HOW CLOTHING INFLUENCES PEOPLE | THE POWER OF STYLE

[@paulbest6556]

Ash, I am a 72 year old man that lost my wife of 51 years last Summer. I had quite a bit of time on hands during the grieving process and found your channel. Rather than get a shine while at the airport, I started the Saphir regimen that I learned from you. As I learned more about shoe style from you, I purchased a number of lightly used shoes on Ebay at very good prices that cleaned up beautifully. I had for years placed a point, white pocket square in my suits. As a result of your videos, I now have quite a collection of varied pocket squares that allows me to change my look. I am now the best dressed man at nearly all events including church. I don’t go overboard, but it just makes me feel better about things. I receive periodic compliments, but most of all it has helped me navigate my grief. Who would have thought.

[@TheChapsGuide]

How wonderful that you have been able to enjoy the principles of style as a way of navigating a terrible period in your life. The little things count as they say and even a kind word from a stranger about how well you are dressed can raise a smile at a time where smiles are scarce. Best wishes to you sir, you are in my thoughts. Ash

[@FlatcapHobbit]

These stories are a great reminder that the best of humanity can still be found, even in the most simple places.

[@05Rudey]

I very much enjoyed the last story, not only did his suit make him feel like a superhero, he acted like one.

[@pahwraith]

Its interesting because I work I film as a grip and Ive invested in a pair of nice carhartt overalls, red wing boots, and a pendleton wool jacket. Quality made in American classic workwear. I leave my house with a thermos and my tool bag. I feel invincible, I feel ready for a hards day work. I immediately get respect everywhere, even on the walk to my car. People smile at me. People stop me and ask what sort of trade I do. They immediately respect me as someone who gets into the nitty gritty. I get filled with an immense sense of pride and accomplishment when I say “I am studio mechanic, I work in film and television”. Its an amazing job that requires artistic/technical ability as well as good old fashioned brawn and muscle. We get “stuck in” as you brits say. The suit jackets and trousers have to wait for the wrap parties. When me and my coworkers, are able to dress in finer clothing. Just thought you would appreciate this anecdote.

[@TheChapsGuide]

I understand what you mean. I spent most of my adult life in clothing easily associated with my employment (uniforms) and the sense of 'teamship' and pride when wearing such clothing is undeniable. Now I dress with more style and this fulfils a similar purpose, but now I chose the tune and wear the little touches that make the difference. Thanks you for your perspective - it was very interesting.

[@viclucyzia]

One should not be after compliments and one should not just try to impress others. That is the wrong mindset. When you dress well and feel comfortable, when you start using manners, courtesy and being helpful you will start to change and people around you will start interacting with you differently and that is what one should be after, to change and make the world a little bit better. The start takes courage and determination but the outcome is you become a respected gentleman. Dear Chap's I tip my hat off to you. Nice inspiring stories. And Ash you have now another topic for series of videos. Looking forward for 50k subsubscribers in the near future.

[@barrysmith8193]

How well spoken. The art of being a gentleman has evaporated but not dead. If we are going to make a difference in others lives it starts with us. How we dress, speak, hold ourselves in public, and in private too. It’s an attitude that takes practice until it becomes instinctive. I’ve heard it said “it’s easier not to do rather than to do.” Adult men today are not taught how to be gentlemen at childhood. When I studied the art of being a gentleman and practicing those principals daily my opinion of myself soared along with my bank balance. I am a retired a multimillionaire that is regularly approached by other very rich people to participate in their projects and plans. “I am he and he is me” is an enjoining philosophy by all the very wealthy. If you want to be wealthy it is imperative that you understand this.

[@viclucyzia]

@@barrysmith8193 Sir I appreciate you being one with my thoughts eventhough I am on the other spectrum regarding my financial situation. I can say one can fake and hide eseily his financial status by being a gentleman. I am nowhere at ease. People think I am wealthy when I approach them and the way I dress. I help wherever I can giving a hand at charities, driving goods, having talks with elderly. Younger people don't know that I just drive a 14yo Honda Jazz battered while they drive a BMW (over here those who drive a Porsche, Mercedes, Audi or BMW are the rich retired or plenty of young 18 to 29 yo who are so intelligent in making money online or selling drugs) , I was not accepted to work at a drug store for stocking and now work at a hotel reception with below minimum wage while they travel and go to restaurants weekly (I am not able to for 3 months now due to soaring inflation that eats all earnings and even keeps away putting anything aside for when I retire) we live in a rented apartment so no house for the future when I will need to vacate. I am worried when I will retire in 10 years that we will be among the poor yet nobody notices it. So I live in the present and being a gentleman gives me joy. When old folks show a big smile, appreciate my dressing up and a short conversation and when joy is given to them for a short while then I am happy as well. Yes the past was a much better world. The present world is down the drain.

