Anyone who knows me knows my two worldly loves are the Arkansas Razorbacks and watches. I love a nice timepiece. I have been known to bargain shop for a $20 pair of jeans, then go out and spend thousands on a watch. (Hey, I didn’t say it was smart. I just acknowledged it was so.) I have Rolex, Breitling, Cartier, and Tag Heuer watches; about 15 to be exact. I currently wear a custommade Breitling Bentley 46 mm that I could’ve bought a Kia for the price I paid. But I look at it as an investment that I can enjoy. And that watch has made me more money than it cost me. Proof positive that a nice timepiece is an investment in your image. And investing in your image is investing in your future.

My two favorites are the Baltica 52mm, (on the left) and the Baccara (pictured to the right below). Unfortunately, the Baltica is being discontinued after the current inventory is sold out. But the Baccara is going strong. You can purchase the Baccara with either a diamond or plain case. I obviously prefer the diamond case. Though it is flooded with enough ice to cool your sweet tea, it isn’t ostentatious or over the top. It can be worn casually, but is the perfect watch to wear on the red carpet or an upscale event. There is a gentleman’s and ladies’ version.

To find out more about Oceanaut go to www.oceanautwatches.com.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.

Lipo Laser Update: Four sessions and I’ve lost 1 ½ total inches off my stomach and waist. You still should watch what you eat or your results will be reduced significantly. I feel extra room in the waist of my pants now. Read my previous post on Lipo Laser and what it does for you here.

I’m in precarious position. Being that I sell custom suits and do public speaking on image, I need to look my best at all times. It’s not rocket science: The better your body looks, the better your clothes look on it. So I need my body to look fit and in shape.

BUT I’m also very busy, and my schedule is hectic and unpredictable. Finding time to work out is difficult for me. So I need alternatives to accomplish my primary objective, which is to look good in my clothes. I think I may have found it.

While driving, I came across a sign that said “Lipo-Laser 704-248-4898." Now, I’m naturally curious, so I called the number, mostly because I just wanted to know what it was about. After getting some basic information, I set up an appointment to find out more. I met with the manager, Tara D’Apolito, and she explained the concept. I thought, this is something my readers can benefit from, so I texted Kim, and we were good to go.

It’s a pretty neat. It’s a 12-session process, (preferably 3 sessions/week). Each session lasts about an hour. You just lie down, and they lay these square devices on the targeted areas. A laser then penetrates the fat cells and shrinks them. You don’t feel a thing. They move the little blocks every 10 minutes. Once that part is done, the fun really starts. They put you on what I call the “Shimmy Machine.” This thing is cool! It has individual panels you stand on. Then they start to move up and down individually. It vibrates you like crazy at various speeds for 10 minutes. It’s the funniest feeling. When you’re done, your legs feel weird for about 30 seconds. And you walk out of the office and go right back to work, or wherever you need to go.

Now, I’m in fairly decent shape. I have definition in my abs, but I also have this annoying little “fat belt” at my lower abdomen that drives me crazy. That’s the area I’m targeting. I have had 2 sessions so far, and I’ve lost about 1 ½” of fat. Pretty good considering I read Ballantyne Magazine during one session, and returned e-mails and texts and read Men’s Health during the second. I got work done, lost fat, and got a nice break from the mayhem that is my day. All of this is an hour, and I didn’t sweat once.

Obviously, there is no substitute for exercise and good nutrition. But this may be just the trick if you are getting ready for a wedding or have an event and you need to fit into that dress or tux you haven’t worn since last year.

I will keep you posted each week on my progress, over my next 10 sessions. If you want to know more check out www.LipolaserNow.com.

Neither William Wilson nor Creative Loafing endorses this product.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.

I’m not a man of few words. I never have been, nor will I ever be. But when I speak, I try to make sure that I speak with a purpose, and I substantiate my facts. Doing otherwise is just blabber, and I really don’t have the time to indulge in that. Don’t get me wrong. When I’m hanging out with my friends, we have totally senseless conversations at times, just like anyone else. But even those are limited. Quite often, we have very poignant and diverse conversations.

I tell you this for a reason. There is a time and place for senseless rhetoric and during business isn’t it. I’m not saying every conversation has to be profound and thought-provoking. But during the workday, a majority of your conversation should be of some substance. In addition, if you are going to engage in conversation, have at least a moderate knowledge of the topic — especially if you are going to get into a debate over it.

