The Prime Dude Mission

Welcome to Prime Dude – Men’s Fashion for the Modern Professional

Prime Dude is a men’s fashion and lifestyle platform created by Rob Edwards, a global sales leader, clothing designer, and Air Force veteran.
The mission is simple: help men look sharp, feel confident, and build wardrobes that work for real life—whether it’s a boardroom meeting, business travel, or a casual evening out.

about us

Real Style for Real Men

With a focus on timeless style and practical advice, Prime Dude offers real product reviews, style tips, and fashion insights based on Rob’s personal experience. Every suit, shirt, shoe, and grooming product featured has been tested and worn by Rob in day-to-day professional settings. That means no fluff, no hype—just honest, experience-driven guidance you can trust.

From custom suits and dress shirts to sport coats, leather shoes, and minimalist packing advice, Prime Dude covers it all. Rob’s goal is to make high-quality fashion approachable for guys who want great value, long-lasting pieces, and smart styling that fits their life.

You’ll also find guides on building a capsule wardrobe, curating travel outfits, and selecting the best fabrics, fits, and finishes for any occasion.

This site is built for real men with real lives—not runway models or influencers. Whether you’re just starting to build your professional wardrobe or looking to refine your existing style, Prime Dude gives you the tools to do it right.

Yearn Shoemaker A551 Single Monk Strap Review: Do They Hold Up? Shoe Reviews
Yearn Shoemaker A551 Single Monk Strap Review: Do They Hold Up?

If you’ve followed Prime Dude for a while, you know I don’t just unbox and admire—I wear the actual shoes in real life and then report back. Today’s review pair is the Yearn Shoemaker A551 single monk strap in dark brown patina—a shoe with near-bespoke detailing, a sleek last, and construction that sits proudly in […]

  • Rob Edwards
  • 2 weeks ago
How To Wear and Style Silk Grenadine Ties Fashion
How To Wear and Style Silk Grenadine Ties

Uncover the charm of grenadine ties. Learn why these versatile accessories are a must-have for any stylish man.

  • Rob Edwards
  • 3 months ago
Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Review: Are They Worth It? Shoe Reviews
Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Review: Are They Worth It?

Discover why Allen Edmonds shoes are synonymous with American craftsmanship and timeless style in men’s footwear.

  • Rob Edwards
  • 4 months ago
BLKBRD Shoemaker Review: The Luke Derby Hand Welted Shoes Fashion
BLKBRD Shoemaker Review: The Luke Derby Hand Welted Shoes

Discover why BLKBRD Shoemaker is making waves with their stylish and comfortable Luke Derby dress shoes for any occasion.

  • Rob Edwards
  • 4 months ago
Why Made-to-Measure Suits Can Be Better Than Bespoke Fashion
Why Made-to-Measure Suits Can Be Better Than Bespoke

Unlock the benefits of a Made-To-Measure Suit: tailored for your body and lifestyle without the bespoke price tag.

