Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
PRESS RELEASE
This Father’s Day get him the tie and the Guide for life that goes with it.
NEW YORK – With the rebirth of ties as a fashion statement, thanks to television series like
Mad Men, and the increasingly competitive job market that has interviewees and management
alike looking for every edge over the competition, quality neckwear and the ability to
demonstrate classic skill sets is making Father’s Day, “tie day” once more.
A quality tie is a Father’s Day classic because: Dad will be complimented every time he wears it
and he will think of you every time he ties the perfect knot and classic “dimple” he mastered
thanks to the guide that goes with this season’s most revered collection of RVR neckwear.
‘‘Remember the dimple------the finishing touch that will set you apart. Once you have set the knot, press your
index finger directly below the knot at the center and squeeze both sides of
the tie with your thumb and middle finger. T hen tighten and pull up to your collar. Directly below the knot at
the center, you want to create a deep dimple,’’ Author and haberdasher Robert Valdes-Rodriguez (RVR)
stresses in the opening of his new book Men: 10 Essential Skills.
Valdes-Rodriguez is both a Neckwear Designer (www.rvrneckwear.com) and the author of the
new book Men: 10 Essential Skills, RVR Publishing, 2010; $19.95; Hardcover; 112 Pages; ISBN:
978-0-9840704-0-4.(Visit www.rvrmenskills.com).
The casualization of the American workplace has become the chink in some men’s professional
armor. In order to stand out and look “more managerial” many men have turned back to ties as
a way to compete. RVR and his slate of experts are taking this concept 10 steps further by
creating a primer for men who wish to update their social resumes by taking on some classic
skill sets. 10 Essential Skills is a handbook not only to the skills themselves but to their value to
every man.
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1. Tie a Tie (Bow Tie Included) by RVR
2. Swing a Golf Club by Josh Williams
3. Play Poker by Bill Burton
4. Light and Smoke a Cigar by Frank Seltzer
5. Drive a Stick Shift by Michel Issa
6. Propose a Toast by Fred Rivera
7. Catch a Wave by Elliott Zuckerman
8. Order and Taste Wine by Kurt Gunkel
9. Mix a James Bond Martini by Tommy Rowles
10. Keep the Girl by RVR
Each chapter not only gives a breakdown of how to acquire the skill, but also ends with great
films highlighting that particular skill. For golf there is the classic Caddy Shack. In the Poker
chapter readers learn the game is “the great social equalizer.” “You can find players from all
walks of life sitting at the same poker table. A CEO or doctor may be sitting next to a mechanic
or a salesman. A game of poker can bring together different people and for the most part they
get along.” – Bill Burton
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
Pocket Squares by RVR have a special global appeal
Robert Valdes-Rodriguez (RVR) has a very personal story behind his pocket square designs,
especially the map (Orbis) design.
“When I had the unpleasant job of having to empty out my father's (he was an incredibly
elegant man) condo in Miami after his death about 2 years ago, my brother and I came across
some old 1950s ties and pocket squares, which I took to my mill in Italy and inspired my first
pocket square collection (Goa).
“We also came across some antique maps given to my father by his father. What better way to
keep my father's memory alive than to re-produce those maps in wonderfully rich and bright
colors in a new collection of 12 pocket squares - The Orbis collection was born.”
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
What the Situation Room Reveals About Neckties
Steve Jobs: no tie. Mark Zuckerberg: no tie. Barack Obama: only sometimes. In the now-famous
photograph of the president and his advisors sitting in the White House Situation Room waiting for news
about bin Laden, he's not wearing one. Neither is the vice president. Of the 12 men in the picture, half are
neck-naked.
Yet ties, though down, aren't out. You might have thought the recession would have finished them off
for good: That men who hadn't already dispensed with them because of casualization would have
dropped them as an unnecessary expense. Sales numbers, however, say otherwise.
According to NPD's data, tie sales in the past year have rebounded almost 8 percent.
Even young adults are buying neckties. "I'm selling twice as many ties as I was two years ago," reports
Mark Sussman, tie buyer for upscale clothier Paul Stuart, which has stores in Manhattan and Chicago.
