A Gentleman’s Guide to Looking Good in New York City
Living in a fashion capital such as New York City, one can’t help but pick up a few cues—and set some global trends. However, when the only style rule is there are no rules, looking good can be a little confusing. Luckily, our guide to men’s style in New York City is here to banish your “nothing to wear” woes.
Facial hair groomed with care
It’s not just for hipsters anymore; from sculpted scruff to bold beards, thoughtful facial hair styles are popular amongst style-savvy city slickers. Whatever look you choose (and in New York City, no look is off limits), be sure to care well for your facial hair.
At the hipster-approved Brooklyn Beard Company, you’ll find old-school pocket combs, beard brushes, and beard balms and oils named after Brooklyn’s coolest neighborhoods—there’s even a vegan option for you conscious consumers! Meanwhile, over at the 1838-established C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries, the oldest apothecary in America has jumped on this local trend with an array of products dedicated specifically to mustache and beard care.
Old-school barbershops
In New York City, the modern man prefers an old-school barbershop. Authentically vintage and retro-inspired barbershops have soared in popularity in recent years thanks to their combination of traditional techniques, high-quality products, and personalized care.
For an old-world experience, head over to Paul Mole Barber Shop, providing classic cuts since 1913. With its elegant services, vintage décor, and old-school cash-only policy, Manhattan’s oldest barbershop continues to be one of its best. Further south at Vincent’s Barber Shop in Flatbush, Brooklyn, an old-school cut (think no frills and a cast of regulars hanging about) is still available for under $15. Even contemporary cutters are embracing vintage vibes, as seen at Tomcats Barbershop, where pompadours and classic American cuts are fashioned with flair.
Individual style
Dandies and hipsters and sneakerheads, oh my! Surveying the city, you’ll find every aesthetic accounted for, making individual taste its only enduring trend. With a store for every style, New York City transforms shopping into self-expression.
Embrace your inner trendsetter at Kith, where you’ll find street-style staples, including headwear, statement jackets, and sneakers from brands such as Y-3 and Kenzo, worth blogging about. Prefer the surf to the streets? Snag sunglasses, lived-in shirts, and shoes easily kicked off for impromptu adventures at men’s clothing and lifestyle brand Saturdays NYC. Meanwhile, in trendy Williamsburg, fashion aficionados flock to ID New York for hard-to-find brands, local designers, and the denim of their dreams.
Great shoes
New York is a pedestrian city, and its fashion-conscious fellows know footwear should be fashionable and functional. Here, boots are made for walking—and attracting second glances.
For trend-setting sneaks, head to sneaker mecca Supra, a cult-favorite amongst New York’s downtown crowd. Or join the growing cruelty-free movement (and look great in the process) at Moo Shoes, a store stocking only 100% vegan brands. Not into trends? The 1879-established E. Vogel Custom Boots and Shoes specializes in handmade custom products that kick fads to the curb.