A new year means a fresh start and endless possibilities for a gentleman’s future. Before the resolutions are made, and the beginning of another year quickly sets in, a gentleman must celebrate all of the successes of the past year, as he prepares for the new one, on New Year’s Eve. From vibrant fireworks and glittering festivities, a gentleman’s New Year’s Eve outfit should be just as dashing and iconic as the end of the year festivity that he is attending.

Formal Accessories for Your NYE Look

Many ring in the new year by celebrating throughout the evening amongst family and friends at formal affairs and galas. At R. Hanauer, our formal bow ties are made with these particular types of events in mind. We are dedicated to making bow ties, neckties, and other menswear accessories that are fit for any formal occasion, and it is our hope that our products make a gentleman look and feel his absolute best. Ringing in the new year at a black tie affair? Our Formal Black Satin Bow Tie is a must for a timeless look that is quite handsome and appropriate for many years to come. Another sparkling favorite is our Silver Ottoman Cummerbund Set because it is polished and pulls an entire look together, but it also provides a dash of shimmering sophistication to your New Year’s Eve attire. The final event of the year is an excellent occasion to sport your silver, gold, and champagne colored accessories; however, it is important to keep these pieces limited in your ensemble. While it is most acceptable to incorporate some eye-catching accessories into your look, you want to avoid being over the top, and instead, be memorable for all of the right reasons.

Festive Looks for New Year's Eve

The biggest social event of the year is not complete without some more festive looks. For the gentleman who appreciates grand statements, our Black/Purple Legacy Paisley Cummerbund Set and our Silver/Black Vero Polka Dots Bow Tie are both sensational selections that are sure to draw some attention to your ensemble throughout the evening. The rich purple featured in the paisley pattern is bright and unique, and suggests that a gentleman is excited for what is to come, and hoping for a prosperous new year. The Silver/Black Vero Polka Dots bow brings lightheartedness to one’s nighttime, formal attire, and the polka dots are a nod to a fresh start, and the beginning of a new era.

What is a New Year’s Eve extravaganza without champagne? Our Champagne Paisley Bow Tie is elegant and suave, making it quite a special choice for your New Year’s Eve fashion. Pair our Champagne Paisley Cummerbund Set with a pristine white button down and a tasteful tuxedo and you will have an ensemble that is suitable for any celebratory occasion.

When the New Year Arrives

At R. Hanauer, we are dedicated to providing gentlemen with exceptional bow ties, neckties, and menswear accessories that they can cherish for many years to come. When the clock strikes midnight, and the new year officially arrives, may yours be filled with new memories to be made, great happiness, and many noteworthy accomplishments.

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When an invitation arrives in the mail for a formal event it is always important to pay close attention to the dress code. While arriving in style is certainly a must, a gentleman’s attire should also be appropriate and adhere to the unwritten rules of style based on the type of event that he is planning to attend. Formal events are the perfect opportunity to showcase a more cosmopolitan look, but that does not mean that a gentleman’s options are confined or limited, in fact, it is quite possible to display your own personal flare, even in some of the most customary ensembles.

Black Tie Attire vs. Formal Attire/Black Tie Optional:

Elegant affairs, such as black tie events, are the perfect occasion to dress up and showcase a tasteful look that differs from your everyday attire. A gentleman dressing for a black tie event should keep in mind that a simple and sophisticated look will go a long way. A sharp tuxedo is certainly a must, but it is acceptable to incorporate some unique touches of personal style into the classic look. Our Silver Paisley Bow Tie is an exceptional option for customizing the standard black tie look because it incorporates an understated pattern and a glittering, eye-catching color, but it still abides by the rule that simple and elegant is best.

Many individuals believe that the dress code for formal attire, otherwise known as black tie optional, means that they do not have to wear a tuxedo, but that is not always the case. A formal event certainly allows for some flexibility when styling an ensemble; however, tuxedos are most often still the appropriate style choice. Accessories play a large role in formal attire because a gentleman can include more colors and pattern when selecting pieces to accompany his formal ensemble. Our Black/Red Quicksilver Paisley Bow Tie paired with the White/Red Linen Border Pocket Square incorporates some bright colors and whimsical patterns, and the pairing is also quite unique, meaning that you will certainly stand out in a sea of guests.

