Gruhme is an independent privately-owned British fine fragrance house created by Robert Hallmark, a corporate solicitor who left the world of law to enter the male retail market. As a consumer of men’s products Robert began to struggle to find strong male brands that he continued to truly identify with. With a lifelong passion for creativity, design and aesthetics Robert was inspired to create his own brand encompassing the qualities he found mostly absent from the modern alternatives, and Gruhme was his answer.

Gruhme has started life as a contemporary fragrance for the discerning male. The brand and its products have been developed with time, care and incredible attention to detail but with a deliberate air of simplicity to help offset our busy, modern lives.

“I’ve started on a journey, it’s a 20-year project to become a household name, something to relish and enjoy: not just to make a quick profit and to disappear. Some of the best selling fragrances are ones that have been around for a long time so it counts to get it right.”

The Gruhme original fragrance is built on layers of woody scents with top notes of juniper berry, organic black peppercorn, bergamot, lemon and lavender with a heart of patchouli and cedar and traces of cumin, celery seed and petitgrain. The second fragrance, Gruhme No.14, is a more intense version of the original. It is named for its 14% concentration, ensuring a pronounced sillage and a concentrated aroma that is sure to impress with its contemporary sophistication.

The products are specifically designed with the male end-user in mind and share the strong aesthetics and monochrome colouring that befits the prestige and elegance of the premium male sector. It is sophistication and simplicity at its very best. As Robert says “we do not believe we will ever achieve perfection in our own eyes, but we will relish that challenge and also never cease in our mission to make our customers our best and most loyal brand ambassadors.” 

The range includes an exciting shave kit with the Bolin Webb R1 razor which together set the benchmark in contemporary grooming sophistication. This Gruhme shave kit is also available in military grade Peli™ case packaging for those after the ultimate in product endurance and gifting impact.

The fragrances, which can be described as “sensual, aromatic and woody” are found in a number of top hotels and retailers in Birmingham and London, including Hotel du Vin, Hyatt Regency and luxury lifestyle retailer Roullier White. The products are also stocked in the Birmingham business district at gentlemen’s parlour, The Barber House, and the prestigious Hills Department store in Lancashire. 

Gruhme is a British made brand proudly using independent British suppliers. Everything from the bottle, labelling and packaging to the fragrance itself is all supplied here in the UK. The products are not tested on animals and are free of all known allergens. Robert explains “Gruhme is a brand that has its own distinct way of going about things and a commitment to bringing that approach to those people who appreciate the finer details.”

Next year the brand plans on releasing a range of grooming products including a shaving cream, aftershave balm and shower gel to name but a few. All products are available at gruhme.co.uk

Article by Menswear Style

British brand Samuel Windsor’s commitment to creating stylish, tailored menswear, without breaking the bank, has seen their collection explode from its origination in footwear back in 2003 to include suits, casual wear, cashmere overcoats and now black tie. This firmly positions the Samuel Windsor brand as ‘one to watch’ particularly if you’re looking for quality, tailored clothing.

Samuel Windsor’s strong collaboration with luxury wool and textiles suppliers is a solid demonstration of their commitment to supporting British manufacturing, whilst using the best materials in their clothing. The brand is proud to work closely with British brand Mallalieus of Delph on its tweed and cashmere collections, as well as collaborating with the company operating the last vertical woollen mill in UK - Abraham Moon - on its lamb’s wool scarves and knitwear.

Focusing on its new AW15 collection, the tweed jacket a particular highlight for AW15. Made from 100% wool, the tweed adds a distinctive country feel to your wardrobe, whilst successfully transforming the traditional fabric, into either city or country wear. Beautifully finished with well-appointed herringbone lining, the collection of tweed jackets feature details such as contrasting sleeve trims to the arms for a sharp and modern finish. 

This season also sees the introduction of brand new lines, including tank tops, which are ideal for layering, and the trendy suits including the Prince of Wales suit, which adds a modern twist to a classic design. A key item of footwear to signify this blend of mixing old with new is the deck boot, proving to be one of Samuel Windsor’s most popular pieces from their AW15 prestige collection. This style takes the traditional naval designs we know and love, and combines them with style updates and seasonal practicality to produce an essential pair of boots that can be worn throughout the year.

The hand-stitched monk shoe is another classic, which is made up of 50 different components. The monk strap leather design is powerful in appearance and make a key item for office or evening wear outfits. Also in high demand is the classic Chelsea boot, now widely worn with a casual shirt and jeans. This fusion of British classics and modern styles is very centric to the brand, as are the seasonal influences which often guide each collection. 

Gentlemen’s fashion has seen a resurgence in recent times and this is a strong focus of Samuel Windsor’s design team. The “dapper” trend is something the brand really believes in, and the recent toning down of colours, from the emeralds and reds of the last couple of years, is something Samuel Windsor is embracing wholeheartedly.

The Samuel Windsor brand is growing from strength to strength. Having originally had its roots solely in the production of mens shoes, the brand is expanding rapidly and entering new markets in Ireland and the USA. This is indeed an exciting time for the brand and great things are expected over the next few years – so watch this space!

