Is “Made in Italy” an expression of our times? Since its creation in 2012, the brand AltAlAna is answering this very question by putting together a variety of characteristics. The brand sums up the features of the Italian artisanal know how along with observation of European design in its DNA. Determined by a hybrid identity, AltAlAna keeps its strength in the manufacturing process, as well as the selection of tissues which lies in the heart of Tuscany. The creation, entrusted to the style department of the brand, looks at the trends of the urban lifestyle from all over the world.

This duplicity gives life to a new way of conceiving the ‘Made in Italy’ statement, a way focused on the preservation of the Italian standards of production, which favours the short chain and a selection of high quality fabrics – keeping an eye on the new waves of fashion. It is clear that AltAlAna designs its collections for active people.

In its own country, the label is distinguished for a design inspired by the clean shapes of contemporary art and architecture which is rising from all over the world. Giving its own interpretation of ‘Made in Italy’ by applying it to the 2.0 way of life, the brand evolves in unexpected shapes. In their latest collections it is possible to find bias pieces, oversized garments and cocoon shapes, both for him and for her, together with pure cashmere sweaters and perfectly cut edges. As their motto says; AltAlAna is expression of a Contemporary Italian Renaissance.

Article by Menswear Style

David Beckham has written his own legend; if you dare to believe, anything is possible. And he is living proof that drive, energy and determination can take a man to the pinnacle of his career, personal life and beyond. Football hero, sporting ambassador, charity campaigner, adventurer, style icon, father - for David there are no limits to who you can become. A modern fougère herbaceous fragrance with notes of Grapefruit, Black Pepper and Vanilla - David Beckham Beyond expresses the power to dream… fight… become… and go beyond.

The main values of this fragrance are Ambition, Drive and Determination which are certainly three values that we work towards here at Menswear Style. We’re constantly striving to compete with the biggest men’s lifestyle publications globally. It is this high ambition which stops us from sitting still for too long, and we’re constantly striving to innovate so that we remain modern and to appeal to an ever growing reader demographic.

“When I first moved to London and set up the Menswear Style office I knew I could make this a success through my knowledge of digital marketing combined with sheer drive and determination.”– Craig Landale, Founder & Editor-in-Chief.

The fragrance attributes of Glamour, Confidence, Stylish and Daring are also coincidently 4 words which can describe Sprezzatura – an Italian word which is gospel to many men and is something we truly believe in. The meaning is an idea coined by 16th century courtier and diplomat Baldassare Castiglione that explains how to conceal any effort you’ve made to looking stylish. It means looking dapper with complete nonchalance - It’s about making style look easy.

Competition 

We’re giving our readers the chance to win a bottle (40ml / 1.35fl oz) of ‘David Beckham Beyond’, simply leave a comment below telling us what your best achievement in life has been and how you needed to go ‘Beyond’ to succeed. We will pick a winner by random draw at 4pm November 16th – good luck everyone!

Article by Menswear Style

We’ve partnered with Mattis and Niklas Oppermann, who design men’s luxury leather goods using the best materials and craftsmanship inspired by Swedish minimalism and a twist of London style. Together we’re giving away a black Vallance briefcase worth £275. With its slim profile, the Vallance is an elegant, but sharp briefcase. The slip-in pocket on the front gives easy access to your passport, wallet, or keys. Featuring one open compartment, and one slim pocket on the side. The zipper extends over the edge for a larger opening, and a metal button secures the zipper puller to the bag.

Handmade in Italy with Swedish and Italian vegetable-tanned leathers, each product is made to stand the test of time. Only available through their webshop, Oppermann cuts out the middleman and retailers to offer their products at a fraction of the traditional retail price. 

How to Enter 

To win this stylish statement men’s briefcase simply Click Here to leave your name and email address so we can contact you if you’re picked as our random luck winner. The draw date is 11 December – good luck gentlemen!

Article by Menswear Style

The mythic quest for the Golden Fleece began in Ancient Greece. Made from the hide of a flying ram, the protection it promised was more valuable than gold. The founding spirit of Spiewak celebrates this lasting symbol of endurance and safety and with winter truly here its time to get yourself the right coat for the season.

With this in mind the American outerwear specialists Spiewak have produced a series of looks inspired by the simplicity and functionality of brutalist architecture. Styled by David Hellqvist, this lookbook showcases the true luxury of their garments against a stark concrete backdrop.

The autumn/winter 2015 collection draws inspiration from Spiewak’s military history, featuring an updated style of the N3-B parka made in Tech-Aviation Cloth with a fully waterproof cotton/nylon shell, taped seems and stain resistant Teflon coating. Other highlights this season include the MA-1 Flight Jacket made of flight Satin that is water resistant thanks to an invisible inner coating, padded with Thermore® for extra warmth.

Performance fabrics and modern technologies are at the forefront of their design and this winter the brand have looked to conservation by introducing a range of 70/30 recycled goose down filled jackets.

Article by Menswear Style

Just in time for Christmas!We’ve teamed up with our buddies Topman to offer one of our fans the chance to win a £200 voucher to spend on anything at Topman.com. Will it be one of their new winter wool coats? Maybe something from their Christmas shop full of fantastic stocking fillers. Or maybe something a bit special for yourself, a ‘to me, from me’ gift. Topman has over 50 brands to choose from such as Calvin Klein, Ray Ban, Tommy Hilfiger and more. Their latest Lux autumn/winter 2015 collection is not to be missed. It returns for the winter months with a fresh drop of forward-thinking menswear, full of premium detailing and directional shapes.

