🎽 Tank Tops Aren't a Crime + Taming the Dopamine Drive
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Hey Reader,
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old but on building the new.”
–Dan Millman
Welcome to Gent Within's weekend newsletter — your no-fluff, style-smart, money-wise reminder that better is always possible. Let's get into it. In today's 'Sletter:
STYLE 🎽 Tank Tops Aren't a Crime (if you follow these rules)Tank tops get a bad rap. Mostly because guys wear them like they’re headed to a UFC weigh-in or channeling inner-frat bro vibes. But hear this: tank tops aren't the problem. It’s how you wear them. So if you want to rock the sleeveless look without looking like an off-duty bouncer or a human water slide, here are the rules of the game: 1. It's Summer, so Loosen Up!If you're a mesomorph like me — naturally muscular and athletic with a medium frame, wider shoulders than hips, and a relatively easy time gaining muscle and losing fat — then don't be afraid to loosen it up w/ wide shoulder tanks. Our wide back and broad shoulders won't be swallowed up and it creates a comfortable and stylish look, perfect for those lazy summer days. 🗝️ The key here is keep your shorts trim and well-fitted to achieve balance with your getup. Look for a tank that's:
Remember: Looser fits are back in style, so you'll be on trend too. 2. Fabric & Wash MattersHeavyweight cotton or a quality ribbed knit = structure, not slop. Avoid flimsy, see-through tanks unless you’re in a grunge music video or lounging at the beach. A nice, faded wash tank is perfectly fine. 👌 Pro tip: Breathable blends (cotton-modal or cotton-linen) help keep swamp back at bay. 3. Color & Style Cheat CodeStick with mostly muted tones, think white, black, navy, olive. Subtle pops of brighter colors are fine as are tasteful graphics. Avoid:
A well-cut solid tank can look surprisingly refined under a short-sleeve button-up or open camp collar shirt. 4. Context Is EverythingBeach? BBQ? Running? Go for it. Dinner date? Maybe not. Professional setting? Please no. Think: intentionality & laid-back confidence, not “I forgot my shirt.” ✨ Bonus Style Move:Combine a colorful, clean, athletic tank with tailored swim trunks or lightweight running shorts, leather sandals or trainers, and a pair of sunglasses that actually fit your face. You’ll exude some serious summer style steez, without even trying. Bottom Line:Tank tops aren’t just for gym bros. With the right fit, fabric, and attitude, they can be part of a grown man’s warm-weather arsenal. RELATIONSHIPS 🔗 Vulnerability Leads to ConnectionThis section was written by a GW contributor, Denisa Cerna. 75% of men associate masculinity and manliness with strength, and 58% of men believe that society expects them to never show weakness. These staggering numbers only showcase some of the reasons why three out of four suicides in developed nations are by men. What many men don’t realize is that women love connecting through vulnerability. We love discussing all the ins and outs of your interests, exploring all the nooks and crannies of your fascinating minds, and sharing how we feel. Don't get me wrong, mystery is incredibly sexy – but there comes a point down the line when your partner wants to get to know you for who you truly are, see all your battle scars and be the one who kisses them better. What’s more, vulnerability helps develop trust, and being a trustworthy person makes you a super attractive guy. If she feels like she knows you, she eventually opens up, too, which in turn leads to a deeper sense of love and connection. And knowing each other intimately is one of the sexiest things in the world. Couples counselor Kari Rusnak, MA, LPC, CMHC, shares a few tips on how to be more vulnerable with your partner:
Remember – it’s hard to be vulnerable. This makes vulnerability a strength, not a weakness. THIS WEEK'S SPONSORLIFE 💊 Taming the Dopamine DriveEver feel like you're always chasing something new, but never quite satisfied? That's dopamine at work. This powerful brain chemical is the only one that looks to the future, constantly driving you towards what's next. But here's the catch: it makes you want what you don't have, often leading to an endless pursuit. Here’s how to understand and manage this powerful drive: 🪤 The Dopamine Trap• Dopamine fuels your constant smartphone scrolling habit and can even contribute to losing the "spark" in relationships because it prioritizes novelty. • Knowing what causes low or high dopamine activity can help you recognize patterns of motivation or compulsive behaviors in your life. ✨ Reclaim Your Drive• The core solution to taming this chase is to live in the "here and now." Instead of always anticipating the next big thing, find contentment and meaning in your present circumstances and relationships. • Think of The Great Gatsby and the green light – it's a perfect example of how the relentless pursuit of an idealized future, driven by dopamine, often leads to deep dissatisfaction. "the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us..." By understanding how dopamine works, you can stop the endless chase and start living a more fulfilled, present life. Instead of beating on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past. 🤑 Product Picks – Style That Beats the HeatHere are 3 hand-picked style deals for you this week: 👖 EverlaneMade with 100% European Flax Linen, this pair of relaxed fit pants have an elastic waist for next level comfort. The Linen Easy Pant - 👕 Mr. DavisThese Mr. Davis undershirts have a tailored fit with a breathable fabric. Better yet, they have a tan option which helps to remain hidden under your white shirts. V-neck Undershirt in Bamboo Viscose - $29 🧼 Salt & Stone Natural DeodorantThis one from Salt & Stone has long-lasting performance, is aluminum-free, and smells amazing. No drugstore stick vibes. Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant - $20 📖 Reading for the road• Timeless Summer Style w/ Mr. P • How to Wear White Sneakers 5 Stylish Ways • Men's Summer Fashion: 20 menswear essentials) • How to Attract Women (Without even trying) • The Best Summer Color Combinations • 5 Types of T-shirts & How to Wear Them with Style
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