Article by Menswear Style

The New Look Autumn/Winter 2015 Menswear collection is one of the strongest yet. Military is a key trend of the season, and this label doesn’t disappoint with their vast offering of classic outerwear mixed with distressed denim and 90s inspired grunge prints. When it comes to the season’s ‘must-have’ colour Khaki is the go-to choice of the season, but ecru, putty tones and black are also wardrobe colour-way essentials… and can all be found in New Looks AW15 offering.

The Harrington is the hero outerwear piece in the collection, while fur, borg, shearling and leather fabrics all make a statement on collars, linings and hoods. Bomber jackets in real suede are a great investment piece and is one of those menswear staples which gets better with age.

Brown is a regular in New Look’s range and is certainly an autumn regular in menswear season after season. The colour looks great mixed with authentic washed denim and winter pastels, giving a modern feel to a retro-inspired look. We like how there are garments finished with print details that are both bold and delicate. Patchwork is introduced this season, with geos and tribal mixing well together. Knitwear somehow steals the limelight, with twisted yarns and plaited, ribbed and fluffy textures all taking centre stage and making a bold statement. A focus on necklines means roll necks, turtle necks and cardigans are a real wardrobe essential for any man.

Men’s Concept Stores

It’s good to see New Look giving focus to the rapidly growing and exciting menswear industry. They’ve very recently opened up a few standalone menswear stores in Portsmouth, Wigan and Birmingham MerryHill and will be opening in Trafford tomorrow, where men can finally experience an even better shopping experience.

At the Wigan launch in the Grand Arcade, two of the biggest names in rugby league popped along to the store to kit themselves out in ‘away from the pitch’ sportswear. Josh Charnley and Anthony Gelling of the Wigan Warriors signed autographs for the crowd, and couldn’t resist picking up a pair of bomber jackets to keep their style tackled up nicely. They face the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League Grand Final 2015 in a few days so let’s see if they arrive early wearing New Look Menswear!

Article by Menswear Style

Combining elegant design and connected features with a stunning sound, the Ruark Audio R2 is a truly modern music system. Now in its third generation, everything about the latest system has been enhanced: from the sleek handcrafted casework, to the redesigned intuitive rotodial controls, right down to improvements to the internal technology. At the heart of R2 is the audio performance. With Ruark’s 30 year heritage in sound engineering, the system reveals a natural powerful fidelity. Whether you are listening to radio on DAB/DAB+/FM or Internet radio, streaming your music wirelessly through wifi or Bluetooth, R2 will deliver on sound every time.

The R2’s special features don’t finish there: R2 boasts Spotify Connect technology allowing Spotify Premium users to wirelessly play music via their tablet, smartphone or computer. Multiroom technology allows you to connect multiple R2s to fill your home with beautiful sound. The R2 is available in three stylish finishes to suit any interior: rich walnut veneer, soft white lacquer and soft black lacquer. For further details on the R2 Mk3 and to discover Ruark Audio’s stunning award winning range of music systems please visit ruarkaudio.com

HOW TO ENTER 

To be in with a chance of winning this great prize worth £399 simply Click Here to enter your details, follow @ruarkaudio and validate your entry via Twitter, letting us know what R2 Mk3 finish you prefer. A winner will be picked at random at 4pm November 6th – best of luck!

Article by Menswear Style

Perhaps it's a testament to the skill and personability of Anderson's that has made it one of the leading accessories companies in Italy and one of the oldest men's belt manufacturers in Europe. Derived from the English tailor 'Anderson and Sheppard', the founder, Mr Carlo Valenti, chose an English name when he established the company in 1966 because of his appreciation of traditional British style.

Anderson's is still owned and run by the original family and still producing leather goods out at the laboratories in Parma, Italy, where it all began nearly 50 years ago. The cornerstones that comprise an Anderson Belt are evident in the material, sewing, processing and workmanship passed on over generations within their family.

Anderson's have a wide range of eclectic styles, ranging from the exotic such as crocodile or ostrich from their Premium Line, to woven belts in cotton, cotton and leather, elastic materials and hand-braided leather found in their Contemporary Line. All belts are polished by experienced Parma Artisans by hand using hard natural wax, which gives each belt it's natural light. 

If you were to ask me which belt I would wear to my wedding day, then without question it would be the Batman utility belt, possibly Bale's Batman as his had throwing stars. But a close second would be the famous Leather Textile Multi-Colour Anderson Belt that works with 17 different threads. Once the weave has been completed, each belt rests for over 2 weeks before the final production. During this rest period, the belt loses almost 10-15% of its length making it ready for the production. The rest period allows the ribbon and the viscose to become one single element with the correct elasticity, resistance and wear ability.

Other winners from the collection is the Navy Woven Suede belt, that oozes sophistication and class. It will instantly upgrade any outfit and announce your arrival. For more information on how Andersons create this and other timeless masterpiece's, check out the exclusive video that lifts the veil and shows you exactly how the fudge is packed. Anderson's produce belts under their own label as well as develop exclusive styles under their customers' own brand.

Article by Menswear Style

AW15 sees a collaboration of like minds. Celebrated London based designer, Oliver Spencer and iconic photographer and creative director, Rankin have joined forces to celebrate fans of the brand. The book brings together some of Oliver’s most esteemed friends, with his favourite chair, shot by his favourite lensman.