How to Enter 

To be in with a chance of winning this exclusive prize simply Click Here to enter your name and email address and we will be picking a winner at random on Friday 11th December. Good luck everyone!

Article by Menswear Style

Last year I bumped into Idis Elba on the stairs at the launch of the Remy Martin campaign at 19 Greek Street. I still maintain it was one of the best handshakes I've ever had, easily in my top 3. This year the Academy Award® nominee and Rémy Martin Brand Ambassador, Jeremy Renner, British actress Gemma Chan and model and writer, Laura Bailey gathered behind the velvet rope for the official opening party of La Maison Rémy Martin. There was an absolute orgy of cheese and chocolate on the table behind that rope. Not to mention ol' Jeremy himself who I would have crudely accosted had it not been for a true behemoth of a boil that was just brimming in its final phase of inflorescence, right on the end of my hooter. It was so big, it not only diminished my line of sight, but reduced my unapologetic willingness to humiliate myself and gate-crash the VIP party.

For the second consecutive year, Rémy Martin has opened its doors to the four-week only exclusive private members’ club. Returning to 19 Greek Street, the four floors of La Maison Rémy Martin offer its members a unique journey through a multi-dimensional world, encouraging self-discovery, as well as reflecting different views and facets of Rémy Martin. Guests joined Ol' Jeremy for the European launch of its new global campaign 'One Life/Live Them' at the Soho townhouse. The private members’ club perfectly embodies the new campaign, as it is the platform to an array of exciting lifestyle partners who will each reveal their hidden talents and passions.

As I ruminated on my hooter-boil, it occurred to me how great a gig it is to be a brand ambassador for Rémy Martin. In the Comic Strip presents Mr Jolly Lives Next Door, Rik Mayall asks Adrian Edmondson, "Is there anything better than living above an off license?" To which Ade replies "Living in one?" Well perhaps Ol' Jeremy has done one better. Get flown around the globe on the free, neck a couple of Rémy Martin cocktails with a bunch of hot 19 year old Europeans starlets, then fly back with a dozen crates of cognac to give away as Christmas presents to the neighbours.

As last year, the club’s membership is offered by invitation only. For members of the public wanting to visit the club, there will be a competition in which 50 lucky people will win an exclusive membership to La Maison Rémy Martin - you can enter the competition here. Members will be given the chance to attend a series of events hosted in The Lounge by London craftsmen and celebrities including masterclasses by Jodie Kidd and the renowned butcher Allen’s of Mayfair.

Article by Menswear Style

Johnnie Walker Blue Label, the leading luxury Blended Scotch Whisky brand, has launched the second instalment of its Gentleman’s Wager film series starring Oscar nominated actor Jude Law. Returning in the second short film, alongside Giancarlo Giannini (Mathis from the Casino Royale) and new addition Chinese actress Zhao Wei. Law is seen embarking on a race through the picturesque Italian countryside in the story of a man who proves that a little gratitude goes a long way. There were further nods to Bond as the Rome Villa upon which Law and Giannini lay down the bet, is played out in the lavish surroundings of the decadent Villa di Fiorano (unless I'm mistaken) - same location where Bond gets to have a quickie with Monica Belluci in Spectre.

The private screening took place at the Mondrian Hotel which is an absolutely gorgeous building. The undulating reception walls swing round to the restaurant like an ocean wave reminiscent of something you'd find in the Gaudi's Casa Batlló. The screen room was furnished with blue carpet, the seats upholstered in soft blue suede, a perfect backdrop for Johnnie Walker Blue Label's short film. My thoughts were also turning blue as the hot cocktail waitress deposited a shrimp canapé in my palm and with it delivered a coquettish smile. Out of pure instinct I reached for my business card and was about to go for broke, when I caught the hooter-boil in my eye line. An ill-timed boil that has taken resident on the tip of my nose which has destroyed one's mettle of late. I returned the card to my jacket lining, downed a Johnnie Walker and rued the Gods.

The Gentleman’s Wager II, tells the story of two men who enter a wager over a priceless vintage car - the stunning Delahaye 135S classic racing car, which is not only the “trophy” for the wager but also a Walker heirloom, having been owned by the family since the late 1930s. The launch of The Gentleman’s Wager II film comes just over a month post the new 'Johnnie Walker Joy Will Take You Further' global campaign, which challenges the idea that hard grind is the only way to succeed and instead shows that joy, and gratitude in kind, fuels progress.

Indeed I was very grateful for the invite from Johnnie Walker and enjoyed several cocktails. I sank 2 of them neat and let the finish of honeycomb, burnt caramel and maraschino cherries reach all four corners of my palette. The sooty aromas took time to nestle, but certainly came to the front on either the 4th or 5th glass. The Gentleman’s Wager II will be premièred globally on the 31st November at an event hosted by Jude and Giancarlo. The film follows the 2014 launch of the internationally successful first Gentleman’s Wager film from the Johnnie Walker Blue Label brand, and look out for cameos from Formula 1 heroes, Mika Häkkinen and McLaren Honda F1 Driver Jenson Button.

“I’m thrilled to be in the driving seat for the second Gentleman’s Wager film. Being back on set with Giancarlo and also having the opportunity to work with the talented Zhao, was an absolute joy. That coupled with being behind the wheel of the Delahaye 135S racing car, driving through the rolling hills of Italy and out to Monaco, well… I consider myself a lucky man!”

Article by Menswear Style

We’ve teamed up with the design team at Rad. to bring you our first ever capsule collection of clothing and accessories. Subcultures have been one of the most important fragments of fashion trends and individual style over the decades, so it only made sense for us to put the spotlight on some of the most iconic ones as the theme for our new Rad. x MWS collection of t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, phone cases and eco bags.

