Locker room protocol

Maybe it has been my naiviety over the last few years but are gym locker rooms really that gay or is it because I have engulfed myself into the gay physce with the start of this underwear company that a whole new world has unfolded.

I feel like I see this whole new world of man-on-man sexual under current that exists.  I notice how some men take unusually long to put on their clothes, want to talk to you while you are undressing, or stare at you through the mirrors.  I never really paid much attention before but now everything is gay to me.  (By the way, why do my gay friends insist everybody they see walking down the street is gay?)

Am I just imagining this because I never noticed such behavior before.

I asked my non-hetero friends about guys at the gym and I have heard stories that my innocent ears weren’t old enough to hear.  However, could I capitalize on this?  Should I take extra long walks through the locker room sporting my Disco Valante underwear while sipping Jock Muscle shakes and accept those creepy comments from old guys of “I think your underwear is hot” and then drop a business card or company flyer in their hand?

Do anyone have any locker room stories of  bad protocol at their gym?  Any good stories to share with the DV blog readers?

Guys showing off their underwear

In the last 15 – 20 years, hip hop stars have made exposing your underwear a common and cool trend in America.  Sagging pants began in American prisons, where oversized uniforms were issued without belts to prevent suicide and their use as weapons.  The style spread through rappers and music videos from the ghetto to the suburbs.  Now, everyone does it.  This infectious style of pants wear and underwear exposure is displayed by twink skater guys, trendy streetwear fellas, pastel colored polo wearing suburban kids and even Japanese school boys. 

Is it ok to show a bit of underwear or is it vulgar?  I would be truly excited if I wear walking down the street or in a club and I saw some guy exposing his Disco Valante underwear to see…but I have a personal and professional interest in free publicity. 

Some conservative American communities have gone as far as rewarding fines to guys who expose their underwear. 

Is there something arousing in seeing a hint of waistband and fabric rising atop a guy’s jeans and exposing a closer look at his onion booty? 

Or has this fashion statement outlived it’s time and should guys return to non-low waist trousers that give aid to such underwear exposure?  Or does it really depend on how hot the guy is if it is acceptable? 

Confidence

Confidence is king!

Confidence is like an invisible coat that everyone can see.  People know if you’ve got it or don’t.  The guy who has that swagger in his step, the dude that has the ability to command a room while wearing a plain white T, jeans and flip flops, or the bloke that can move mountains with his mind. 

In these trying times of me leaving a career that I’ve been doing for just over a decade and starting a clothing company, confidence is my greatest asset.  I have unshakable belief in myself and Disco Valante.  I would kick you in your teeth before I let you throw water on the flames of my dream.

Confidence can get you through those difficult moments where extreme intelligence, money or good looks may fail you.  Too bad we don’t put as much emphasis on our inner strength as we do our outer strength.

Blogging will resume 24 September!!!

I will be back in full force during the middle of the week.  I’m so sorry for the delayed absence.

I hope you guys haven’t forgotten about me!

Hazel Eyes and Straight-ish boy are as straight as a crooked line!

I constantly get emails of people wanting to see the fantasy of military guys going gay for each other.  In my endless effort to exploit my best friends for my professional and financial gain, here you go. Look how natural these two are sportin Speedos and applying sun tan lotion in the hot summer sun.

Calm down Disco Valante blog readers! Hazel Eyes and Straight-ish boy are strictly for the ladies…as far as I know. But you know what my gay friends say, “The only difference between a straight guy and a gay guy is a couple of beers.

These two complete my three-some “bro-mance”. I affectionately think of Steven and Erik as my brothers. They are possibly the two most free spirits I know. They have always been supportive of me and I love them for that.

To Steven: “Kings to me!” – inside joke

Disco Valante presents a literary classic

Disco Valante Clothing is insistent on a man’s ability to believe in himself.  Robert Frost, wrote a killer poem, The Road Not Taken, about trusting one’s own intuition in the the face of uncertainty. My clothing label is my personal road not taken. Leaving a successful military career and dumping every dollar I have into my dream (and borrowing even more) is not an easy thing. Perhaps Robert’s words can help you too.

“Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.”

Cuffin’ the pants

I must admit I wasn’t always a fan of this look.  I always see it in Ralph Lauren stores and I think it looks too fake and snobby.  However, I think it can be worn with classic coolness and style.  Take a look at this guy in the photo.  His look is very understated…simple T, khakis, dark blazer, and a pair of patent leather loafers.  However, he exudes a coolness that rarely seen in reality.

