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Did Commandos Go Commando? | The Art of Manliness

“Looks like I gotta go commando.” We all know what that phrase means.  It means you’re going to wear pants without underwear.  But why do we call the act of not wearing underwear beneath pants “going commando”? Did commandos actually go commando? AoM investigates. Where Did the Phrase “Going Commando” Originate? Doing some sleuthing into […]

How to Wear a Tuxedo Properly

Nothing makes a man feel as sharp and debonair (and makes the ladies swoon) as when donning a tuxedo. Unfortunately, “black tie” is an often misunderstood dress code, leading men to end up looking more like Lloyd and Harry in Dumb and Dumber than 007. You can thank rental outlets and high school proms for

Achieve a Polished Look: Learn How to Shine Shoes

An important part of manhood has always been about having the competence to be effective in the world — having the breadth of skills, the savoir-faire, to handle any situation you find yourself in. With that in mind, each Sunday we’ll be republishing one of the illustrated guides from our archives, so you can hone your

Shaving at Night: Is It Better Than Morning?

Shaving is one of those daily rituals that most men take care of as part of their morning routine. It makes sense. Shaving in the morning allows you to start the day looking as fresh as possible and ensures you look clean-shaven longer throughout your waking hours. But I’ve personally been a night-shaver for several

How to Tie a Half-Windsor Knot: An Illustrated Guide

An important part of manhood has always been about having the competence to be effective in the world — having the breadth of skills, the savoir-faire, to handle any situation you find yourself in. With that in mind, each Sunday we’ll be republishing one of the illustrated guides from our archives, so you can hone your

How to Get the Stink Out of Synthetic Workout Shirts

Synthetic workout shirts were supposed to represent a great leap forward in performance wear. Unlike cotton shirts, which soak up your sweat and become wet and heavy, synthetic fabrics, typically made of polyester, wick away moisture, keeping you cool and dry. Unfortunately, this advantage comes with a significant downside: they can smell terrible. Terrible. This

A Guide to Barbershop Etiquette

There’s nothing like the experience of getting your hair cut at a quality barber shop. The smell of talc and hair tonics is evocative. The feeling of a hot towel on your face is relaxing. Another thing that adds to the pleasant experience of a barbershop is the unwritten code of etiquette that should prevail

How to Lace Your Dress Shoes

in: Featured, Shoes, Style, Visual Guides Brett and Kate McKay • May 21, 2023 An important part of manhood has always been about having the competence to be effective in the world — having the breadth of skills, the savoir-faire, to handle any situation you find yourself in. With that in mind, each Sunday we’ll be

Get Rid of Dandruff for Good: The Ultimate Guide

You notice white flakes on your shoulders when wearing a black t-shirt or dark suit.  You’ve got dandruff.  You’re not alone. 50% of adults have dandruff. I’m part of that 50%. I’ve got a more severe type of dandruff called seborrheic dermatitis that I’ve been managing since my early 30s.  While dandruff isn’t a symptom

What is Smart Casual For Men?

Some dress codes are pretty easy to understand.  When you get an invitation that says the dress code is “black tie,” you know that means you wear a tuxedo.  “Semi-formal?” A suit and tie. Easy-peasy.  The “business casual” category is a bit more ambiguous. But it’s been around long enough that we have some pretty

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