The Handbook - How To Guides
 
 
 
31 Days: Style Tips and Tricks
 
Volume 2
 

All the tips and tricks needed to shape up for 2010. Each day brings new, expert advice on how to look your best and live life to the fullest, while having a little fun doing it.

Clothes
Day
31

The Sartorial Toolkit

It's clear you take your clothes seriously. Take care of them with this simple set of tools every man should have stocked in his closet. And if you've been paying attention during these past 31 days, some of these should look familiar.

 
Sturdy Iron

You don't need a $200 iron with all sorts of bells and whistles. You need a sturdy steam iron that can smooth clothes quickly and effectively.

$30 at Amazon

Lint Remover

While there's all sorts of lint removers out there, this paint-roller-shaped one is the most effective for swiping fuzz, pet hair and crumbs.

$7 at MUJI

 
Shoe Horn

Self explanatory. But if you don't have a shoe horn, get one. And maybe a nice horn one by a classic shoemaker.

$40 by Alden

Stitch Witchery

Your mom likely had this handy web-like tape that you iron under fabric for quick hem jobs.

$2.50 at Amazon

 
Seam Ripper

This little clipper trims errant threads, removes itchy tags or ugly patches and opens up sewn pockets.

$2 by Singer

Sweater Stone

The easiest way to remove pilling—those annoying little fuzz balls on your sweaters.

$6.70 at Amazon

 
Sewing Kit

A small travel kit (complete with needles, threads and a thimble) is enough for a quick button repair. Which is, really, all you'll ever use it for.

$2.50 by Singer

Shoe Care Kit

A classic cleaning kit to brush, buff and polish your leather shoes.

$95 by Allen Edmonds

 
Polishing Cloth

An easy, no-mess way of cleaning up cufflinks, watches and wedding rings.

$3 at Amazon

Garment Bag

You don't need to store suits or coats in bags, but if you're worried about dust in the off-season, use a breathable canvas bag—not the vinyl or plastic ones from stores or dry cleaners.

$10 at Amazon

 
 
Clothes
Etiquette
Food & Drink
Space
Personal Care
A Month of Tips