Disco Valante wants you to try to pull this look off and tell us how you fair on the streets.  I’m sure you’ll get complimented!

Are jockstraps the new “in” underwear?

I’m back!!!  Disco Valante has been out of the US for almost a year and I’ve notice something quite different.  In the last four days I seen eight different guys where jockstraps as underwear. 

Disco Valante hasn’t been hanging out in gay bath houses.  I was at two different gyms.  The guys were putting on their jocks with their street clothes after their workout.

Have I, the knower of all that is cool, missed a shift in underwear appareal in my abscence?

Fellas let me know what’s up!

Honey, hold my man bag.

I personally hate carrying a bag.  All Disco Valante needs is his credit card, chap stick, car keys and phone.  However, even though I don’t personally carry bags, I can appreciate them.  I can understand when people live in urban environments and don’t have cars to throw their things in, a bag maybe necessary to make it through the day.

When I lived in Japan, it was not uncommon to see men carrying cool looking tote bags, commonly referred to as man bags.  It was more uncommon to see men NOT carrying such an accessory.

A man bag can be a cool add-on to a killer wardrobe but, in America, we will not let go of the backpack.  I cringe everytime I see a guy wearing a cool suit or nice clothing while carrying a back pack.  I understand if you are doing some physical activity where a back pack maybe more appropriate for the wear and tear but not in the everyday commute of a stylish man.

If you must carry a bag throughout the day, get something cool.  If you and the 6 year old kid next door have the same taste in bags, shame on you.

Am I being a total snob about this guys?  Let Disco Valante know what you are thinking.

Why do American women love guys in board shorts and hate guys in Speedos?

Historically, the beach is a place where sexuality has been expressed. It is a natural reaction to wearing next to nothing. Disco Valante has noticed a very telling trend on this thread. American women hate the overt sexuality of men in Speedos. But why? Are American women threated by a man’s sexual presence? Are they envious?

In America, women are the beacons of beauty and sexuality. Meanwhile, men are quickly branded as gay or weak if they appear too beautiful.

Quick Story to illustrate this point:
All military pilots have call signs, like “Maverick” in TOP GUN. My Naval Academy classmate Christian, who is a Navy pilot, is probably one of the most handsome men I have ever seen. His call sign is BROKE BACK. I asked the other pilots, “Why is Christian’s call sign BROKE BACK?”. Their reply was, “A man that good looking has to be gay.”.

American beaches are the place where the female form is the center of attention. Beautiful woman with smooth curves wearing skimpy two pieces swim suits can be the inspiration of hit TV shows…BAYWATCH. However, does a man of equal physical beauty wearing a Speedo threaten a woman’s turf?

This girl commented to me once, “I don’t go out with overly attractive or well dressed men because I want to be the center of attention when we go out.”. I’m not saying she speaks for all women but could this be a glimpse into the female mind?

Or is American just a nation of sexually prudish individuals? One could easily make this assumption based on our beach attire, our view of prostitution, and attitude toward the GBLT community.

Ladies tell us if my assumptions are way off point. Fellas, why do you think women hate men wearing Speedos?

Are white boxers hot or NOT?

I have NEVER owned a pair of white cotton boxers.  I just don’t know what it is about them but I possible hate them on the same level as tighty whities.  I’ll give it to the guy in the photo his pair look sportier (or maybe it’s just bunched up) than traditional white cotton boxers found in a department store.  However, I still just can’t bring myself to buy a pair.

Disco Valante wants to know if white boxers are sexy or just plain BLAH?

Metrosexual Alert…”Hazel Eyes” is in the building

I truly believe friendship is at the core of a man’s personal style. Who we hang out with and how we treat them says so much about us as an individual.

On my blog, I constantly exploit Erik and talk about our friendship. I want to talk about my other best friend Steven, aka Hazel Eyes. Hazel Eyes is also a Navy Leiutenant and an Explosive Ordanace Officer like Straight-ish boy. He’s currently stationed in Italy.

Hazel Eyes is my ace! I don’t know anyone like him. He is just a great person. He is always voluteering for different causes and I don’t think I’ve ever heard him say a negative word about anyone. A damn goody two shoes! He is a free spirit and don’t dare him to do something embarrassing because you’ll lose everytime.

Steven is who I turn to when I want talk about truly personal things and have a good man cry! Steven was actually the first person to give me money to start Disco Valante Clothing. I want to publicly thank him and let him know I love him very much.