The Dandy 1940 

The Dandy can’t get enough of dressing up and does so to replicate an aristocratic lifestyle. He will dress up daily in sharp tailoring with no accessories spared (bow ties, pocket watch, cane). Dandyism can date back to the 18th century but our favourite period was certainly the 1940s due to the formalwear trends at the time.

The Hippie 1970 

The hippy wanted a simple natural life and their style and music choices mirrored this. Think tie-dye, headscarves, sandals, floral patterns, psychedelic prints, bell bottoms, loose shirts and Woodstock Festival. Peace Man!

The Mod 1960 

Mods, short for modernists is one of the most well-known British movements which focused on music and fashion. Taking style very seriously with great attention to detail, they’d typically be wearing fishtail parkas, Harrington jackets, button-down shirts, desert boots, tailor-made suits and penny loafers – whist riding scooters.

The Preppy 1930 

This subculture was born in the US and is associated with the Ivy League and swanky universities. Think of the slightly geeky style of today, with plenty of chinos, cardigans, oxford shirts and plaid ties. It is also strongly influenced by upper-class leisure activities such as polo, sailing, rowing and tennis.

The Punk 1980 

The punk turned his back on mainstream brands and welcomed the punk rock music movement and anti-establishment ideology. Think ripped jeans, Dr. Martens boots, leather jackets, studs, tattoos & piercings and the infamous Mohawk hairstyle.

The Rocker 1950 

A big rival to the Mods, the rocker dressed in more masculine clothing such as biker jackets, white t-shirts, leather trousers and black jeans. This subculture started in the 1950s and centred around motorbikes and rock 'n' roll music.

Article by Menswear Style

The name 'supercar' is only given to a select few vehicles that manage to achieve a certain standard and level of performance. This performance is measured in the light of various factors such as speed, handling, overall capabilities and most of all craftsmanship, that is, how all the separate parts and components come together as one. The phenomenon of supercars has also gained a lot of popularity over the last couple of decades and is likely to grow more as we step into the world of hybrid and electric cars. When talking about what sets these cars apart from mainstream vehicles, it’s difficult to know where to begin.

Designed For the Tracks 

Most cars powerful enough to fall into this category are designed to be track cars. They are engineered in a way that allows them to perform maneuvers a normal car won’t be able to handle at high speeds. They’re fitted with industry leading parts and components that allowit to better handle tight curves, such as the Lexus LFA. However, not all these cars are built to be racecars, as many of them are able to handle extreme driving conditions that will prove impossible for traditional ones.

Boasting impressive Acceleration and Speed 

In order to be superior to traditional cars, these vehicles push the limits of the automotive industry. Supercars, like Lamborghini’s Aventador, can reach speeds that are out of this world and the rate of acceleration is such it cannot even be matched to normal cars. To achieve this, a specialized engine, compatible with custom powertrain along with an aerodynamic design work together to provide minimum resistance on the road.

Built with Extreme Attention to Detail 

Powerful sports carsare built with extreme attention to detail; far more attention is given to every aspect of the automobile than normal cars could ever hope to receive. Each and every nut and bolt has a purpose that contributes to the bottom line. The number of seasoned professionals that work on such cars is amazing as well. The variety of expertise that goes into their development is what sets a car like these apart. A fine example is the Abarth 595 as this small supercar is a work of art. The level of detailing, in termsof both aesthetics and performance, truly sets it apart from other vehicles in the same segment.

They’re rather pricey, but if we’ve learned anything in this world, it’s that a price tag doesn’t show the full picture. But in the case of these cars, the quality is directly proportional to the price tag. In order to build a vehicle far superior to mainstream vehicles, it needs specialized parts and materials that are far more expensive and difficult to get than the components of normal vehicles. It’s not how sleek and futuristic a car looks or how high its horsepower and acceleration is, supercars are built from the ground up and are a display of the level of craftsmanship that the engineers have put into it.

Article by Menswear Style

Apart from the carefully curated selection of international brands, INVINCIBLE is well-known for its high-profile collaborations. Especially in the footwear segment the Taipei-based retailer has garnered international recognition. With this years' spotlight on the Superstar, timing and context could not have been better for this first collaborative project as a Consortium partner. For their interpretation of one of adidas' most iconic silhouettes, INVINCIBLE was offered carte blanche on the archetype of the Superstar, the 80v.

The design inspiration for their shoe can be traced to the style and aesthetics of the indigenous people of Taiwan. Traditional costumes often incorporate a variety of pastels but mainly shades of blue, white and red. These three colors also appear on the shoe in the form of a small row of beads around a fold down collar. A zig-zag patterned edge adds more emphasis to this particular element on the shoe which is a novelty and custom execution for this model. It is also the most characteristic attribute of INVINCIBLE's re-engineered version of the Superstar.

Slightly less visible, but significant nonetheless is the use of fish-skin on the tongue. It is another reference to the Taiwanese heritage, as this material is found on traditional armor used for ceremonial purposes and ritual fights. Further elements such as the embroidered three stripes but also the custom-designed pattern – a mix of tribal elements and logo references – on the insoles provide for an overall hand-crafted feel.

INVINCIBLE have delivered a highly conceptual design that furnishes the classic silhouette of the Superstar with a new, slightly exotic spirit. The Superstar 80v INVINCIBLE is an ambassador for the retailer's creative enthusiasm as well as for Taiwan and its rich cultural heritage. The grey version of the Superstar 80v INVINCIBLE will be launched on November 21st at No.42 Paris, No.74 Berlin and selected Consortium retailers. A monochromatic black version will be released exclusively at INVINCIBLE, No.42 Paris, and No.74 Berlin on the same day.