[@canadafree2087]

Thank you for this video Ash; and thank you to all the chaps who sent in their inspiring stories.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@9er..]

Thank you Ash👊! 🫡 Back at you sir!! I found Kevin’s story to be the most inspiring and joyful As someone who spent 10+ years in neurology (intra-operative neuro tech and some out-PT) I know the impact such Dx’s can on one’s life. As I’m sure your aware, police officers spend a significant amount of time beating the hell out of themselves(physically, emotionally, and in more ways that I cannot understand.) All in order to protect our communities and families. Here in the States they all to often go under appreciated and highly disrespected. I very much enjoyed hearing from a man who serves finally giving back to himself. Kevin, you are the man! 👊 Welcome to the journey to “ Chap Nirvana”!!

[@kevinstiles781]

Thank you for the kind words. I’m still searching for that new line of work, luckily my symptoms are still mild enough that I can keep doing my job (I’m also lucky to work in a small historical town that is relatively calm). I would like to thank you for your work in the medical field, I’m sure you have helped many people too…probably more than I have. Take care fellow chap!

[@erikryde7879]

More stories and videos like this please!!! I am going to buy a hat just so I can take it off again in awe of these chaps. What do you get if you put a chap / gentleman in a suit? A superhero!!!

[@ryangrimm9305]

My significant other and I were recently at a theater for a large-screen experience of CASABLANCA. While SWMBO did not want to put a lot of effort into period attire, going with cloche hat, medium length skirt and blouse etc., I decided to push outside my usual excessively casual clothing, and went in pressed chinos, pinstripe spearpoint shirt, 1930s tie and clasp, tweed jacket with white pocket square and a Stetson fedora in shark grey with black band. No pocket watch this time, as I was not wearing a vest. I was easily the best-dressed person in the room, and felt all the better for it, having shown respect for the film and it's time period. On an occasion a few years back, I was showing a visiting friend the Cape Cod area, and we stopped for a coffee. While there, we noticed a young man in a suit and tie outside the shop, waiting for his ride. It was obvious to us both that he had not worn a suit before, or not often, as his clothing was a bit...maladjusted. We approached him in conversation about his reason for getting dressed up, and complemented him on his clothing. In our chat we discussed where he was going, why he was dressed (a wedding), and asked him if he had any questions about his mode of dress...this allowed him to continue the subject or not, as was his wont. He brought up that this was his first suit, he had acquired it second hand from an uncle (it was of good woolen material), and needed advice as to what he should do about it. It turned out that he really hadn't had anyone to talk to about a suit, and what he knew was from perusing videos on the Web. We brought up that he could shorten the jacket sleeves a bit, as they over hung the shirt cuffs a bit, and a proper length to shoot for; the shirt itself (new) was fitted nicely for size and collar diameter, and that his tie was properly knotted. His shoes were black and reasonably polished as befitted the occasion (and we told him why), and he had on a pair of black socks. His trousers were also a bit long, but could be adjusted; there was enough material that he could choose between straight or cuffed bottoms. As we found out he was local to the area, I directed him to a seamstress I had used in the past for adjustments, along with the name of the firm (I wrote it down for him). I told him that for very short money he would be even sharper in appearance. My friend and I were both complementary to him, did not criticize him on problems, and gave him what support we could on his day, and for the future. I do hope that he has taken this to heart, and continues on his journey.

[@TheChapsGuide]

A great story of your sartorial benevolence when seeing a stranger in need of some tailoring advice. I'm sure that the young chap was better equipped to face the world in his suit following your splendid advice!!

[@Pentonavalsolutions]

Very nice.Thank you ash.inspired by the Last story.

