Men’s fashion is largely about the details. While virtually any man can find a decent suit, it takes a truly stylish guy to be able to put together all the details, from the tie to the cuff links to the shoes he’s wearing. The attention to detail that defines a sophisticated, stylish man extends to his grooming as well as his accessories. When it comes to conveying confidence and masculinity, the way a man keeps his hair and facial hair and the way he smells are just as important as the clothing items he chooses to wear.
Enter, the Dopp Kit. Dopp Kits, and the detail-making tools they contain, are a wonderful gift for your buddies, father, or brother – not to mention, yourself. Dopp Kits, if you’re not familiar, are small toiletry bags that are usually made of durable materials such as leather or vinyl and that are used to house men’s grooming tools. Traditionally, they are used for travel, and roll into a neat bundle.
The Dopp Kit was created in the early 20th century by a German-American by the name of Charles Doppelt. His famous Dopp Kits became a hit with men across the country, and were even given to GIs in the Second World War on account of their clever design and travel-friendly size.
Dopp Kits today usually contain common men’s grooming items like deodorant, razor or shaving blades, shaving cream, after shave, cologne, a small comb, shampoo, conditioner, and styling products. They may also store nail clippers, toothbrush, and toothpaste. Really, any item you can dream up to groom yourself with can be stored in a Dopp Kit.
Dopp Kits are also just a fashion statement in and of themselves. If you travel a lot it is decidedly worth it to purchase one for yourself. You will be very glad you did, given the amount of time it will save you: simply stock up on what you need in your Dopp Kit once or twice a year and get on the road assured that you will have everything you need. Or, if you’re prone to working late at the office, why not keep a stocked Dopp Kit in your desk drawer to freshen up before you head home or head out on the town?
With the wide range of choices available in regards to brands – everyone from Burberry to Gucci has a Dopp Kit for sale – you will be sure to find one that is appropriate to your taste. Happy grooming on the go, fellas!
Silvia Nikolov is a designer of men’s and women’s fashion accessories, handcrafted from genuine leather and sterling silver. She also enjoys writing about men’s and women’s fashion and style trends. Her own fashion website is SivaniDesigns.com.
Didn’t know the history of dopp kits.. Nice to know. Thanks.