The very first instalment of my very new feature had to possess much sartorial clout – a man that is quite possibly the most famous on the planet right now, and amongst some circles, the most popular. Known as a figurehead of left-leaning liberalism and forever pioneering ‘change’, Barack Obama just has to be November’s Man of the Month. His list of MFM-approved qualities is simply quite endless. Not only has he clinched victory in a very shaky election, gained the backing of my favourite people (Jay-Z and Beyonce) and pioneered the necessity of free healthcare, he’s also an MFM-approved icon – and for very good reason.
Whilst the lovely Michelle (note: absolute champion) often gets lots of praise in the style stakes, Barack is rather unjustly sidelined. The American president is, after all, far too busy battling right-wing gun nuts to get in a tizz over Vuitton or Valentino. This less focused approach to fashion however, is Obama’s greatest skill. Every White House ensemble is so incredibly relaxed that I speculate the president was born suited – straight out of the womb with immaculate tie knot and polished brogues in tow. Dressing sharply has become second nature for Obama, and every gent could learn from this simplicity. Fabrics and silhouettes are clean and basic, statement patterns are nowhere to be seen and a flash of colour from a well-selected tie are all the president needs: a good suit shouldn’t be overdone or overthought.
Slim-fits and primary colours are nowhere near sober enough for the stuffy field of American politics, so we have to give Obama a little leeway for unflattering trousers and a more-than-boring haircut. But then again, he just doesn’t need fleeting trends of the moment: Barack Obama has befriended the suit and successfully merged confidence and comfort. His wife may have stated that he doesn’t understand fashion, but the president has sure convinced me that his understanding of personal style is unrivalled.
No one look is a stand-out, but consistency is the biggest winner here. Mimic Obama’s style ethos rather than select pieces; carrying your clothes with a similar self-assuredness can only boost your fashion credibility. His conservative look is perfect for the grad-schemers and office bods of our kind, and Obama lays down some simple rules. Suits shouldn’t be over-accessorised or pained over for hours on end, nor should you ever wear anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. Whether it’s an outfit worthy of your own presidential-sized campaign, or simple slacks and shirt when stressing at the desk after-hours, the laidback ‘just thrown on’ mentality is always the best mentality. Forget the fancy cufflinks, forget the collar pins and forget the Hermes cravat; now and again, the perfect route is the most basic and the simple suit is a proven, flawless formula. So, for that very reason, Barack Obama is our first and very worthy MFM Man of the Month. Gobama.
P.S. Anyone that crip walks on national television is a hero in my eyes.
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