Whether you’re in college or have a family with children, guys have the tendency to keep things that just need to be tossed out — especially in the hygiene and wardrobe department. As gentlemen, we just have more important things to apply our attention to!
When I gave some energy to my closet — evaluating what could stay and what needed to go — I regained some confidence in myself. Some key items had been around too long, and after throwing them out and replacing them, I’ve noticed a massive shift in how I see myself as a young professional. You don’t have to be Tom Haverford to “treat yo’ self” — even a Ron Swanson can walk with a new spring in his step by freshening up his look.
Old towels
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into one of my buddies’ bedrooms and the first thing I notice is the rancid stench of an old towel. There it is, hanging over his chair, discolored and complete with holes.
Men, if you’re having an issue with acne, this might be why. Our towels go places where the sun doesn't shine, and if you shower everyday (which I hope you do), then all that grime you’ve accumulated from the gym or at work is making a home in your towel.
A good rule of thumb is to buy a new towel every year or buy multiple towels and switch them out every few days to make them last longer. If you’re not convinced, recall the last time you were at a hotel and you used their fresh towels. Didn’t it feel like a breath of fresh air?
Used loofah
Speaking of showers, do you use loofahs? When was the last time you replaced it? Gentlemen, let's be mindful of what we put on our skin. It is, after all, our first line of defense and the first thing people notice when they see us. Better to shower without a loofah than spread grime all over your lovely face.
AXE body spray
I don’t know about you, but the first thing I think about when I smell AXE body spray is the boy’s locker room in high school. Chances are, that’s what women remember when they smell this stuff as well: immature and annoying little boys from high school.
I implore you: invest in proper fragrances that will bring your class to another level. Go to Macy’s or any department store and you’ll find what you need without breaking the bank. Your scent leaves an impression on people you meet. Shop around and think about what you want that impression to be.
Worn out undies
“What’s the big deal? No one’s gonna see it anyway!” Alright, you got me there. But when it comes to reaching the fullness of your potential as a man, I encourage you to rethink that approach. Try buying quality underwear with darker colors with a tighter fit. Boxers are nice and comfy, but it’s not a good look when they’re bunching up under your jeans. Look out for good brands and say bye-bye to your holey underwear.
Faded clothing
Some pieces of clothing in your closet have been good friends — they’ve seen you at your best and worst, and it’s a comfort to have a pair of jeans or a shirt that fits you just right. You don’t have to overthink what to wear and you know you’ll be comfortable all day.
But over time, these old friends become worn out and depressed, and they stop serving you well. We all have one or two sentimental items in our closet that just aren’t presentable anymore. It might be time to part ways and bring some life back into your wardrobe — and to find some new friends to take you through the next season of life.
Freshening up your look is about more than just making an impression on people. Most guys I know are more concerned with what’s on the inside than the outside — and that’s an admirable quality. But the outside does communicate something, too. Spending some care on occasion to appearance and hygiene improves the way you are received by others, and — more importantly — improves the way you feel about yourself.
