J. Crew Book Tells You ‘What A Man Should Know’

Joe — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 20:08:31 +0000

Although we consider ourselves fairly well rounded individuals, we're always looking for ways to better ourselves. At first when this new book What A Man Should Know, Vol. 1'J.Crew's first foray into a men's guide'fell into our laps, we were worried that it was a long-winded outline on how to correctly crease our khakis. But it turns out the book offers principals about the basic knowledge a man should have, in fashion and everywhere else.

The WASPY shop tapped author Max Blagg to lay out 50 fundamentals for dudes to follow if they want to “raise cocktail conversation to a whole new level.” You'll be able to get the handy step-up guide at J.Crew's new Tribeca Men’s Shop or online for $20. If you buy one at the Men’s Shop, you'll also get your choice of a limited edition necktie. See the ties and our 5 favorite tips from the book below…

Our favorite principals from “What A Man Should Know.”

#9 A MAN SHOULD KNOW HOW TO READ A MAP
But if he does get lost, he should also be capable of asking for directions without the least hint of embarrassment.

#14 A MAN SHOULD KNOW HIS CAPACITY FOR A SINGLE MALT SCOTCH
Choose one brand (we prefer Laphroaig) and order it each time you drink. About the remote island where it is made you can casually say, “Population 35, of whom 20 are employed by the distillery.” It sounds so factual, it’s not liable to be checked. Never operate heavy machinery or drive a car after two or more single malts.

#19 A MAN SHOULD KNOW HOW TO PROGRAM THE REMOTE
And how to find it without pitching a fit when it gets lost. General practice of household skills is an admirable trait in a man.

#33 A MAN SHOULD KNOW CERTAIN FACTS ABOUT ALCOHOL
Like how much it took to put the bibulous poet Dylan Thomas under. Tolerance to alcohol varies from oner person to another, but in Thomas’s case 18 blended whiskeys proved too many. He collapsed at the White Horse Tavern in New York and expired four days later in Saint Vincent’s Hospital. His last words were supposedly: “It’s not my round!”

#46 A MAN SHOULD KNOW HIS CELLPHONE IS ONLY INCIDENTALLY A TIMEPIECE
A good watch is something a man should always have on hand. On the left wrist.

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J. Crew Book Tells You ‘What A Man Should Know’