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Designer Gary Taxali makes his mark by fusing together his love for fashion and art. This mix shines through in his new collection of pocket squares for men, dubbed The Art of Flirtation. “A lot of the themes I explore in my work are focused around human dynamics in particular relationships,” explains the designer. “… A lot of my work entails a lot of conversation, first date kind of stuff, flirtation, casual dialogue that is honest.”

The collection, meticulously crafted on Italian silk, feels light, feather-like, and supple to touch. Taxali’s pocket square reminds the modern man of the importance of the accessory and why it’s a must-have for all wardrobes. Bringing back a 1950s vibe, Taxali reminds this generation’s dashing man that the pocket square isn’t just for a quick nose wipe, but a statement piece that tells the world how you carry yourself.

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“I think for too many years the tie got all the credit,” explains Taxali. “The tie is great, but over played, and I think it’s time that men start embracing fashion the same way women have been astute enough to accessorize their outfits in ways that compliment who they are with their fashion sense and personality. And I think pocket squares are just the ticket.”

Aside from the pocket square, Taxali recommends a couple other must-have accessories for all gentlemen to have in their wardrobe.

“I like my glasses because they help me with my art. I need them to draw and paint, but when I take them off and look at my work, I see tonal values and I can make decisions. I feel like I have two pairs of eyes working.” – Gary Taxali

First up, is the statement jacket, he says, which can be key to transforming attire for different occasions. “There’s that go-to jacket that you need to grab for all occasions, that you just feel is good for a quick lunch with a friend, a meeting with the boss, a first date, even something serious too,” explains Taxali. “That jacket that fits nice, and is not yelling, but gelling with your personality, and is your signature kind of thing.”

Next, whether you like to wear them or not, Taxali says a pair of fitting glasses quickly draws attention to not only your face, but also your overall look. Either a pair of prescription glasses, or sunglasses, could do just the trick. “A pair of glasses that shape your face and are saying something about you,” explains Taxali. “I like my glasses because they help me with my art. I need them to draw and paint, but when I take them off and look at my work, I see tonal values and I can make decisions. I feel like I have two pairs of eyes working.”

Words By. Aliecia Brissett + Photos By. Christina Inniss