Semi Formal + Cocktail Attire:

For a semi-formal event, such as a cocktail party or a gala, a gentleman can retire his tuxedo for the night and instead sport a dark or gray suit. A pressed white shirt is certainly acceptable; however, with semi-formal attire, it is also permissible to wear a shirt that features a muted color, as well as accessories that display subtle patterns and various colors. Tartans are an excellent choice for holiday cocktail parties, and our Prince of Wales Tartan Necktie would most definitely make a bold statement at your office’s Christmas cocktail soiree. Our Navy Derwin Repp Necktie would also be a great choice for a more conservative look, while still making quite a dashing statement.

Based on the event, a well-crafted outfit is often incomplete without accessories such as a cummerbund, bow tie, and a pocket square; however, confidence and sophistication are also considered to be two of the most important contributing factors in some of the very best formal wear.

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Black tie affairs often bring to mind the image of a sharply styled ensemble featuring an elegant tuxedo, a freshly pressed white dress shirt, an exquisite cummerbund set, and finally, a pocket square to complete the look. How a gentleman dresses for a formal event speaks to his character; therefore, you should dress your very best when attending a formal, black tie event. Cocktail parties, galas, the opera, and black tie weddings are all grand occasions where the formal dress code is often enforced. At R. Hanauer, we celebrate the distinguished characteristics of an individual’s style, and we have selected several dynamic pairings of cummerbund sets and pockets squares that will highlight your own authentic style.

What to Wear to the Evening Wedding

For any gentleman in attendance of a formal, evening wedding a customary tuxedo is always appropriate. While many other guests will also be sporting a dashing tuxedo ensemble, you have the opportunity to stand out amongst the crowd with the perfect cummerbund set and pocket square. Our Green Fox Mask Cummerbund Set adds a dash of color to your look while also incorporating a classic traditional club that is both conversational and appropriate. The classic fox mask pattern featured on the cummerbund and matching bow tie might be subtle, but it will certainly add a one of a kind flare to your wedding attire. For an elegant event such as a wedding, the pocket square that accompanies the cummerbund set does not need to be flashy, instead, it should tie together the entire look. Our Green Whipstitch Pocket Square offers a glimpse of color that coordinates with the Green Fox Mask Cummerbund Set, while allowing the unique pattern on the cummerbund set to be the focal point of the formal ensemble. 

       

Green Fox Mask Cummerbund Set - CB2005, $185

Green Whipstitch Pocket Square - 123, $55

What to Wear to the New Year’s Eve Celebration

Ringing in the New Year calls for a look that is unique and eye catching. Silvers and golds are always stunning options for celebratory, formal events, and a glistening cummerbund set will certainly catch the eye of other guests at the party. Our Champagne Paisley Cummerbund Set would be an excellent choice for counting down the seconds into the new year. Pair it with a crisp, white pocket square, like our White Cotton Liberty, and you’ll have a look that will be talked about all year.

     

Champagne Paisley Cummerbund Set - CB1693, $170

White Cotton Liberty Pocket Square - 100, $25

What to Wear to the Winter Gala

Black tie galas and winter balls are the talk of the town during the yuletide season. In the south, debutante balls are often held during the winter months. These balls are formal events where young women are officially introduced into society, and they are often escorted by young gentleman into the affair. If a gentleman finds himself in attendance as a guest, or even an escort, black tie attire is a must. Our Burgundy Derwin Repp Cummerbund Set is festive for the season, while also being tasteful and classic. Pair it with our Burgundy Whipstitch Pocket Square, and you have a look that is timeless and suave, but perfect for formal winter events. 

      

Burgundy Derwin Repp Cummerbund Set - CB2654, $180

Burgundy Whipstitch Pocket Square - 120, $55

What to Wear to the Formal Fundraiser

Fundraisers and auctions are exciting events that are fun to dress for, but also benefit the community as well. When dressing for events such as these it is important to be comfortable, but to also have a sharp look that meets the dress code. Our Blue Ottoman Cummerbund Set would accompany a sleek navy tuxedo quite nicely. As the pattern on the cummerbund set is quite understated, our White Cotton Liberty Pocket Square offers a well-crafted look that is sophisticated and stylish.

