I am in New York for some meetings right now and lo an behold, at the local Border’s what did I see but the new Big Black Book from Esquire!
I wasn’t expecting it to be out yet and even Amazon indicates that it won’t ship until October 7, but there it was, piled up to the sky and ready to go. Apparently just issued, the store had stocked up on this seminal guide book for men, anticipating big demand. I am again very pleased with the nice mix of clothing, accessories, advice and stories the editors have been able to weave together.
This guide is a favorite of Off The Cuff because it is more than a product catalog – it is well, a guide. Sections like “Desktops,” pair collections of items – pens, watches, notebooks, and clothing – in way that helps the reader see how to choose and organize their personal possessions in a stylish and coherent way.
“The New Americans” profiles several of-the-moment designers who seem to have solid staying power, including Gilded Age, Engineered Garments and the exceptionally talented Michael Bastian. “Watches” focuses on materials in this issue – from carbon fibre to gold and several beautiful stainless steel options are highlighted.
Longer form pieces include an homage to Neapolitan tailoring, an examination of the great outdoors and the role of the briefcase in our allegedly paperless world. The four main “Portfolios” cover mastering the art of the tuxedo, pared down international style, classic chunky anglophile-inspired woolens and a spread on explorer Sam Branson, the apparently well grounded son of super-entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson.
The educationally oriented “Information” section focuses on advice ranging from how to design the perfect business card to the pairing of patterned suit coats and shirts. Also tackled – caring for your clothing (in particular is a great guide to keeping dress shirts looking fresh and new), how to make small talk, managing office politics and characteristics of the perfect weekend bag.
There is much more than I have highlighted here and this year’s Big Black Book really lives up to it’s self-titled moniker of “The Style Guide of Successful Men.” Not that previous year’s did not, but this particular one is a font of practical and entertaining information.
Just remember, it’s not about recreating exactly what you see within it’s covers, but taking inspiration from the editors’ ideas and spreads and making them your own. You will have even more opportunity to do so as Esquire is planing to produce a Spring edition of the BBB that should hit the stands in early March 2009.