For some reason, Steven thinks he can be a thug or a tough guy. Could someone please tell him guys with hazel eyes and that play with babies are not bad boys. By the way, that’s chewing gum foil in his mouth and a painted on beard.

Do you trim your pubes?

You’ve just purchased a sexy, new pair of underwear from Disco Valante and can’t wait to show them off on your next booty call. But when you do finally disrobe in front of your new “friend”, they cringe in disgust at the site of your unkempt caveman pube bush.

Where have you been the last few years? The Tom Selleck (aka Magnum, PI) look is out. Nobody wants a furry wolf-man anymore. A smooth swimmer body is what’s “in”.

It can be scary to wield a sharp razor around your “one eyed warrior” but it is a necessary evil with today’s grooming standards.  Use electric clippers as a substitute for a razor.

But why should you trim your pubic hair? First of all (and perhaps the best reason), trimming your pubic hair can make your erection look huge. But, of course you wouldn’t care about that. Don’t forget about hygiene.  Your whole area will be cleaner, smell better, and be much more inviting.  And of course, general sexiness!

The benefits of having a shaved pubic area will be apparent straight away!

Any tips or comments fellas?

Don’t forget to visit our sister company, Jock Muscle, for your private sex toy fun!!!

Pretty in pink

Once agian, Disco Valante must instruct the class on the color of pink and its place in fashion.  I would have thought the students in my last class would have passed on the this information to rest of society but they have failed me.

After a much heated debate in my office with a victim of bad fashion,  I have one statement to make…PINK ROCKS! 

Why are so many men afraid to wear pink?

A man who wears pink is a someone who is daring.  A man who wears pink gets complimented.  When I wear pink, I have to beat the ladies (and the occasional male admirer) off with a stick.  Everytime I have seen a man wear pink his stride is more confident and his poise is more manly.  

Do you have what it takes to wear pink?  Do you like pink on men but are to shy to wear it yourself?  Or do you think pink is strictly for little girls?  Disco wants to know.

Mr. 10,000

 

The Disco Valante Clothing Blog has accumulated 10,000 hits in 4 months!!!

I know to some blogs this number isn’t much.  However, I remember when I got 2 hits or no hits a day.  When I used to get 20 hits a day I was jumping for joy.  Now I’m clocking over 200 hits a day.  Which again, maybe be small numbers for some blogs but still I’m pretty excited. 

If the number of blog hits is any indication of interested consumers in my kick ass clothing label, I’m in for a hell of ride.

Thanx everyone for visiting my blog, writing me emails, and telling your friends about me.  Don’t forget to go to Disco Valante Online and register your email for the news of the fall launch.

Thou shalt not wear underwear while swimming

Swimming in your underwear is not the most stylish statement I suggest you make.  I can only validate swimming in your underwear under the following conditions:

1.  You attend a house party where the drunken festivities move from the living room to the pool out back.

2.  You are wearing Disco Valante underwear and realize there is nothing better to show off your sexiness.

3.  You are built like a cover model of a fitness magazine. 

Outside of these circumstances I don’t think your swim attire should consist of tighty whities.  Showing off your junk at the pool in a public setting just isn’t as sexy as one would think.  I think it is rather creepy.

Does your swim attire consist of the underwear you put on before you headed to the pool?  Under what circumstances would you wear underwear while swimming?

Denim man panties

I love a great pair of jeans but I’m not sure about a great pair of underwear made out of denim. All I can think about is “going commando” in a pair of jeans and having the constant irritation of denim rubbing the family jewels raw. However, I’m confident they are treated to ensure comfort (fingers crossed).

Since Disco Valante Clothing is prepping for the fall launch, I want to know if you think you could add denim undies into your regular underwear rotation or is this just a novelty to throw in your drawer of thongs, jock straps and other special occasion man panties.

Metrosexual “Straight”-ish boy kills negativity

At the core of a man’s personal style is his ability to have healthy relationships.  I was just thinking about my friend and the amount of support he has given me over the years.

For those who have been reading this blog, will recognize Disco Valante’s best friend, Erik (aka “Straight”-ish boy). Erik, a US Navy military officer, is deployed in South East Asia.

He’s my sounding board for all of my entrepreneurial and life goals.  We push each other to be the best.  While traveling through this life it is great to have a friend brother like Erik.

If you don’t currently surround yourself with people who are positive and really want to see you do well, then you should weed those people out of your life. There are only two things any person can ever do for you…push you up or bring you down!