        

Blue Ottoman Cummerbund Set - CB3776, $170

White Cotton Liberty Pocket Square - 100, $25

The Formal Christmas Party

A gentleman in attendance of a formal Christmas party, whether it is a social gathering or a business function, should always be dressed to the nines. While dressing appropriately and adhering to the dress code is important, there still is some leeway to incorporate some bolder and seasonal pieces into your formal attire. Our Red and Green Vero Dots Cummerbund Set is a vibrant piece that showcases a gentleman’s festive style and his classic taste. Our Red Whipstitch Pocket Square echoes the shade of red present in the cummerbund set and gives a slight nod to a candy cane, making it the perfect accessory to complete the lively ensemble.

   

Red and Green Vero Dots Cummerbund Set - CB2011, $225

Red Whipstitch Pocket Square - 114, $55

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At R. Hanauer, we make it a priority to hand select the fabrics for all of our products to ensure the utmost quality and distinction for every bow tie, necktie, and menswear accessory that we create. Behind each different fabric is an interesting history that weaves together and fashions the individuality of each product. Below are three fabrics often found in R. Hanauer collections that have diverse and colorful histories ranging from a classic Chinese silk, a vibrant English cotton, and a southern staple which originated in the east.

Dupioni Silks: Dupioni is known as the attractive, silk fabric that is acknowledged for its crisp touch and luminous look. This specific fabric is quite commonly used in bridal wear and formal garments, and it is most often woven into striped or plaid patterns. Our Mint/Lavender Dupioni Plaid Bow Tie, from our Summer 2018 Collection, is one ideal example of the lustrous nature that the all-silk fabric has to offer, as well as the plaid detailing that is woven in the fabric. It is said that silk originated in China with the use of silkworms through the process of sericulture; however, this specific fabric was only worn by the Chinese Emperors at the time. This made silk a fabric of royalty and high importance. Eventually, silk made its way out of China through exploration and the trade routes known as The Silk Road. Silk fabric not only became highly popular with royalty, but with nobility and the upper class in places such as Italy, France, and England. Dupioni silk is a heavier fabric, and the richness of the colors used in dupioni are often more apparent due to the thickness of the material which is created during the weaving process. When examining a garment made with dupioni silk, such as our Dupioni Pocket Square, the colors are quite dynamically visible, and there is a sheen to the fabric that ultimately makes it an excellent choice for fine accessories. 

                                    

Mint/Lavender Dupioni Plaid Bow Tie - B4200, $55

Dupioni Pocket Square - 2844, $50

Liberty London Fabrics: The Liberty London fabric also has a rich and prosperous history. Arthur Lasenby Liberty was born in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, England in 1843. Being the son of a draper, he took apprenticeship under one; however, he left that position to work for Farmer & Rogers’, a company known for quality outerwear. He established himself within the company and soon became affiliated with their imported products, such as art and textiles, which further inspired his passion for intricate eastern designs. From there, Liberty branched out in 1875 and opened his own business, known as the East India House. He became well-known for selling oriental rugs, decorative pieces, artwork, and fabrics, and eventually his company created their own aesthetically pleasing array of colors, known as the “Liberty Colors”. As the times changed, so did the styles of fashion, and Liberty London became the name that housed all of the fabrics and garment designs. Liberty himself began to run in a high-end artistic crowd having close personal relationship with many artists from the Art Nouveau movement. When one thinks of the vibrant works of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Gustav Klimt, it's no wonder such color and detail was found in the products created by Liberty. In the 1920’s, Liberty established a line of prints that featured intricate, floral detailing. These prints are best known as the “Liberty Prints,” with the most famously worn fabric being Tana Lawn. R. Hanauer has created several accessories from fine Liberty London fabrics, including the Emma & Georgina Liberty Floral Bow Tie, an all-cotton bow that provides a quintessential nostalgia towards the original Liberty London fabric. Another fine, floral piece is our Poppy’s Meadow Liberty Necktie, which features bright pops of color in an all-cotton design.