I was just in a sports bar the other day, and I heard some guys arguing about the president speaking to the kids. The conversation got pretty heated — as many political conversations do. So that didn’t surprise me. But what did surprise me was the fact that the guy who opposed it didn’t have a single fact to substantiate his argument. He was just anti-Obama, and it was obvious. That’s not new to me either. I see a lot of that. What really caught my attention, and opened my eyes was a statement from a fellow spectator.

He made the following statement: “I really don’t have a problem with the president speaking to children. That’s neither here nor there, but I didn’t realize how ignorant this guy is. He’s my financial adviser, but I think I’ll be seeking a new one.” I saw him this morning, and he has a new financial adviser — same firm, new advisor.

That got me to thinking ... If you are going to have a debate with someone, have knowledge of the subject matter. You can make a lot of money with your knowledge, but you can also lose a lot of money. Ask yourself, how often do you engage in a public argument without a good basis of fact. Is that argument really worth winning?

Until next time … God Bless and dress well.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.

Greetings everyone, today I’m going to define a term I get asked about quite often; a term that can be different things to different people. I'm talking about a "big dog." Ask 50 people what a "big dog" is and you may get 50 different answers. This is my definition of a big dog, and what it takes to be one.

First, the definition of a big dog is the quintessential complete man: a provider, protector and lover who is well-grounded, ambitious, focused and loyal. He is the person you want your son to grow up to be, or your daughter to marry. He’s who your parents either hoped they’d raised, or you married. He is always in control, and he is always on top of his game. He isn’t satisfied being in the game. He wants to win. He doesn’t just want to be on the team, he want to be the “go-to guy.” The big dog is the alpha male, and he knows it. Moderation isn’t his calling card. He is a man of status, and image is everything to him.

To become a Big Dog, I think one should first meet these pre-requisites. This is just to get started. Let me reiterate, this is my opinion. You may have another all together, (OK, CC?), and that’s fine.

Big Dog Requirements

1.  Relationship with God - I don’t think it is possible to be a true success in anything without God being involved. He is the foundation of success, and without Him, failure is eminent.

2.  Great relationship with his family. Especially his mother.

3.  Respect in the community. A big dog gives back. He tries to bring people along as he comes up. He’s blessed to be a blessing.

4.  A career, not just a job- you cannot be a big dog without a career. You may have been recently laid off or lost your job. That’s temporary. I’m talking about the loser that never keeps a job, or is happy ONLY flipping burgers.

5. His own place. You are not a big dog if you have roommates. Your lady shouldn’t worry about your roommate coming in and ruining your romantic dinner. And you sure as heck can’t be living off your mama!!

6.  His own ride. If you can’t pick up your lady in your OWN vehicle, wait until you can.

7.  Financial stability. You cannot be a big dog if you’re paying for dinner with your mortgage money.

8.  Lawn care guy. Big dogs are too busy to cut grass. Their schedules don’t allow for that. When they get off time, they want to rest. If you cut grass and consider yourself a big dog, you better own the company.

9.  Nice accessories. You should have at least 2 expensive Swiss watches. If your ears are pierced; 1ct minimum for the diamond stud. (Platinum settings are a plus)

10.  Personal tailor. If you answer the question, “Who made your suit?” with the name of a department store, you are NOT a big dog. Big dogs have “a guy” to handle that. They don’t have time to go shopping. They are too busy making decisions. They have someone come in and handle that.

Now before you start sending me hate mail, because you just realized you’re not a Big Dog, get over it. This is just my opinion. If you think you’re a big dog, just make sure you can substantiate it. Just calling yourself a big dog doesn’t make you one. You notice I didn’t say anything about cars. Cars lose value the moment you title them. Big dogs invest in their futures. You can have an inexpensive car, and still be a big dog. There are very few cars that maintain full value or increase. A Ferrari is one of them.

I myself am not a big dog, though I meet most of these requirements, I still have a long ways to go to be a Big Dog. Will I ever get there? Who knows, but I’m gonna have fun trying. It’s also not my place to decide if you’re a big dog or not. In fact, if you need my approval to be a big dog, you will never be one. I don’t define you. At the end of the day, if you believe in the Lord, handle your responsibilities, treat people well, respect your lady and don’t hit her, take care of your kids, strive to be great, give back to the community, and try your best to be the best person you can be, you are ALREADY a big dog. So have fun, Big Dog. Until next time…

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.

Whether you realize it or not, we are all, our own corporation. Each time we make a move, we are exposing ourselves to potential clients, employers, friends, business associates, or significant others. That’s why it is paramount that, at all times, we make conscientious attempts to protect our brand. Our brands are our reputations.