Article by Menswear Style

Sunglasses aren’t just for summer - if anything sometimes we need them more during the colder months while we’re being blinded by that low winter sunlight. Whether you like something chunky to stand out or something a little more classic and refined, here are our top five eyewear brands for this Autumn/Winter 2015 season.

Ermenegildo Zegna 

A refined and sophisticated brand who have produced eyewear with their elegant touch and modern design. This season they present their latest collection for AW2015/16 produced for the first time by the Marcolin Group. With unique craftsmanship there is the inclusion of titanium, leather and wood in refined tones, whilst natural materials include horn and wood to complement their latest understated frames. As well as the attentive detailing they all have Zeiss lenses for both style and practicality - they want to believe their consumers are respectful of the planet and of the people who live here. The new collection with Eco-leader at the forefront of their designs was first introduced by Stefano Pilati in his AW15 collection.

Finlay & Co 

Finlay & Co’s story began when they came across glasses which always looked the same. The same shape and style each year. They wanted to create styles which were unique - so after finding various inspirations from around the world they began creating their sunglasses from wood. This includes thirty two stages from one solid piece of wood. So with this in mind (think about how unique grains are in wood), each pair is completely unique from any other. Along with wood materials they also use Italian acetate, so their frames are strong and durable. As for the lenses - all are polarised in unique greys or mirrored golds so they look classically elegant and serve their purpose.

Persol 

Discovered in Turin in 1917, this brands holds so much history that they are able to take ideas from their own historic designs. They began designing eyewear for Pilots and tram drivers who needed to protect their eyes from dust and pollution in the air. Their name derives from the Italian term “Per Il Sole” which translates to ‘”for the sun” which is where their functionality comes from. They have been trialled and tested in extreme weather conditions so not only do they have rich designs but they’re also very practical. Their current collections are all made from acetate with either vintage or retro touches - this brand is deservedly proud of their quality and rich heritage.

Acne 

Scandi-brand Acne Studios brought out their first ever eyewear collection in April this year following their clothing successes. We didn’t expect anything less than stand out sunglasses from them and they certainly delivered. With their eyewear products all being handmade in France they are of great quality with anti-reflective lenses and UV protection. You’ll certainly be protected well against that low winter sun. All their models are unisex so whether you like classic delicate aviators or chunky statement frames, Acne has a mixture offering. This Autumn/Winter 2015, following fashion week, they launched their Oversized Futuristic Masks for people who like to hide behind a set of large lenses. For a statement styling, Acne doesn’t disappoint.

Spektre 

A brand discovered in 2009 which was quickly seen on the faces of fashion insiders and celebrities worldwide. With innovative designs and techniques, each pair is produced in Milan with high quality materials. The frames are then finished with the brand’s signature Technicolor lenses which is a feature which makes this brand so identifiable. The standout feature about Spektre is their glasses are made to be versatile, whether you’re skiing in the Alps or walking around a busy city. The brand has an elegant and unique style using a range of materials and colours to create frames for those who prefer to stand out from the crowd and make a statement.

Article by Menswear Style

A year round accessory and a staple for any refined gentleman’s wardrobe, whether to add a purely aesthetic accent or as a provider of necessary warmth, the humble scarf is a timeless classic. We spoke to the Jules B editorial team about seasonally-appropriate and carefully considered, accessorising with a scarf - and how it's an effortless way to add character to the simplest of looks without sacrificing on warmth or comfort.

Lend a chic touch to your accessories repertoire with the help of one of England’s oldest brands, famed scarf specialists, Tootal. Originally found in Manchester by textile merchant Robert Gardner in 1799, the Tootal family became involved in the business in 1842 and registered the name Tootal Broadhurst Lee Co Ltd in 1888.

Adding individuality to a variety of looks over the years, the Tootal brand became renowned for their distinctive paisley and polka-dot scarves. Whether new or vintage, the Tootal scarf has stood the test of time rising to popularity in the 1920s becoming synonymous with the ‘RAF’ look of the era which led to a Mod revival in the 1960s. Tootal scarves re-emerged in the 80s as part of the new romantic trend and were resurrected again in the turn of the millennium with the rise of Brit Pop - worn by the likes of Paul Weller, Liam Gallagher, Robbie Williams and Pete Doherty. The brand remains an iconic fashion label today in 2015.

Featuring beautiful patterns and quality silk materials the Tootal scarf is an undoubtedly expressive item with the ability to create an instant style statement. From formalwear to casualwear, the Tootal scarf offers a versatile look whether teamed with a classic velvet blazer, tailored chinos, timeless brogues, a printed tee paired with relaxed jeans and chukka boots - the silk scarf accessory is sure to have a dashing effect. 

A must have accessory this autumn and winter 2015, Tootal have raided their pattern archive again this season to produce a new range of scarves with a vintage feel and nod to bygone eras. The AW15 collection retains its heritage feel whilst placing a contemporary focus on new colourways and combinations.

Article by Menswear Style

Ever wondered who those faces are behind some of the biggest menswear companies across the globe? Aside from the glossy pages and polished images there are some very hard working editors, journalists, designers and reporters who bring us the latest news and trends in fashion. Here is our pick of the top 10 inspiring fashion insiders on Instagram right now. 

Darren Kennedy 

Irish born TV presenter (pictured above), designer and stylist; Darren Kennedy has always had an eye for stylish living. With a natural flair since he was young he believed his studies proved confidence is the main factor when it comes to dressing well. Often brushing shoulders with the likes of Tom Ford and Karl Lagerfeld it’s not a surprise to see him front row at the fashion shows. Throughout his Instagram expect to see highlights of his working days, stylish outfit posts, a few witty memes and his love for coffee and dogs.

