An industry review of 'True Style' by G.Bruce Boyer. 


Firstly, let me just say at £20.99, this little bible of knowledge is a worthwhile investment for any man remotely interested in the basic rules of mens dress. I'd go as far as to say it is a masterclass in its field.

With decent reviews from Town and Country Magazine, Francesco Barberis Canonico, Drake's London and the The Armoury; one gets the feel that this will be a good informative read. Boyer does not disappoint - This book does exactly what it says on the tin.

Boyer's opening chapter, 'Ascots', follows on from a concise insight into the book by the man himself. Ascots; the proper term for neckwear is a nice ice breaker, reminding us of the often overlooked accessory options for men. Chapters 3,10, 18 and 20 cover the adornment of other areas of the body. Very useful for men who like to consider the little touches. Whilst giving a nod to these important areas, Boyer tries to keep our attention away from trying too hard with the little things and to strive for the uncontrived but considered chaos of 'Sprezzatura'; the Italian notion of looking and living with a not to considered elegance.

Starting out reading English Literature, Boyer, now 80 years old, has a lifetime of experience in the luxury mens market. I've made hundreds and hundreds of garments as a Tailor and I can tell you this man really knows his stuff. The depth of his knowledge is reflected in his influence, which stretches far and wide; I recently spoke to a gentleman on Instagram, who hails from Vienna. A chap with an obsessively keen interesting in tailoring and mens dress and we discussed at length, the availability of British cloth direct from the mills in the north and how despite his taste for the heavier, less continental cloths, he is so so keen to get his hand on a copy of this book. Having read it I really can't blame him.

Closing with a chapter on 'Weathergear', Boyer concludes a wonderful collection of writing, saturated with the unspoken tips and tidbits that anyone with the tailoring itch is hungry to know. I found this chapter particularly enticing as one of my favourite items of clothing I own is my Lightweight Bedale by Barbour. This jacket, gifted to me by a man and friend of mine whom I hold a great respect for, really embodies the spirit of Boyer's angle; that some of the greatest things in menswear are adopted through time and that True Style should be lived. Sprezzatura.

Thanks for reading,

Nathan

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