At Oliver Spencer, it’s a firm belief that it is those men who choose to wear the collections that make the brand. Without personalities to inhabit them, clothes are just pieces of material, which need to be worn to come alive. With that in mind, what better way to share key looks from the AW15 collection than to put this community in centre stage. Rankin’s keen eye and un-paralleled ability to stop time, capturing a moment of true, often heartfelt emotion and personality showcase and give thanks to those who have supported and given their time for this portfolio.

Mirroring the collections, friends involved are dynamic from rising British actor Callum Turner; Monocle Magazine Fashion Director and consultant, Take Sato; Jason Grissing Ocado founder; Mags Revell Vice President, Live Music at Goldenvoice/AEG Live; John Bradbury, drummer of iconic Brit Ska band, The Specials; Alex James, Blur Bassist and new found cheese monger; Radio DJ Nihal Arthanayake; hairstylist Johnnie Sapong; celebrated British artist, Conrad Shawcross; Dumi Oburota, co-founder of Disturbing London and finally skateboarder Thomas Harrison.

Oliver Spencer: “The chance of working with Rankin was too good to be missed, I’ve always loved his work. He’s also a customer therefore that gave him a connection to the brand. We decided to base the shoot around 11 of my favourite customers, who are all moving and shaping things in London. I asked Rankin to concentrate on shooting the subjects focusing on their personalities, the end result was very special.”

Article by Menswear Style

With Public Health England announcing in August that E-cigarettes are 95% less harmful than tobacco and could be prescribed on the NHS in future to help smokers quit, a fresh wave of comments and outcry commenced on an already contentious issue. While various health campaigners welcomed the finding, the British Medical Association expressed caution at the statement. Public health experts have been divided over the issue ever since vaping first took off, and is it grows and grows in popularity, with 2.6 million adults now using the smoking alternative, it is becoming more prescient to have a solid stance on vaping.

So should smokers get free e-cigarettes on the NHS? While smoking cigarettes leads to the death of up to 100,000 people every year in the UK, and in theory we should be using every tool available to help even a fraction of this number quit, e-cigarettes have become so much more than a quitting aid.

Nicotine substitutes - whether chewing gum, spray, or patches – have been available on prescription for years and have helped a large number of people stop smoking and all evidence suggest that e-cigs are equally effective. While many e-cig users aren’t using them as a quitting aid, any prescription e-cigs should be on a 12 week replacement programme similar to how the patches are prescribed. This is where concerns should arise about e-cigarettes being available on the NHS – they have never been marketed or viewed as a quitting aid per-se and have always been an alternative to smoking tobacco. 

Because it is such a new technology, there is a lack of scientific studies into the role e-cigarettes can play in quitting. A recent study by the Addiction medical journal found that when people wanted to quit smoking 60 per cent were more likely to succeed using e-cigarettes than by any other means. Though this study is a step in the right direction, with a lack of long term studies and a plethora of anecdotal evidence from e-cig users, it is hard to differentiate between those who quit for a while or those who quit for good.

This is one reason why anecdotal evidence has become such a big area for the vindication of vaping as a quitting aid – users often talk about how the shape of the device helps them deal with issues such as having something to hold and puff on (a key reason why patches and gum have never worked for them) and it allows the user to actively combat temptations of social smoking when with friends. 

But with this in mind the action of quitting is always down to the individual’s choice and their own willpower and intent, and offering another quitting aid no matter how alluring isn’t going to see an influx in quitters – it’s just another device added to a list of quitting aids already available to smokers already. E-cigarettes may taste better, may be safer, may be cleaner, but they’re certainly not healthy. By painting them as the ultimate alternative to smoking with no side-effects it doesn’t encourage anyone to quit it just encourages them to switch.

Article by Menswear Style

This season Reiss launches a premium collection. Exclusively created in-house, premium sees a focus on luxurious fabrications and precision fit. Each design is completely unique, showcasing acute attention to detail and expert craftsmanship.

Putting an elevated spin on the label’s timeless style and uncompromising quality, this curated series sees style transcend trends and treasured pieces hold their relevance for seasons to come. Key fabrications incorporate velvet, shearling, leather, cashmere, boucle and Italian wool.

Sumptuous outerwear features, and stand-out pieces include the Tyson, Cormier and Ornette shearling coats, Avery check suit, Chet DB tuxedo jacket and Miles boucle coat. With just over 50 pies across men’s and women’s lines, prices start at £80 with more aspirational items reaching £1,395. Premium will be available in selected stores globally and at Reiss.co.uk and will drop throughout the season.

Article by Menswear Style

Nothing encapsulates that feeling of divine masculinity more than supping on a petered whisky from a Charleston tumbler whilst your tailor cups your balls and runs a tape down your inner leg. Premium clothing brand Jaeger know that more than anyone, that's why they're launching their Made to Measure service. To commemorate this launch Jaegar are hosting an evening at their flagship Regent Street London store (Thursday 15th October 6 – 8pm) where customers are invited to witness a presentation from the Jaeger menswear team, with a DJ, whisky tasting by The Whisky Shop, Kiehl’s pop up shop with complimentary treatments and complimentary drinks. For your chance to join the party drop them an email here at RSVP@jaeger.co.uk.

The luxurious new addition to the menswear offering will sit alongside the established Jaeger ready-to-wear collection. Prices for Made to Measure will begin at £699 for a two-piece suit, ball-cupping: optional extras. Jaeger use only the finest fabrics from British and Italian mills. The customer is offered either a Classic or Modern fit with an assortment of other tailoring options, from a sleeve roll to personalising or monogramming with their name or initials. You have the choice of customising your lapels, whether you like them concave or Travolta-disco - with 25 options for buttons including real Mother of Pearl and luxury horn styles.