"Ties definitely are making a comeback."
Younger buyers, says Cohen, are demonstrating what marketers call "distinct conformity." An example:
Everybody in 11th grade agrees that to be cool you need to own an iMac. But having exactly what
everyone else has isn't cool enough. You must decorate your iMac to make it distinct to you. In the
world of clothing, says Cohen, a guy can achieve this same effect by wearing the right tie, especially If he
and his fellows—inspired, say, by the hit HBO television series "Mad Men" — are dressing in 'Sixties
Retro.' Largely because of "Mad Men," Sussman says, narrow ties are in with younger guys.
As for older men, Cohen says that when the recession hit, sales of men's suits tanked. Ties, though, kept
on selling. The reason, he speculates, is that ties are a cheap way to make an old outfit look new. Older
men, he thinks, are trying to distinguish themselves from younger office competitors by dressing more
formally, so as to look more managerial. Sussman of Paul Stuart says a tie "gives a man gravitas. When
you want to be taken seriously, you wear a tie." Bright, boldly colored ties are selling best.
Carol Haislip, director of the International School of Protocol in Hunt Valley, Maryland, says employers
are now demanding more formality of dress than they did a few years ago: "Companies are starting to
turn away from casual Friday because people have abused it.
They come in to work in Dockers and a polo shirt. That's not the image some companies want to
project."
Outside corporate offices, who wears a tie? Men whose uniform requires one, literally or figuratively:
In the White House situation Room photo, two of the six tie-wearers are military men. Doctors, too, remain
tie-friendly. A movement is afoot, however, to discourage doctors from wearing ties, because they are
unhygienic: a dangling piece of fabric only serves to transmit germs from one patient to the next.
Bow ties? How're they doing? "Always a challenge," says Cohen diplomatically. Today even in formal
situations, he says, "Bow ties have lost momentum. You'd think occasions requiring a tux would keep
them alive, but they're being replaced by a straight tie or by no tie."
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
Tie Culture
The necktie is an integral part of male culture and mannerism. While the hat and other male
trademarks have fallen by the wayside the tie remains the standard by which men are judged. It
is not just that a bad tie can make a man the perennial office joke, while quality tie elevates his
personal stock. It is also tied to his self-esteem and knowing how to properly tie one
demonstrates an attention to detail, which is an ever-present, outward symbol of a man’s
willingness to give attention to detail and higher standards.
In many ways, ties have become a part of world culture and many times men are classified as
“a tie guy” which conveys far more about the man than the length of material itself.
Speaking of ties…
Neckties satisfy modern man's desire to dress in art.- Harry Anderson magician/actor
Your views are as narrow as your tie. - Bernard Herrmann
Wearing a bow tie is a statement. Almost an act of defiance. - Rick Kaplan
I do not mean to suggest for a moment that all it takes to be a top executive is
a custom-tailored European suit. You also need the correct shirt and tie. –
Dave Barry
Great Tie Movies
North by Northwest. (1959) Director: Alfred Hitchcock.
Cast: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason
American Gigolo. (1980) Director: Paul Schrader.
Cast: Richard Gere, lauren Hutton
Wall Street (1987) Director: Oliver Stone.
Cast: Michael Douglass, Charlie Sheen, Daryl Hannah
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
About Robert Valdes-Rodriguez
Robert Valdes-Rodriguez is Founder/President of
RVR, a luxury neckwear company in New York. As
a veteran Wall Street executive, Robert relied on a
‘lucky’ tie for important client pitches. When his
‘lucky tie’ became old and frayed, his fruitless search
for a replacement, led him to design his own line of
ties.
RVR was established in 2008 with the objective of
producing the ‘must have’ tie for successful men
around the world.
Today, RVR ties are sold in fine menswear stores
and online at www.rvrneckwear.com. RVR’s unique
design approach of a British look with an Italian feel
has yielded a loyal following from high profile
professionals to celebrities on the ‘red carpet’.
