For the first Meet and Greet of 2020, we got to hear from @thenextgentleman, also known as Anthony Mastracci.
Anthony carries the Garfield in black.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Anthony Mastracci and I run The Next Gentleman, a menswear and lifestyle blog in Los Angeles. I began TNG after realizing I could never afford anything in the pages of GQ Magazine and subsequently feeling the urge to do something about it. Since 2015, TNG has gained a strong following on the web and social media while styling seasonal outfits, asking theological questions, and sparking discussion about life with each post. The ultimate goal — spread the message that good style isn't just a look -- it's how you bring what's on inside *out* for everyone to see.
Where did your love for fashion start?
I started getting into fashion when I began working at my local Nordstrom in the women’s shoes department back in suburban Massachusetts. It’s funny — I saw this happen all the time, but when people start working in fashion, their own personal style develops into a distinct, refined reflection of their personality. I think it’s a combination of learning about products and needing to identify “what” works for “whom.” When you’re not styling clients, you style yourself, and that’s exactly what I did. It was there that I discovered some of my favorite brands, like 7 For All Mankind, Paige, Frye, Aquatalia, Goorin Bros., The Tie Bar, and more! I love discovering new brands and learning about how they fit into the world of mens fashion, especially Korchmar!
Anthony heads out with the Mason backpack in grey.
What are your current favorite pieces?
Part of running The Next Gentleman means I get the privilege of connecting with and creating content for cool brands, both new and established. Right now, I’ve got a few favorites:
- Suit: Indochino 3-piece in grey Glen plaid
- Jacket: Levi’s slim denim jacket (4 days per week!)
- Shirts: Express henley tees, Banana Republic Grant dress shirt
- Pants: Banana Republic slim Traveler Pant in black, Silver Jeans Co. Tavvi skinny jeans
- Shoes: Wolvering BLVD brown Cap Toe boot, Greats classic white Royale sneaker
- Accessories: Goorin Bros black Fedora, King & Fifth Co. red beanie
For spring, I think the Sawyer Canvas Brief in Olive is the best bag for the season. When the cold goes away, both flora and colorful outfits start to bloom. I’m expecting to see every shade of blue, green, tan, grey, and classic white come into play. The Sawyer in olive is a fantastic neutral compliment to these colors without blending into any single garment. Contrast is key, and that means complimentary colors.
What do you like to do for fun?
I absolutely love cooking for my friends! House specialties include Margherita pizza, pasta agli’olio with sausage and basil, cast iron steak tips with mushrooms, and more. I also love hiking here in LA and surrounding areas. Otherwise, you can find me binge watching either The Office or every Marvel MCU film in chronological order.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration, ideas, and values from my family, past teachers, and from a small group of film and television characters. I think I’ve transposed pieces of Mr. Rogers, Mr. Feeney (Boy Meets World) and Luke Cage (Luke Cage), with things I’ve learned from my grand parents and my old American government teacher at Emerson College, into the what I think the perfect role model is. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about, it’s about leading by example and that’s something I try to do every single day.
What are some things people are surprised to find out about you?
One thing that always raises eyebrows is that I’ve been growing my beard for nearly six years now. Other than that, one thing most people don’t know about me is that I’m a Notary Public!