This exclusive Made to Measure service is by appointment only, which can be booked in the Regent Street or Canary Wharf branches as well as online. In a society where everything is wanted yesterday, Jaeger take their time. Like a solid relationship, it takes work. It takes discipline. The entire process takes up to 8 weeks, beginning with a personal in-store appointment with a tailoring professional, followed by a fitting in week 5, with the completed Made to Measure garment unveiled in week 8. Jaeger puts the sweet glacier cherry on top of this knockout knickerbocker of a suit by presenting it in a Jaeger branded woven suit carrier on an engraved wooden hanger.

Article by Menswear Style

Our lives are becoming busier and more demanding in not just our work lives but our social lives too. This has an impact on both your skin and your health if you don’t take care of it in the way you should. Living in a busy city can also have an effect on your skin since we are opposed to unclean air, so keeping it clean will make you feel and look fresher. Since men like to keep these ‘beauty’ regimes as quick and minimal as possible it’s tempting to just wash your face with water but this doesn't tackle problem areas and ultimately it can actually be worse for your skin.

So first and foremost you must cleanse twice a day with a good facial cleanser (not just a bar of soap). We’re exposed to so much bacteria throughout the day from pollution and dirt from our hands. If you don’t wash your face properly it becomes a breeding ground for more problems, such as black heads. The main factor you need to take into consideration when purchasing a cleanser is what skin type you have - generally men have oilier skin than women so you can use products which are a little stronger. A daily facial scrub is a perfect product for those who suffer with oily areas and if you have sensitive skin then opt for something lighter and smoother like a cleansing foam for either normal or dry skin.

If you suffer from breakouts the best products to use are tea-tree oil based cleansers as they tackle oily skin and reduce blemishes if used regularly. Secondly, exfoliate. You don’t need to do this every day just two or three times a week to remove any dry and dead skin. It takes just a few extra minutes but will leave your skin feeling fresher and brighter throughout the day. Most men shave their faces and although shaving can remove any dead skin it can also clog up your razor.  

Which leads onto the next point, moisturise! Exfoliating can dry out your skin so it’s important you must use this after an exfoliator and also in your daily regime to protect against fine lines and wrinkles. Although some of you are probably thinking moisturising is for women, you actually need this more because shaving leads to dry skin. Also, think about the fact that the sun can dry your skin out equally as much as the cold winter months, so you need to use this all year round. It’s also best to choose a moisturiser which contains SPF to protect against sun exposure.

Lastly, eye creams and lip balms. Tired eyes can eventually lead to wrinkles around the soft area so you need to protect it and keep it hydrated. Your lips also need just as much care. During the winter season our lips become dry and can crack easily. As we get older the collagen reduces so they lose elasticity which means it’s harder for them to heal. But to keep them at bay from drying out simply use a soft fragrance free lip balm overnight.

Article by Menswear Style

Years ago our ancestors were lucky enough to have had most of, if not all of their clothes handmade. However at the time it wasn’t seen as the luxury it is today. Bespoke clothing is rare and unless you are lucky enough to have this kind of clothing accessible to you, it is an expensive investment. This is simply down to the fact that due to mass production bespoke clothing is a dying art which younger generations sadly don’t want. However, if you're looking to invest in a bespoke suit here is a little guide of factors to consider.

The Purpose 

A tailor will always ask you why you’re buying a bespoke suit to help him establish the best style. So it could be a wedding, a formal dinner or that you want to treat yourself after a recent work promotion. Whatever the reason, you'll need to convey this information to the tailor.

Fabric 

This goes hand-in-hand as to what occasion you are buying for. Summer suits are made from very different fabrics than winter suits, so think about how you want it to look and how you want to feel. If you are unsure on which fabric works for the current season speak with your tailor, they will give expert advice.

Evaluate the Costs 

Be careful, the sale is agreed before the suit is made, so you have to be 100% sure of what the manufacturing involves. If this is a brand you know and you've been made aware of their labour hours and number of fittings then you will know how much you are likely to pay. However, do your homework when it comes to fabric costs and make sure the tailor has on-site manufacturing. If the cost is considerably lower, chances are they're not as authentic as advertised.

House Cut 

Whether you are going to a reputable brand on Savile Row or to a local tailor in Naples, it won’t make a difference to how you feel about the suit unless you like the house cut of the brand. Consider the difference between a British cut and Italian cut - for example both are great cuts of suits but are very different and it is likely that you'll prefer one of the other. The more research and information you can find out about each tailor will help your decision.

Body Transformation 

If you have just started dieting or working out to get into shape or you are planning on undergoing any kind of body transformation, don’t invest in a bespoke suit just yet. Wait until you are happy with your body and plan to remain a certain size and build. It's also worth considering that investing in a bespoke suit is good motivation to stay in shape.

Take Care of It 

Do not dry clean a suit unless you really have to, such as spills or stains. You can get suits steamed or pressed if it needs freshening up but generally speaking, dry cleaning erodes at the fabric. It’s an important garment which needs to be kept in good condition for as long as possible.

