Dashing Holiday Rule #26: Velvet Slippers

"Where do I wear the perpetually trending smoking slipper?" The elegant house shoe seems to be getting quite a bit of editorial runs by your favorite men's periodicals, Mr. Porter practically will send you a pair with every purchase, and for everyone in the know, they seem to own a pair, even your girlfriend.

My favorite slipper from Palm Beach's Stubbs & Wootton

The slippers date back to the Victorian era, when gentleman would entertain in their homes and the dress was black tie. The shoe could be worn with a tuxedo or dress pants and smoking jacket. Prince Albert was famed for donning them and thus became the Albert Shoe from Church's in London. 

In this era, we see hip guys pairing them with everything from shorts to jeans. I have to say, that daytime wear for these might be a bit much. I choose to wear them to cocktail parties, evenings at the theatre and fine watering holes. Anyplace that involves a bit of lounging is perfect for wearing a smoking slipper.

10 Things to Help You Survive the Flu Like a Gentleman

There you are at your desk, in the midst of emails and phone calls, however you can't seem to move, yes here it comes...the onset of influenza. The miserable condition strikes when you least can manage it, making you appear and feel at your very worst. 

Well things can get a bit better; with a list of must haves (compiled by yours truly) you too can be a gentleman and survive the flu with some style. 

1. Pajamas. I prefer them from Derek Rose. The tailoring and fabric of these PJs are perfect. My couple pairs has lasted years. I do iron them, they feel more comfy pressed.

2. Slippers. When fallen under the weather, I believe its important to surround yourself with warm and soft things, these"Smere"(cashmere) slippers from Ralph Lauren keep my toes warm when heading to the kitchen for more tea. 

3. Cough syrup can be as miserable as domestic Scotch, however when served in a crystal tumbler, the flavors may open up. By the end of your rest, I do not recommend it served on the rocks. 

4. Tissue boxes always stand out no matter how decorative the packaging,  I prefer to use nickel boxes from Restoration Hardware. This also keeps your bedroom looking less like a hospital room. 

5. Soup can be satisfying when you don't have the energy to chew, but chicken noodle just reminds me of illness, I like keeping a few cans of butternut squash bisque around from Cambell's. Thomas Keller still doesn't have delivery. 

6. I discovered this tea in college when working in theatrical productions and I love the flavor and how soothing the natural marshmallow is. I drink a couple pots of this when I'm down with a cold.

7. Sometimes you just need a Scotch, when you're sick you'll need two Scotches. I find this goes well with the Throat Coat tea for a hot toddy. Tomatin provides a great value, and is delightfully balanced.

8. I find when I'm stuck at home with the flu, it is important to shower and even shave at some point. Creed's Original Santal is a warm and spicy scent that envelopes your senses... even with a stuffed up schnoz. Spray a few spritzes of the cologne on your blanket. 

9. There is not material that can actually make you feel better when wrapped up in it like smere can. I recommend every gentleman have a blanket made out of cashmere. Perfect when your sick or feeling better with a movie date. I found mine at Restoration Hardware at a post season sale. 

10. Its difficult to disconnect from the office with the ease of checking emails and texts, however when sick, it's best to sign off and try to rest. I love turning to Turner Classic Movies and watching it for the day, the films and their eras will transcend you from your sick bed.