Negative people are poison, especially negative people who are close to you because you value their opinion no matter how wrong it is.  Conversely, you should always try to be positive and not belittle other people’s work, dreams, or thoughts with your negativity.

Always wish people the best and give CONSTRUCTIVE criticism when trying to help others.  Being stylish is more than just having cool clothes and nice hair cut, it’s about being a gentleman on all levels, physically and emotionally.

Is black underwear hot or NOT?

Once you go black…you never go back! But does that sentiment apply to underwear?

Black underwear is always stylish and screams sexy! However, that’s just my expert opinion.

Since Disco Valante Clothing is prepping for the fall launch, I want to know if you find black underwear classically erotic or is there more to be desired with more daring colors and designs.

The evolution of t-shirts: The Deep V-neck!

I was just reading Cameron‘s (aka Tuffie) Blog, Tuffie’s Rants and Raves. He had this wonderful discussion about t-shirts.

For about a year now, deep V-neck T-shirts have been all the rage in the US. Some hate them, when they should be LOVED! Only to state the obvious, deep V-necks look better when you have a clean shaven, manly chest. I guess that’s why I rock them.

Being a fan of the deep V-necks, I plan on incorporating them into my opening collection. However, Disco Valante wants to get a pulse of what the people actually want. Do you think deep V-necks are cool? And why or why not?

Tattoos anyone?

I don’t have any tattoos but I do think they can be cool. If you are daring enough, like this guy, (even though he really doesn’t have this tattoo in real life) it can look cool if it flows with your overall style. However, based on placement and actual design, some tattoos are absolutely wrong.

Placement

I personally think tattoos should not interfere with your ability to conduct business and to be thought of as a serious adult. Tattoos on the neck, hands and face are silly. How can you be taken seriously? If you are an rock star or professional wrestler, I will let you slide.

Secondly, men should never get tramp stamps (tattoos on the lower back above the waist line). Hell, girls shouldn’t even get them there.  Additionally, tattoos around your belly button is a NO, NO!

Design

If you are gonna get something, get something cool! Don’t get Tweety Bird or the seal of the President of the United States. Get tribal designs, Chinese characters, or some other time tested, bad-ass art.

Tattoos, like anything else, should be done with class.

Sun tan lines…super hot or really silly?

It’s summer time and everyone is pouring on the lotion and sizzlin’ in the summer sun to get that bronze skin complexion. Since everyone isn’t bold enough to sun tan naked, people get these killer tan lines. Sometimes when I see someone with a good tan and an extremely white booty I laugh really hard to myself. Then sometimes I think it can be really hot in a very strange way…to me at least.

Maybe when I launch my swim suit line and everyone has a Disco Valante tan line, I will love it.

So are tan lines hot or should you go to the tanning bed and even it out?

Wearing old underwear is not sexy

As I am writing this post, some guy is sitting at his computer wearing a pair of underwear he has had for the last 7 years. The elastic in the waistband has lost it’s elasticity, the color is so faded it looks like acid wash, and I’m sure there are probably a few holes.

Wearing beat up, torn underwear is just ugly. Even if they are clean, they still look dirty. A man should always renew his underwear collection and discard of older pairs. I know what some of you are saying, “Nobody sees them but me!”. That, my friend, is the wrong attitude.

I recommend an underwear self life of no longer than 18 months. However, some materials hold better than others but styles and designs are always changing. Not only should your outer wardrobe be updated but so should your man panties.

Don’t worry you’ll be able to update your underwear collection with Disco Valante soon enough!

The enduring relationship between fitness and style

Fashion isn’t just about what you wear however, but how you wear it! You could take the exact same clothing and put it on two different men and it could look completely different. No matter what type of clothing it is, the fashions will look better on a man that is in shape than on a man that it is out of shape.

Taking care of your body is simply a matter of making a few minor changes to your lifestyle such as diet and exercise. Working out a few hours at the gym every week won’t kill you and you will definitely see a difference in your body. You’ll feel better about your body, be more confident and, therefore, look better in whatever you choose to wear.

With that being said, when developing your own personal style the most important thing to remember is to stay true to yourself. Just because a men’s fashion trend looked great on your favorite actor doesn’t necessarily mean it’s for you. If you’re uncomfortable in it, chances are it isn’t the style for you.

There are enough styles of men’s clothing out there that everyone should be able to find their own personal style. Developing your own style should always be fun. When you discover what style works for you, you’ll see that striving to look your best isn’t work at all; it just comes naturally.

Is your beach bag packed properly?