Article by Menswear Style

There are some beautiful independent fashion magazines on the market at the moment, so we had a go on new magazine app Readbug to try and pick out some of our favourites. Different to the mainstream fashion mags, the indies are produced by small teams who live and breathe fashion. They’re sexy, edgy and incredibly stylish. Whether you’re into high-fashion, street style or just like hearing from fashion icons, there’s definitely an independent magazine out there for you.

Dazed 

Arguably the best known indie fashion title on the planet, London-based Dazed has been pushing the fashion boundaries for almost a quarter of a century. Formerly Dazed and Confused, the mag isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers. Featuring cover stars such as Nicki Minaj and outspoken drag artist Pearl, this mag gets access to the big fashion houses and the hottest celebs.

Schön! 

Schön is a german word meaning beautiful and this is by no means false advertising as far as this magazine is concerned. It’s probably our personal favourite, as it gets the balance between stunning photography and quality editorial just right. This mag is luxurious and some shoots border on the outrageous, but it’s a great read. Previous cover stars have included Naomi Campbell, Coco Rocha and Lucy Liu.

Atlas 

A new kid on the block, Atlas was founded in 2012 by two friends and is now stocked all over the UK. With a focus on new, up and coming creatives the mag has a fresh feel and you’re more likely to find undiscovered brands. In terms of print editions they’re just 4 issues old but, don’t be fooled, this is a magazine already rubbing shoulders with the big boys.

AnOther 

From the makers of Dazed, AnOther is a twice yearly monster of a magazine. With 500 pages of high fashion this is a thing of beauty that would test the strength of any coffee table - lucky we had the digital version. This mag prides itself in its quality photography, so expect jaw-dropping shoots featuring the coming season’s biggest fashion houses and the hottest collections.

Boys By Girls 

This London-based title puts an interesting spin on the idea of the mens’ fashion mag. It does what it says on the tin; pictures of male models taken exclusively by female photographers. It’s a magazine that puts more of an emphasis on art photography but still makes a great a read. It’s stylish, moody and will definitely inspire your autumn/winter wardrobe.

You can check these mags out for yourself on your iPhone and iPad via new iOS app Readbug. Sign up for a free 7-day trial here.

Article by Menswear Style

We’ve teamed up with Next Menswear to bring you some style inspiration for autumn/winter 2015 with two great looks that won’t break the bank. The cold, wet and windy climate doesn’t mean that you can’t keep your style on point. Weith these versatile outfits you’ll have your go-to uniform for both work and play.

Formal Outfit 

This formal outfit will certainly keep you warm on those cold frosty morning commutes to work. The Charcoal Roll Neck jumper for just £22 is clean, elegant and certainly sophisticated enough for the office. Make sure you’re not one of those guys who ends up legs apart and arms wide whilst desperately trying to keep balance on an icy pavement with inadequate shoes. These Apron Boots for £65 are certainly winter ready and will provide all the grip you need for both safety and style combined. The Charcoal Textured Coat for £120 is certainly a prized statement piece. It’s a piece of outerwear to be proud of and we believe every guy should own a smart winter coat this season. The Grey Textured Donegal Tailored Fit Jacket (£85) and Grey Textured Donegal Tailored Fit Trousers (£45) is a perfect example of a winter fabric suit which will keep you toasty until spring.

Casual Outfit 

This is one of those no nonsense, simple casual outfits that you’ll go back to time and time again. The black Crew Neck T-Shirt for just £6 is cheaper than a pint of lager and acts as a great layer piece to help stop wind chill. This is then finished off with a chunky Textured Crew Knit Jumper (£25) in a nice autumnal shade of brown. Another menswear essential, Dark Wash Selvedge Jeans (£45) that are rolled once or twice and teamed with these rather brilliant Brogue Wedge Boots in burgundy priced at just £60. We’ve then combined this with the matching colourway of the Signature Italian Burgundy & Black Reversible Belt (£25) which you can also flip over to match the outfit above.

Article by Menswear Style

A Christmas tree would look pretty unloved if you just slung it in the nook of your lounge with no tinsel, baubles and heavens forbid, no chocolate treats. What's more, it makes you look lazy; a job half done. It's common single guy behaviour, do enough to make it look like you made an effort without going that extra mile. It's called the extra mile because it's the details, the little things that literally get you further down the road in life. That mile is what Tom Cruise would refer to in Days of Thunder as Victory Lane. Imagine your grey suit is a Christmas tree without decorations, without the love of a cashmere tie or a pocket square, it's just a naked after-thought slumped in a corner waiting to die.

As Travolta once said "you better shape up". Because he needs a man. Wait, you know what I mean. Introducing Black, a luxury accessories brand specialising in British and Italian made cashmere, leather and silk accessories. Make those grey suits look like you've sprinkled them with magic dust. Since its inception in 2006, fabric quality and classic design have been the cornerstones of the brands collections - as Black is a byword for both luxury and timelessness.

Some of the key pieces include this Black Knitted Cashmere Tie which is a perfect contrast to a Prince of Wales Check Suit. 100% cashmere which is like putting Lindt chocolate on your tree as opposed to broken biscuits. Its tubular shape gives it that confidence, finished classically with a square end. It's backed with black satin around the neck for extra comfort around the collar. The Black and White Polka Dot Silk Pocket Square is comprised of 100% Italian silk twill and gives the suit that air of 'London-Dandy' offering a feel of flamboyance. Notice the hand rolled edge which adds a professional touch.

