Simplex Munditiis, Gentlemen

"Simplex Munditiis, Gentlemen" by Mortimer Delano de Lannoy is a handbook that teaches guys how to dress and act politely in the late 1800s. The book's purpose is to show men how to dress in a way that is both simple and classy, stressing the importance of good manners and polished behavior in social settings. The goal is to improve men's clothing choices and social skills so that they meet the standards of the time. Early on, the author talks about how important clothing is as a way to show off one's personality, claiming that any man can dress beautifully without having to be rich. The beginning goes over the different types of men's clothing, like what to wear in the morning, afternoon, and evening, and lists the exact items and materials that make up each type. The first parts give full advice on how to dress correctly, with rules for hats, gloves, shoes, and coats, setting a clear model for what is considered stylish and appropriate for a gentleman.