Valets + Catchalls
The way you dress has a huge effect on the way others see you. Your look can make you seem calm and introspective, detail-oriented, energetic or adventurous. That’s why both women and men pay attention to color combinations and style when choosing their outfit for the day. But even though big and bold elements of clothing grab lots of attention, it’s your accessories that put the finishing touches on your signature design. Women have tons of accent pieces to choose from: earrings, rings, bracelets, hair clips, necklaces, ankle bracelets and more. What about guys? How do they accessorize? Many men use watches, rings, ties and tie clips and cufflinks in formal settings or work. When it’s time to play, some men rock earrings, necklaces and bracelets too. And that’s where Mark and Graham’s men’s valets and catchalls come in. Here are some storage ideas for your favorite pieces.
Catchalls are basically tasteful trays used to hold a number of small items, including men’s jewelry. Valet boxes carry out the same function, but feature more space and an elegant cover. Generally speaking, men keep their valet in the bedroom – perhaps on top of a dresser – whereas a catchall fits in almost any spot around the house. Depending on your routine, it can be very practical to have several catchalls distributed throughout the home.
Placing a catchall in the entryway saves you tons of time both in the morning and at night. When you have to go to work, it’s a relief not to spend precious minutes trying to find your car keys. You automatically remember that you left them in the catchall. And if you share a car with someone else in the home, agreeing to keep a set of keys in the entryway avoids any inconveniences. Plus, if you have a remote starting system in your car, having the device close to the front door makes for effortless starting while you’re still dressing.
Design your own mini man cave on your bedroom dresser. This is a great way to claim space if you share the room with a special someone. Use several catchalls to keep your most important personal items nearby. The trays hold your cologne collection, wallet, credit cards and any decorative options that define you. No matter what the rest of the room’s decor is like, you have your private area just for your stuff.
Staying organized doesn’t mean you have to put everything away the moment you get home. After a long day at work – especially if you got home just in time to watch a movie or sports match you’ve been looking forward to – your muscles probably want to stretch out with some snacks and just relax with a good friend. Yeah, the TV counts. Just kick off your shoes and drop anything in your pockets into the catchall. Receipts are easy to fold and put underneath. Later, when you feel like organizing more thoroughly, nothing’s lost; it’s just waiting where you left it.
A valet does two things very well. First, it keeps your accessories all in the same spot. Secondly, it protects them. As a gentleman, it’s probable that you have several different watches. Metal bands excel in formal situations and in the workplace. Gold, silver, copper and platinum all have their own feel in an distinguished outfit. Leather watches are a little more casual, but still very sophisticated. And some specialty pieces like diving watches are critical for your hobbies. One valet keeps them all dust-free and ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Rich leather and natural wood tones provide the same elegance that your grandfather enjoyed, but with sleek contours appropriate for modern chic. In fact, a valet box is the perfect place to keep any heirloom pieces safe, so you can impress those around you on special occasions, and one day pass them on to your own heirs. A valet adds a vintage feel to the room taken directly from “The Great Gatsby.” And with your renowned monogram, you become Gatsby, winning smile and all.