Sign posted in a restroom at the US State Department Annex in Washington, D.C. Question 1. Exactly what does State consider an “emergency”? Does it align with what I might consider a “restroom emergency”? Question 2. If I experience said “restroom emergency” do you really expect me to email you? Question 3. Is that phone number monitored 24/7? If I experience said “restroom emergency”, I expect a 911-like response! And the restroom first responders better be men…or I may suffer fatal embarrassment! Just sharing an example of incongruence between my expectations and said government entitie’s expectations! 😆

In today’s society, the decline of traditional gentlemanly qualities has become increasingly evident, leading to what many perceive as a crisis in masculinity. Are men truly stepping into their roles as gentlemen, or are we witnessing an extinction of these vital virtues? This post explores why embracing the principles of a true gentleman is essential for individuals and society at large, highlighting the importance of reestablishing morals, morals, and standards for the next generation. Recent years have shown a shift in societal expectations and behaviors, with many men neglecting the core traits that define a gentleman—respect, integrity, morals, and chivalry. Anthony Buntyn passionately discusses how society has veered away from these qualities, turning instead toward entitlement, self-centeredness, and superficial fame. This decline isn't just a cultural trend; it’s a crisis threatening the fabric of social cohesion. As Buntyn emphasizes, a society without gentlemen—men who lead by example—becomes fractured, often resulting in increased violence, crime, and a lack of positive role models for our youth. The question is: how did we get here, and what can be done to reverse this trend? Buntyn introduces a powerful analogy to explain how the noble qualities of being a gentleman have been gradually eroded: the boiling frog. If a frog is suddenly thrown into boiling water, it jumps out immediately; but if you heat the water slowly, it boils to death unnoticed. This metaphor vividly captures how societal changes—gradual and subtle—have slowly chipped away at these virtues. Decades ago, men were trained in morals, manners, and respect, but over time, these standards have been ‘boiled out’ of men’s behaviors. Recognizing this slowly happening is crucial to understanding why reintroducing and reinforcing these qualities is not optional but necessary. Fortunately, Buntyn points out that efforts are underway to rebuild what has been lost. The Society of Ordinary Gentlemen exemplifies a movement dedicated to training men to embody qualities like honor, discipline, and respectful conduct. This society encourages men to see being a gentleman as a lifelong commitment—one that involves daily actions and choices. The Society also promotes the development of young men through initiatives like the Junior Society of Ordinary Gentlemen, aiming to instill foundational virtues before they enter adulthood. Such programs focus on practical skills—how to dress, communicate, handle confrontations, and work ethically—creating role models for future generations.

I have spoken multiple times about the three basic conservative shirt colors: Blue, White, Pink. These three colors are virtually interchangeable with various outfits and have been the three essential staple classic colors for nearly 100 years. Nevertheless- each harmonizes differently with their overall outfit. For example- while white is a very basic color it can be a bit stark in certain situations where a blue or pink are less so. Conversely nothing brings out the crispness and formality of a deep navy or deep charcoal suit like a white shirt. Today I want to break out the most recent MTM suit I had made January 2014. Unfortunately I had gained a lot of weight by then so I am not sure it is salvageable with my tailor. We shall see later this fall. The other thing about the suit that bothers me is that in 2014 I let the clothier talk me into a single reverse pleat (he was pushing me toward a plain front which I would have never done in a MTM). I wished that I held my ground but life is a learning process isn’t it. Irrespective, I do like the fabric. It’s an extremely light weight woolen blend in a deep charcoal brown with a ghosted Glen plaid with operable sleeve buttons. I added a French cuff pink twill CT shirt and a teal and black woven houndstooth silk Robert Talbot tie with burgundy and beige amoeba woven patterns. I chose my shamrock cufflinks and flyfishing fly braces and reversible pocket square coordinating the beige in the tie, along with my Panterella OTC socks and AE shell cordovan brogues and my Caravelle/Bulova watch.