[@TheChapsGuide]

My pleasure 😊

[@RaoulKunz1]

What a lovely Idea! Of course I missed the call to action so I won't bore everyone here with me olden tales of style effects - but its great to hear of other's positive experiences! I'm full of all mopey grumpy tales about the dreaded casulization but just yesterday I was once again mistaken for "the master" (i.e. the boss, German craftsmen are super vintage in their ranks and designations, all very HRE😆) simply based on the combination of dress and expertise, on how I carry myself. And, a bit like Kevin's story, it's a result of dealing with hardships and it's quite an experiences... guess why I'm walking around with dapper canes? Because neurological conditions force me to. So I turned it into something fun. To paraphrase Harry Hart: "A suit is the modern gentleman's armour."😉 I was just monday (~07:45ish on my way to work) stopped by a young man (Student clearly, we are next to a school) who complimented me on my trench-coat but was really intrigued by my waxed moustache ("how do you get it to stay?") and how my hat looked "different than 'those other hats'" (I was wearing a grey Homburg then, he meant the abysmal textile micro-brim parody of a Trilby you see frequently)... I even gave him my unopened "backup carry" tin of "Expedition Strength" beard wax and he said he'd tell me Friday morning how it turned out - that's tomorrow, so I'll maybe add a comments then😉. Oh and I also told him to start with a proper Trillby or a Fedora, Homburgs are prone to be a tad bit expensive for a test run I feel. So what do we learn from this Story? Sam's story and my tale are the unmistakable proof: Waxed moustaches and hats are the way (to convert the young)! 🤣 Now I *did* relate a story but thus was just *to perfect* a case of weired entropy... Will shamelessly steal from Sam and recommend Chap's Guide and GG tomorrow.😉 It's always great to hear of other gents' experiences! I know I opened with this but: *what a lovely Idea for a video!.* Best regards Raoul G. Kunz

[@TheChapsGuide]

It is the small human interactiosn like these, that happen every day without fanfare that make all the difference. You are a gent Raoul!

[@viclucyzia]

Wonderful.

[@ryangrimm9305]

I too have had experience working with a pair of middle-aged German owners of a machine shop...after over 20 years working together they still addressed each other as Herr Gluth and Herr Metzger. Having been raised with German grandparents, I automatically fell into this mode of address, and it didn't hurt a bit, as they disliked the excessively familiar mode of Americans using first names for everyone. I can state that I once heard someone address a policeman as 'dude'. The ONLY time I heard them talk in a familiar use of first names was at a Christmas party they hosted with their wives...obviously the occasion and several beers helped. I believe this helped me when I left for another shop; when I asked for a letter of recommendation it had a mildly glowing account of my achievements and courtesy. From these two, it was what I would think of as a rather exuberant expression.

[@RaoulKunz1]

@@ryangrimm9305 🤣 Yes indeed... I've been working with them for 9 years now in addition to 5 years of apprenticeship, also with them... and we still address each other as Master Raab (the father) and Mr. Raab (the heir) and they have never addressed me in any other way than Mr. Kunz... and we are on *really* friendly terms 🤣. Of course I started the apprenticeship already a fairly experienced late 20s bloke, not the common 16-odd year old apprentice... (I had completed my studies as an English teacher when the state of Hessia decided I'm too broken to become a salaried state servant so *I* decided to do something completely different...😅 mopemope🤣) so it was Mr. right off the bat... and it stayed that way.l😅 Best regards Raoul G. Kunz

[@RaoulKunz1]

Update: The waxed moustache looks good on the student I fixed up with wax, his father apperantly told him that "Allah! Now you are starting to look like a man instead of a wet dog!".🤣 Sadly he feels his English insufficient to fully comprehend the channel... which triggered my residual English teacher and I just sent him the collection of student-friendly English "grammar and useful phrases" sheets (a whopping assortment of 20-odd pages) I created some 15 years ago...I don't know if he will feel truly thankful😆. In other interesting things (and wasn't that a sartorially charged week...) I met an exceedingly well dressed and styled young man on the commuter train who asked where I got my style inspirations from and what the base was for my choices - turns out he's just started his bespoke tailor apprenticeship so we chatted a bit for four stations and I pointed him to this channel as well as giving him some info that will get him in touch with me cousin who's a fashion designer (nothing glorious so far, I only *seem* well connected) she's currently trying to forge contacts in LA (...don't ask me...). Oh and I had to help rescue a 40pound German Giant (Rabbit) upon arriving home... In the dark... and rain... after a nine hour work day plus three hours combined commuting... I pray to the Old Gods and the New (😉) for a slower weekend... Best (very exhausted) regards Raoul G. Kunz

[@vrdrew63]

Inspiring stories from some of your subscribers and friends. Like many, I found police officer Kevin's story most inspirational. All of us are faced by circumstances or challenges that we cannot change. A tip of the cap (or trilby, or bowler) to Kevin for finding strength in the ways that he has. Best wishes to him and all the other chaps out there who may be facing challenges of their own.