In today’s climate of instant Internet uploads, picture texting, video cameras and social media, protecting our brands is more difficult now than in any other time in history. Any transgression can be captured and uploaded for the world to see in less time that it takes to apologize for it. And once it’s in cyberspace, there is no stopping it, unless you’ve got the bottomless pockets of ESPN. They were able to get the video of star sideline report Erin Andrews walking around her hotel room naked virtually erased from the Internet. Unless you have ESPN money, don’t count on being able to achieve the same outcome.

One of the biggest ways I see people damage their brand is through social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and MySpace. These are wonderful tools for expanding your business and getting information out to large numbers of people. But that’s what makes them so dangerous. Thousands of people can see your thoughts in less than five minutes.

Most people damage their brands by posting profanity and vulgarity on their statuses. Profanity-laced Facebook statuses and inappropriate videos make you look juvenile, low rent and unprofessional. Employers and colleges often check Facebook to see what type of person is applying to their organization. Don't believe me? Check out this WSJ.com article.

I often advise professional athletes to clean their Facebook and Twitter pages because they can cost them endorsement contracts. It isn’t by chance that Tiger Woods and Peyton Manning are all over the television screen. They have sparkling images and well-protected brands. This makes them extremely marketable. However, Terrell Owens and Allen Iverson, though extremely popular and talented, rarely receive endorsement opportunities because unlike in years past, their ability cannot surpass their damaged images.

In addition, do not post negative things about your employer, or your job, on your social media pages. Last school term, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools employees — two of them teachers — were fired for their Facebook statuses. One only posted, “These kids are driving me crazy.” Those six words cost her her job. The boundaries of privacy are not quite as clear as they used to be. When you do things in the privacy of your own home that can be viewed outside the home, you relinquish your right to privacy, and thus it becomes public domain.

I hope you found this information useful and helpful, and it will assist you in protecting your brand. Until next time, God bless and dress well.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.

Ladies, you spend a lot of time making sure your clothes, hair, nails, feet, everything looks good. That’s wonderful. Some men should follow suit. However, when it comes to the undies, you start slacking. This is just a crying shame. It’s like giving up on the race, AT the finish line.

Now I have heard all the excuses, “I can’t find stuff that fits.” “It costs too much.” “No one else is gonna see it.” “It isn’t gonna be on that long anyway.” “Who cares?” I know there are more of them, but at the end of the day, my answer is the same: Do the work and find matching sets. It’s worth it. Here’s why.

If you feel sexy and confident, you act sexy and confident. It starts with you. When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you play good. Your inner attitude is always displayed on the outside. People can tell when you have a little extra “pep in your step.” When you leave the house and NO ONE can tell you you don’t look good, there’s an air of confidence that is extremely attractive. Trust me. There is nothing sexier than a confident woman.

Your man will appreciate it. There’s a reason Victoria’s Secret does so well. They understand that men are visual creatures. We are attracted to what we can see and what we can feel. That’s why the Swimsuit Edition of Sports Illustrated is always a big hit. We love to see you match. It’s sexy. It’s a turn-on. There’s nothing like unwrapping a present and having a beautiful gift inside. Man, you can’t wait to play with it! You ever notice in all the magazine ads you see that the sets match? It’s because it’s sexier. PERIOD!! Some of you have been married for a while and let’s just say, the fire doesn’t burn as hot as it used to. I bet you’re wearing a nightgown, or worse, a freaking extra long T-shirt to bed ever night. Nothing says “Come and get me, big boy” like an outfit that reminds him of his grandmother, especially when they come with the ultimate turnoff tool: granny panties.

As I have said a number of times, image is conceived perception. You are what people think you are — at least in their minds. And in the world of business, those are the minds that count. Corporations spend millions of dollars to have companies consult them on their image and the best ways to project it to the masses. If they spend that kind of money just on their images, wouldn’t you agree it is obviously important?

This not only applies to corporations, but in our personal lives, as well. You are your own brand. You are your own company. At any given time, you are on display. You never know when you will meet your next client, next employer, or significant other. So it would behoove you to make sure you are always dress and act accordingly.

Get it? Until next time, God bless and dress well.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.

Society rewards the beautiful people. This may not be fair, but it’s the real world. A 5’5" 115 lb, flowing haired cover girl like my friend Tiffany can get by more than a 5’2", 165 lb female. Additionally, a 6’2", 224 lb athletic, handsome guy like Gerard Butler will be granted far more leeway than a 5’7" frumpy one. It isn’t right, but it’s the real world.

