Successful men in many walks of life find themselves periodically in the spotlight. And men who care about the image preserved in their newspaper clippings or YouTube clips need to look their best on those occasions. In general, the best looks are the simplest.
Simplicity begins with the avoidance of distracting patterns. Pattern can appear to jump or vibrate on video. Men in the public eye should choose matte fabrics in solid colors, unless they're making a courtroom appearance during the 1930's like the man in the illustration. Video hadn't been invented yet you know.
Those matte fabrics should be impeccably pressed, as well. You probably can't steam away wrinkles before you're the center of attention, so make arrangements to change into wrinkle-free clothes.
It's also important to remember that reflection is the enemy of flattering visuals (RIchard Nixon may have lost the Presidency of the United States to John Kennedy by refusing make-up for a televised debate in 1960). Eschew the glare of white shirts during the day. When on camera or speaking from a podium, wear a leather wristwatch band instead of metal to avoid distracting flashes of light. Choose cufflinks that don't reflect. And forgo eyeglasses or replace them with contact lenses for the same reason.
Once properly attired it is a good idea to rehearse in front of a full length mirror. Rehearsal may seem awkward to the uninitiated but they should be assured that the actors they admire know exactly what to do to look their best on camera. Practice builds confidence that the details are under control, so it's easier to forget about appearance and focus on content.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Public Appearances
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8 comments:
I see that the man in the illustration is wearing a waistcoat w/ a DB jacket. I always thought that was a taboo. Any insight?
Not at all taboo. Merely unnecessary in these days of central heating.
I think I'm more bothered about the fact that his bottom button is done alone, rather than the top. It looks neat in the drawing, but I'm fairly certain in real life it would cause an unsightly roll/bunch (the lapel would stick out like there was something poking it out, no?)
Perhaps the undone upper button gives him the appearance of being more barrel-chested.. predatory prosecutors of old might have had such tactics, who knows?
Two questions.
1. What are matte fabrics? In "Pocket Squares Are Important" you mentioned that that matte silk should contrast with shinier silk.
2. In "The Day's Necktie," you mentioned gummed silk neckties. Are matte, gummed, and woven silk neckties the same or do they fall under a more general category more textured fabrics that can be worn in contrast to shinier silks, which I assume would be satin.
shameek, all properly made 6x2 DBs button at either the top or bottom without any problem. Closing only the bottom gives the jacket a longer line.
from Mirrian Webster: lacking or deprived of luster or gloss: as a: having a usually smooth even surface free from shine or highlights.
Woven is how the pattern is made on squares that can be reflective or matte. Gummed silk is a type of silk that has no shine.
Thanks for another brillant insight -- it is so true that many public figures (both male and female) should really consider their best options in clothes that truly work well under the glare and heat of camera and lights! And then test their option at home! So many times we have watched the patterns on a suit or tie "jump" or vibrate on camera ..... very distracting! Or wear colors that do not suit their own coloring! Another mistake is wearing socks that are too short -- and show bare leg as the person is seated ....
Jan at Rosemary Cottage
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