[@kevinstiles781]

Thank you for the tip of the cap drew, right back at you sir.

[@kevinstiles781]

Thank you for this episode Ash, and thank you for including my story, it really put a smile on my face. Also, I recently bought a new pair of brown dress shoes and guess what happened the first time I wore them… 😉. Keep up the great work!

[@TheChapsGuide]

That's awesome!

[@phillipmoodie9071]

I love the idea and you presented with style and grace. Phil Australia

[@justinsaunders4068]

That bowler hat really suits Gerry.

[@johnhicks9664]

Hello Ash. I really enjoyed this latest video on how dressing well influences other people. All I can think of is how my wife started to notice how I started to elevate my style by wearing more classic stylish clothing. I’m not necessarily of well off means though I am retired. I have developed a keen eye for “bargains’ when I see them and try not to hesitate to take advantage of purchasing the item. I find your advice to dress one step above what is expected has illicited interesting responses from people. Many do treat you differently and it’s quite contagious. I find my wife quietly raising the level of her attire to correspond to what I’m wearing. She also has started to ask me for advice which I find flattering. I can think of many instances in the past two years since I began this sartorial journey where I’ve been treated well simply due to my outfits. I should add that most of the items I do purchase for my wardrobe are reasonably priced. However the art of presenting well is in combining the various clothing items in a way that is both pleasing to the eye and following established sartorial principles. Thank you for your channel and God bless you with all the success you seek. John from Canada

[@chrisblanc663]

I have to say it. Yours is the most upbeat style channel I have come across. A lot of style channels say they want to help people be happy, their best self etc. your channel makes it a focus. Plenty of larger channels would do well to take notes from you my stylish friend! I remember reading that last story when he wrote to your channel. He gives the best example of why gentlemen should seek to dress better, and become more polished. “We do not rise to the level of our expectation, but fall to the level of our training.” That gentleman is a well trained chap.

[@danielschaeffer1294]

A close friend of mine was a former U.S. Marine, a Purple Heart - Vietnam, and he owned a really fine overcoat cut like yours. Is yours a military coat as well? Great vid, btw, and a shoutout to Kevin. He’s clearly suffering from a clinical depression, and it’s great you could help him out a bit. Be pleased with yourself. You’re making a difference.

[@theacademyofanatomy]

Thank you Ash for using my story! In fact, I had another student stay after class yesterday to tell me how she enjoyed the course and she thanked me for always dressing nice! When I decided to start dressing better over the last couple of semesters, I was motivated by what I heard from you, that by dressing well you are showing respect to those around you. In my head I knew that was what I was doing. I had no idea, until the comments from my students, that respect was actually being projected and received! Again, Thanks!!!

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thanks for your contribution to the video.

[@jimmydigital]

content of character most important I agree. but I think in "9er's" case, being well dressed as a first impression can be more than 50% of the "power" ... like when you were walking and came across 2 drunkards in a park that bucked up their ideas "lookout, gentleman" ... like it had the power a policeman in uniform would... also going into an authorised watch dealer... it can be the difference between getting shooed away or taken seriously/desired as a customer.

[@mikewinston8709]

In 2001 I took a gamble at a civil claim court for a traffic accident in the UK; all of us wearing civilian clothes. I wore my Cordings field coat with a CCFH hunt badge (Oxford Beaglers) on the upper chest and plain grey worsted trousers with turn ups and Church Aaron Oxfords. There was me, my opponent, my barrister, the judge and the opposing barrister; no one else. The judge, I could tell, had looked me over. I drove a Land Rover Defender too; the opposing car was a large BMW; a company car. I won my case. I firmly believe my clothes played a huge part…….I appeared solid, decent and honest; the opposition; a wealthy managing director, appeared flash in his expensive, but obviously off the peg suit and his too sharp haircut. The judge even acknowledged he knew where I lived in Thame, Oxon as I described the road conditions. I believe the judge lived in a rural spot in either Oxon or Bucks and had certain sympathies shall we say…..appearances matter…always. 🇬🇧

