A gentleman always holds the door. If we’re lucky, he holds jewelry too. But if we’re REALLY lucky, a gentleman holds the key to maintaining the perfect mix of proper grooming and guy-ish grunge. Meet Jace, the creator of hot new men’s fashion blog Grungy Gentleman, who, based on his editorials, seems to have gotten most of it down to a science. As a New Yorker working in fashion, he sheds light on his personal style and how to not only look cool, but how to keep cool in the summertime. No socks, no pedicures, no shame.

Spa Week Daily: A lot of men think the spa is a girly thing. What do you have to say about that?

Grungy Gentleman: I enjoy getting massages and why not? They’re relaxing! Tell the dudes who say that to go to the spa at the Hotel de Arts in Barcelona. Ask them if they think that’s girly.

SWD: Dry, crackly feet are just not cute on anyone—even men. Do you think men should get pedicures?

GG: I think men should have a certain level of masculinity to them. I have a never had a pedicure before. A couple of my friends get manicures though. I have never really thought about either of the two. I rather just say it’s not for me.

(We think he should try it. Men are prone to blisters, calluses and oooh athlete’s foot.)

SWD: Thom Browne is the king of shorts, but most men look ridiculous in them. There’s always a risky chance of channeling a bag pipe player or a nerdy golfer. What length or style do you suggest for men who want to look fashionable and keep cool in the summer?

GG: Thom Browne is a genius. Can’t knock anything about him at all. I prefer my shorts a bit longer than what he shows in his collection. My shorts are always above the knee. Avoid bagginess and pair it with a Thom Browne oxford and you can’t go wrong.

SWD: When it comes to business wear in the summer time, men aren’t so lucky.  Since the options are so limited, what’s the #1 tip you have for men surviving a heat wave in a business suit?

GG: I wear no socks. I store away my wingtips and rock Sperry Top Sider x Band of Outsiders Loaders. Get your pants tailored so they just fall above the ankle.

SWD: Okay, we had to ask. Do you wear Old Spice?

GG: NO.

For more stylish scoops from the fashionable gentleman who likes to keep it grungy, check out his blog.