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Find a fragrance you love, like Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford, and make it yours.

Fact: Many men don’t look as good as they ought to, and I am here to change that. Here, I give you a few relatively basic essentials to help you put the best version of yourself out there for the world to see.

1) Exfoliating Facial Scrub – Don’t fear thinking that you are less of a man if you exfoliate; a couple times a week gets rid of any dead skin on your face and gives you a cleaner, more polished appearance. Remember, you only get one face in life, make sure it looks as good as possible. I recommend Nivea Visage Gentle Exfoliating Scrub ($12).

2) Nail Clippers – One of the most unpleasant sights is seeing dirt under a person’s nails; it shows neglect and poor hygiene. A simple way to fix this is: After you bathe, while your nails are soft clean, clip and file your nails. It takes all of five minutes. If you’re confident enough, perhaps you may want to buff (not polish) your nails to a nice shine. You can buy a set of nail clippers for $8.

3) Timepiece – Very few things show class like a beautiful watch. Now, I’m not saying go out and buy a Patek Philippe, but get a dependable watch that has understated elegance – not one of those big tacky watches that some wear. A good example is Timex’s Easy Reader, which retails for around $25.

4) Shaving Set – When approaching someone (particularly a female), she should notice you, and then she should notice that you have the perfect dimple in your Italian woven necktie that has been tied in an excellent four-in-hand knot. But she will not notice this if you have facial hair that is not trimmed and properly groomed. Many men use disposable razors, which should never be used. For one, they cost too much over a period of time, and they don’t provide a close shave. All a gentlemen needs is a good razor that is sharpened regularly and a badger tip lather brush. A nice set can cost you $155 or so, but the results are worth it.

5) Signature Fragrance – The sense of smell is probably the second most arousing sense, right behind sight. Find a fragrance you like and stick with it, make it yours. Personally I use two brands and the scent for both is Vanilla because it is quite smooth, yet subtle and firm. The key is to use the right amount: Put a little on your wrist, neck, cheeks and chest. Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford is a great option ($200).

6) Tailor – Some of your closest relationships should be with your tailor and your barber. A garment is like armor for the contemporary gentlemen, and when you put on a suit, you demand the respect of everyone you come across. Your tailor is the one who makes sure you always look your best when suiting up.

7) Shoe-Trees and Polish – Even if you have on a Tom Ford suit that has been cut and tailored with precision, you will not look right unless you have well-maintained and polished shoes. If possible, never wear the same pair of shoes on consecutive days; the shoes need time to rest. Once your day is over, brush off your shoes with a brush made out of horsehair and put shoetrees inside the shoes. This will make them last longer and prevent against creases. All the materials you need should only be $25.

8) Body Wash – Old Spice ($5) is the brand I use because it’s strong and has a classic scent – simple and easy. Also, shower at least two times a day to be fresh during the day and night.

9) Cotton Undergarments – Yes, I’m telling you what underwear you should be wearing! Calvin Klein is simply the best for underwear and undershirts. Even in the summer undershirts should be worn to prevent sweat and deodorant from staining your bespoke shirt you got from Charvet while you were in Paris. (Tip: Put a little baby powder in you underwear to keep everything fresh. You’re welcome.)

10) Sunglasses – Who doesn’t look cool in a pair of shades?

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