“I’m straight, but I appreciate the fit.”

When it comes to personal style, I’m a big believer in the idea that a little effort goes a long way.

Especially for men.

Living in Florida magnifies this observation. Most dudes here—and let’s be real, most men anywhere—put minimal thought into how they present themselves.

They’ll throw on a semi-clean shirt, slap on a backwards ballcap, and head out for dinner. With a woman!

Can’t wrap my head around it.

Fix your fucking hair.

Consider a jacket. Experiment with hats.

Try to match colors, in some way whatsoever.

If you could feasibly hit the gym in what you’re wearing on a date, you blew it.

Style isn’t vanity—it’s respect. First, for yourself. Then, for the people you share your life with.

It’s the visual equivalent of choosing your words carefully.

Both say, “I care enough to put some thought into how I show up.”

Do that, and you instantly stand out from the pack.

Last Saturday, standing outside a bar waiting for my Lyft, a guy approached and said, “I appreciate the fit.”

It wasn’t so special, just thought out. 

“Thanks, man,” I replied.

His awkward, real-moment-with-a-stranger anxiety kicking in, he quickly added, “I’m straight. But I appreciate the fit.”

He was sporting a wrinkled button-down and faded jorts. 

The clarification felt gratuitous. If he was straight, he could use a gay friend to shop with.

“I appreciate it,” I said as my ride rolled up.

As creatives, we embrace being out of the norm.

Spend time with yourself. On yourself.

Push your boundaries, even just a few inches at a time. 

You’re not here to react. You’re here to direct.

Own it. And wear it.