker suit, and if you have darker skin, wear a lighter suit. The suit's pattern should match your personality.

   Classical British style emphasizes subtle contrasts between suit, shirt, pants and lining. Try wearing light pants with a dark coat or a spotted tie with a striped suit, or a dark vest with a bright suit. More important than pattern is quality. Only the highest quality, most durable fabrics will do for the proper British gentleman.

2. Tailor the suit to ensure it fits perfectly. Besides comfort, wearing a properly fitting suit shows that you care about what you are wearing and makes you look classy and put together.

3. Wear polished shoes. Whether you prefer standard dress shoes or loafers, shoes must be clean and polished at all times. Avoid square toes since these are not fashionable, and rubber heels look too casual.

4. Procure a good watch. Your watch must be elegant and keep time well. Chrome or silver is recommended, since gold tends to look flashy and cheap.

5. Accessorize properly. Your cuff links, belt buckle, cummerbunds and studs should always match your watch. Also consider nice gloves and slipping a contrasting handkerchief into your breast pocket. Upgrade to a silk tie, ascot or bow tie.

Tips & Warnings

• Your hygiene, behavior and manners must go along with your proper dress. An unkempt, non-chivalrous and rude British gentleman is no British gentleman at all.

References

• "The Sunday Times"; Men: Dress Like a Gentleman; Richard Buckley; March 2004
• Anglotopia; Top Ten Tips to British Sartorial Style; How to Dress Like an English Gentleman; Michael Pegrum; November 2009
• British Etiquette Revival: Appearance