  • Rob Edwards
  • 4 months ago

Youtube

The Prime Dude

The Prime Dude
Get your wardrobe fall-ready the practical way—no fluff. In this episode, I repair Allen Edmonds St. John’s Double Monk Straps after a wedding, show a gentle Saphir routine for suede loafers (To Boot New York), and run through my go-to corduroy & flannel pant options (with shirts and wool ties that actually pair right). I wear the stuff and walk the walk—so you’ll see what works, when, and why.What’s inside: Shoe Care (Leather): When to skip Renovateur and use Saphir Nappa + cream/wax polish on Allen Edmonds Dark Chili. Shoe Care (Suede): Quick spot-clean with Saphir Suede/Nubuck Cleaner + proper suede brush. Fall Pants: Why corduroy and heavy flannel beat lightweight wool when temps drop (fits, textures, styling). Shirts & Ties: Pairing merino/cotton shirts with wool ties for business-ready looks. Travel Tip: Side-tab trousers = no belt to forget. Products & links (add yours where noted) Shoes & Footwear Allen Edmonds St. John’s Double Monk Strap (Dark Chili): [ADD LINK] To Boot New York Suede Loafers (Taupe): [ADD LINK]Shoe Care: Saphir Nappa Leather Balm: https://amzn.to/3VFKETB Saphir Renovateur: https://amzn.to/3KJEbEN Saphir Suede & Nubuck Cleaner: https://amzn.to/4njyLPo Saphir Suede Brush (horsehair): https://amzn.to/42j9soi Yak-hair Brush (finishing/shine): https://arterton.co.uk/products/yak-hair-shoe-brush?srsltid=AfmBOooR7fBp9ZY6w5WtFPlaSzp8uFNONAON-MIkZ9tYWQxDJeDMCa92 Allen Edmonds Cream Polish – Chili/Dark Chili: https://amzn.to/4nPfoNT Allen Edmonds Carnuba Wax Polish – Chili: https://amzn.to/4npMLXN The Elegant Oxford (Saphir stockist): https://theelegantoxford.com/collections/smooth-leather-shinePants & Shirts: Corduroy Trousers – John Henric: https://johnhenric.com/us/navy-blue-trousers-tailored-fit-a03196 Heavy Flannel Trousers – Luxire (Dugdale/Fox Brothers cloth): https://luxire.com/products/dugdale-dark-grey-wool-flannel-high-waisted-pant?srsltid=AfmBOooszm7XlK276sRa7bFB1jr9gJUXKgWC-0isUx4aDE94UmhXT2k5 Brenta Brushed Cotton/Chinos – Proper Cloth: https://propercloth.com/tailored-clothing/brenta-mocha-brushed-stretch-cotton-chino-190647.html Chinos – Bonobos: https://bonobos.com/products/stretch-washed-chino?color=greenwoods&pant-fit=tailored&pant-length=30&pant-waist=28&utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=G-Shopping_US_Brand&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11375185583&gbraid=0AAAAADvZQ15UaTvB6yCfsqV3KKTlEJEjr&gclid=CjwKCAjwuePGBhBZEiwAIGCVS7M7gpM0yOEDJyQuHXOvNRLJQr0WHwLoHI_vF30EvNCTLPJQRg4u3BoCt3sQAvD_BwE Merino Wool Dress Shirt – Proper Cloth: https://propercloth.com/dress-shirts/reda-light-blue-small-check-merino-wool-425188.html Ledbury Cotton Dress Shirt: https://www.ledbury.com/collections/white-shirts/products/the-white-madison-fine-twill-custom-shirt Mizzen+Main Long-Sleeve Polo (Forest/Olive): https://www.mizzenandmain.com/products/olive-kent-long-sleeve-poloTies: Wool Ties (brown/burgundy & brown/navy stripe) – “Bow & Tie Company”: https://www.bows-n-ties.com/Skinny-Wool-Tie-in-Dark-Brown-and-Navy.html👞 Questions on color matching, leather vs. suede, or sizing? Drop them below—happy to help. #hashtags #MensStyle #ShoeCare #AllenEdmonds #FallOutfits #Saphir #Corduroy #Flannel #mensweartips00:00 Introduction 01:45 Allen Edmonds St. John Monkstrap Shoe Care 02:10 Saphir Nappa - Gentle Shoe Care 03:49 To Boot NY Suede Loafer Shoe Care 05:26 Saphir Suede and Nubuck Cleaner 07:21 Brushing St. Johns Monk Straps 09:22 Saphir 1925 Shoe Cream Polish 12:52 Suede Shoe Cleaning Results 13:32 John Henric Corduroy Pants 14:39 How To Style Brown Corduroy 15:41 Proper Cloth Merino Wool Dress Shirt 16:55 Dugdale Wool Flannel Slacks 21:07 Wool Ties For Business Casual 24:09 Conclusion