Beach season is here! I know lots of you are tanning and splashing around in the hot summer sun. Disco Valante is going to give you some tips on what to bring to a fashionable day at the beach.

Sunglasses – It’s a staple at the beach. They not only protect our eyes from UV rays and make sun tanning less horrid on the eyes, but also make you look so damned good! First off, your sunglasses should compliment your face. Square faces look good with more cubic looking frames while round faces are complimented by rounded shades. However, every one looks good in a pair of aviators. Beach glasses should be fun and less conservative then your typical day sunglasses.

Swim suits – It’s the battle between Speedos versus board shorts! In places outside of the United States, it is normal to wear Speedos. I remember my friends, in Naples, laughing at me once when I wore board shorts to the beach. They thought I was wearing regular pants. The beach is a place for sexuality to be exposed.

In America, the idea of the “banana hammock” creeps out a lot of guys. Speedos should compliment your skin. If you’re naturally tanned, go for bright colors like blue and yellow. However, black Speedos are classic! For board shorts don’t make them too long. You want to show off some skin after all.

Flip flops – Walking on hot sand is not funny. It hurts like Hell! So proper flip flops are essential. I have two pairs: Havanas with their extra gummy feeling, and a pair of bamboo slippers. The bamboo slippers look great for when I head out to a beach snack shack with some friends.

Beach towel – And no, not the ones you dry yourself with but the one you lay on. No patterns of Goofy or Budweiser; save those for tourists. Opt instead for plain colors or even my personal favorite, the bamboo print!

Beach bag – You need a bag to hide your wallet, keys, food, books, condoms and lube! I always bring a backpack or tote bag. They’re sporty and easy to carry! Keep your wallet and keys in a plastic zip lock bag to avoid getting it dirty or wet.

Beach shirts – The rules are the same as with swimsuits – Get colors that go with your skin tone. Wear what you like as long as it’s short sleeved and goes well with your swimsuit.

Did I miss anything?

The urban renewal of men’s shorts

It’s the short shorts, fellas; the short shorts! Think of the 70s and the early 80s. And in 2008, fashion itself would prove that trend has a cycle—it starts and it ends and it goes back again decades after. I know, I know most guys don’t like to show alot of skin. For all you fashion forward thinking guys out there, short shorts is what’s in.

To pull of this daring look you need two things. Toned legs and attitude! Having toned legs with nice quadriceps and an onion booty adds to the visual delight onlookers will get when you are walking. Just as a woman with very curvy legs gets attention, a man with toned masculine legs will equally attract positive stares. Lastly and most importantly, having the confident attitude is a must! You are definitely going to get your fair share of looks and if you don’t have the self esteem to rock this look you might as well stay home. I just bought a pair of short shorts with a matching blazer and everyone (guys and girls) was complimenting yours truly, Disco, on his daring wardrobe selection.

One added bonus for all those vertically challenged guys out there is that wearing shorts can lengthen your frame, giving the illusion of looking taller.

If you have a problem tracking down some really nice short shorts, the same effect can be had if you buy a similar cut short or nice pair of pants and have a tailor alter the fabric to the desired length. Also, don’t mess this look up with big clunky American styled shoes. Wear this look with a nice low profile shoe, loafer, or sandal.

Getting motivated at the gym

I feel the hardest of part of working out isn’t the actual activity but the mental focus of going and staying concentrated once there. Occasionally, I do feel unmotivated to work out. Being sexy is mentally straining at times.

I put together a list of tips to get you pumped about going to the gym. This list is not the end all, be all but it does have some things you can do to keep yourself going to the gym long after the New Year’s crowed has quit.

Set Small Goals:

Sometimes it much easier to think of taking the next step than it is to look at climbing the entire mountain. Set small weekly goals (1 lb a week) instead of looking at what you want to accomplish a year from now.

Photos:

Pictures can be very inspirational! Regardless of what you think of those magazines, having a picture to look at is helpful in letting your mind capture an image of what you want. Once your mind has the image, you will start to take actions in life to accomplish that.

Music:

How do you think Rocky Balboa gets pumped during the training montage? It’s the kick ass tunes! Your favorite mix of high energy inducing jams is just what you need to get into the zone and feel pumped up. If you like music and it doesn’t bother you at all, then consider it for an extra boost when you don’t feel like working out. Music can easily put you into the mood.

