This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here.
Meet Mr. Steven Tingle (@tinglegram), author/writer based in Greenville, South Carolina, and one of the Gents Cafe contributors.
Steven, what does it mean for you to be a Modern Gentleman?
To me the true essence of a gentleman is a man who carries himself with grace, dignity, and humility no matter the situation. A gentleman is also true to his word; a promise made is a promise kept.
When it comes to style, where do you mostly get your inspiration from?
In regards to fashion and clothing brands, Instagram is a wonderful trove of ideas and inspiration. But for style in a broader context you can’t beat classic movies. Almost any film with Cary Grant or Fred Astaire or, my personal favorite, William Powell, is a masterclass in the art of being a gentleman. As Nick Charles in The Thin Man films, Powell possesses the perfect mix of sly wit and effortless charm. That’s a combination I’d love to achieve.
What’s your personal style signifier?
That’s a tough question, but if pressed I would say sunglasses. I can’t have too many. I’d wear them inside if I didn’t fear looking like a self important snob, which incidentally, is the exact opposite of a gentleman.
What are your favorite wardrobe essentials?
I’m partial to my Drake’s shawl collar cardigan. Every time I put it on it’s like wrapping myself in a security blanket. I’m also quite fond of James Perse t-shirts and N.Peal sweaters. Little luxuries that can elevate a pair of old jeans or bang around khakis.
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
I love books, and the escape they provide. Our house is full of them. There’s something calming about a room full of books. Put me in a used bookstore and I’ll lose myself for hours. There are so many stories to discover, so many things to learn. I’ll never be able to read all of the books I’ve collected, but that doesn’t stop me from buying more.
Writing is my other passion. For me it’s a form of therapy. I’m very thankful it’s my job, because if it weren’t I’d do it for free.
And there is golf. The game that brings me joy and frustration in equal measure.
Tell us what can never miss in your liquor cabinet.
Gin. Specifically Isle of Harris Gin, which, in my opinion, gets a martini up on its feet better than any other gin out there. But it’s hard to find in the states so I keep a well stocked backup of The Botanist, Plymouth, and Hendrick’s. The day I run out of gin is the day I tip my hat and ride off into the sunset.
Originally posted as part of the Gents Cafe Newsletter, a bite-sized read about men’s lifestyle to enjoy over a coffee or a nice cocktail. Join now!