In this episode of The Prime Dude, I review the CNES Shoemaker Split Toe Derby in dark brown. This hand-welted dress shoe features Vegano calf leather, a closed-channel sole, and a sleek last that makes it perfect for both business suits and smart business casual outfits. Unlike many reviews, I bought these with my own money — no sponsorships, no free pairs — so you’re getting a real-world test of comfort, fit, and style.Why Watch? Learn if CNES Shoemaker shoes are worth the ~$425 price point See how Vietnamese craftsmanship stacks up against brands like Yearn Shoemaker Get sizing advice for first-time CNES buyers Understand the difference between casual vs formal derbies Honest wear-test feedback after travel and long workdays If you’ve tried CNES Shoemaker, drop your experience in the comments!CNES Shoemaker Split Toe Derby (In This Review): https://www.cnes.co/products/std-hs-split-toe-derby Yearn Shoemaker A551 Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WP3ixfHoAjo&t=108s👉 Like, Subscribe, and Stay Prime for more men’s fashion, style tips, and menswear reviews.📌 Chapters 0:00 – Intro & CNES Shoemaker overview 1:25 – Website, Instagram & first impressions 3:40 – Pricing, discounts & sizing tips (44 vs 45 EU) 5:00 – Shoe table breakdown (apron stitching, Vagano calf, fiddle-back waist) 9:40 – Construction details (hand-welt, closed channel sole, heel stack) 13:00 – Stitch-per-inch, welt quality & craftsmanship 15:00 – Wear test & comfort after multiple days 16:40 – Styling: suits, business casual, versatility 18:50 – Final verdict & buying tips

Are you accidentally ruining your shoes with the wrong routine? In this episode of the Prime Dude Podcast, I break down the #1 shoe-care mistake I see (overusing Saphir Renovateur), share a quick Grant Stone boots update from last week’s controversy, review a pair of Meermin horsebit loafers, and show you the right chinos for fall/winter (brushed cotton, moleskin, and more). I also highlight a weatherproof dress boot that can survive snow and slush without ruining your outfit.What you’ll learn: The right way to use Saphir Renovateur (and when not to use it) Grant Stone Edward boot update: damage, returns, and what customer service said Meermin sizing, comfort, and the “Flex Welt” feel out of the box Why brushed cotton and moleskin chinos are clutch when temps drop A legit weatherproof dress boot that actually looks sharp If you’re into men’s fashion, menswear reviews, and practical style tips for men, this one’s packed with real-world testing and zero fluff.Chapters 0:00 Intro & what’s coming up 1:35 Grant Stone boots update (damage, returns, next steps) 4:11 Shoe-care PSA: The Renovateur mistake (how to use Saphir correctly) 9:39 Meermin horsebit loafers review (fit, Flex Welt, versatility) 14:00 Fall/winter pants: brushed cotton vs. moleskin (and why it matters) 21:10 The weatherproof dress boot I recommend (real cold-weather use) 24:30 Final recap, Q&A invite, what’s nextLinks Mentioned Shoe Care Saphir Médaille d’Or Renovateur: https://amzn.to/4pinWhU Saphir Medaille d’Or Pate De Luxe Wax Polish: https://amzn.to/3VQDb47 Saphir Mirror/Amiral Gloss: https://amzn.to/46FUew2 Herring Shoes – Shoe Cream Polish (Neutral): https://www.herring-shoes.com/herring/shoe-cream-polish/neutral Herring Shoes – Shoe Cream Polish (Black): https://www.herring-shoes.com/herring/shoe-cream-polish/blackFootwear Meermin – Horsebit Loafers (men): https://meermin.com/collections/mens-horsebit-loafers Allen Edmonds – Hamilton Weatherproof Oxford Dress Boot: https://www.allenedmonds.com/product/mens-hamilton-weatherproof-oxford-dress-boot-3023511 Allen Edmonds – Higgins Mill Weatherproof Boot (alt): https://www.allenedmonds.com/product/mens-higgins-mill-weatherproof-boot-3022899 Anthony Veer – Loafers Collection: https://anthonyveer.com/collections/loafer-slip-on Example model (Verona Bit Loafer): https://anthonyveer.com/products/verona-bit-loafer-1Pants Bonobos – Stretch Washed Chino: https://bonobos.com/products/stretch-washed-chino Proper Cloth – Brushed Cotton Chinos (example): https://propercloth.com/tailored-clothing/brenta-mocha-brushed-stretch-cotton-chino-190647.html Proper Cloth – Moleskin 5-Pocket Pants: https://propercloth.com/tailored-clothing/biella-navy-stretch-moleskin-5-pocket-81267.html Proper Cloth – Chinos Overview: https://propercloth.com/shop/pants/chinos#MensStyle #Menswear #ShoeCare #Saphir #GrantStone #Meermin #AllenEdmonds #Chinos #Moleskin #BrushedCotton