Perhaps the most subtle way to accessorize the grey suit is to compliment the grey with nuanced shades. After all we still have green filters on the fairy lights. Starting with the Black and Grey Paisley Silk Pocket Square which is hand crafted from Italian silk and gives the jacket a sense of flair without being too showy. The Accadia Pewter Polka Dot Silk Tie gives the look incredible versatility. 100% silk, designed purposely for casual or smart dressing with ideal neutrality for weddings or receptions. To finish the look you can adorn the outfit with a Shades of Grey Merino Wool Scarf which is designed in four tonal blocks from silver to slate.

Lastly, we can look at taking the Grey Suit down what I like to call, the Piccadilly line. Giving it a sprinkling of Navy. I was contemplating calling it the Officer and the Gentleman makeover but thought it too tenuous and wordy. Starting with the Two Tone Blue Check Wool Tie which gives off a strong vibe, hand crafted in Italy, 100% wool and boasts a striking diamond check in Midnight Navy and French Blue. Pair the tie with an Adelfia Navy Polka Dot Silk Dress Scarf to announce your arrival. This perennial favourite will be ideal for 40s weekends, trips to the race track and looks just as good with jeans. Finish the look with the Navy Silk Pocket Square which alongside the Check Wool Tie, is confident and gives the look strength and purpose.

Article by Menswear Style

Smoking used to be cool. But standing outside in horizontal rain, with a hacking cough and a sodden cigarette in one hand, is not the habit of a gentleman. If this is a situation that you’ve found yourself in, then it’s time to quit. But quitting isn’t easy. Willpower alone will only get most people so far. As Michael Russell once said: “people smoke for the nicotine, but they die from the tar.” E-cigarettes are a new nicotine delivery method, one that happily won’t give you lung cancer or expose you to 7,000 toxic chemicals in the process. Yet while we learned how to look cool with cigarettes through style like Miles Davis and Bob Dylan, the gentleman’s vaping tastes have not yet been codified.

We ask the Electric Tobacconist, Pascal Culverhouse, for some vaping style tips: 

1. You’re not smoking a cigarette (and that’s a good thing) 

You’re not going to end up smelling of old smoke, staining your teeth, spilling ash on your chinos, or burning a hole in your new suit. Oh, and you’re also not going to wake up with a hacking cough every morning. And this is a very good thing. So if you’re using an e-cig, you don’t need to sit there at the bar scowling like the Marlboro man (who incidentally died of a smoking related emphysema).

2. There’s an etiquette to vaping 

E-cigarettes do not carry any of the dangers associated with passive smoking. But lots of people don’t realise that and so tend to get pissed off when they see someone vaping nearby. You would technically be right to tell complainers to mind their own business - but you would also be rude and, worse still, giving vapers everywhere a bad name. Oh, and while vaping at work is still legal, it is often considered impolite.

3. It’s time to move on from disposable e-cigs 

There’s a reason why disposables are usually aimed at starters or beginners. While they are great for your first time, you should be moving onto a more advanced model as soon as you are able. Vaporisers not only look better than disposables, but they also give you greater control over your vaping experience, sometimes right down to the voltage. Choose a classic black or silver model, such as the Hoxton Original, and invest in case with a wood or steel finish to complete the look. The Emili Self-Charge e-cigarette kit will never go out of fashion.

4. Take control of your nicotine cravings by choosing your e-liquid carefully 

The reason why e-cigarettes are helping lifelong smokers quit is because they are able to purchase their e-liquid in the exact nicotine strength that they need. New users shouldn’t skimp on the nicotine otherwise you’ll probably find yourself back on cigarettes if you don’t get enough to quell your cravings. But those that are comfortable with their current nicotine level and looking to give up on nicotine altogether can scale down their nicotine consumption by a couple of mgs at a time, from super strong 30mg+ all the way down to zero. You should also take some time to explore different flavours and varying your pg to vg ratio. And keep an eye out for European or American made e-liquids as these are generally much higher quality than the mass produced Chinese imports.

5. Don’t be preachy 

If you’ve kicked a 20-a-day for 25 years habit, it’s only normal that you’d want to tell everyone about it. Waking up without that cough every morning? Spending less money on something that is both healthier and more enjoyable? It’s no wonder that many ex-smokers think that e-cigs are a god-send. But the missionary work should end there, because just as no one likes it when vegans go around telling everyone the error of their ways, no one likes the guy who pushes vaping down their throats either. By all means, if you have a friend that wants to make the switch from cigarettes, show them what worked for you, but don’t let that extend to approaching random strangers on the street. Save that for the vaping forums.

Article by Menswear Style

Nobody believed it could be done, until someone stepped up and lead the way for others to follow. I'm not talking about the time I sank 12 shots of Brandy in as many minutes and broke the college record. I'm talking about the sub-four minute mile that Roger Bannister ran on May 6th 1954 at the Iffley Road track in Oxford. Iffley Road now has another claim to fame as it's the name Bill Byrne and his wife have coined their active-wear clothing brand.