[@TheChapsGuide]

A classic example of weaponising style. Thank you for sharing your story. Ash

[@werewolfradio3891]

Let me share mine. I came across your channel two weeks ago, and i decided to follow your basic wardrobe guide. I am still a student so i'm buying things slowly. Now I own 4 nice cotton shirts (2 blue, 1 white and another pear green like colour), a nice perfume and a very nice budget casio dress watch. Yesterday, i had an evening dinner with some good friends, everyone complimented my new look and nice perfume. Some asked, 'what happened, why are you wearing collard shirts all of a sudden? Later that evening, we called a cab so that we can proceed to a nearby nightclub. I sat adjacent to the cab driver and immediately he saw my simple silver casio watch, he leaned forward for a glance and gave me a smile with a thumbs up. Then he proceeded to show me his watch, it was from citizen. i could see the gears moving in the background. i looked at the cab driver, and i started to notice how sharply he dressed. he wore a full suit, leather gloves, was well shaven. i mean he looked so well kept together. i have never seen a cab driver dressed like that in my life. most of them look like bums. it brought some air of mystery, like 'who is this guy?'. He he was chinese and due to the language barrier, we couldnt really talk. He looked to be in his 40s while im still in mid 20s. But i felt so good that day, because i hadn't known that investing in your looks can improve your social life drastically. im happy i subscribed. My bomber jacket and welted leather boots are on the way.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Well done young sir. You are on your way to chap nirvana

[@FAS1948]

For the apparel oft proclaims the man,

[@rodneymanwaring9396]

I dressed formal to work the other day surprised everyone and by the end of my shift I felt impressed enough that my thought was that I can get a better job if I dress formal. I felt more confident and valuable and a smarter person.

[@flasherol3764]

Good Video. You made a big difference for lots of chaps . Thanks

[@TheChapsGuide]

Glad it helped

[@MisterKnightly]

Please keep this series up. At the end of a rough day, I needed some stories of decency and kindness.

[@12-OneTwo]

What would help to elevate someone's character so that most days become more appreciable?

[@MisterKnightly]

@@12-OneTwo Probably reminding myself that life is pretty good, even when it's rough.

[@timhardman9386]

Dear Ash, How are you? Just want to let you know that one of the reasons for me to watch your Videos is that you are appreciating and advocating kindness, politeness, respect and character as a whole. The watch videos and Ration Packs are really enjoyable, but the former to me is the icing on the cake 😉👍🏻 Keep up the good work, we see that you can manage 😎 My regards, Tim

[@velviaman3206]

Great episode Ash, the last story resonates with me. In 1990 I managed to get tickets for a sell out Miles Davis concert. I remember that the tickets were quite a lot of money to me at the time but realised that it was probably my only opportunity to hear him live. When I arrived I realised that the young man sitting next to me had cerebral palsy. I selfishly thought that his involuntary movements would spoil my enjoyment of this once in a lifetime event. When the music started his arm movement became more exaggerated as he got more and more excited. However on the contrary his enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment added to my own enjoyment of the music. He may have had synesthesia but that is pure conjecture on my part. Miles died the next year.

[@jeromesboard756]

I had been following your channel for a few months now. The manner in which you talk, the cadence, the choice of words gives me such delight that I feel if you were just reading from a page of a telephone directory, I would still immensely enjoy it. My anecdote pertains to that of a video in which you speak about how to set yourself apart from the pack in the workplace and a lot other ones I have watched. I am a grade school teacher and our school requires us to wear a batik (that type of fabric here in Indonesia) school uniform from Monday-Wednesday. I also hold the position of a discipline master and my duty entails having to meet students' parents from time to time to talk about discipline cases. Just this week, I was dressed in that batik uniform and a pair of rather handsome bespoke burgundy shoes (surely I had the best pair worn that day). It also helped that I had replaced the school-issue ID flimsy lanyard with a tasteful leather one. It gave me enough confidence to talk to a father who was displeased that his son had been on the receiving end of a physical altercation. The father was dressed casually in his round-neck tee and denim jeans. The next day, I spoke to another father, this time the one whose son had hit the previous father's son. This second father was dressed in pencil-striped long-sleeved shirt and black trousers (but the shoes were nothing much to look at, if I'm being honest). To use your words, I weaponised how I was dressed that day. Surely, these two have fatter bank accounts and I am nowhere near to sniff them, but on these occasions, I felt like I was in a position of authority, that what I said mattered and that I had been completely professional in handling a sensitive issue. I was one who never had suffered from confidence, but hearing your encouraging words about how to handle people, how good things happen to those who dress well, had inspired me. Knowing that I was dressed professionally had boosted my confidence a notch higher that day. Thanks to you, Sir. Well, this is nowhere near in importance and scale to the last chap (I tip my hat to you, Sir) who made a big difference to the person in the concert but you can add this to your list of people you have inspired with your channel.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Great story of the power of dressing well to boost one's confidence and impact the actions of others!!

