In 1993, a book titled “Men in Style” was released at the Rizzoli New York book store on 57th street. The book was published under the auspices of Esquire, and the authors were Woody Hochswender and Kim Johnson Gross.
Most of the fashion books of today contain well-photographed male models looking good in their clothing with a caption and a bit of commentary below the caption. This book is an illustrated book of what it meant to be well-dressed. The book contains illustrations of men from the thirties, forties, and the post-war era, of what is considered by many to be the golden age of men’s fashion.
The detailed illustrations form the template for much of men’s fashions in the last fifty-plus years. This book has been my mainstay when it comes to dressing. I purchased this book when it was released in 1993. I went to get a second copy that very day however, they sold out, and the store employee did not anticipate any more copies.
I still have my book, and If you are lucky enough to get a copy, keep it protected. At present, the book can be purchased privately for about $249.00 and up (ouch!) at Amazon by private sellers. I have my original copy and, it is just as good as the day I bought it for $25.00 at Rizzoli!
When my friends see my book, it is like seeing Ivan Pavlov’s dogs. The book makes them salivate over the fine dressing tips as well as detailing the fabrics and patterns that work well together.
I have many original ideas, but sometimes you just need a good book!