Emma & Georgina Liberty Floral Bow Tie - B4205, $50

Poppy's Meadow Liberty Necktie - F4206, $90

Seersucker: Last, but certainly not least, in our home region of the south, we have the iconic Seersucker fabric. Seersucker is a popular choice due to its lightweight, all-cotton fabric, which makes it a most exemplary choice for the heat and humidity. The name seersucker derives from the Persian word “shīroshakar”, meaning “milk and sugar.” The seersucker fabric originated in the warmer British colonies, such as British India, and soon the material became widely popular in the southern regions of the United States. It became a staple fabric in the wardrobes of southern gentlemen, and became a popular choice for southern home decor. The association with seersucker and gentleman’s attire began in 1909 in New Orleans, when Joseph Haspel, Sr. designed seersucker suits for the purpose of professional wear in warm weather. The light wear, puckered fabric is still a fan favorite amongst the sharpest of southern gentlemen. A fun fact about seersucker is that in the late 90’s, United States Senator Trent Lott initiated National Seersucker Day, where congressmen traded in their traditional suits, and instead sported the fun, light fabric. While the original seersucker garments were most often blue and white, today the fabric offers a variety of colors. Our Pink/White Seersucker Cummerbund Set and our Khaki Seersucker Bow Tie both offer a clean, crisp look for the hotter days of the year.    

Pink/White Seersucker Cummerbund Set - CB3395, $95

Khaki Seersucker Bow Tie - B3393, $40

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Whether you’re attending a summer wedding with a date, or going stag, it is always important to arrive in style, and dressed appropriately for the special occasion. From black tie formalities to bold festive attire, summer wedding style is all about dressing the part.

1. Black Tie: For any gentleman attending a black tie affair, simple and elegant is best. Tuxedos are the obvious choice; however, your accessories can include understated patterns that set you apart from the rest of the guests. For the more conservative dresser, our Formal Black Satin or Faille bow ties will without a doubt complete the elegant ensemble. For the sophisticated man who still likes to make a statement, subdued pattern certainly offers a unique twist to the classic look. Our Black/White Legacy Paisley bow tie is one example of how to stand out in a crowd, and adding suspenders or a pocket square can further customize the standard black tie look.

        

 

Formal Black Satin Bow Tie - B598, $65

Formal Black Faille Bow Tie - B599, $65

Black/White Legacy Paisley Bow Tie - B4043, $70

2. Formal Attire/Black Tie Optional: Even though black tie optional and formal attire often allow for some flexibility when dressing for a summer wedding, tuxedos are still the appropriate choice. While dark suits can be an alternative to a tuxedo, it is always important for a gentleman to adhere to the dress code, and never arrive underdressed to an event. White dress shirts paired with black ties are still considered standard; however, it is also permissible to wear modest paisleys, plaids, and a minimal amount of color in your neckties, bow ties, and pocket squares. Our Formal Black Satin necktie is a must for any gentleman keeping his look classic and debonair; however, the Blue Derwin Repp necktie also achieves the sophisticated and polished style that is suitable for any formal affair.

          

Formal Black Satin Necktie - F598, $115

Blue Derwin Repp Necktie - F2650, $110

3. Semi Formal/Cocktail Attire: Semi formal and cocktail wedding attire allows for a slightly more casual look in comparison to the formal and black tie dress codes. For example, a navy suit paired with our Red Derwin Repp necktie and our Navy Sedona Medallion Pocket Square makes for a complete statement for any semi formal event. Our Gold Ottoman bow tie may also be substituted for a necktie; simply add a pocket square, such as our Gold Legion Paisley Pocket Square, and brown leather belt and shoes for a look that is picture perfect and memorable.

