Too many of us keep our best things under lock and key, waiting for the perfect moment. A gentleman knows that he can, and should, create those moments himself. After all, if you are NOT enjoying your finest possessions, are they truly yours?
A Belgian woman once bought a beautiful lace tablecloth. For fifty years, friends asked when she would use it. She always replied, “I’m afraid it might get ruined.” She finally used it—once—at her own funeral.
The moral?
Enjoy your nice things while you still can.
Don’t save them only for an occasion that never comes. And when you invest in quality, choose pieces you’ll use and appreciate regularly.
This philosophy has two parts:
- Use the good things you already own instead of letting them sit untouched.
- Invest in quality for the items you use most often, because they deliver the best value over time.
Part One: Use the Good Stuff You Already Own
Many of us “save” special items for an elusive occasion. A gentleman finds ways to work them into his daily life.
1. Fine Foods
If you have premium ingredients like real vanilla, saffron, wagyu beef, or artisanal cheeses, enjoy them before they spoil.
You might not eat them every day, but setting aside one weekend meal or a monthly dinner to indulge can turn the ordinary into something memorable.
“To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art.”
François de la Rochefoucauld
2. Dining Elegantly at Home
Using your dining room, fine silverware, and crystal glasses shouldn’t be limited to holidays. Setting the table for a midweek meal or a dinner with friends and loved ones can make everyday life feel special.
3. Dressing Up
Wear white and light-colored garments without fear of stains—they can be cleaned. Rotate in fine fabrics like cashmere or Super 180s wool, and don’t hesitate to break out a dinner jacket simply because you want to. If someone asks what the occasion is, you can always say, “I make my own occasions.”
Fine Clothes Are Meant to be Enjoyed
Today, I’m wearing a burgundy blazer with various speckles, a pair of tan trousers, a blue and white striped shirt, and brown loafers. The outfit is accented by a Fort Belvedere pocket square with burgundy and gold details, along with Fort Belvedere shadow stripe socks in brown and blue.
For great accents like this pocket square and socks, along with other amazing things, check out the Fort Belvedere shop here.
4. Signature Scents
Fragrances are meant to be worn, not stored indefinitely. Rotate your scents with the seasons or to match the mood of the day. The right fragrance can make as much of an impression as a fine tie or pocket square.
Wearing the right scent this summer?
5. Indulgences
Life’s pleasures—good wine, a well-made cocktail, or a fine cigar—need not wait for a special event. Enjoy them to mark the end of a long week or simply as a reminder to savor the moment.
Part Two: Invest in Quality for Everyday Items
If you use something every day, quality pays for itself in comfort, appearance, and durability. Most of us can’t buy the best of everything, so it’s wise to prioritize.
6. Wallet
A wallet is often seen and handled daily. A well-made one not only lasts but subtly signals care and attention to detail.
RECOMMENDED
Burgundy & Turquoise 10 Card Deerskin Leather Wallet
Fort Belvedere’s burgundy-and-turquoise bifold delivers quiet luxury in a slim, all-leather build with hand-folded edges, 10 card slots, and a divided cash pocket.
7. Smartphone and Accessories
Your phone is an extension of yourself. Struggling with a cracked screen or a dying battery does you no favors. Quality headphones, chargers, and cases also improve your daily experience.
Ready to invest in timeless style?
8. Belts
Far from just a utilitarian item, a belt draws the eye and frames your outfit. Replace anything that’s worn or warped.
9. Bags and Cases
Whether it’s a leather briefcase for the office or a hard-shell suitcase for travel, sturdy and attractive storage protects your valuables and gives you peace of mind.
10. Socks and Underwear
Even if unseen, you’ll feel the difference in quality. Breathable, luxurious fabrics make every step and movement more comfortable.
11. Home Attire
Elevate your loungewear with a fine robe, elegant pajamas, or proper house shoes. It transforms relaxation from sloppy to refined.
Relaxing, the GG Way
What We Wear Off the Clock
Here’s what our team wears at home: effortless, comfortable pieces that still uphold the art of dressing well.
12. Shaving Kit and Skincare
Investing in quality razors, oils, creams, and lotions helps prevent irritation and keeps skin healthy, which is worth every cent for something you use daily.
For more expert tips and in-depth guides on achieving the perfect shave and maintaining your skin, be sure to explore our comprehensive “Shaving & Men’s Grooming” playlist from Gentleman’s Gazette.
13. Gloves and Scarves
If you live in a cold climate, well-made winter accessories are a practical luxury. Cashmere scarves and lined gloves add warmth and style.
Black Watch Tartan Cashmere Scarf
Chamois Yellow Cashmere Lined Peccary Gloves
Orange Herringbone Cashmere Scarf
14. Everyday Attire and Accessories
It makes more sense to buy a superb shirt you’ll wear weekly than a tuxedo you’ll wear twice a year. A few quality ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks can also refresh your look without replacing your whole wardrobe.
Live Every Day Elegantly
Part of living like a gentleman is bringing elegance to everyday life, not just special occasions. Use the good things you own now, and invest in quality where it matters most.
How do you like to glamorize your daily life? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I live an elegant lifestyle on a budget?
Living luxuriously isn’t about spending excessively or being frivolous with your expenses. Instead, it’s about getting the most value out of what you do have and taking time to savor the things you enjoy.
How do I know if something is a good investment?
The best way to approach investing in a quality or luxury item is by looking at its cost per use. If you’ll use it on a near-daily basis and notice a significant difference, then it’s invaluable. If you know you’ll never use it, then it’s not going to be the most practical investment.
How do I find happiness in what I already have?
Taking a step back and looking at the things you have, but might be underutilizing, is key here. Almost all of us have something “nice ”that we enjoy but are afraid to use it and thus never do.
I want to dress up for no particular reason, but I am worried about being judged. What do I do?
While the practice of dressing up has become far less popular in modern society, that doesn’t mean you should let people stop you from doing the things you enjoy. Having some playful and witty comebacks prepared can often diffuse any awkwardness you might feel from others if they ask.
When should I set a “special occasion”?
A special occasion should simply be when you are in the mood to have one. While you won’t always be able to excessively indulge in these things at all times, setting aside some time each week to do them is key for balance.
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