Is Snivalry Dead?

As colder weather sets in and sniffles start, I am beginning to gather my handkerchiefs but find that I need to retrieve them from my two favorite girls. And, as I gather the begged and borrowed handkerchiefs from around the house I remember the instances of their departures from my possession. I was reminded of times when a mother needed to dry her eyes at her daughter's graduation or when a baby's nose needed dabbing while on public transit or the time I forgot my pocket square and pressed my handkerchief into service. But I find that the simple but necessary handkerchief has gone underground on the public landscape. I see fewer and fewer men prepared by carrying them.



What has political correctness and hand sanitizer done to the integration of function and fashion? Handkerchiefs, penknives, fountain pens and money clips with cash have been replaced by cell phones, atm cards and handi wipes. It is my opinion that fashion should embellish the necessary items that both men and women should possess in venturing out into society on their daily regimine.



Carrying a handkerchief has been a staple of gentlemanly conduct that was handed down to me from my father and from his father. The minimalist approach to dressing is fine as long as the mandatory mens complement of items are present before walking out the door. I hope to be expressing my views on a few indispensable items every man should possess and carry.

All of the handkerchiefs pictured on this page are cotton, or cotton/linen blends that can be used to arrest bodily functions as well as enhance one's appearance. Thank you to Saks, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom for providing the pictures and more importantly the sources to maintain my manliness.