      

             

Red Derwin Repp Necktie - F2653, $110

Navy Sedona Medallion Pocket Square - 4193, $60

Gold Ottoman Bow Tie - B3777, $60

Gold Legion Paisley Pocket Square - 4083, $60

4. Festive Attire: For the gentleman that appreciates bright, fun colors and bold style, festive attire is as welcome at a summer wedding event as a cold Long Island Iced Tea. Linen and seersucker suits, or separates, can be worn with an array of pastel shirts… and feel free to let your color flag fly when it comes to neckties, bow ties, or pocket squares. Some of our most vibrant and festive bow ties include the Yellow Jefferson Paisley bow tie, the Blue Malvern Flowers bow tie, and the Pink/Navy Coleman Striped bow tie, just to name a few from our Summer Collection. A festive look is not complete without a pocket square! Some vivid patterns include our Pink Peachtree Paisley Pocket Square and our Thorpe Liberty Pocket Square, while our Blue/Pink Gingham Pocket Square also provides the perfect finishing touch for any summer wedding look.

  

   

   

                             

Yellow Jefferson Paisley Bow Tie - B4128, $65

Blue Malvern Flowers Bow Tie - B4135, $65

Pink/Navy Coleman Striped Bow Tie - B4140, $70

Pink Peachtree Paisley Pocket Square - 4188, $60

Thorpe Liberty Pocket Square - 3904, $45

Blue/Pink Gingham Pocket Square - 501, $22.50

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Bow Ties for Every Gentleman on Your List (Including Yourself)

 

1) The Festive Gentleman: This collection is for the true holiday-spirited. This gentleman is the first to put up the Christmas lights and serve the egg nog. Including both our signature 2017 Christmas bow tie and 2017 Christmas necktie, The Christmas Collection has everything a festive gentleman could wish for this year. Shop The Christmas Collection.

 

2) The Traditional Gentleman: This gentleman appreciates a navy blazer and a bar stripe bow tie. He probably enjoys a good old fashioned that goes right along with his sense of style. Here you can find the classic pieces to be paired with plaid, tweed or any traditional attire in your closet. Shop The Traditional Collection.

 

3) The Conversational Gentleman: Always known to make a statement with his bow tie, the conversational collection is for the man who likes to stand out. Conversational accessories usually have one conversation in common, "where did you find that?" Shop The Conversational Collection.

 

4) The Collegiate Gentleman: This collection is for the gentleman who sports his collegiate colors every chance he gets. Give him a handmade bow tie from The Collegiate Collection and he'll have one more reason to wear them. Shop The Collegiate Collection.

 

5) The Sportsman Gentleman: For the man who is in the woods if he's not on the water, this collection pays tribute to some of the most classic wildlife. If there's a fisherman or hunter in your house, this collection is for him. Shop The Sportsman's Collection.

 

6) The Patriotic Gentleman: He's proud to be an American and we're proud to be American made. All of the items in The Patriotic Collection are handmade in American with symbolic stars and stripes. Shop The Patriotic Collection.

If you need assistance in choosing a gift or questions about sizing, please e-mail us at support@bowties.com. We'd love to help you! And don't forget, we make bow ties for little gentlemen, too. Simply select the youth size.

Need more ideas? Browse our full website at bowties.com. Happy holidays to you and yours!

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Gentlemen of Influence, Part II:

Randy and Randall Hanauer, The Men Behind the Bow Tie

 

Questions for Randy (from Randall):

Q: Dad, pretend we have never met and describe our family to me.  

Jayma and I were married in 1970. We did not have Randall until 1982, then we had June 1984. We live on a farm in Union County, North Carolina and are a close knit family because we lived on a farm. Randall and June always had chores to do. Mowing pasture , taking care of horses, cleaning the barn, helping around the house. I would leave the house on Tuesday morning and return Friday evening, traveling the southeast, calling on all my accounts. Jayma had a lot of responsibility taking care of Randall and June, horses, dogs, and barn cats. So, Randall and June had to help. Jayma and I were both raised on farms, and I think it is a great way to raise a family, kids grow up knowing they are responsible for their chores and animals.

Q: What was I like as a kid? Did you ever think I would be working with you in the future?

You were a very easy kid. You were very happy, entertained yourself, loved playing outside. I never imagined that you would be working with me in the business, I thought you would be working for an engineering company. I am sure glad it turned out this way.

