Yesterday I picked the brain of my good friend, Ralph Palermo. He is without a doubt one of the best dressed men of Morgantown and a real gentleman. He even showed me a new way to fold my pocket square before I snapped his photo. 

Q&A with Mr. Palermo:

Best advice from your parents?

All you come into this world with is your name, don’t screw it up. That was the best advice I ever received from my dad. 

Style icons?

My dad and my brother. My father was a shoemaker, but when he dressed, man he knew how to do it. 

How would you describe your personal style?

Eclectic. I don’t really try to keep up with trends. I keep it traditional and classic. Classic never fades. 

How do you build your daily look?

I have a system. After I wear a jacket, when I get home, it goes to the end of my closet—not to be worn until it works it’s way back to the front. 

Personal style quirk?

Dimple in the tie with shined shoes. 

Favorite designers?

None.

Most cherished item?

Dads shaving mug and brush. 

What do you feel best wearing?

I have a gap shirt that’s blue and ragged and feels better than anything I have. 

What fashion rule do you abide by?

I never tie any other knot besides a four-in-hand because James bond once said “any man who wears a Windsor knot is a cad.”

Never caught wearing?

Flip flops. Never, ever. But I do like when guys wear them with socks. 

Most underrated item in menswear/ womenswear?

Menswear: a watch

Women: shoes.  

Dress to impress who?

Nobody.

Shine your own shoes?

Absolutely. 

Shoetrees?

Absolutely.

Favorite stores?

Honestly, nothing in particular. I just shop for whatever appeals to me. 

Your next “must have” purchase?

A 20 gauge over/under cz american “redhead” shotgun.  

What do you really splurge on?

Food. Always. My kitchen has it all.  

Favorite item of clothing?

Shoes, without a doubt. 

Guilty pleasure?

Ice cream. 

Favorite drink?

Wine—merlot.  

What kind of things did you wear in high school?

We weren’t allowed to weren’t allowed to wear jeans, so mostly desert boots, khakis, and button downs. 

Favorite fashion magazine?

I used to look at GQ and Esquire, but it’s been years. 

Favorite neighborhood restaurant?

Mountain State Brew Pub. The beer is good. The pizza is good. What more do you need?

 Words of advice?

Save your money and always pay yourself first. And always buy nice shoes. But never forget: enjoy life, because we are only passing through.

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Below are a few more pictures from yesterday, make sure to check back for more local style profiles.

Thanks, Ralph.

words and images by Nic Persinger