THE GUIDE TO AUGUST

THERE IS NO FIXED DEFINITION TO WHAT AN AUGUST MAN IS, BUT THERE IS A GUIDE TO LEAD YOU TO IT.

- KELLY LEWI

WHAT IS AUGUSTMAN? Our editor-in-chief has probably written this at some point in his editor's note, which I implore you to read. But since August has come by again, I figured it's a good time to revisit the origins of the brand. The word august, surprisingly, means not of the month, but worthy of respect. An august man then, is simply a venerable man of dignity, one who essentially fits the phrase 'modern masculinity'.

While that may explain what an august man is, I think an august man is more complex than that. I write often about the modern gentleman, though I realise belatedly that I have never really quite explained what it means. To men of my age, a well-respected man may be a well-dressed man. To me, whose credential is a woman who enjoys the company of men, a modern gentleman extends to beyond just that. He also has candour, conduct, and most importantly, empathy.

Compiled for this issue is a humble guide to style, because style is more than just clothes you put on your body. It is the manner in which you carry them. As a woman, perhaps my experience with men may not directly resonate with most of you, but I hope some of my observations can give you an insight into how to embody the modern gentleman. Above all, do it not to be perceived, but to be august.