5 everyday traits of a modern gentleman
Words: Gentleman's Journal
What is a gentleman in today’s world? The role of the modern-day gent is perpetually under scrutiny and the death of chivalry is almost perennially pronounced, but however murky the waters, a gentleman possesses these everyday qualities:
He knows how to apologise
Sometimes you’re going to say or do the wrong thing. It happens. What matters most though is what you do next. An apology has to be heartfelt, you’ve got to swallow your pride and admit that you were wrong and understand why you’ve upset the offended party. A little empathy goes a long way gentlemen. If you’re not quite sure if you’re doing it quite right, just do the exact opposite of Johnny Depp here, giving his worst performance in a long time, yes, even more terrible than 2015’s Mortdecai:
He can compliment a woman without it being taken as lecherous
Women aren’t playthings, nor do they owe you a thing because you’ve decided that she’s lucky enough to be the object of your affections. It’s perfectly acceptable and pleasant to compliment a woman, but don’t do it with salacious intentions or expect anything to come out of it. She’ll smell any bullsh*t as soon as the words leave your mouth and under no circumstances should you get aggressive or petty if she spurns your advances – she’s perfectly entitled to do so, however bluntly she does it.
He understands that chivalry is not dead…
…but it’s not because women are weaker or inferior than him. Walk on the outside of the pavement, hold the door open, carry the umbrella, give up your seat and all of the rest of it. Do it because it’s good manners, not because you’re the man and need to take care of her. And if she wants to split the bill, or even pick up the tab, let her, it’s 2016 gentlemen.
He dresses well, but not necessarily in suits
The suit, a bastion of masculinity and beacon of gentlemanly style, is still very much relevant in the modern day, obviously, but it’s not the be all and end all of looking good. It’s perfectly plausible to dress smartly without resorting to the most formal of two-pieces. The suit has an occasion and isn’t always entirely fitting to the scenario. Everyone is going to be suspicious of the gent who turns up to a casual Saturday night drink in a three-piece, tie and fedora, yet nor do they want to be seen dead with the man who pulls up in flip-flops, flared jeans and a Hollisterhoodie.
Get a handle on appearing presentable without reaching for the tailoring with the spring wardrobe essentials we recommend every gentleman should own.
Recommended purchases:
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