Teo Van Den Broeke 

Esquire’s Style Director Teo combines a mixture of his working life with his personal life, while making us all jealous along the way with his amazing travel pictures. As the Deputy Editor at Esquire’s Big Black Book it’s no surprise to us that his personal style is also note-worthy. While sharing his style picks with us on his Instagram page, he’s inspiring and informing us at the same time - as well as proving to us he is hard working and dedicated to his career.

Dan Rookwood 

This is one fashion insider who seems to be having all the fun and we want to join in! The US Editor for Mr Porter has one of those Instagram pages that will make you very jealous. While not necessarily posting photos directly from the catwalks (which is a fresh change in scenery across #instafashion), instead we can gain insight into his personal life with photos of his wife, his travels, inspirations and his favourite footwear choices.

Nick Carvell 

If you aren’t already following Nick and want to be in the know then follow Nick Carvell. British GQ’s online fashion editor oversees all the menswear collections for the magazine so you will often see him amongst other journalists at Milan, Paris, and London fashion weeks - while keeping all their social media feeds in check. As a fan of American brands such as Ralph Lauren, Nick has an easy-to-wear preppy style. His Instagram pictures will show him putting together stories, running around meetings and attending international events - pretty cool lifestyle in our opinion!

Jim Moore

Known to some as the trainer guy, GQ’s America’s Jim Moore has an array of the latest footwear styles when it comes to trainers. Whilst inspiring us with his everyday attire, we also get immediate BTS updates from fashion parties, shows and presentations as they happen. If you are keen to keep on top of the latest fashion trends then you’re missing out if you’re not already following him.

Nick Sullivan 

If there is one thing all fashion insiders today seem to have in common, it’s the ability to travel the globe whilst making us all that little bit envious. They also open our eyes to some amazing hidden gems increasing our ‘must-visit’ list. Appointed as US Esquire’s Fashion Director, Nick combines a gentleman’s style with a European-esque touch. He has a jet set lifestyle and sophisticated wardrobe - we also see posts about his personal life back home with his kids just to remind us that he is too, a normal and down to earth guy.

Bruce Pask 

Founder of Menswear retailer, Berdof Goodmans, Bruce Pask is often seen in a sports jacket and denim/wool combinations - mastering the art of layering. This is probably due to the extra cold winter weather back in New York, but he does a great job of promoting brands and making his style his own. He has also contributed to many different publications over the years, and he has a real insiders eye to document the creativity of designers.

Article by Menswear Style

British brand Thomas Pink - part of the Moet Hennessey Louis Vuitton group - will partner with renowned Italian mill Albini, to produce Made in the UK shirting, as part of its ‘Personally Pink’ Made To Order Service. As part of the brand’s Which Shirt Are You? campaign - which sees Thomas Pink film shirt wearers in their natural environment - and to celebrate the ‘Personally Pink’ Made To Order Service, Thomas Pink has collaborated with legendary fashion artist David Downton. Downton features in a short film wearing his very own ‘Personally Pink’ Sea Island cotton shirt and he talks about his career as one of the world’s leading fashion illustrators.

David Downton, Fashion Artist, says; “I am commissioned on a daily basis to create beautiful illustrations - whether it be for Couture Shows, magazines or even portraits of illustrious guests staying at Claridge’s Hotel, where I am the fashion artist in residence. Commissioning a beautifully Made To Order shirt is much like commissioning a piece of art or an illustration, in that the client has a set of design specifications which they wish to have interpreted - in this case, by a master shirt maker.”

The service will offer shirt wearers an extensive choice of 160 plus fabrics, spanning fine Egyptian cottons, exquisitely woven Linens and long staple cottons in 100s, 170s and 200s. It will also encompass options for evening and special occasion in Marcella, Dobbies and Piques. A highlight of the ‘Personally Pink’ Made To Order Service will be the introduction of highly coveted Sea Island cotton. Sourced from the Gossypium Barbadense cotton plant, Sea Island cotton boasts a 120s thread count and is deemed the finest quality cotton worldwide with its unique extra-long staple length, fine texture and strength - making it soft to touch and highly desirable.

‘Personally Pink’ Made To Order clients will choose from one of four Thomas Pink blocks - Classic, Slim Fit, Super Slim Fit and Athletic - before being asked to select their preferred fabric, placket, cuffs and collar. Notable new additions to the 13-strong collar collection include the innovative Independent and the contemporary Nehru. Shirts are then cut and constructed and delivered back into store within three weeks. Frederik Willems, 

Head of Design at Thomas Pink, says; “Our ‘Personally Pink’ Made To Order Service allows men to go on a design journey whereby they’ll have the pleasure of designing and creating an impeccably well-fitting shirt which is entirely unique to their body shape. As a long-standing partner, we’re pleased to be working with our UK factory whose dedication to quality craftsmanship is unrivalled.”

Final details include a choice of buttons and thread colour, monogramming and collar bones - for the ultimate personal touch. The ‘Personally Pink’ Made To Order Service will be available at Thomas Pink’s London flagship store on Jermyn Street as well as in Heathrow T2, Sloane Street, Blomfield Street, Canary Wharf and Selfridges. Appointments are complimentary and should be booked in advance although walk-in appointments are available (no minimum order required).