Workout Partners:

The best motivation is somebody else with a like goal that wants to accomplish what you want as well. When you feel down and out and not really into it, this person might pull you along. When you can’t get that last rep out, they are there to give you a spot. It’s so much easier to have a training partner you can trust that motivates you. If they are a little competitive that might not hurt either. You can both use each other’s energy to push yourself.

Classes:

Many people want to workout but feel without structure, they just get lost and bored. Being in a class can really help focus in on your goals with structured objectives in mind. If you don’t like working out alone, a class might be an idea option. Especially when you don’t know where to being and you like the idea of instruction.

Personal Trainer:

A times they get a bad rap, but if you find a good one, then paying for a mentor is precisely what you need. Shelling out those hard earned dollars for a package of training sessions can really motivate you to keep going. They are also your paid training partner. They can help push you and adjust your program for progressive resistance and growth. A good personal trainer can help design you a program and nutritional plan that meets your needs. Their watchful eye on your exercise form is critical as well. Not all personal trainers are worth their weight in gold. Get a trainer that’s in shape and not some fat ass!!!

New Routines:

One of my favorite motivational techniques is to try something new. When your routine becomes boring and stagnant, there’s nothing like trying new stuff to spice it up and keep you interested. Having a new plan of action can keep you mentally fresh and your body challenged.

I hope to see you all at the gym after you finish reading my blog and sending my web address in a mass email to all your friends! Hint, hint!

Going commando!

Disco Valante is a clothing label featuring men’s underwear and I’m trying to appeal to all men of style and substance. However, there is a group of men I don’t think I can ever sell to…the Commandos.

Going commando, aka free ballin’, is the preferred underwear (or lack of underwear) choice for some more daring guys. I myself don’t free ball because my nuts will sweat and stick to my leg. And, I don’t need the aroma of ball sweat competing with my cologne.

Besides, I can’t control my erections! Therefore, I don’t want to seem like a pervert when at the grocery store or the bank if my “one eyed yogurt slinger” starts to get aroused.

Does anyone free ball? If so, why and how often? Or do you think it’s gross?

Advice to young men from an old man

Disco Valante wants to impress upon its readers the importance of personal style. Personal style should exude into everything we wear, say and do.

Some of you were fortunate to have positive male figures in your lives who imparted practical words of wisdom to help you through life. I think it is so important for men to have mentors. I don’t care if you are 45. A 65 year old man may have a nugget of knowledge that could benefit you personally, professionally, and/or financially.

I saw this list on another blog. This list is from an older gentleman who posted his list on Craigs’s List. I am by no means advocating everything that is said below. So read this with a grain of salt and take from it what does or does not appeal to you.

++ Date:2007-02-15, 9:08AM PST — Advice to Young Men from an Old Man ++

1. Don’t pick on the weak. It’s immoral. Don’t antagonize the strong without cause, its stupid.

2. Don’t hate people. It’s a waste of time

3. Invest in yourself. Material things come to those that have self actualized.

4. Get in a fistfight, even if you are going to lose.

5. As a former Marine, take it from me. Don’t join the military, unless you want to risk getting your balls blown off to secure other people’s economic or political interests.

6. If something has a direct benefit to an individual or a class of people, and a theoretical, abstract, or amorphous benefit to everybody else, realize that the proponent’s intentions are to benefit the former, not the latter, no matter what bullshit they try to feed you.

7. Don’t take proffered advice without a critical analysis. 90% of all advice is intended to benefit the proponent, not the recipient. Actually, the number is probably closer to 97%, but I don’t want to come off as cynical.

8. You’ll spend your entire life listening to people tell you how much you owe them. You don’t owe the vast majority of people shit.

9. Don’t undermine your fellow young men. Mentor the young men that come after you. Society recognizes that you have the potential to be the most power force in society. It scares them. Society does not find young men sympathetic. They are afraid of you, both individually and collectively. Law enforcement’s primary purpose is to suppress you.

10. As a young man, you’re on your own. Society divides and conquers. Unlike women who have advocates looking out for them (NOW, Women’s Study Departments, government, non-profit organizations, political advocacy groups) almost no one is looking out for you.

11. Young men provide the genius and muscle by which our society thrives. Look at the Silicone Valley. By in large, it was not old men or women that created the revolution we live. Realize that society steals your contributions, secures it with our intellectual property laws, and then takes credit and the rewards where none is due.

12. Know that few people have your best interests at heart. Your mother does. Your father probably does (if he stuck around). Your siblings are on your side. Everybody else worries about themselves.

13. Don’t be afraid to tell people to “fuck off” when need be. It is an important skill to acquire. As they say, speak your piece, even if your voice shakes.

