Photo: Cobey Arner

If you’re looking for the most powerful hair dryer or handiest chef’s knife, those things can be easy enough to find. Other objects of desire are a little more taste-based. What’s the next status water bottle or hand wash, for instance? Regular readers of the Strategist will know that we’ve previously turned to resident Cool Guy Chris Black (he’s a partner at brand consultancy Public Announcement) to help us answer both of those questions. For more of Chris’s advice, he’s now answering reader questions for us in a regular column. If you have a burning question about the next fanny pack or Noah rugby shirt, drop us an email with the subject line “Ask Chris” at strategist@nymag.com.

I’m getting back into dating. What types of clothes would you recommend to make a stylish (but subtle) first impression?

Leave the Balenciaga and Fear of God in the closet. You’ve got to avoid logos or anything that even looks like an attempt to scream, “I’m rich!” I’d recommend a simple, understated outfit that lets your good looks and captivating personality do all the talking.

Entireworld Trousers Type B Version 2 $94 $125 now 25% off $94 A cotton single-pleat chino in navy from Entireworld would work well. It’s a classic look, but the single pleat lets your date know you care more about style more than the bankers in Bonobos and Hugo Boss that she usually goes out with. $94 at Entireworld Buy with code: MASHEDTATOES

Any recommendations for a go-to (unisex) summer rain shoe? Ideally something less suffocating than a full rubber boot, and less precious than any of the sneakers or sandals in my daily rotation. But, of course, still looks nice.

I’m lucky enough to be moving into my first house, and now feels like the time to upgrade from the standard issue Ikea Lack furniture I bought when I graduated. Can you recommend some nice pieces of furniture and brands that are a bit more sophisticated (but won’t require me to open a line of credit at Restoration Hardware)?

I’ve got to level with you chief: Real furniture is expensive. I can’t recommend buying knockoffs, I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night. Almost everything in my apartment is vintage or custom built. Bi-Rite, Lichen, Home Union, and Open Air Modern are all stores in Brooklyn that I follow on Instagram. They have great taste and the stuff is reasonably priced. But, if you must buy new, Ikea isn’t that bad, you just have to pick the good stuff.

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