All this being said, there are limits to this. Regardless of physical attractiveness, people must have more to offer than looks. There’s nothing appealing about ignorance. “I don’t know” can’t be the answer to every topic of conversation of relevance you’re introduced to. People enjoy intelligent conversations on a range of topics. Quite often, whether or not there is a second meeting, date, or interview is dependent upon your ability to carry on various conversations. The inability to carry on an intelligent conversation can only be overshadowed by good looks for so long. Eventually, even the most shallow of people are going to want to have SOME semblance of an intelligent conversation. When this can’t be accomplished, so begins the beginning of the end.

Take some time to watch something a little more provocative and thought -inspiring than American Idol and reality shows. Who knows, you may actually learn something you can actually use in an adult conversation.

Next, get to know as much as you can about not only your job, but your field in general. I’m often amazed by the questions I’m asked that people feel apply to my company that really don’t. But the more informed I am, and the more I’m able to answer their questions, the more confidence they have in me. It is never a bad thing to gain knowledge in as many areas as you possibly can. Knowledge is indeed power. This can result in more referrals, greater opportunities, and thus maximized success.

I strongly believe the cornerstone of success begins with image. The better your image, the better your chance of success. I hope you gained something that helps you improve your public persona. If you have any questions, please contact me.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier.

In a world where verbal communication is becoming a lost art form due to texting, e-mail, and video conferences, there still comes the occasional time when it is necessary to actually SPEAK to someone in person. When this occurs, please at all costs, make sure your breath isn’t kicking like a kung fu movie.

I am quite often approached by people who feel compelled to get right in my face and talk. For one, I hate having my personal space intruded upon (but that’s another story). More importantly, there are few things worse than having your nostrils invaded with an aroma akin to a burning coffee plant. Question: Why is it always the people who just drank a gallon of coffee and smoked half of a tobacco field that want to get right in your face and talk to you? Is there like a universal rule amongst coffee drinkers and smokers that once they’ve loaded up on caffeine and carcinogens they should violate the nasal passages of the first person they come across? It sure seems like it.

If you are one of those people who smoke and drink coffee during the day, please bring a toothbrush and toothpaste and handle your business when you’re done. Believe me, it will be appreciated. And no, Altoids are not enough. They can serve the purpose when you go to lunch, but you need reinforcement to fight the cigarettes and coffee.

As for the armpits, it is not manly to walk around with big pits of wetness under your arms. Excessive sweating is not uncommon, but it should still be addressed. There are remedies for this. I tell most of my clients to try this product called Sweat Block. You just dab it under your armpits and it protects you for a week. It’s relatively inexpensive (about $20 for a 4 wk-box), and it works very well.

These are just a couple of tips to get you started slaying the dragon. As I continue through my journalistic journey, I will attempt to continue to provide you with seeds of information that you will be able to use to better yourself and others. Until next time … God bless and dress well.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier.

There’s an old adage: “It’s not what you say it’s how you say it.” Though this is sometimes true, quite often it isn’t — it’s both. How you say something is important, but a silly statement made with passion and eloquence, just sounds eloquently and passionately silly. It is important that your vocabulary be equal to the image you wish to portray.

I may be dating myself here, but do you remember the Damon Wayans character on In Living Color who would consistently use complex words out of context? It was funny on the show, but in real life, that can be professionally catastrophic.

You see, we are quite often judged on our vocabulary. The ability to speak in an educated and refined manner can be the difference between landing that great job or promotion, or getting the standard, “We’ll get back to you.” The ability to verbalize your thoughts and opinions is an integral tool in building your image. It establishes a level of confidence and expectation from your audience. When you can verbalize with confidence, people will believe you. But more importantly, they will believe in you. And believe me, when people believe in you, the world becomes a different place, and your options significantly increase.

Here are a couple of suggestions for increasing your vocabulary. First and foremost, READ! I’m not talking about Cosmo, Ebony, or Popular Mechanics. I’m talking about reading books and magazines of substance. Magazines like Fortune, Money, Time, Men’s or Women’s Health, Esquire and Wall Street Journal. Not only will these help increase your vocabulary, but they will teach you the language of business. They will also give tips on improving your personal and professional situation. But the most important benefit is learning the language of businesspeople, which is universal. If you can speak the language of business, you afford yourself an audience that maximizes your possibility of success.

These are just a couple of tips to get you started. As I continue through my journalistic journey, I will attempt to continue to provide you with seeds of information that you will be able to use to better yourself and others. Until next time … God bless and dress well.

William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier.