When Barbey d’Aurevilly said that dandyism is as difficult to describe as it to define, he wasn't kidding. Unlike the modern-day meterosexual (who's all about moisturizer and eyebrow plucking) the classic dandy was more concerned about perfecting his attitude, swagger, physique, wit -- something I'm not prepared to deal with. (I really don't need the drama, or the arrogance. But hey, to each his own.) Nevertheless, I love the look -- especially on women. And lucky for us, dandy style is hot right now, just without the pretentious swagger.

Ralph Lauren is also putting a preppy spin on the dandy look for Spring '08 with their Rugby collection. The site will even teach you how to tie a bow tie (something that's a lot harder than it looks). 

• L.A.M.B. Women's Oxford Pump Shoe at shoes.com
• Wide Leg Tweed Trousers at frockonline.com
• My Dior Medium Frame Bag at neimanmarcus.com
• Fossil Genie Earrings at fossil.com
• Donny Tourette Braces And Tie T-Shirt at asos.com