OK gentleman…I know the title perked your interest, but today I am not writing about marital discord or the million and one ways your partner drives you crazy…instead, I thought I would share with you one of my favorite ways to become permanently attached.
I love a man in chains…again, don’t get excited, this is not some sort of fetish confession…but, I can’t think of anything more sophisticated or cool than a visible pocket watch chain, key chain or just a chain attached to a man’s jacket, vest or pant.
One of my earliest inspirations was my uncle. He still wears his father’s pocket watch and fob every
day. It is a really special heirloom and of course has great sentimental value. He always attaches the chain to his belt loop and the watch hides away nicely in his front pant pocket. It makes a strong statement about who he is…it shows his sense of tradition, a pride in where he comes from, a timelessness (no pun intended) and it is one of those unique little ways he separates himself from the pack. Don’t get me wrong, I love a beautiful wristwatch as well, but a pocket watch is an amazingly chic alternative. Although this is not his style, it is the perfect accoutrement for a 3-piece suit, with the chain attached to the vest and the watch in a watch pocket or pant pocket so the chain is visible. If I were a man this is the way I would wear it…so distinguished…a real testament to power and confidence!
My next key reference is my ex…OK, so you get a little relationship stuff. He wears a heavy silver chain that he attaches to his wallet. It is one of the most significant ways he brands himself. He wears it with everything…jeans, dressy trousers, suits and it conveys so much about the person he is. He is a true hipster…not one of those wannabes. His edgy style matches his edgy lifestyle and the total effect is nothing but smooth and cool. His style in many ways is a throwback to the smart fashions of the1920’s mixed up with a modern rock star vibe. It is 100% authentic, which is what everyone should strive for when creating their own special brand. I have said it before…It works because he owns it!!!
The last example for today’s column is my friend, lets call him M, who I have written about before. He too has this hipster thing going on, but it is less rocker and more downtown clean and casual. He is a true jeans and tee shirt man. Yesterday, he had a really bold silver chain attached to his jeans. Truthfully, I don’t even know what was on the other end. It really was more like a piece of jewelry. The rest of his look was really subdued…just black jeans, black sweater and vans, so the chain made a huge statement. I loved it and it inspired me to write this story.
Jewelry can be such a bad word for many men…they immediately think "way too feminine". Of course, I don’t agree, but the truth is most men don’t have someone to refer to when it comes to adorning themselves with jewels. So if you don’t have the confidence to tackle a great bracelet or necklace or ring, a chain is the perfect hardcore "manly" statement.
For the corporate environment, tell the world you are self-assured and oh -so-chic and invest in a special vintage pocket watch. Some great places to look are Aaron Faber in New York. The antique watch selection is vast and the owner Ed Faber is one of the premier watch experts in the area. If you have the patience for the bidding frenzy, eBay is also a good option and lastly, one of my little secrets is the 26th Street Flea Market…you never know what you might find. I usually give a “low” option, but when it comes to buying any watch, stick with the experts and make the investment, as it is something you will treasure forever.
For a more casual workplace and for play, make a masculine statement, display your individuality and go for some chains. Attach them to your wallet or even your keys and yes, wear them with everything…so sexy. Let them become your jewelry and buy a few different widths, link styles and sizes. I prefer the simplicity of just one chunkier strand, but you can also play around with styles that have multiple strands. Stick with silver or stainless steel! Go a little "goth" at Trash & Vaudeville in the East Village. I also found some pretty inexpensive options online if you just want to try them on for size. Try AMiGAZ.com...no need to break the bank to get the look.
Distinguish yourself and make a statement with a special pocket timepiece or express your inner rocker and go bold… Either way, hold on tightly to the old ball & chain...you won’t be disappointed.
~Written for StyleWhipped.com
Comments