Q: What’s the best part about working with family? The hardest part?

The best part is that you know family so well, you don’t have to be guarded about anything. You all have a common goal. Success for the company means success for the family. The hardest part for me is hoping a small apparel company can succeed for Randall in the future.

Q: When you created R. Hanauer in 1985, what did you want the company to look like 30 years down the road? And what do you hope the company looks like, 30 years from now (that would be 2047)?

I thought it would look very much like it does today. I did think that we would have a group of sales reps around the country selling our line, as opposed Randall and I doing all the selling, however, the way we do it is best. With all the changes in retail and consumers, I really believe there will always be a niche market for quality, tasteful products like we make here in Fort Mill.                                    

Q: What was the hardest thing about starting your own business?

Cash. It takes so long to build equity in a company. You cannot take anything out in the early years. You have to pay your employees and vendors on time, as well as your tax liabilities.

Q: If there’s one thing you wish people knew about R. Hanauer, what would it be?

I wish more people knew about R. Hanauer. Consumers tend to get hooked on big brand names that have a large assortment of products and a very large marketing budget. Most of these companies do not make anything, they source products all over the world. They receive the finished product in their warehouse and ship it. We design and color our cloth, we bring the fabric into our workshop. We have to make all the patterns to make all our different products. We cut the fabric and sew it. Then it gets inspected and packaged and shipped. We are involved in every step of the product.

Questions for Randall (from Randy):

Q: Randall, what it was like to grow up as Randall Hanauer, Jr. and what does your family look like now?

I was raised with traditional values and was taught the importance of hard work and personal accountability. Growing up on the farm was idyllic, my sister and I have such great memories of our childhood there.   Plus I had the benefit of access to the finest bowties!  Now I have a wife and a son, Randall III “Trey”, and we intend to instill the same values in him.

Q: What was I like as a dad? Did you ever think you would be working with me in the future?

You were (and still are) very hardworking and I’ve always admired you for that. I remember how excited we all were on Friday nights when you would get home and the four of us would spend the evening together- so happy! You have always been the epitome of a gentleman which set an example for me to follow. Growing up, and even into my college years, I didn’t really consider working for the family business.  You and mom were great about not pushing me into it. So I found my way here in 2008 and I can’t imagine doing anything else.  

 

Q: What’s the best part about working with family? The hardest part?

Gaining two years of professional experience outside of the family business was a prerequisite for me to begin working at R. Hanauer, and the difference between working for someone else as opposed to working with family is substantial. Looking back on those first two years before working at R. Hanauer, I had a job that I got paid to do well, but i didn’t have the added responsibility of driving the ship. Whereas, running a small family business requires the flexibility to wear many hats. Earlier in the spring we lost our only cutter (which was a big loss because it is a full-time position, and since everything is made-to-order, production stops without a cutter), so dad did all the cutting while I found a replacement and developed the new line--something we would typically do together. So we’ll negotiate my commission increase when you see sales skyrocket in the Fall!  

I would say the best part about working with family is our loyalty and dedication to common goals. An added bonus is that we get to take our dogs to work! The hardest part is that, because of our loyalty and dedication, certain business decisions can become personal, and conflicting views of those decisions can be difficult.

Q: What do you hope the company looks like, 30 years from now (that would be 2047)?

I want to grow this business into a valuable and desirable asset for a third generation to take over some day. In 30 years, if I’m not retired, I hope to be working with Trey (and/or another son or daughter?).

Q: If you could pick one of our bow ties to wear every day, what would it be?

I wouldn’t, but if I had to, it would be one of the Kensington Stripes because they are easy to coordinate with shirts and pocket squares and the English-woven cloth is durable (tightly woven, no beard abrasion) and ties a nice knot. If I had to choose just one, it would be the Red/Navy Kensington.

Q: If there’s one thing you wish people knew about R. Hanauer, what would it be?

I wish more people knew about R. Hanauer. We do everything ourselves: we design the patterns, make the bow ties and ship the finished products...all from our shop in Fort Mill.