In this episode of the Prime Dude Podcast, I dive into my first-ever Grant Stone boots review — and let’s say, the experience was not what I expected. These boots are praised in the men’s fashion and menswear world for their Goodyear welt construction, quality leathers, and American brand heritage. But after unboxing the Grant Stone Edward boot in olive calfskin, I found some serious issues with quality control that left me questioning whether they’re worth the $400+ price tag.I’ll walk you through: My unboxing and first impressions of the Edward boot on the Leo last Fit and sizing guidance (why going half-size down matters) Leather quality from Charles F. Stead, and where it fell short Visible scratches, dents, and stitching flaws out of the box Why I ultimately decided to return themI also compare Grant Stone to other bootmakers I’ve worn — including Allen Edmonds, BLKBRD Shoemaker, and Meermin — and share my thoughts on suede boots for fall and winter, such as the Meermin chukka inspired by James Bond. Finally, I conclude on a high note with a pair of Allen Edmonds Dalton boots I scored on eBay, proving that there are still great deals to be found. If you’re into men’s style tips, menswear reviews, or want to know the truth about Grant Stone boots, don’t miss this one.🔹 Chapters 0:00 Intro – Why today’s show is about boots 0:35 My first Grant Stone unboxing 2:25 Edward boot details: leather, welt, and last 3:45 Fit, sizing guidance, and first issues 5:40 Scratches, dents, and quality control problems 7:55 Why I decided to return these boots 9:30 Comparing Grant Stone vs BLKBRD, Allen Edmonds, and Meermin 11:05 Suede boots for fall & winter (Meermin chukka review) 12:50 Shell Cordovan & eBay finds (Alden & more) 13:55 Allen Edmonds Dalton boots — ending on a positive note 15:30 Coming next week: best pants for fall & winter

Be careful who you take men’s fashion advice from on YouTube. In this episode of The Prime Dude, I break down the 5 things you need to know before listening to any men’s style tips online. Too many channels give out menswear advice without knowing the first thing about you — your profession, your goals, where you live, your body type, or even what you’re already wearing. Without that context, fashion tips can waste your money, hurt your confidence, and even distract from your results in business or life.In this video, I’ll show you how to filter advice so you actually improve your men’s style without falling for cookie-cutter rules. From business shirts and suits to outfits for different climates, I’ll share the real questions you need to ask before following anyone’s advice on how to dress better. If you want honest, practical men’s fashion tips, subscribe for more menswear reviews, style hacks, and real-world fashion advice for men.Chapters 0:00 Intro – Why you must be careful with men’s fashion advice 0:59 #1 – What are you trying to accomplish with your style? 1:45 #2 – Why your profession determines how you should dress 2:23 #3 – How where you live and work changes your wardrobe 5:06 #4 – Body type and why fit matters more than trends 7:40 #5 – What you’re wearing now (and why it matters) 10:40 The problem with one-size-fits-all fashion rules 11:35 Closing thoughts – Be smart about who you take style advice from

