Black History: Malcolm X

By Phillip Buggs


Preacher. Powerful. Stylish. Determined. These words have all been used to describe Malcolm X and all of them are certainly true, none more than stylish and determined. Malcolm X was a man of simple taste. His style can be described as two words: forever classic. No matter what the occasion, he stuck to the basics. You never saw Mr. X without a crisp white button down, dark tie, black, or charcoal suit with slim lapels, his signature black brow line eyewear and half moon and star ring which represented his faith. His personal look matched with his persona, as every man’s should. It stated one simple thing, that he was a man of classic style and firm business. His hair was neatly trimmed. If he did decide to don a hat, it was a black fedora or a black ushanka (Russian fur hat), depending upon the weather. This, my friends, is personal style. I encourage you to follow this example of personal style, then learn to tweak it and make it your own.

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Phillip Buggs is the founder of The Artistic Insanity. You can view his website here.

Interchangeable Simplicity

Sometimes, when looking to purchase a timepiece, all a person wants is a good old fashioned wristwatch that is stripped down to the essentials: time and date. Fussy add-ons like the chronograph feature aren't required all of the time, and this is when Timex's Easy Reader model comes into play. Its minimalist and simplistic design allows one to sport it to almost every possible function (I wouldn't include black-tie events). Perfect for everyday use, the Easy Reader is accompanied by an indiglo nightlight and a dial that's very easy to read. For such a timeless item, the most refreshing news is you won't break the bank; the Easy Reader is available for a price that almost demands you to purchase it on the spot.


The fun doesn't stop there. Brands like J. Crew and Smart Turnout allow you to personally customize a watch like Timex's Easy Reader with various colorful, interchangeable watchstraps. A person like me is already pleased with the basic leather band that is already placed on the Easy Reader, but I am always for the idea of adding a little individualism and distinctiveness. Make the Timex Easy Reader your own by substituting the leather band with a unique watchstrap.

Victor Guye

On a recent class trip to Washington, D.C., my girlfriend visited the National Art Gallery. She sent me images of artwork from numerous artists, but the above piece stood out to us both. This particular piece—created by Spanish artist Francisco de Goya—immediately drew me into the intricate details of the young Guye’s regimental uniform. From the popped collar to the superb fit of all garments, there is resemblance in history and modern day dress. I find it amazing how even during a historical period like the one Victor Guye was brought up in, a person living in the twenty-first century can find inspiration.

Style Triumphs All

Developing your own style is essential, and I say this because it is unique to the individual who takes on the task and conquers what truly works for them. It can take a long time to discover your true style; it's all about experimenting and creating what seems like it's never been done before. I look at men like Fred Astaire and Steve McQueen as powerful titans who mastered the art of style—Fred Astaire being the more experimental (sporting a necktie as a belt) and "The King of Cool" being a man who favored simple white T-shirts and a pair of chinos along with desert boots. Both men found out what worked for them and they stuck with it. In the end, that is what it's all about.

When you wake up in the morning, you want to be able to walk into a sartorial sanctuary filled with only the best of garments, accessories, and footwear. You don't need fleeting items that are only in for one season, because this defeats the overall purpose of staying on the narrow path of discovering your own style and buying the key garments that will last a lifetime. Creativity and being innovative is important when it comes to getting dressed. I say this because it can save you money and you're free to put together ensembles that reflect who you are and that's a way to let the outside world know a little bit about you before you open your mouth to say hello. Buy the basics and build a wardrobe around them.

Developing your own style isn't an easy task when there are tons of trends being created by the second, but once you see how those specific things get old very quickly, you swiftly realize you can do much more with only paying attention to the timeless and enduring classics. Study men like James Bond, Andre "3000" Benjamin, Fred Astaire, Miles Davis, and Gianni Agnelli. Those are men who any style enthusiast should look to for sartorial inspiration. Once your style is developed to fit you, it will surely last a lifetime. Remember: Style is forever.

Black History Month

Today begins the month in which we shed light on those who have contributed to the liberty gained for African Americans. We will never know what they went through to pave the way for us, and all we should do is appreciate and hold dear their accomplishments. I feel that it is our duty to please them and make them proud; we wouldn't want all of their hard work to go to waste. Even with this month—which is only a short twenty-eight days out of the year—we as a people must always bring attention to those of times past who have done something great and monumental for black culture. Whether it be a sportsman who made history, a women who stood up for equal rights for her gender, or a civil rights activist who fought for freedom, they will all be valued. One hundred years from now, I aim to be included with the best of them. Happy Black History Month.