14. Acquire empathy, good interpersonal skills, and confidence. Learn to read body language and non-verbal communication. Don’t just concentrate on your vocational or technical skills, or you’ll find your wife fucking somebody else.

15. Keep fit.

I know a large number, if not all, of my readers are gay. So, I’m sure for the following advice on relationships you can change the gender.

16. Don’t speak ill of your wife/girlfriend. Back her up against the world, even if she is wrong. She should know that you have her back. When she needs your help, give it. She should know that you’ll take her part.

17. Don’t cheat on your wife/girlfriend. If you must cheat, don’t humiliate her. Don’t risk having your transgressions come back to her or her friends. Don’t do it where you live. Don’t do it with people in your social circle. Don’t shit in your own back yard.

18. If your girlfriend doesn’t make you feel good about yourself and bring joy to your life, fire her. That’s what girlfriends are for.

19. Don’t bother with “emotional affairs”. They are just a vehicle for women to flirt and have someone make them feel good about themselves. That’s the part of a relationship they want. For you it is a lot of work and investment in time. If they are having an emotional affair with you, they’re probably fucking someone else.

20. Becoming a woman’s friend and confidant is not going to get you into an intimate relationship. If you haven’t gotten the girl within a reasonably short period of time, chances are you won’t ever get her. She’ll end up confiding to you about the sexual adventures she’s having with someone else.

21. Have and nurture friendships.

22. Realize that love is a numbers game. Guys fall in love easily. You’re going to see some girl and feel like you’ll die if you don’t get her. If she rejects you, move on to the next one. It’s her loss.

23. Don’t be an internet troll. Got out and live life.

24. When you become a man in full, know that people will get in your way.

25. Don’t gay bash. Don’t mentally or physically abuse people because of who they are, or how they present themselves. It’s none of your business to try to intimidate people into conformity.

26. If your gay, admit it to yourself, your parents, your friends and society at large. Be prepared to get harassed. See rule 13. If someone threatens you or assaults you, call the cops. Have them arrested. You have no obligation to self sacrifice because of who you are.

27. Don’t be a poser. Avoid being one of those dudes who puts a surfboard on top of their car, but never surfs, or a dude with a powder coated fixed gear bike and a messenger bag, but was never a messenger. Live the life. Earn your bonafides.

28. Remember, 97% of all advice is worthless. Take what you can use, and trash the rest.

Let me know if you think any of this has helped you or changed your perspective.

Is white underwear hot or NOT?

I usually don’t buy white underwear. I like more charisma in my undergarments. Perhaps all those years as a kid and wearing Fruit of the Loom has turned me off the white colored underwear.

Since Disco Valante Clothing is prepping for the fall launch, I want to know if you find white underwear simple yet sexy or just plain BLAH.

Don’t forget to visit our sister company, Jock Muscle, for your private sex toy fun!!!

Disco Valante in the Arena

Confidence in one’s self is the most important part of being a man. Blazing your own unique path can be met with the scrutiny of others. Doubt is a challenging hurdle when trying to succeed.

As a freshmen in college, I read The Man in the Arena, a speech given by US President Teddy Roosevelt at the Sorbonne in Paris, France on April 23, 1910.

Hopefully these inspirational words will keep your focus sharp and constant.

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”

There is no shame in failing. Only shame in never having the courage to try and laughing at others who do. Pretty deep for a men’s underwear company.

Real men write letters

Disco Valante Clothing is not only about men’s underwear and T’s. It’s about creating stylish men on different levels. Today’s topic of style is on letter writing.

In this day and age, cyber technology has killed the art of letter writing. “Why would anyone write a letter since email is instantaneous?”, you ask. Letters show consideration. The thoughtfulness of putting pen to paper and placing an envelope in snail mail is a forgotten task. Occasionally write a letter to someone you care about and, believe me, the receiver of your correspondence will greatly appreciate your effort.

Additionally, personal stationary is a must for any professional and/or man of style. A quick note of thank you or admiration to another professional that sports your personal letterhead will carry an air of sophistication. And don’t worry, personal stationary can be very affordable even when purchased at boutique stationary stores.

What are you waiting for? Get writing!

Disco Valante’s Mojito Recipe

Men of style and substance should know how to drink like a man. Natural Light Beer (Natty Light) may have gotten you through those days as a young teenage boy stealing beers out of dad’s cooler but as a man you need to up you drinking pallet.