As an author, RVR published Men: 10 Essential Skills, The Professional’s Guide. It was initially
meant as a gift idea for the menswear stores carrying RVR ties, but the overwhelming demand
led to distribution by national book retailers, such as Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.
Robert’s Wall Street career spans over 20 years in various senior sales and trading roles in the
global markets. Robert continues to be involved in financial advisory activities.
Robert received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Fordham University, where he earned an
athletic scholarship for Swimming and Water Polo. He held the Fordham University record in
the 100 Yard Butterfly from 1983-1986. Robert is married with four children and lives in
Manhattan, New York.
The name RVR started over 30 years ago, as a competitive swimmer in high school and
college. Robert’s name was always too long to fit in the swim meet programs, so it was
often shortened to RVR. The nickname stuck to the extent that, today, virtually all of his
friends and colleagues simply refer to him as RVR.
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
Accessories add interest, professionalism | May 13, 2011
By John Adam Hackney
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A bow tie can be a fun way to accessorize an outfit.
Keep it simple when accessorizing for the workplace.
Bright neckwear is a must for spring and summer.
Opt for no socks with loafers and boat shoes during the summer months.
Bright patterns and seersucker are popular picks this season.
Whether you have finally landed that big job out of college or you're taking the next step with
your career, accessorizing your workplace outfits can help you stand out and get ahead.
Stick your neck out
Men and women are two completely different animals when it comes to accessories. A man only
has so many options for setting himself and his outfit apart from his fellow coworkers. But a
woman can transform an outfit with a well chosen belt or jewelry combo.
Gentlemen, whether you are wearing slacks, linen, a suit or seersucker, odds are a brown or
black belt will suffice. Let's leave the Tucker Blair and Smathers and Branson needlepoint belts
for the beach or golf course.
The best weapon a guy can have when interviewing or beginning a job out of college is
neckwear. The right color tie or bow tie can transform the average slacks and button up into an
attention getter.
A correctly tied tie should extend to just the top of your belt buckle.
The necktie has remained a staple in the workplace for decades until the past few years when
bow ties began to make appearances in church and at the horse races, and in the work place.
"Neckwear is going to get you instant attention at the workplace," co-owner of High Cotton ties
James Hill said. "Young or old, a bow tie is a timeless, classy look."
Popular brands such as Southern Proper and Vineyard Vines make trendy silk bow ties in
patterns and bright colors. North Carolina-based newcomer High Cotton Ties specializes in bow
ties made from cotton, not silk, to make the upkeep of the ties easier than expensive dry
cleaning.
Bright colors are a must this season. Incorporate colors into your neckwear and pocket squares.
Hot trends include bright, bold stripes and reversible bow ties that can be tied three different
ways. Remember the rule of thumb for neckwear: You should be able to wear it to the office and
out to dinner. Use your better judgment when deciding whether to wear a bow tie to work,
depending on how conservative your work is.
"Matching a color in your neckwear to your optional pocket square and socks can make an
outfit, believe it or not," said James Osborn of McLavy Ltd. "Bright, vibrant colors in all three will
turn heads in the workplace."
Gentlemen, try to limit your accessories on the job to three or fewer, including watches, rings,
pocket squares or what have you. Keep jewelry to a minimum because there is such a thing as
too flashy - at work or otherwise.
You want to stand out, but not at the cost of making you look unprofessional.
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CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
T he 10 E ssential Skills PR O FE SSI O N AL S
‘‘T hese guys live, eat, and breathe these skills 24/7. As you read their perspectives, I hope you feel the same
passion that drove me to share them with you,’’ said RV R of his team.
B ill B urton
Bill is the author of Get the E dge at L ow L imit T exas H old’em and 1000 Best Casino Gambling
Secrets. H is books are available online at www.billburton.com.H e also writes for several national
gaming magazines and newsletters. Bill is an instructor for Golden T ouch C raps, teaching dicecontrolled throwing (www.thecrapsclub.com). You can contact Bill at bill@ billburton.com.
K urt G unkel
K urt is a sales representative for Masciarelli W ine C ompany in W eymouth, Massachusetts, and
has tasted and purchased the finest wines from all over the world. kurt’s down-to-earth
approach to wine will remove any inhibitions you might have and make you rush to a nearby
restaurant to strut your stuff.
