The Third Gentleman blends timeless style with modern values to empower men through intentional dressing and self-respect.
In the world of men’s fashion, a powerful shift is underway. Amid the rise of fast fashion and ever-changing trends, there’s a growing movement to return to a sense of class, purpose, and intentionality in how men present themselves. At the heart of this movement is The Third Gentleman, a modern menswear brand founded by Julian Franklin III with a simple yet profound mission: to redefine how men dress for a world that demands respect and character.
A Legacy of Style and Integrity
Julian Franklin III’s vision for The Third Gentleman is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Raised in Detroit, he was influenced by an era that celebrated men like The Temptations, The Dramatics, and Marvin Gaye icons who embodied confidence, respect, and intentional style. In a time when personal presentation was a reflection of character and discipline, these figures set a high standard for what it meant to be a man of substance.
“Growing up, I learned early on that how a man presents himself affects how he’s treated, which, in turn, affects how he feels. Dressing well isn’t about vanity, it’s about respect and intention,” Julian says. It’s this philosophy that became the foundation for The Third Gentleman, a brand that goes beyond clothing to foster confidence and self-respect through the art of dressing.
Bridging the Gap Between Tradition and Today
Unlike many menswear brands that follow fleeting trends, The Third Gentleman stands apart by emphasizing timeless design and long-term presence. Julian’s vision for the brand was born out of frustration with how trends and fast fashion were taking over the industry, stripping away the soul of what menswear used to represent. In a world of disposable fashion, he sought to create a brand that would focus on identity, character, and lasting quality elements that never go out of style.
“Men today are searching for more than just clothes,” Julian explains. “They want something that aligns with their values and helps them navigate the world with confidence.” The Third Gentleman’s collections reflect this commitment, offering elevated details and classic silhouettes that transcend seasons. The brand’s ethos is clear: dressing well is not about impressing others, but about feeling grounded in who you are.
Overcoming Obstacles
The journey of building The Third Gentleman hasn’t been without its challenges. Julian faced the usual struggles of starting a business: tight budgets, brand awareness, and navigating an industry flooded with competitors. However, the bigger hurdle was creating a narrative that would connect with men who felt disconnected from the idea of dressing with intention.
Through determination and passion, Julian has successfully communicated that The Third Gentleman is not just about fashion it’s a movement. It’s a call to action for men who want to restore a sense of pride in their presentation. It’s a challenge to break free from the trappings of modern culture and embrace a more intentional, respectful, and classic approach to style.
A Modern Expression of Classic Values
Today, The Third Gentleman stands as more than just a clothing brand; it’s a movement rooted in purpose. Each collection is carefully designed to support the modern man’s journey to self-respect and confidence. The brand’s designs are a direct reflection of Julian’s philosophy: that men should dress with intention in every area of their lives. From work attire to formal events, The Third Gentleman offers a way for men to navigate these spaces with poise and dignity.
One thing that truly sets The Third Gentleman apart from its competition is its refusal to chase trends. While others may rush to design clothing that speaks to the moment, The Third Gentleman creates pieces that speak to a man’s identity. This focus on intentional fit and timeless design is why the brand resonates with men across all generations, from young professionals to seasoned leaders.
“I founded The Third Gentleman because I wanted to bring back the standard of how men present themselves,” Julian says. “It’s about bringing back the sense of pride that was once commonplace in men’s style, without being tethered to the past. It’s a modern expression of something that should never have gone away.”
More Than a Brand: A Movement
As The Third Gentleman continues to grow, its reach extends far beyond just selling suits and shirts. The brand is positioning itself as a cultural force, one that challenges how men view themselves and their relationship to fashion. It’s about more than looking good; it’s about feeling empowered to be who you are and walking through life with purpose.
Whether it’s the brand’s unique designs or Julian’s personal commitment to teaching the value of self-presentation, The Third Gentleman is making an indelible mark on the menswear industry. It’s a reminder that the way a man dresses can shape his entire experience in the world, influencing how he’s perceived, how he feels, and how he carries himself.
The Future of The Third Gentleman
Looking forward, The Third Gentleman is focused on expanding its mission and reaching even more men who want to embrace the art of intentional dressing. Through collaborations, content, and community-building efforts, the brand is working to inspire a new generation of men to look beyond fashion trends and return to a foundation of respect and purpose.
“Dressing well isn’t just about following trends,” Julian concludes. “It’s about living intentionally and showing up with pride in every aspect of your life. That’s the message we’re sharing at The Third Gentleman.”
Ready to step into your power? Explore The Third Gentleman’s latest collections and find your perfect fit at thethirdgentleman.com. For more updates, follow the brand on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook.
