Let’s start at the beginning, who is Ryan Gosling? He’s an actor. He’s no more handsome than any other young Hollywood star. However, post 2008, he wasn’t the best dressed. In fact, he was a shabby mess. And even though he was the leading man in the tearjerker, The Notebook, no one was blogging his or her fingers numb about his style. In fact, because of the success of that movie, he should have been Hollywood’s “go to” leading man.
Ryan Gosling in 2004 on the Red Carpet
Legend has it that sometime between “Lars and the Real Girl”, a small indie film that earned him a Golden Globe nomination and “Blue Valentine”, his inner fashionisto was awakened or Cinderella’s fairy godmother arrived and fixed him. Either way, he had no aid from a highly skilled stylist. He showed up on the red carpet of the 63rd Annual Cannes Film Festival for “Blue Valentine” May 18 2010, in a crisp white fitted shirt and a pair of white and blue striped pants with a white lace shoe; he was flawless.
Ryan Gosling in 2010 at the Cannes Film Festival
But enough about Mr. Gosling… the Gosling Effect happens when your look impacts your life for the good. Everyone knows your first impression shapes what people think of you; however, what if you looked amazing all the time? Simply, dress for the role you want, not the one you have. That being said, anyone can have his or her own Gosling Effect. Here are a few tips:
It is not likely that off the rack will be a perfect fit, so find a good tailor and invest in yourself.
2. If it doesn’t fit, then you should quit.
If you’re wearing things that are too loose or too tight out in public, it makes you look like a sloppy mess in need of a mommy. Too tight looks like you’re trying too hard to be noticed.
3. If you can’t afford or find a stylist, find a great sales associate.
Sometimes, you just don’t have the aptitude to put together looks. Sometimes being color blind or style challenged can hold you back. Stylists are paid to make you look great and effortless. They can go in your closet and get rid of the mess that is holding you back and give you the tools to be your own leading man. And if you can’t find one or afford one, ask around your favorite stores for the honest associate and get their help.
4. Grooming…Grooming….Grooming
Get a great hairdresser or barber and make them your new best friend. The right scent on a man leaves a great impression (not too strong or musky). Don’t live in fear of product, invest in your skin care or find a dermatologist.
At the end of the day, gentleman, you’ll feel different and that’s good. Your day-to-day life is your red carpet at Cannes. Success is bigger then profession… it’s having it all (whatever that means for you), and you can learn from the great and chic Mr. Gosling.
Go forth and look good doing it.
