A Gentleman's Lesson: Interview with Matt Fox of Fine and Dandy
The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines a dandy as " 1) a man who gives exaggerated attention to personal appearance, and 2) something excellent in its class." Matt Fox the creator of the blog and shop Fine and Dandy fits well within both of these categories. Some might say that Mr. Fox is just another well dressed New Yorker, but beneath those colorful bow ties lies a man on a fashion mission: changing the way men dress one pocket square at a time. Through his blog and site, Mr. Fox is making gentlemanly fashion accessible and affordable to the masses. Need a pocket square? Some suspenders? Fine and Dandy Shop has it all.
Recently, I was honored when Mr. Fox took the time to answer a few questions about being a dandy, men's accessories must haves, and style experimentation.
1) What does it mean to be a "fine and dandy" gentleman?
A Fine And Dandy gentleman takes the extra five minutes everyday to look his best. His style is an extension of his personality.
2) What was the inspiration behind starting the shop and the blog?
For years I've wanted to open a shop with a similar concept but with the cost of real estate here in NYC, it wasn't a realistic possibility. About a year and a half ago I had the idea to open online. We launched October 31, 2008, to an amazing response. It's really incredible how we've created this dandy community from our blog, our Facebook page, Myspace, Twitter, etc.
3) What are three accessories that all men should have?
A white pocket square, a simple silver tie bar, and some fun socks.
4) Most of my pals are fearful of wearing pocket squares or accessorising in any way, why do you think men, as a whole, take less pride in their appearance than they did decades ago?
There has been a general trend over the last few decades towards dressing down. Casual Friday lasts all week in many offices. I think guys tend to dress like their peers so if everyone around him is dressed in a polo and chinos, he will as well. But I think that's turning around a bit. There is definitely a dandy revival. From the skinny ties and tie bars of Mad Men to the resurgence of the bow tie, guys are getting dressed up again. I think part of it is the economy. We all have to dress to impress and keep our jobs.
5) The Look Book really mixes and matches different patterns and colors, when experimenting with your personal wardrobe are there any rules of thumb to follow?
I'm not a big believer in rules when it comes to style. If you like like something, where it. I love mixing patterns, colors, and materials. What do you have to lose?
6) Name your personal style icon and why?
My grandfather. He was very dapper without even knowing it. He always took the effort to look his best.
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