Welcome back to The Prime Dude Podcast! In this episode, I dive into some of the biggest myths in men’s fashion advice, share a hands-on suede cleaning demo, and give you an exclusive preview of upcoming shoe reviews. 👉 Topics in this episode: Cleaning my Allen Edmonds Panama boat shoes with Saphir suede cleaner (best suede care products). First look at the Carlos Santos wine shadow loafer—a versatile year-round shoe that deserves a spot in your rotation. The truth about wearing derbies with suits (yes, you can!) and why so many “fashion rules” on YouTube are misleading. Why environment, budget, and personal style matter more than one-size-fits-all rules from so-called experts. A sneak peek at my upcoming episode: 5 Things Someone Should Know About You Before Giving Fashion Advice. I break down why derby shoes vs. Oxford shoes isn’t a hard line, how loafers with suits can work in the right setting, and why overdressing in the wrong environment (or climate) can actually cost you opportunities. Whether you’re into men’s dress shoes, professional style, or just want practical advice on what to wear with suits, this episode has you covered.Links & Mentions: Allen Edmonds Panama Boat Shoes (end-of-summer markdowns) - https://www.allenedmonds.com/product/mens-panama-boat-shoe-3031303/bone-tobacco-leather-ec4501711 Carlos Santos Derby & Loafer (via Noble Shoe – best sizing guide available) - https://www.thenobleshoe.com/en-us/blogs/the-noble-shoe-blog/last-guide-carlos-santos-shoes?srsltid=AfmBOorIuuuc1eWtM0Pgs1ghSw7t32DxJA82RTBgJH05daJFGGdc1I3d Saphir Suede & Nubuck Cleaner - https://amzn.to/41S5uCy Kingsland Shoe Project – lightweight plastic shoe trees - https://amzn.to/4mrcHlm T-Shirt Stips/Rags For Shoe Polishing - https://amzn.to/4mCisN6Chapters: 0:00 Intro – What’s in today’s episode 0:45 Allen Edmonds Panama Boat Shoes & Saphir suede cleaner 4:00 Carlos Santos Derby & why derbies can be worn with suits 7:30 The problem with fashion “rules” on YouTube 10:00 Loafers with suits – when it works and when it doesn’t 13:00 Carlos Santos Wine Shadow Loafer – preview & sizing tips 16:00 Weather-proof shoe options: grain leather, corrected grain, pull-up leather 18:00 Wrap up & final thoughts

In this episode, I review custom dress shirts from The Tailor Store for first-time buyers. I’m not sponsored — this is an honest, comprehensive menswear review based on wearing and testing 10 shirts over the past year. You’ll see exactly how they fit, how the fabrics perform, and whether they’re worth your money.I also compare The Tailor Store shirts to other popular men’s fashion brands like Charles Tyrwhitt, Proper Cloth, and Ledbury, so you can decide which offers the best shirts for your style, budget, and needs.The dress shirt is a staple in men’s style — you need shirts that fit well, look sharp, and work with a range of outfits, from suits to summer outfits. After watching this men’s fashion review, do you believe The Tailor Store can deliver the perfect fit?If you’re not sure, check out my other online custom shirt reviews:Charles Tyrwhitt Shirt Review - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzfzwLrisCI&t=35s Proper Cloth Custom Shirts - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sbEGgKYYg8&t=12s Ledbury Custom Shirts - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1iWZ5DYQD0&t=571sAlso, here’s the “hack” I mentioned for fixing shirts with a flyaway collar: Collar Dots Collar Stays - https://amzn.to/4mC0bz9If you’re into mens fashion tips, style tips for men, or want to know how to dress better, subscribe for more menswear reviews and fashion advice that work in the real world.Chapters: 0:00 Intro – Why review The Tailor Store 0:54 Website walk-through & shirt design 2:55 Collar & cuff customization tips 5:25 AI sizing and fit accuracy 6:40 The hidden button collar fix 8:21 The “flyaway collar” problem 10:50 My final rating and recommendations

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