Next time you’re at the bar order my favorite drink…the classic mojito. If you are entertaining or just want a fun drink to cool those hot summer nights, I’ve included the recipe. This recipe is for 4 servings.

Ingredients:

Ice
6 ounces light rum
12 mint sprigs, or spearmint, 8 roughly broken apart
6 tablespoons fresh lime juice
4 tablespoons sugar
Club soda
4 slices lime

Instructions:

Place ice in beverage shaker then add in the rum, 8 broken up mint sprigs, lime juice and sugar. Shake well and serve over ice in a high ball glass. Top off each glass with a splash of club soda. Garnish each with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint.

Can you be cool while riding a modep in America?

Although this entry does not have anything to do with fashion, your choice of vehicular transportation can speak lots about your style…very superficial, I know!

I’ve been in the Middle East since the beginning of the year and I cringe every time I look at gas prices in the States. It cost more for a Coke here, in the Middle East, than for a liter of gas!

I find my self looking for alternative driving solutions when I return to Washington, DC. I’m thinking about getting a moped to drive around the city. However, not having the right mode of vehicular transportation in the US is a social liability. Not to mention, the possibility of screwing up my clothes.

In Europe and Asia you can have a supermodel holding you tightly while on the back of your moped as you cruise through town. Not in the states buddy! I think as Americans we view mopeds as toys for young teenage boys and a novelty to rent while on a beach vacation.

Will I lose my social status if I start cruising around town on a Vespa? Or should I not care and buy one in protest of extreme gasoline prices? What should I do?

Caring for white jeans

I’ve been getting lots of feedback from my blog entry on wearing white jeans. And yes, finding white jeans in America is hard if you don’t live in major urban cities with good shopping. For those who find it hard to get white jeans in the States, go online and start Googlin’. Nobody said looking good was easy.

For those of us who are fashion inspirations to everyone and are rockin’ white jeans, let me tell you how to take care of them so they don’t turn YELLOW!

Here are some cleaning suggestions

• Keep your white denim fresh by soaking your jeans for an hour or even overnight with detergent and bleach.
• White jeans should NOT be washed on the delicate cycle.
• Avoid hot dryers! Your jeans could turn yellow from the heat.

Hopefully these tips will keep your jeans looking good if you hadn’t already messed them up.

Inspirations of Style

For style inspirations you may want to look at magazines, fashion books or internet sites. Look carefully at how the clothes are put together and how they make it work? When I’m not traveling around the world, I frequently buy domestic and foriegn fashion magazines to keep in touch with what’s happening and attain fresh ideas.

Do you have a friend who is always effortlessly chic? Well ask your friend for help. Don’t be shy. Even when you see a stranger on the street that has a great T-shirt or a cool pair of sneakers, go up to him and ask where he purchased them. He’ll be flattered and gladly tell you where to shop!

Homies for life

I don’t know about you, but my friends and I love grab assin’. There’s nothing like kickin’ it with buddies and letting go.

I don’t believe in having associates, life-long friendships are what I build. There is nothing comparable to spending time in the company of good friends while eating good food, sipping mixed drinks and filling our hearts with laughter while we discuss bullshit.

Disco Valante, is a more than a clothing label. It is an entity that exudes style. And meaningful relationships are at the heart of true style and well being.

To my friends who support me in my quest to live the impossible dream, I love you!

The Definition of Style

What Is Style?

Style is a vibe, a look, or feel a person exudes, almost like an invisible force.  Style usually caries a positive conotation, however, style can also be bad.   Is someone debonair, bohemian or street trendy?   Or are they messy, ghetto or flashy?  When someone says I like your style, it usually refers to a person`s actions and demeanor, not just to a person`s clothes.

So, how does one get style?  If you are tall, fit, with a bubble butt and bulges in the all the right places, and sportin’ a supermodel face you can probably make a potato sack look good.  However, I have seen some physically beautiful people with zero style.  Good looks only take you so far, unfortunately it’s usually to the top…LOL! However, most of the general public usually needs help looking stylish.  Contrary to popular belief, style is not just about having the “it” leather jacket, following the latest trends or wearing brand name clothes (though sometimes it helps!).  Real style is an innate sense of knowing what works for you.   Are you artsy?   Are you a business executive, a party animal, or a sporty, gym rat type? Do you usually dine out at fancy restaurants and attend swanky charity events or do you like to go out clubbing?  It’s all about do you have the confidence it takes to pull off a certain look, having command presence when you walk into a room, and ultimately being who you want to be.