I want to start by saying I do not believe you need to be a connoisseur of classic menswear (or the women’s equivalent) to be well dressed. Searching for a definition for “well-dressed” produces many different definitions. The one that I like most is from dictionary.com and defines well dressed as “attired in clothing that is of good quality, is properly fitted, and is appropriate and becoming”.

Recently, I was returning from vacation and going through customs when I got the inspiration to write this post. The customs agent asked me the normal questions (what was the purpose of your trip, how long were you gone, etc.), and then she paused and looked me up and down. “What do you do for a living?” she asked. I told her I was a pharmacist. Then, in a tone that implied she was some sort of omniscient being and I was clearly an idiot, she said, “Pharmacists don’t wear suits”.

One of my favorite things about my trip to Paris was the fashion. As cliché as it may sound, the style of Parisians is just…well, in my non-expert opinion, better. The vast majority of the people I saw throughout the day were exceptionally well dressed. That was definitely different than what I am accustomed to in the States.

You will see me in this suit more often than others. I actually started with just the trousers for work and then later decided to grab the matching jacket. (Luckily, I didn’t have problems with the color of the fabric matching). I’m definitely not in love with the craftsmanship of this suit but it works well as a “beater” suit; i.e. I do not have to be too worried about it. Definitely a good value at $599 USD, so much so that I am actually thinking about picking up another one in grey.

Was it bittersweet? Of course it was. But I think the sweet definitely overshadowed the bitter, at least when it comes to my daily wardrobe. I have to admit there were things that were good about wearing a uniform. However, all things considered, I am much happier without that requirement.