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December 25, 2014
BOOK | 'The Secret to Stylish Men' by Hiroshi Morioka and Midori Takahashi.
BOOK | A Recommendation for Those Who Want to Tackle Work Seriously and Improve Their Impression
The Art of Sophistication for the Capable Man: A Book by Two Masters
This year, with the buzz around Super Cool Biz surpassing even standard Cool Biz, the ideal business style for adult men is a topic of social interest, not just for men. "The Art of Sophistication for the Capable Man," which discusses the "suit style"—a form of self-expression for successful businessmen—from both the male perspective of Hiroshi Morioka and the female gaze of Midori Takahashi, was released by Kodansha on June 10th.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
“For those who want to do good work, we want them to dress appropriately.” – Hiroshi Morioka
Hiroshi Morioka, a fashion director and stylist familiar to OPENERS readers, states, "As you know, business style is worn with just five items: a suit, shirt, tie, belt, and shoes. If you opt for a jacket style, it only adds one item, or two if you include a pocket square. You might hear voices saying, 'I already know that!' but then I'd want to ask you, 'Are you able to dress in a way that leaves a good impression and feels contemporary?'
Business style requires you to maintain a favorable impression while projecting the image of a capable man, all within a limited range of items, often similar designs, and subject to dress codes.
This book doesn't offer techniques to become stylish. Instead, it provides suggestions for those who want to tackle work seriously and improve their impression, proposing attire that effectively supports their image-building efforts."
Furthermore, he adds, "Fashion sense is now crucial even in business settings. This time, we've structured the content not only from a male perspective, which can be somewhat biased, but also incorporating a female viewpoint. It's not about which is superior. By understanding that different perspectives exist, we hope to foster an appreciation for intentional dressing. In sensitive professional moments, work attire becomes an important tool and a powerful partner. 'For those who want to do good work, we want them to dress appropriately.' This book is imbued with that sentiment."
From a Woman's Perspective, a Man Who is Both Stylish and Capable is Ideal (Midori Takahashi)
Co-author Midori Takahashi shares, "Wouldn't it be wonderful if, from a woman's perspective, a man who is both stylish and capable in his work was one and the same? And even more so if the person I admire consistently pursued their own style and their ideal business look, never ceasing to evolve... I wrote this book with such sincere feelings. It might be a bit blunt, but I would be happy if you found it helpful."
Mika Aiba, the editor in charge at Kodansha, comments, "'Suit style' is now evaluated as part of one's work performance and serves as a basis for judgment. To be trusted in the business world, suit style is essential.
Imaging director Midori Takahashi points out from a female perspective, 'Choose your suit according to TPO and pay attention to style,' and 'Are you aware that women find masculinity in a man's shirt?'
In contrast, stylist Hiroshi Morioka, speaking from a male viewpoint, lays down the rules: 'Adult business style is fine with the basics,' and 'An outfit that is 80% perfect, not standing out too much, is suitable for serious endeavors.' When the number of items is small and the rules are followed correctly, becoming stylish is easy. You can also gain more trust. We hope this book will be an opportunity for more men to become even more stylish."
The Art of Sophistication for the Capable Man
Authors | Hiroshi Morioka, Midori Takahashi
Price | 1,365 yen
Size | 46-ban
ISBN | 978-4-06-218395-6
Contents
Chapter 1: Questions About Adult Sophistication
Chapter 2: Let's Revisit! The Basics of Business Style
Chapter 3: Surprisingly Crucial! The Basics of Business Style Accessories
Chapter 4: Did You Know? The Basics of Cool Biz
Chapter 5: What You Need to Know: Styling Book
Kodansha BOOK Club
http://bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=2183951