 

 

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Gentlemen of Influence, Part I:

Christopher James, The Man Behind the Blogger

Gentlemen of Influence is a 3-part blog series honoring the American gentleman. As the Gentleman's Bow Tie, R. Hanauer investigates what makes a gentleman in today's culture and hopes to share the qualities possessed by the gentlemen we know, to those who appreciate similar values. 

CONTEST: Share a picture of a gentleman in your life using the hashtag #RHGentleman and tag us @rhanauerbowties. One nominated gentleman will win a $150 gift card to R. Hanauer and a featured interview for Part III of our series. Ends Sunday, June 18th at midnight. 

 

If you follow fashion influencers, there’s a good chance you might be one of Mattie James’ 39,700 followers on Instagram, 19,000 followers on Twitter or one of her 8,000 subscribers on YouTube. Mattie James entered the blogging business in 2008, writing mostly about personal interests and experiences. In 2013, she started posting frequently across multiple digital platforms, which led to her booming business, MattieJames.com; an online blog where she shares everything from fashion finds to business advice. 

Atlanta-based designer, Christopher James, recalls the early days of his wife’s career. At the time, most bloggers were sharing personal thoughts and a few spontaneous photos and blogging was a diluted version of the massive industry it is today. From day one, Christopher and Mattie have partnered to fuel the success of MattieJames.com and in 2014, became partners in another important venture, parenthood. Daughter Maizah arrived in September and then there were three.

If you’re like me, you’ve wondered what it looks like to be married to a famous fashion blogger and how you constantly share your life with thousands of followers. We decided to shine the spotlight on Christopher to explore what it means to be a husband, a father, a business partner and a true gentleman in a world where photos are staged but life is still very real.

 

Q: Christopher, how did you feel when Mattie first wanted to start her blog?

 Christopher: When Mattie first started out around 2003, there were web blogs where people just write journals online. When she decided to take it seriously, I felt like it was a natural fit for her. I’ve always seen her as a person who can be on the same level as an Oprah Winfrey or a Martha Stewart. She can turn her life into a brand. That’s always been my focus, is to steer the brand in that direction. From day one, I’ve always tried to support that vision.

 

Q: Mattie, what are Christopher’s biggest strengths and how has he helped you become the successful business owner that you are today?

 Mattie: Sometimes, when you don’t believe in yourself, success is really hard to digest. I’m finally getting to that place where I feel like I could be that big. I’ve always looked at Chris as a leader of the company and there are so many things we want to accomplish individually, but also collectively. He is certainly the visionary out of the two of us and I’m the executor.

 He’s incredibly compassionate, which is something that I’m still trying to learn. He is very invested. He is just so supportive. I also think he’s really funny! He’s extremely funny which is one of the reasons why I love him and it gets me through my tough days. Even when I want to be frustrated with him, he’ll figure out a way to slip in a joke and it’ll make me laugh. It’s so easy to get caught up in self-importance or stress and you need somebody to slip a joke to help you realize you shouldn’t take yourself so seriously.

 

Q: How does your family fit in with the blogging business?

 M: For whatever reason, we all thought it would be easy. Starting a business would be easy; getting married to the love of your life would be easy; having a cute baby would be easy. These things are blessings and we definitely don’t take them for granted, but they are much, much harder than we expected and it makes me appreciate them even more. I’m really excited that I have somebody that is a creative and understands that this dream of making this blog and that it isn’t just a pie in the sky kind of dream.

 C: We are complete opposites in that Mattie is the extrovert and I am very much the introvert but, in that, we have our own set of skills that allow us to act as a cohesive and very perceptive team. Mattie’s strength is that she is a dreamer but she also has the capacity to achieve anything she sets her mind to. I’m really good at plans, strategy, logistics and those sorts of things. I think, in helping build the brand over the last seven years, it is working together has allowed her to reach the level of success where she is now. In my opinion, it’s only a starting point for her.

