New pen day: Pilot Custom 845 Urushi

In the past months, I’ve set aside some money to treat myself to a new fountain pen. I have had my mind set on something with urushi lacquer as I wanted a writing instrument that was a step up and a little more formal than my currently owned TWSBI Diamond 580alr, Pilot Falcon or Sailor Pro Gear Slim – Vega.

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Getting my first real suit, part two: Finding a tailor

One of the first and probably most important steps is finding a tailor whom you think is best for you. I have to admit, in the Netherlands, this is actually pretty hard. The bespoke tailors like Chifonelli, Anderson & Sheppard, Antonio Liverano, whom we see in videos in famous places like France, the United Kingdom, and Italy, are not found everywhere. (Pardon me if I forget to mention others.) Aside from that, buying my first suit on Savile Row may be a bit out of my league after owning two less-than-ideal off-the-rack suits. So I decide to find my tailor closer to home.

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So you think you are a gentleman?

What I perceive is that many people talk about being a gentleman when they look classy, smoke a cigar, and drink scotch. Often, James Bond is brought into that image as well. Some may think that they can become one as well by wearing expensive watches, maintaining a smart attitude, and following some ‘rules’ to become one on a random webpage covered with advertisements. But one couldn’t be further from that.

To me, a gentleman is not a term that’s written in stone, especially considering our current time. Does a gentleman need to be a man? And what is it really about?

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Getting my first real suit, part one: Where to start?

This post will be the first in a series about getting my first suit. A suit looks so simple to the eye. Pay a few hundred euros, get one off the rack, and you’re all set, right? Or not? In this first post, I’m going to make a plan for my first suit and provide some insights into where I’m coming from.

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Things I changed my mind about, in 2024

I will (not) wear pink

My linen summer suit from Suit Supply is a beautiful sand-colored, unstructured ensemble, perfect for more casual occasions. However, I found the shirts in my wardrobe to be a little bland. While a linen white shirt paired decently, amidst the brown and white ensemble, it seemed too understated. I had been searching for a turquoise linen shirt without much luck. I decided to experiment and tried on one of my girlfriend’s garments; she favors pink. Holding it in front of the mirror over my clothes, it surprisingly complemented the outfit well.

Subsequently, I ordered a light pink shirt from Suit Supply, utilizing my measurements already in the system, making the process quite straightforward.

Recently, I visited Suit Supply again for some trousers. I opted for taupe trousers and had them adjusted. When paired with my brown Chelseas and the pink shirt, the ensemble really came together. Consequently, I can confidently say that I now enjoy wearing pink.