[@magiclantern66]

Excellent stories, Sir. Here's one about me being influenced by someone else, although you mightn't be impressed by the sartorial choices. I had a friend called Tommy. He was a bit of a character, often rather unkempt, but I liked the confidence that he exuded and his bold ,unique fashion choices. Taking a leaf from his book, I went to a concert wearing a vintage Hawaiian shirt (not too garish- it's cream with bits of green and terra-cotta with a nice design). I paired it with a brown leather motor-cross jacket with stripes on the sleeves: My own take on Tommy's style. I was delighted, not only that he was at the gig, but that he immediately remarked on my outfit. In his broad Dublin accent, he exclaimed: "Wow! Lovin' de look, Man! Very Rock & Rowel!" I was chuffed to receive a compliment from the gentleman who had inspired me. Sadly, that was the last time we spoke. He went to India shortly afterwards where he suffered a fatal heart-attack. I was distraught, but I took some comfort from the fact that our last memory of each-other was one of mutual appreciation. I still wear the same clothes for his anniversaries.

[@TheChapsGuide]

A wonderful story of evolution through inspiration. Such a shame Tommy's part in the story ended in tragedy, but at least you were able to demonstrate to him that his influence on you was positive and had a happy outcome!

[@magiclantern66]

@@TheChapsGuide Thank you for taking the time to respond, Sir. Tommy was a rogue, but unquestionably a gentleman. I've been taking tips from your videos. Last night I went out dickied-up to the nines, and I lost count of the handshakes and kisses that I received as a result. Of course, that would have counted for nought , had I behaved like an ass. You always reinforce the value of comportment. Manners Maketh Man.

[@salvatoreIII]

Was fun hearing these stories. I love how you referenced the character part in the last story. He could've been wearing anything and he'd still have accomplished his goal with the proper mindset he had.

[@kaykunz4730]

Hi Ash, Great video with excellent stories. I also liked all the stories other gentlemen left in the comments. I must tell you that you and your channel have helped me in my journey to chap nirvana profoundly. I have already tried to dress nicer and better in the past but your channel with all the advice and great content has supported me in stepping up my game. Today, I have received a compliment by one of our office lady's. She has noticed my sportscoats, dress pants, dress shirt and polished shoes. I look like a man who knows how to dress and all fits and is not baggy or like a sack. I thanked her and it brightened my day. I will start now experiment with pockets squares, including pocket square holder. I had no idea that this product even existed. Now I do because of your latest video to this topic. Thank you Ash.

[@jan6485]

Changing lives ❤ im so happy to see this channel grow and touching the lives of other gentlemen . Amazing how all stories come togheter . 🥃

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thanks so much

[@JamesBond-qd5rc]

Thank you Ash! I think I enjoyed this episode most of all and have shared it with my chap friends. Well done!

[@TheChapsGuide]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@0017Bulldog]

I truly loved this episode. Sam and Jerry...if you guys are reading this, you guys look totally awesome and are inspirational. Here I sit in my flat cap and cowboy boots and can appreciate that we all can have our own inspirational style.

[@TheChapsGuide]

You rock!

