Casual afternoon today and I’m off to the bowling alley to celebrate a nephew’s birthday. I picked white minimal sneakers, brown chinos, navy rugby shirt and denim trucker jacket. Thoughts?

I relayed a story to my team this morning on this very subject, related to the general level of quality - or lack thereof - in some recent documentation that had been created. For me, proper spelling and grammar are paramount. Just as it only takes a few seconds when you walk into a room for most people to form a positive or negative first impression of you, it only takes a few sentences of hearing you speak or - especially - reading something you've written. When I'm writing - regardless of whether that medium is an email, a text message, a post on an online forum, or whatever - I strive to ensure that I represent myself and my intelligence appropriately, rather than doing myself a disservice and/or disrespecting others by demonstrating a lack of concern. I've always encouraged my coworkers and, especially, my subordinates to pay extra attention to their spelling and grammar when writing anything - or at least anything work-related. When you use proper spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, paragraph breaks, etc., the natural reaction by others is to perceive you as being more intelligent, more educated, and more authoritative. This is exemplified in that aforementioned story... I once had three juniors working under me who were all hired within the same month. The first was quite talented, the most talented of the three, but was a bit undisciplined. The second was less talented, though still above average, and had a better work ethic but was a bit headstrong. The third - let's call them Sam - was less talented, had only an average work ethic, and had a less relevant degree than the other two but was very coachable and eager to learn. Given their differences, they actually worked quite well together, as a team. After less than a year, it was decided - by people outside our department - that one of them would be promoted to a cross-functional team with an elevated role. All three were eligible, being considered, and hopeful for this promotion. To spoil the surprise, Sam got the promotion.

Most guys see the women in their lives heading off for manicures and pedicures, focusing on their skin, nails, and appearance, and think, That’s not for me, I’m a dude. That is the wrong mindset. If you do not want polish (I do not), then do not get it. But your nails, feet, lower arms, and calves will be in far better condition afterward, especially the skin and cuticles. It is hygiene, not vanity. I took my wife and our goddaughter out for a mini spa day. I skipped the polish, but I still got massages, lotion treatments, cuticle care, callus removal, and deep moisturizing. My hands and feet look and feel great. So why is it considered “not manly”? To me, real confidence is taking care of yourself. And yes, I am man enough to take care of my hygiene.

Hello everyone! This is what I picked to deliver a leadership course today: gray trousers, patterned button-down, navy blazer, burgundy monk straps, belt and pocket square. Input appreciated!

Gents - I'm about to ruffle some feathers... Everyone talks about Fall "essentials," but here's what I've learned after years in menswear: Most guys completely waste their money on the wrong first purchase. I see men drop $300 on trendy boots they'll wear 5 times, while walking around in ill-fitting basics that kill their entire look. 🤔 So let me know your take: Your FIRST Fall upgrade should be... Vote below:⬇️⬇️⬇️ But here's the kicker: Defend your choice. Tell me why your pick beats the others - and don't give me generic answers. I want to know which piece has actually changed how you dress, not what some blog told you to buy. The guy with the best argument might just save someone else from making a $200+ mistake this season. 💪