Article by Menswear Style

Versatile. Chic. Practical. Sports watches have it all. There are often debates about what should technically be classed as a sports watch. Although practical, water and shock resistant, and made of tough materials like rubber and plastic, there’s a lot more to a sports watch and you don’t need to be a gym addict or training for a marathon to get great use out of them either. Sports watches have dual appeal; not only are they practical, but they are stylish too. This guide gives you a pick of covetable pieces to make a statement, on or off the field.

Superocean Heritage, Breitling 

The Superocean Heritage from the Breitling collection has been inspired by Breitling’s original model from 1957. The Superocean Heritage has reinvented many of the original's design cues, whilst also appealing to contemporary fashion trends. Some of the new remodelling includes the bezel, hands, crown, and gold ‘B' near the top of the face. Inside boasts a modern automatic movement, and is COSC-certified for accuracy. With its attractive black dial and leather band, it is hard to believe this elegant watch is classed under the sports watch category.

Formula 1, TAG Heuer 

TAG Heuer has mastered the ultimate sports watch range with its ‘Don’t Crack Under Pressure’ campaign, capturing the mental strength of athletes and sports ambassadors. Some of the biggest names in sport including Cristiano Ronaldo and Maria Sharapova are showcased on their campaign. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 sports model with its stainless steel case, celebrates the 30th anniversary of the brand’s partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 racing team.

King Power, Hublot 

Hublot have been producing luxury watches since 1980, and since then the brand has continued to grow its collection with watches for every occasion. The King Power has a titanium case with an automatic movement and is water resistant, emphasizing that it is a sports watch, but it is versatile and fashionable enough to have aesthetic appeal.

Aquaterra “Golf”, Omega 

This certified sports watch, powered by the OMEGA Master Co-Axial calibre 8500, has an outstanding resistance to magnetic fields greater than 15,000 gauss. To celebrate the brand’s expanding presence in the world of golf, this chronometer features a green central seconds hand complemented by green numbers on the minute track, along with a sun-brushed and lacquered black dial decorated with the Teak Concept pattern. The stainless steel case is presented on a stainless steel bracelet to add the perfect finishing touch.

It’s clear that sports watches aren’t what they used to be. Just because they are practical and durable, it doesn’t mean they cannot also be stylish. Find out more about the huge range of sports watches that Watches of Switzerland offer, and be a star on the court, the track or just on the street.

Article by Menswear Style

With the nights drawing in since the clocks fell back, cyclists up and down the country will have been tweaking their commuting routines to include additional safety precautions - most likely involving lights and fluoro strips or high visibility clothing. This autumn we've been fortunate enough to be wearing new British cycling clothing brand, Lumo's, Herne Hill Harrington jacket to keep us warm and safe from the hazards of dusky mornings and darker evenings. Lumo burst on to the cycling clothing scene via an extremely successful Kickstarter campaign and have developed a modest range of high quality cycling apparel for both men and women; along with a selection of cycling accessories including a bag and cap. Lumo aim to take inspiration from classic British fashions and integrate them with wearable technology to make your daily commute both stylish and safe.

The headline act on the product range are strips of LED lighting which, when switched on flash to alert road users of your presence. The Harrington jacket includes an LED strip running adjacent to the front zip, along with a further strip placed along the bottom of the rear of the jacket. The front lights up in fluoro blue colour with the rear flashing red. There are two light settings - high energy pulse and low energy flash. Sounds great, but I bet you're wondering whether this makes you look like an illumination better placed outside a Vegas casino? Well, the answer is an emphatic no! Both strips of LEDs are cleverly concealed with a tightly webbed fabric making them invisible until switched on. The strips are also neatly designed to flex with your movement, meaning that the jacket isn't stiff or rigid.

The lights are powered by a lithium polymer battery which is removable and re-chargeable. The battery connects to the lighting strips via a cable which is routed into an internal pocket. Charging is as simple as charging your mobile phone and the battery itself is no bigger than a zippo lighter. Each charge will last between 6 and 14 hours dependent on the setting you're using. The battery also features a button to turn the LEDs on and off - this sounds simple and practical but we had considered that we may have to keep connecting and disconnecting the cable prior to receiving our jacket! The design of the jacket is really smart - a sharp cut in deep navy with contrast red and white polka dot detailing on the pocket and zipper flaps. It's a small touch but it also comes delivered in a re-usable zipped pouch with full instructions, warranty and charging attachments.

We've been trialling a size medium which is a great fit (I'm 6 ft. tall and of average build). To a cyclist - it's obvious that the jacket has been designed to be worn on the bike. The hem on the back has been dropped to cover your bum in damper conditions, there's a pocket to the rear - handy for your multi-tool or spare tube, and there's elastic strips sewn into the shoulders and cuffs to aid movement and stop the chilly autumn air from getting up your sleeves. However to the un-trained eye it's simply a smart, slim fit jacket being worn about town - it could be dressed up with a formal shirt and shoes for an after work drink, or thrown over your t-shirt and jeans as you nip out to grab lunch.

Not only does it include lighting tech, the jacket also features water resistant, stain repellent, breathable fabric which is comfortable in temperatures from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. We've been wearing it in an unusually warm autumn to date and it's performed really well - regulating temperature whether we've been pedalling hard or free-wheeling and weaving through traffic. Care is relatively straightforward too - we've already touched on the removable battery and stain repellent fabric, but the LED strips are also fully waterproof and washable in case you hit some serious puddles on route.

Taking all of this into account, it appears that Lumo have fulfilled their ambition of maintaining style whilst enhancing safety. The LEDs allow you to have all of the benefits of a fluoro strip high visibility jacket, without the obvious fashion faux-pas' that these carry. The jacket is transferrable from the road, to the office, through lunch and on to a bar or a restaurant afterwards making it a truly practical chameleon.

