Many men have been drawn to a particular make of car since childhood, and as adults spend a great deal of time behind the wheel. Just as a dog comes to resemble its owner, a car becomes an extension of its driver. The style of a man’s car becomes part of his own. It says something about his taste, status and refinement. That is why we have drawn up a list of the most important (sartorial) points to bear in mind before hitting the road.
1. The jacket: how is it kept from creasing behind the wheel?
Behind the wheel, a man sits for long stretches, so the jacket should not get in the way. It belongs on a hanger in the back. That way it neither bothers the driver nor creases. Everyone has seen how unsightly a jacket creased across the back can be. As for the seat belt, its friction can be a catastrophe for the lapels. And as for an overcoat or topcoat, that goes without saying.
2. The shirt: why roll up the sleeves to drive?
Shirt sleeves are best rolled up two or three turns for the drive. Stiff cuffs, especially double (French) ones, restrict the wrist on the wheel and cause discomfort. Cufflinks have been known to scratch the leather of the steering wheel. Jewellery and metal accessories are among the main culprits behind scratched leather steering wheels.
3. Trousers: why does wool cloth fare badly in the car?
Long drives are not kind to wool trousers. The cloth reacts badly to heated seats. That is why it pays to stop periodically and step out of the car. It is good for the spine, and it lets the trousers “breathe”. Wool has a natural elasticity that brings it back to shape, but it needs a little help.
4. Jeans: what trouble can they cause the upholstery?
Jeans, or any other cotton trousers, are the most comfortable choice behind the wheel. Dyed jeans, however, can leave marks on beige or cream leather seats. Sweat and body heat speed up the process. And if the jeans have rivets on the back pockets, the risk of scratching the upholstery is enormous. That is why many denim makers have stopped riveting the stress points of their jeans in recent years.
5. Shoes: which are best behind the wheel?
Which shoes drive a man to success? Ideally, the ones he drives best in. There are, however, a few restrictions. Stiff leather shoes with crupon leather soles slip on the pedals, especially when new, and are best avoided. Classic moccasins are the better choice (not for nothing are they also called driving shoes). For the sportier type, the popular sneakers handle the pedals superbly. For an evening event that calls for formal shoes, a taxi is the wiser option.
6. Colour: should clothes match the car’s interior?
It may seem excessive, but a self-respecting gentleman matches his clothes to his car, especially to its interior. The colour rules are the familiar ones. Attention to detail alone separates him from hurried, careless drivers. The rule does not apply in a taxi. Or rather, it applies on another level: a gentleman in full evening dress will never “match” the humble Dacia Logan.
In short, with the jacket off, the sleeves rolled up, the right shoes chosen and something comfortable on the feet, the pleasure of driving is assured. Well-considered colour and attention to detail create an unmistakable style, in which the clothes match the car.