[@douglasmstewart]

Another great video, thank you Ash. The letter from Kevin was inspiring and I wish the best for him. In addition, You remind me of my grandfather. (Well how I remember him). He always had impeccable style and always bought quality. That seemed to have rubbed off on me. I took a job where I was wearing a jacket daily and many times suits. And my coworkers - like many young men - didn’t have the budget to buy quality. Or at least they didn’t see the value. They would be aghast when I told them that my shoes cost them 5x what they paid for theirs. But of course, mine have been re-soled a couple times. Theirs were thrown away after 6 months or so. But I was able to convince one gentleman to buy quality. I ran into him about a year after I left the job and of course we talked clothing because it was the one thing we have in common. He eventually ditched the disposable lifestyle and has no regrets. It seemed to even spark a bit of passion in him as well. At first his wife would jokingly say “stay away from Doug, we will go broke!” But she now let’s him buy quality everything because in the long run it’s much easier financially. In addition, he stands out from the other gentlemen that bought the $250 suit from a department store and only got the sleeves shortened. While he may not know it, the man I saw in that encounter was more confident and proud to dressed that dapper. Just like Kevin realized and articulated so well in his letter, these small changes can reshape a man instantly.

[@TheChapsGuide]

A fantastic story sir - a gentleman well on the route to Chap Nirvana!

[@1114gabby]

Your videos are very informative and you pass on enthusiasm for dressing well.

[@timhardman9386]

What a great video. Many thanks from DE 👍🏻

[@TheChapsGuide]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ronaldpoppe3774]

Great stories! Cheers Ron

[@raymondphaff2739]

good morning yet again i enjoyed your video

[@KatjeSF]

One of your best ever, Ash. Thank you indeed.

[@Manuel421]

Excellent content as always. I know it's a bit random but the late John Ritter really rocked hoodies well when he sometimes wore them on Threes Company as Jack but nonetheless a sweater is the better option the majority of times. Fantastic advice as always good sir.

[@noble_wolf]

Some great stories there, enjoyed this vid - very inspiring.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@williamcreitz7759]

Thanks!

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thank you sir. Your support is much appreciated

[@Alandale45]

Thank you for a great video, Ash.

[@williamkazak469]

I am from the Midwest. My first year of college, I lived with cousins, aunts and uncles in Southern California. My cousin was a guy a year or two younger than me. He had a certain style that was just perfect for his climate and location. Nothing really over the top, however some nice things. He wore tan pebble grained brogues, Sperry boat shoes. One was leather and one canvas Sperry CVO type. He had a pair of Converse All Stars. That was very interesting to me. He had a yellow windbreaker, a pair of Levi's and kaki chinos. He wore long and short sleeved dress shoes. Simple but highly effective for his location and his age. My Aunt taught me how to iron a shirt. We ironed our own shirts and sometimes we took them to the cleaners. When I got back to the Midwest, I went to a shoe store! I remember the owner of the store showing me a pair of pebble grained leather shoes. He said, "these are shoes!". Very grateful was I for I gained practical knowledge from all the above. In high school we wore ties and for my grade school graduation, I had a sharkskin suit and tie. In the late 60's and early 70's I liked jeans with a white shirt or a yellow t-shirt. Never too shabby was I for my father made sure of that as a youngster but I was observant and willing to learn and I enjoyed that. I still do. Thank you for your videos. I did buy a fedora this year!

[@TheChapsGuide]

Enjoy that fedora sir - Perhaps we can talk you into a Bowler next year?

[@Heywood.Jablome]

All I need now is that accent dangit!

[@Sshooter444]

I find that I'm more likely to get compliments from men when I'm wearing nice clothes. Probably 10-1 men to women. Does every one else have the same results?

[@TheChapsGuide]

I totally agree!

[@RaoulKunz1]

Completely concur! I suppose it's also because it does not carry any possible implications, just peers talking. But then... whenever I'm in Cologne I get compliments from men *with* implications, but that's Cologne😂. (Really large queer scene😉) Best regards Raoul G. Kunz

[@Fanakapan222]

@@RaoulKunz1 Agree, upping ones sartorial game will attract interest from gay chaps, but thats maybe no bad thing ? Simply because quite a few of the gay crowd, lacking the weight of bringing up families and such, will have a broader experience of lifes opportunities. And I've yet to meet a gay bloke who pushed things when knowing I was not. As for the ladies, quite a few will worry about wilting in the shade of a well dressed man ? So one might suggest that a good turnout will repel just the sort that one ought to avoid. :)

[@RaoulKunz1]