M ichel I ssa
Michel is a Dealer Principal of N ewton Motorsports: Porsche, Audi and V olkswagen in
N ewton, N ew Jersey. H is knowledge and passion for cars,
especially German sports cars, shines with his invaluable driving instructions.
Fred R ivera
As a public speaking coach, Fred helps entrepreneurs, executives, managers, and employees
become unique and compelling speakers. Fred’s clients include: Johnson & Johnson, N ew
York U niversity, Bank of America, C BS, Escada, Mont Blanc, and a number of major W all
Street and legal firms. I n addition to various articles, Fred has published an e-book on public
speaking, with an accompanying MP3, that is available on his website:
StandOutSpeaking.com. You can email Fred at standoutspeaking@ nyc.rr.com
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
T he 10 E ssential Skills PR O FE SSI O N AL S (continued)
T ommy R owles
T ommy has been the bartender at Bemelmans Bar at the C arlyle H otel in N ew York for over
fifty years. H e has served presidents and rock stars alike and makes the best martini in the
U nited States. I magine a bit of political and pop culture history with every sip from a drink
mixed by T ommy.
Frank Seltzer
Frank is a former C N N correspondent and currently writes for CigarMagazine, Smoke,
Smokeshop and Cigar W eekly. H e is also president and founder of the DFW C igar Society.
Frank has traveled to every tobacco-producing country in the world and can personally attest
to a joy for cigars.
Josh W illiams, PG A
Josh is a teaching professional at T he Savannah Golf C lub.T he Savannah Golf C lub has made
a significant impact on the game of golf as well as American and Georgian history.On record it
is the oldest golf club in America and is believed to be the first American city where the game
of golf was played. You can contact Josh at jwill@ pga.com
E lliott Z uckerman
Elliott is the owner and operator of Surf2Live, one of the first surfing schools in the
country, which he started more than twenty-five years ago to fulfill his dream of teaching
anyone who wanted to learn how to surf in a short time. Since retiring from the N YMEX
Elliot teaches surfing fulltime. H e is certified as a Master Surfing I nstructor and is a certified
Surfing coach (N SSIA). H e is also certified to coach surfing to high school and college
students and he heads up
professional surfing teams. Elliott is also the owner of S2l extreme surfing vacations in Puerto Rico. Elliot is
recognized and respected for his efforts of teaching surfing to autistic
children and is the founder of Surfer’s W ay, a not-for-profit foundation that provides surfing outings worldwide
for kids with special needs. You can email Elliott at lbezsurf@ aol.com.
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
Questions for the author:
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What made you go into Neckwear?
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Where are your ties made and who designs them?
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With no formal design or fashion background, where did
you get your sense of style and design?
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Tell me about how you chose RVR as a company name. I
understand it isn’t just because it stands for your initials:
Robert Valdes-Rodriguez
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How are your ties different and better?
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It seems like fewer men are wearing ties these days. How can your neckwear business survive
with this trend continuing?
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Why do men like your ties so much?
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What makes men buy an RVR tie instead of some of the other designer labels at the same price
point?
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Why should a retail store take a chance on adding RVR to their brands, when they can stick to
some of the established brands that have worked for so many years?
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Where can your ties be found now?
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What other products do you design and sell?
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Why Pocket Squares? How are they unique?
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How do you come up with your pocket square designs?
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How did you come up with the idea for your book,'Men: 10 Essential Skills'? Where is it sold?
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Where do you see the RVR brand in the next five years?
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Can you tell me 3 reasons why RVR is an ideal business?
“There is virtual nothing we won't do for our clients. We don't know what the word 'no' means. Instead,
we say 'we're gonna try that for you,” said RVR. “Since none of our competitors take this approach
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]
Men: 10 E ssential Skills, T he Professional’s Guide
toward neckwear or their clients, we feel that RVR has an edge and will again significant markets are at
our price point.”
CONTACT: Imal Wagner 301.840.5999 email: [email protected]