The presidential election is less than one month away, and both President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney are hitting the campaign trail hard. Shaking hands. Spouting grandiose rhetoric. Kissing babies. Well, maybe not. Nonetheless, a fundamental element of presenting oneself as the head of state, well, at least sartorially speaking, is maintaining an appearance of humility–even if the price tag on one’s footwear is equal to a monthly car note. And so, the clothing selections are intelligently inconspicuous and carefully controlled. In other words–painfully dull. Nevertheless, the executive branch is unapologetically indicative of executive attire–conservative, simple, and understated. Want to dress like the commander-in-chief? Here is how to command the necessary style.
Your starting point–the unblemished, dark navy suit. Nothing garish. Nothing gaudy. Devoid of pinstripes, checks, or any other embellishing pattern because the simplicity of a navy suit grants a distraction-free presentation. And that allows the focal point of attention to be you. Just as it should be. Oh, stick with a single breasted, two button option, minus the ticket pockets and severely narrow lapels.
Hickey Freeman Mahogany Collection Navy Suit, $1,495
Maybe Pres. Obama is reelected and commences his second term strutting around in cutaway collars and rocking Windsor knots. Perhaps Governor Romney scores an upset and peacocks around in bold butcher stripes and contrast stitching. But, until that fateful day arrives, the standard continues to be the solid white or blue dress shirt with a semi-spread or point collar.
Ike Behar White Dress Shirt, $135
Running the country is serious business. Therefore, your necktie selections should be humorless and free of ironic wit. One can’t go wrong with a plain, solid necktie woven of silk. Four-in-hand knots only please.
Hugo Boss Solid Navy Necktie, $115
However, a little–very little–pattern is acceptable. Opt for a small repeating micro pattern that affords the appearance of a solid necktie when observed from a distance. And we would be remiss if we did not mention your color options: red, blue, or burgundy. That’s pretty much it.
Ermenegildo Zegna Silk Woven Necktie, $195
Here is the only time that a gentleman can embrace a big pattern … sort of. Stripes are permitted only if they are endowed with a subtle, workmanlike presence. Again, nothing too audacious and nothing too whimsical.
Brooks Brothers Silk Repp Necktie, $79.50
Trust, we wholeheartedly understand your affection towards elaborate brogue detailing, sweeping wingtip overlays, and more recently, dressier kicks dipped in a caldron of rainbow elegance. However, gentlemen with considerable political stature can’t hit the stage in blue wingtips with a contrasting yellow sole. No, your shoe of choice arrives in basic black with a discreet cap toe. And we do mean discreet.
Church’s Leather Oxford Shoes, $465
