Think tanks play a vital role in bringing together the elite of society, from the realms of politics and academia to business and civil society, to discuss and set policy agendas on both regional and international scales. One of their primary functions is to convene and organize forums, which serve as a meeting place and a lobby space, specifically catering to the interface between public officials and civil society.
It is not uncommon for think tanks to expect a certain dress code to be adhered to by participants at their events. Western dress codes, which detail what attire is appropriate for different occasions, have become a widely accepted framework for formality in dress. However, it is worth noting that many cultures have their own traditional equivalents to these codes, and the versatility of the Western dress codes allows for the amalgamation of international and local customs.
This versatility has made the Western dress code scale of formality a practical international formality scale. The highest level of formality in this category, typically reserved for evening events and dining, is white tie for men, ball gowns for women, and full dress uniforms for military officers. Dressing elegantly is not only a matter of adhering to the dress code, but also an indication of respect and appreciation for the occasion and the people you are sharing it with.
However, if we take a closer look at the famous James Bond's dress code, we find that it sets the standard for men's attire. We have all been captivated by the suave and debonair style of Agent 007. One can't help but admire the impeccable style of James Bond, the iconic British Secret Service agent. From the sleek gadgets to his signature car and watch, every aspect of his attire exudes elegance, class, and bespoke craftsmanship. But it is the attention to detail that truly elevates Bond's wardrobe choices to symbols of his impeccable social status.
The wardrobe of James Bond is a study in elegance and exclusivity. The absence of flaunted logos and labels, the presence of luxury brands such as Brioni, Tom Ford, and Sunspel, and the mastery of finer details all contribute to the high-status image of his attire.
When it comes to suiting, three options are available: off-the-rack, made-to-measure, and bespoke. Off-the-rack suits are the most affordable option, made-to-measure suits offer a personalized fit, while bespoke suits, crafted from scratch based on the customer's measurements and preferences, are the epitome of sartorial elegance. It's no surprise that Bond, a fictional spy, would choose such a suit, tailored to his frame and crafted from the finest materials.
James Bond's suave and debonair style has captivated audiences for decades. However, there is more to his refined appearance than just his impeccable dress code and gadgets. Bond embodies the code of the Chevalier, as outlined in Baldassare Castiglione's classic work, "The Book of the Courtier" (Il Cortegiano).
Published in 1528, this fictional dialogue delves into the ideal qualities and behavior of the perfect gentleman, or courtier, in the Renaissance court. The book is divided into four sections, each discussing different aspects of the courtier's behavior. The first book focuses on physical qualities such as appearance, manners, and bearing. The second book delves into mental qualities such as education, wisdom, and judgment. The third book examines social qualities such as behavior towards others, loyalty, and generosity. Lastly, the fourth book explores spiritual qualities such as religious beliefs, moral code, and self-control.
In the world of James Bond, these qualities are not just fictional constructs, but rather a reflection of the sophistication and elegance that defines the iconic spy. Bond's wardrobe choices, tailored to his frame and crafted from the finest materials, are a reflection of this code of gentlemanly behavior.
Why does the gentleman's suit see so little change after the colorful Renaissance? The answer may lie in the diffusion of the Italian code of the chevalier into the British Victorian court. "The Book of the Courtier" had a significant impact on the British court and the concept of the English gentleman. Widely read and studied by members of the aristocracy and court in the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as by the aspiring middle class, the book's depiction of the ideal courtier as a well-rounded, refined, and cultured individual resonated with the British aristocracy, who saw themselves as embodying these qualities. The courtier's emphasis on good manners, education, and social skills served as a model for the English gentleman, who was expected to embody similar values and ideals. This book's ideas also influenced the development of the "gentleman" as a distinct social class, separate from nobility but with similar values, ideals, and behavior. This influence can also be seen in the way it impacted the education of young men, who were sent to study at Oxford and Cambridge to learn the skills and values of the courtier, with the goal of becoming a gentleman.
The concept of a think tank, a group of experts who come together to discuss and analyze important issues and provide policy recommendations, can be traced back to ancient Greece. Plato's Symposium, written around 380 BCE, is a classic example of wise individuals gathering to discuss important topics of the day. Similarly, the tradition of the British gentleman, with its emphasis on manners, etiquette, and dress code, can also be traced back to ancient times.
"A gentleman's name should appear in the newspaper only three times: When he's born, when he marries, and when he dies. And we are, first and foremost, gentlemen"
In the Victorian era, the concept of the gentleman was firmly established as a symbol of class and status. The dress code of the gentleman was characterized by its formality, with men donning tailored suits, top hats, and carrying a walking stick. This image of the gentleman has been inherited by many cultures and still holds relevance today. However, the role of think tanks in modern society has evolved considerably. Today, think tanks are more than just a forum for discussion; they are powerful organizations that shape public policy and influence government decision-making.
In the United Kingdom, think tanks have played a significant role in shaping government policy, particularly in the areas of foreign policy, economic policy, and social policy. They have been instrumental in providing expert analysis and recommendations on various issues such as Brexit, the economy, and the environment. In conclusion, the tradition of the gentleman, with its emphasis on manners, etiquette, and dress code, has been inherited from the British Victorian era and still holds relevance today. However, the role of think tanks in modern society has evolved considerably, with think tanks now playing a significant role in shaping government policy and influencing decision-making. The Walther PPK, James Bond's weapon of choice, is also a perfect fit with the gentleman's code of conduct as it is a classic, elegant, and functional tool.