Article by Menswear Style

The other night the top 8 singles and doubles players in the world celebrated the official draw announcement for the season ATP World Tour finale. Guests sipped Moët & Chandon champagne whilst enjoying speeches by Mayor Boris Johnson and ATP Executive Chairman & President Chris Kermode. Toasts were raised ahead of the incredible tennis feats that will take place at The O2 from 15th – 22nd November 2015.

If ever a sport was designed to exacerbate my 16-year old choleric mentality, it was table tennis. At school I was too graceless to dribble a football, too unfit for cross country running and too diminutive to impress at rugby. However I had the build for table tennis. My vivacious cat-like reflexes were perfectly suited for Ping pong. I'd practice with my best friend after school, then at home with my father who had constructed a makeshift table from two bits of MDF. The table was painted green and we bastardized a net by lining VHS cassette tapes across the centre. Everything was in place.

The only trouble was, like every other sport that required a degree of skill, I was rubbish. I had the measure of my father, but my best friend purchased a proper paddle and had gone to table tennis night class and learnt crazy whip-spin serves that bedazzled my primordial defense. Plus I only had a backhand. Quick to expose my weakness my best friend would mercilessly pick away at the forehand court knowing I'd have to maneuver to compensate, of course leaving a whole side of the court exposed. It seemed as if my ping pong skills had plateaued whilst my best friend would perform increased wizardry from the other end.

The frustration was perpetual and I crafted a new vocabulary of profanities to vent my short comings. Unlike the cathartic release you experience slugging away at an opponent or heavy bag in boxing, this sport is diametrically opposed. It's cautious, in need of a deft touch, like constructing a pyramid from playing cards. And when it goes wrong, only can your annoyance be expelled with loud expletives or weaponizing your paddle by launching it across the room in disgust. Needless to say I have mastered my fragile temper since those adolescent days. But then again, I haven't played my best friend at table tennis in nearly 20 years. That's a rematch that no one needs to see happen, or hear. 

Article by Menswear Style

Young entrepreneur winner and designer Tom Hoskin invites you to take a look at his first exclusive collection. The carefully curated Oscar Millennium collection is made to a limited edition 50 to 100 pieces per design. The young quintessentially British brand which started in early 2015 has a strong ethos on quality British craftsmanship and using superior organic fabrics. Oscar Millennium use unique fabrics such as bamboo and organic cotton blends in the manufacturing of their clothing which is a new technology fabric. This new technology fabric not only is organic and sustainable but brings with it additional benefits such as being of finer gauge and tighter knit allowing for superior quality, comfort and fit.

Tom Hoskin states “The organic food market has grown into a billion pound industry in the past decade as consumers have become far more educated on how unsustainable the conventional farming methods truly are. However, many do not realise that cotton is one of the most highly toxic and chemically grown plants in the world, and so by creating a long lasting high quality t-shirt from organic and sustainable fabrics my vision is to educate the consumer away from cheap fast fashion to quality sustainable fabrics which they’ll be truly proud to wear.”

With their vision of becoming a signature brand of British manufacturing samples of their next collection of SS16 have already begun with all items being hand crafted in the United Kingdom and with a price bracket of around £30 per t-shirt this is great value for money. 

Competition Time 

Oscar Millennium are also running a competition with us for the lead up to Christmas; with £100 gift voucher up for grabs - apply here to be in for a chance of winning this great offer. The winner will be announced on the 27th of November, so good luck and keep an eye on your e-mails. And if you can’t wait, why not treat yourself to an early Christmas treat with an exclusive menswear style 20% off discount code ‘MWS20’ off the entire Oscar Millennium collection items.

Article by Menswear Style

To put it extremely lightly, things didn't quite go to plan for England during the Rugby World Cup. Should we talk about it? Will it become a very large over-sized elephant in the dressing room? Probably not. There has been huge speculations as to what went wrong; the management, the coaches, the RFU, the players themselves. It will probably be discussed for a long time to come but for now I think it is probably best for everyone if we try and move on from it, let the RFU sort themselves out, and start to focus on something POSITIVE for a change. The Six Nations is just around the corner, which after the thrilling performances of Wales and Scotland, it could turn into the most exciting Six Nations yet! Another tournament, which will be kicking around inside the minds of the players, is the British and Irish Lions tour in 2017. This may seem like a long way off but with the amount of negative press recently, rugby as a sport needs a bit of a pick-me-up. So the other day Canterbury made the exciting announcement that they are officially taking over from the 18-year partnership with Adidas, as sponsors for the tour and therefore have redesigned the kit for 2017.

As part of the launch I was invited down to the Arch hotel, in central London, to go and interview legendary ex-England player Will Greenwood. There was no doubt it was incredibly tempting to fire questions about recent events but it was clear the attention was on the launch of the re-invented 1959 shirt. Rightly so. The deal with Canterbury means they have the rights over both the match and training kit and it seems their focus for the design has been on the historical link between the sports brand and the tour (In 1959 the kit famously got destroyed and so Canterbury swooped in to create a new strip). Will walked in confidently wearing the vintage style red shirt with the classic crest of the four nations. A calming peppermint tea in hand, we sat and chatted about what's so great about the sport, the importance of the tour and what needs to be done to win. 

Why is the branding of the Lions tour so important now after the result of the World Cup? 

