Individuals: Michael Andrew

Michael Andrew is a character. Saying that is the most extreme of understatements. This charismatic Harlemite is smart, suave, studious (when I first met him, he was half sleep reading a book on a subject we all would love to gain a better understanding of), a lover of style, and a true representer of old "Harlem World." You can tell when a person is serious about their style. Michael Andrew doesn't belong in this era; he's been placed here, but I'm almost certain he was born and bred in the roaring twenties. From the cocked fedora, to the double breasted sport coats to the flamboyant, one of a kind combinations, he does it all so right. In addition to Michael Andrew's amazing style, we both share a very interesting thing in common: Polo Ralph Lauren is our favorite brand.

What does style mean to you?

Style is your unspoken word that we wish we could express but are often unable to speak on because they can only be conveyed in color stories and textural chapters. It is a representation of who we are before we ever open our mouths.

How would you describe your personal style?

I would describe my style as classic, suave, with a touch of whimsy. I want people to smile when they see me walking up the street.

Who or what has influenced your personal style?

My mom used to dress me up in shirts and ties saying that I should always dress for success, but I never really knew what that meant until I met my mentor—Leonard R. Gresham—who gave me the foundation on how to dress successfully for business, leisure, and seduction. I’m now building on that, watching others who successfully do and mimicking it in my own unique way.

Do you have any personal style habits?

I almost always wear a hat out; for me it’s just an exclamation point to the look. When it’s cold I often wear a scarf so that if I’m with a lady, she has something to wrap around herself if she gets cold. I always wear a pocket square with my jackets.

The first thing I do when I go to get dressed…

... is see how I’m feeling.

I feel my best in…

...Cashmere suits.

What is your favorite item in your wardrobe?

My wool and cashmere double-breasted suit from Polo Ralph Lauren.

Pleated or flat-front trousers?

That depends on who made them.

Do you have a favorite clothing company?

If I could afford Tom Ford, since I can’t, Ralph Lauren.

What is your most cherished item?

My point of view. I may lose an item, but with my point of view I can always recreate something just as memorable and special.

What is your favorite movie?

I don’t have a favorite, but some of the movies I love watching are: Oceans 11, Thomas Crown Affair, The Cotton Club, and Harlem Nights.

Where is your favorite place to dine?

Beauty and Essex.

Where is your favorite place to vacation?

I haven’t really traveled, but I’m looking forward to France, Italy, and Sweden.

What is the best advice you've received from your parents?

With God nothing is impossible…the world is your oyster.

What does the word "gentleman" mean to you?

A gentleman is socially aware, skilled in the fleeting art of conversation, and discreet in his dealings. He is best dresser, cleverest businessman, and most memorable lover all because he pays attention to details.

Journal: A Life Well-Lived

"Outskirts of Paris near Montmarte" by Vincent van Gogh. Watercolor, pencil, pen and ink, pastel, and gouache on laid paper. Paris: Summer, 1887.

Style is everything, but your life's style (referring to lifestyle) is where the true substance lies. It is about being a well-rounded, cultured individual. There's too many repetitive guides on how to wear clothes; how to wear this with that; how to dress for this occasion; what basics you need in your wardrobe, what ways of dress will distinguish you from the next person. All of this is lovely, but truly being a person focused on the finer and more important parts of life adds three times as much individuality and refinement. The simplest thing, such as being a passionate lover of life, makes you appreciate what's around you and what God has already blessed you with. Clothes do not make the man, but his philosophy on life and how he decides to go about living it does. That's what we as individuals should look for in a person more than what they paid for a pair of bespoke wool trousers.


There's too many style guides and not nearly as many important coverings on how to live a full, potential, quality-filled life.


Build a solid relationship with God. I'd never be the religion extremist forcing God upon everyone I come across, but I sincerely think putting God first before every situation and obstacle in your life can provide an outcome greater than what you'd expect. Simple things like praying every morning just to humbly acknowledge Him letting Him know you're appreciative can determine the type of day you may have. I doubt if anyone will get past those pearly gates because of their bank statement, a fancy timepiece, how successful one becomes, and how well one's clothes fit.


Put family first. Never neglect family. Oftentimes in our lives, we get so tied up in our own success that we may forget to call an aunt, uncle, cousin, or any other relative just to see how they are doing. One short phone call can make their day. Being family-oriented is one of the best things in the world, because at the end of the day, they'll be all you have left. Look out for family.


Love slowly—your God, your family, your significant other, your friends. Never take this four-letter word for granted and don't throw the three-word phrase around if you don't meant it. Love is a precious thing I think we should all take advantage of. Truly loving someone and caring for them the correct way can add value to a person's life. I'd be the first to let the world know I love my parents, family, Des Parker, and my friends with all of my heart. Loving slowly and passionately allows one to take their time through their day-to-day actions. Show love. 


Be a friend. While you can't go around calling and claiming everyone as a friend, building organic relationships with people matters. A friend will create and make time for you. A friend cares about your well-being. A true friend wants to see you succeed and they'll go out of their way to help you do so.


Eat amazing and healthy foods. Your body is truly your temple and remaining consciously aware of every piece of food inserted into your temple matters. The point of eating is nourishment. Eat to live, please not the other way around. There's too many choices to choose from when it comes to good food. Learn to cook; I truly believe it's an art form. Never settle for the "junk."


Have a burning desire to live passionately. Live life with passion. If you don't have passion for something, stay away from it. Love everything you're involved with. It lessens the stress and attitude of not doing something enjoyable. When it is all said and done, live your life the way you want, do the things that make you happiest, and commit yourself to your passions daily.


*In no way is this a guide on how to live. I simply wrote about things I genuinely care about. I have passion for life and I'm thankful to be alive.