Since its inception on the anniversary of Roger's 4 minute mile, May 6th 2013, Iffley Road have focused their designs on running gear that not only exceed the performance levels of its contemporaries, but it's subtle designs and light-logo give it that effortless designer look. Its activewear that can be rocked after your run is done down the pub. Drinking a deliciously hydrating yet farcically over-priced J20 of course. Based in West London, all of Iffley Road garments are designed locally and handcrafted in Portugal using carefully selected fabrics from European mills.

"We had a clear vision of wanting to produce clean, uncluttered running gear. We took our initial inspiration from the era of the first 4 minute mile. For example our signature tri-stripe is based on the colours of the Amateur Athletics Association (AAA) strip worn at the time of the 4 minute mile. Similarly our embossed roundel is a subtle nod towards the circular badges popular with many historic running clubs including the AAA". - Bill Byrne - Co-founder.

Some of the front runners (pun intended) from the Iffley Road winter range involve the Richmond Storm Jacket. It's made from a highly technical three layer Italian soft-shell, incorporating ActiveCollant™ technology, which is waterproof, windproof and breathable. It is also soft, lightweight and flexible so you won't feel like you're carrying bricks on your back as you make those hill-sprints. "We believe that what makes a really desirable piece of kit is the quality and performance of the fabric, the precision of the fit, the choice of the colour and simply getting the details right".

Layer up the Storm jacket with this long-sleeved Thorpe Merino Top. The high performance garment is comprised from the same 100% merino wool that is woven in their trademark piqué. Its itch free so you won't be running like you've got ants in your chest hair and the cut is deliberately generous allowing it to be worn over a base layer. You'll certainly look the part as you run past your neighbours chiselling frost off their windscreens in the morning. There are great savings to be had if you invest in a Winter Bundle Kit too. The beanie provides perfect insulation, and the leggings are sleek, stretchy, and breathable with a lightweight feel ensuring you don't over heat. The fabric's flexibility makes these Windsor leggings perfect for indoor circuit training as well as when you're chewing up the Iffley Road track in pursuit of beating Roger's time.

In the pipeline, Iffley Road are already putting ideas together for a capsule collection inspired by trail running for a spring 2016 launch. It will comprise a combination of new and existing styles and will feature artwork from a very talented artist the founders met through running. In conclusion, and to quote my driving instructor, “Don't you dare spark that up in here.” Only joking. Keep your eye on the road, Iffley Road to be exact.

Article by Menswear Style

Every man knows that to keep himself looking fit and healthy he needs to exercise. Be that lifting weights at the gym, going for a run or playing rugby, men need to work out their bodies. But what about keeping skin and hair looking fit and healthy? Scientists at FIT skincare have developed a range of high-tech, natural grooming solutions formulated specifically for men. Incorporating advanced formulation technologies and cutting edge active ingredients the FIT range delivers high performance, luxury skin and hair care all wrapped up in one stylish package.

A Workout for Your Skin 

The power behind the range is OXY-FIT-10, their unique oxygen delivery system that boosts skin cell respiration to increase cell regeneration. It ensures a targeted delivery of nutrients for maximum benefit, like a workout for your skin.

Introducing FIT Moisturising Ultra Serum 

Brand new to the range is FIT Moisturising Ultra Serum. Eighteen months in development and packed with high performance active ingredients, vitamins and utilising OXY-FIT-10 technology it hydrates, repairs, protects & refreshes the skin. Lightweight and non-greasy and the ultra-serums molecules are quickly absorbed deep into the skin to act faster and work for longer. It recharges and stimulates the skins natural repair mechanisms and is formulated to treat, care and repair all skin types.

All of the FIT range of serums and ultra-serums combine multi-benefit active ingredients with natural biological and marine extracts, vitamins and minerals. Complimentary, easy to use, quickly absorbed and non-greasy FIT products contain no harsh preservatives, parabens or SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate). Formulated and manufactured in the UK, the FIT Skincare range is now available. Prices from £10 at fitskincare.co.uk

Article by Menswear Style

It's no surprise that the world's biggest luxury market is evolving and it was only a matter of time before the stream of wealth, talent and investment started to flow from East to West. Chinese designers, such as Sean Suen, have attracted the attention of the British press, with Suen showing to a packed house of international press at the last London Collections: Men. The young designers marked a new wave of fresh thinking and inspiration within menswear, which has been welcomed into the industry, as it continued to grow and establish itself within the capital.

Gemma A Williams, Fashion curator and author of ‘Fashion China’, understands this shift all too well. Her recent role of moderator of 'Shanghai-London - an Urban Tale of Fashion and Creativity' aimed to encourage the exchange of business and ideas between the two cities. We had the chance to sit down with Gemma ahead of the forum to find out more about the evolving relationship and gain insight into how it may affect the landscape of menswear in London.

From your perspective, can you describe why China is such an attractive market for UK-based designers? 

“Probably the main and most obvious answer would be the spending power. However, it is more complex than that as China’s consumers are relatively new, which means they are incredibly aware of social media and comparative pricing. Brand loyalty is not such a big concept over there. However, they are adventurous shoppers, often on the look out for heritage brands that are offering something unique.”

Chinese designers, such as Wan Hung Cheung and Sean Suen have been receiving increasing amounts of attention from UK press and buyers alike. What do you think these designers bring to the landscape that is unique and fresh? 