@@Fanakapan222 I completely concur - I have zero problems with getting compliments from queer blokes, it's more that I feel kind of crappy to have to thank them for the compliment but not interested .- I'm always thinking about how depressing this was for me (once upon a time, so long ago 😆) and I suppose that queer men are just as emotional invested as straight... I think... the gay men in my circle of friends are... "straight gay"... as in utterly conservative in relationship matters. But it was good training in learning to accept and receive compliments with grace. And truth be told I'm just as happy to offer at least some dapper eye candy for anyone... who's into dapper bears🤣. It's just weird that *whenever* I'm there I *will* get compliments somewhere between the central station and the trade-fair halls (biggest orthopaedics trade fair world-wide is held in Cologne, so I'm frequently there). Honestly though: there's worse fates🙃. Best regards Raoul G. Kunz

[@Fanakapan222]

@@RaoulKunz1 A gay chap said to me years ago, 'A compliment never hurts'. :)

[@bigpumpfitness3734]

Awesome vid

[@GlorytoGodYaweh]

Wonderful channel 🌸

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thank you so much!

[@fredallen217]

I was negotiating price of an investment property. I was 40 precent low per my offer. However, while negotiating, I noticed he was paying a lot of attention toward my Rolex. I told him, If he would take my offer, I would give him the watch. He accepted the deal. That deal made me $300.000 over his asking price. I still own that property and collecting rents.

[@randyeast2542]

However I have to say that I've never met a Chap that did not have character. Once you obtain character, you choose to become a Chap. Not the reverse. BTW, Great Coat- sure hope you have a video on it. Anyway, well done Top marks

[@d-resmin]

I would love to hear stories of people who had dating success because of a wardrobe change.

[@jimmydigital]

Funny. I wondered if Americans had a different name for a fountain pen. I was on one of Rose Namajunas's livestreams and she was talking about journaling and writing stuff down and I said that I write stuff down with my fountain pen and 90gsm paper and she mocked me saying "what's a fountain pen" ... she plays classical piano and was a martial arts child prodigy... shocked she doesn't know what a fountain pen is.

[@kevinstiles781]

I have definitely never heard of an alternate name for a fountain pen, now I’m curious as to what others might call it.

[@murrayeldred3563]

I made a similar comments to students this morning at a University= I said '' you feed me '' and you are my clients. I dress down more than you Ash but my clothes are always of quality and hence they last for years and years.

[@supersonique001]

Noblesse oblige!

[@lindaabraham8715]

Can you tell me what coat you are wearing in this video? Brand? Fabric? Thanks.

[@TheChapsGuide]

It is a simple peacoat I picked up from TK MAxx a few years ago. Brand unknown and wool blend construction. A nice garment and about £40 as I recall.

[@steverobertson6393]

That gentleman at the concert that "defended" the young man is a terrible human being. He took the "high road" and in turn took lessened the enjoyment of all others. There was no mention of whether or not this box prevented others from being distributed by the young man's outburst. Now, it is unfortunate that all the circumstances occurred, however, it is NOT a demonstration of character to virtue signal and be the "good guy" whose actions lessen the quality of life to all those around you. I am particularly fond of Garrison Tailors, the clothing designer behind the show Peaky Blinders. I wear many of these outfits proudly and I turn receive compliments as this video has said can occur, however, my clothing is a signal to others that I am not "down" or "with the program". Read a letter from the 1800s. Notice the language used even from those who were not formally educated. The culture was unequivocally higher. Yes, yes, the detractors and Leftists will harangue over issues of civil rights, but I also believe they are wrong. In short, if you think likes it's 1923, dress like it, or do you prefer 2023? Do you like where Europe, the United States, the entire Western world is headed? You like the rise in crime and loss of manners, the complete inability to consider the experience of those around you like that self-righteous starry eyed do-gooder from the concert? Carry on chaps and know that I'm walking among you. Don't let standards slip in your presence and consider those around you meaning you may have to be the "bad guy" in order to protect the weak among you who cannot raise their voice.

[@ZoomZoom-ng6sn]

Whenever I wear something ugly or generally being overly casual, something bad happens. LOL.

[@williambelford9661]

A Bowler hat says one thing to me, "English", which is why as a proud Scot I will never own, nor wear one.

[@seanshadrach5197]

Very poignant stories. Dressing well, good manners, AND character, spells class. And nothing beats class. Thank you for sharing those.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@alexrad9570]

Im from Romania, i wear clothes from trift store, but the right fit, office style, and people think im super rich! Thats sad.