 

Q: Let’s talk about Christopher as a dad to Maizah (age 2). M: Chris is just the most amazing dad because he’s just so invested. They literally have the same face and the same temperament so it’s just like being with his mini-me. He’s so hands on, he makes sure she doesn’t limit herself and he always reinforces that. Sometimes she’ll get frustrated and says “Oh dad, I can’t” and he always reinforces her with “Yes you can!” and it’s immediately evident in her behavior. As a little girl, to have that kind of encouragement, support and love from your father is so important. They play, they laugh, and they can just sit in silence and watch TV together. He just brings out the light in her and it fills me with such pride. He makes me a better mother if I’m being honest.

 C: I take my responsibility as a father very seriously. Mattie was the conduit to us receiving this blessing so if I can honor her, it’s the least I can do. Mattie actually had an emergency C-section and was close to being in a very bad situation on the operating table. It’s the least that I can do to try to support her in parenthood. It’s not about just being a father; it’s about sharing the load of ushering a child into adulthood. I want to do everything that I can to the best of my ability whether it’s parenthood, this business or our friendship as a couple.

 

Q: People argue that technology is undermining meaningful human interaction and impacting our relationships. What does a modern gentleman look like and how does Christopher embody that?

 M: I really think that Chris embodies the epitome of a gentleman. A lot of times we associate being a gentleman with only style or what’s shown in the movies. I think it’s a respectful man who has a gentle yet intentional approach. If you are gentle but intentional, like Chris is, you receive the respect you give.

 C: For me, a gentleman would be a man’s man but a man’s man who is in touch with his emotional self and his vulnerability. Also to be courteous and open doors, pull out chairs or stand up while people are being seated. Someone who’s adept at handling themselves in multiple situations, whether you’re at a sporting event or church or just out with the guys; to handle all situations with respect and command respect with your approach and your attitude.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Q: Christopher, if there’s one lesson that you want Maizah to learn from you and carry with her through life, what is it?

 C: That’s to approach every situation from the point of view of love because, if she does that, then the rest will take care of itself.

To keep up with both Mattie and Christopher, follow Mattie James on her website, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube or Facebook.

 *Christopher is wearing our Vero Dots Bow Tie, $70.00.

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Today, you're more likely to find a foreign-made good on the market than a product made in America. Below are five Father's Day gift ideas, perfect for the dad who appreciates handmade, American gifts and classic style with a hint of practicality. 

1) Dog and Hunter Bow Tie, R. Hanauer, $60.00 (30% off with code FATHERSDAY)

R. Hanauer Bow Ties are handmade in Fort Mill, South Carolina. This father and son-run business has been making bow ties since 1985. Because the fabric is cut on a bias, giving way for more stretch, they happen to be the best tying bow ties on the market. Your dad will automatically pick you as the favorite. (Ok, ok, fine, it's us....but we had to give ourselves a little nod!)

 

2) Key Ring No. 3, Colonel Littleton, $34.00 (+ $8.00 for personalization)

Colonel Littleton leather goods are handmade in Lynnville, Tennessee, population 327. You heard that right...327. All leather goods are crafted with the highest quality and care and are meant to last a lifetime, just like a father's love. Personalize it with your initials or his to make it even more memorable. 

 

3) Ascent Pearl Watch, Martenero, $595.00

Martenero is a watch company focused on timeless time-pieces (ironic, but important). The New York based business believes "time is precious and not to be misspent." Make this investment for a dad who appreciates quality time with you. 

4) Eastport Penny Loafer, Rancourt & Co., $295.00

Another father and son-run business, all Rancourt & Co. shoes are handmade and hand-sewn in Lewistown, Maine. These loafers are made with snuffed side leather that is burnished to give the leather character and depth of color. Dad doesn't fancy socks? He doesn't have to. These shoes are unlined for better break-in and a more comfortable fit. 

5) Hunter Sketchbook, MAKR, $16.80

MAKR founder Jason Gregory creates everything from furniture to leather goods. Quality, refinement and simplicity are the goals for each of the products which are all made within 100 miles from the Winter Park, Florida studio. Whether dad draws or takes tedious notes, this sketchbook is for a creator.  

View our Father's Day sale for more American made gift ideas! Use code FATHERSDAY and receive 30% off all bow ties in the collection.

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