“The concept of menswear designers in China is very new so they are gaining reputations on the Mainland, enabling them to export their brands. Beijing Sean Suen is featured in my book, Fashion China, and recently showed at London Collections: Mens. I think the fact that he is actually based in China but showing on schedule creates an interesting dynamic which is very fresh. His tailored approach to the body is very interesting and he also includes occasional womenswear looks in his presentations, which is very of the moment.”

London has a global reputation for being a hive of creativity within the fashion world. What is it about London that makes it so attractive to China, as opposed to say, Paris? 

“Well the language is one main factor and facilitates easier communication on a practical level. Also, we have incredibly prestigious design universities over here like the Royal College and Central Saint Martins. London is really the home of the emerging designer, which really suits the Chinese thinking and also the industry’s infrastructure.”

What do you hope to achieve with the Shanghai-London, business forum? 

“Recently, a number of developments have put Chinese creativity firmly on the map, like my book and the 'China through the Looking Glass exhibition', and this forum and accompanying exhibition is about keeping it there and continuing the awareness. It inspired dialogue around Shanghai as a city and tried to unpick what makes Chinese creativity and innovation unique. Hopefully it inspired some guests!”

Article by Menswear Style

Setting up a home gym is an exciting process. You can save money from avoiding monthly gym fees and you can work out at any hour of the day or night. Before you get started, there are a few things to consider to make sure your personal gym will effectively help you in your fitness journey. Read on for five things you’ll need as you’re setting up.

1. An Appropriate Space 

There’s nothing worse than knocking vases off tables as you’re bench-pressing – unless you’re feeling dizzy from a lack of fresh air. Before you assemble any equipment, make sure you’re setting up in an open, well-lit and ventilated space. Avoid overheating by choosing a room that has windows and a fan, and don’t squint through the dark in a space that has poor lighting. It’s also important that you look out for your guests and other family members. If your gym area is located in a popular spot within your home, make sure all free-weights are stored away in sturdy racks. No one likes a stubbed toe.

2. Quality Equipment and Workout Gear 

There’s no point in having a home gym if your equipment doesn’t do its job properly and poses a threat to your safety. Do some research and visit specialist sporting retailers like HART Sport to find a range of quality workout equipment that will help you achieve your desired fitness goals. By purchasing the right equipment on the first go, you’ll save money and avoid injury. 

3. Exercise and Equipment Mats 

When it comes to yoga, Pilates, sit-ups and planks, it’s much more comfortable resting on a foam exercise mat instead of rough carpet or concrete. Mats will also take the impact off your ankles and knees if you’re skipping, jumping or running on the spot. To stop your floor from getting any dents or scratches, you should also place protective mats under heavy equipment like treadmills, weight stands, kettlebells, and weight machines.

4. A Treadmill 

A treadmill could be a great addition to your personal gym if you prefer doing cardio at home. Look for machines that can measure your heart rate and the amount of burnt calories. It can be easy to simply jump on the treadmill and become complacent, but if you can measure your progress through timing and various intensity levels, you’ll be kept accountable to your goals. 

5. Determination 

When it comes to working out at home, it’s extremely tempting to procrastinate. Stay determined and keep motivated by hanging inspirational posters around your workout space. These could include images of the physique you’re working towards, as well as realistic and motivational quotes. Sometimes your brain can be the biggest enemy when it comes to staying focused on what you want to achieve. If you’ve gone to the effort of putting together a home gym, make sure you use it. Setting up a home gym is an exciting and rewarding process.

What’s your workout area must-have? Share your thoughts and any advice in the comments section below.

Article by Menswear Style

The key to a successful gym routine has as much to do with your habits as exercising itself. You can have the absolute best exercise routine in the world, but if you have bad habits outside of it, you’ll find yourself going to the gym less and less. To make sure you have an enduring and successful gym routine, here are a couple of dos and don’ts when it comes to staying healthy and in shape.

Do: Make goals for yourself 

One of the biggest reasons people stop going to the gym is that there’s no end game. Without goals, it’s easy to lose focus and motivation. On the other hand, if you set goals for yourself each week, you’re holding yourself accountable, and when you reach them, it’s a great feeling that you’ll want to experience again.

Don’t: Make the goals too hard 

It’s one thing to set goals for yourself, and it’s another to make them so difficult that you don’t stand the slightest chance of achieving them. Sure, you should absolutely start with a heavy dose of enthusiasm and energy, but be smart about what you’re trying to accomplish. If you’re saying you’re going to the gym every day for the next two months, that’s all well and good, but if you haven’t been in years this isn’t exactly realistic. Worse yet, with such high expectations, you may find yourself discouraged if you don’t reach those goals, and won’t even want to go to the gym anymore.

Do: Be smarter about your bad habits 

Getting a good gym routine isn’t only about what happens at the gym. What happens the other 20 odd hours is often even more important. Living a healthy life and getting fitter at the gym go hand in hand. As you exercise more, you’ll want to put junk food into your body less, simply so your workout wasn’t a “waste”. But that doesn’t mean you should completely kick all your bad habits. We’re only human, after all. Take smoking, for instance. It’s unhealthy and it’s hard to quit. That’s where the rise of electronic cigarettes has come into play. They're a smarter alternative to traditional cigarettes. Take the electronic cigarettes from blu UK. How blu works is that, instead of paper or tobacco, liquid is heated, meaning you’re inhaling vapor, and not smoke.

Article by Menswear Style