"It is a great time to announce the next tour with Lions facts, shirts, sponsors etc, because it is like a transition, baton to baton. That is the beauty of rugby. Four years a World Cup, four years a Lions tour, to go every alternate two years. It is a wonderful time for the Lions with going to the home of the World Champions in 2017. The Lions has always been about being your ‘Everest’ as a player. We’ve won 5 in 125 years and if you put it into context, then to have to go to New Zealand, it makes it very exciting. As a player you want to be remembered as a Lion. Not solely as a Lion, but be known as a winning Lion. I was there in 1997 as a mid-week player. I never played in the test series but it is that wonderful close-knit community of players that come from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. You have to come together after basically being sworn enemies for 201 weeks and then having 7 weeks of being the closest best friends ever, and it is the best of the best in terms of players. That is what Canterbury pride themselves on. Their hashtag is ‘best of the best’ and they represent total commitment to the game. They’ve been around forever."

Do you think it’s a pretty poignant move for Canterbury taking over to produce the kit? 

"Absolutely. I am wearing the 1959 replica jersey and everyone assumes it is a new relationship but in 1959 Canterbury rode to the rescue of the tournament. It is staggering to think that in 1959 they had 33 test matches. You would be away for months! It is totally different today. I have a long been associated with Canterbury and it is great because they pride themselves on allowing the player to feel good, to look good and to play well."

What do you think we need to do to beat New Zealand on their own turf? 

"I think over the course of the next two years I am hoping that the coaches of the Six Nations understand not to be worred about losing in the tournament. Allow players to go and express themselves. The best players in the world right now are New Zealand. Our players have to get better. They have to be allowed to get better and live in a culture of no fear. It is a very difficult thing to ask a club coach to allow your players to go and play with speed and pace and opportunity at the heart of it when actually you want to win the likes of the Calcutta Cup. Its a weird juxtaposition for the Lions coach, as yet unnamed, wanting players to find out what their limitations are, to answer all those questions. As opposed to arriving in May 2017 and not be quite sure who your best team is and who your best players are. We aren't a million miles away, we really aren't. The coach is still to be announced but I know Warren Gatland did an amazing job in 2009 and 2013. So he won't be far from many peoples’ thoughts and Joe Schmidt has taken Ireland to back to back in the Six Nations and Vern Cotter has turned Scotland around. There is a lot of water to flow under the bridge. Hopefully, fingers crossed, England can put in a good couple of years of performances and the coaching staff can do well to allow their names to go into the mix."  

Do you think there needs to be more of a 'big game' mentality amongst the players in order to compete at the same level? 

"That is a really difficult question to be honest. I absolutely believe our guys do have big game mentality. Australia, New Zealand and Argentina play against each other all the time, so the best get better through experience. We are this little island where the two other nations are catching us up. Then there is Georgia and Japan who are closing the gap. I am trying not to wear an English hat here as Wales had a decent World Cup too. As a player and as a coach the biggest challenge is to put to one side those close allegiances. When you turn up at a hotel in May 2017, everything you know as an English player, you have to leave behind. It has got to be finding the best style of play. Those players in this jersey." 

At the World Cup there was huge emphasis on the rose on the England shirts. What do you think the crest on the Lions jersey represents? 

"It is simply four into one. Even looking down at it now it brings back memories of being there in 1997. That is one of the greatest challenges as a coach is to bring together the four nations. You see very different styles of play from across the countries. Let's say if 40 are picked, you get 10 from each country who come together and have to find their own style VERY quickly. You can possibly only have 2 weeks together before the first test and all that work can be gone in a split second. As England saw in the World Cup." 

You famously had an injury during your tour with the Lions. The Welsh famously suffered multiple injuries during the World Cup. What mentality do you think you need to get over something like that? 

"Whether its an athlete thinking about the Olympics or a golfer thinking about the Ryder Cup you have to focus and get fit again. It is nothing to be embarrassed about and it is important to have a target, like getting back into your club jersey. All players whether they work with the psychologists or not have a target and every player, whether it is for Scotland, Wales or Ireland, will be desperate to wear this jersey. So you might not sing it from the roof tops but privately behind closed doors its the next two year target. As a player I would want to win a cup for my club, win a Six Nations title and I want to be on that plane to New Zealand."  

Why should we be pushing rugby as a sport right now? What makes it so great? 

"The values of rugby are wonderful ones; trust, discipline, respect. The greatest and fastest way to highlight that is when you look at a 5ft 2 referee weighing nothing, not taking a word of insolence from a 6ft 5 20 stone monster who can run the 100 metres in 10.4 seconds. Then you retreat to the car park and whether you've won or lost, a Welshman is sharing a story with an Englishman. My father, who played rugby for England, always said to me, if you have a pair of rugby boots in your bag, you've got a passport to the world. You can turn up to any club in the world and you can immediately have 50 pals who will stand by you and look after you. That is quite unique in sport." 

Will Greenwood was speaking on behalf of Canterbury, Official Apparel Partner of the British & Irish Lions who have marked the announcement with a commemorative re-issue of the 1959 shirt.

Article by Menswear Style

Following on from last year’s American Craftsmen in Britain profiles, Shinola and Jocks&Nerds have collaborated again to create a unique series of pop-up events in Shinola’s London shop. The last in the series features a true dilettante Phil Cuttance, who will be making his resin vases and pots in-store. Members of the public are invited to come down and watch Phil work and purchase their own bespoke items. The Jocks&Nerds/Shinola initiative is the latest in the Community Of Craft project which offers the craftspeople a platform to promote themselves in a retail environment dedicated to craftsmanship and culture.

To quote the prophetic teachings of Batman's Butler Alfred, it's only whilst failing in the pursuit of perfection - the backsteps one most swallow, that we can really ripen our skills. Whether that's rebuilding Wayne Mansion brick by brick or sculpting a Marbled Faceture Candleholder, what Alfred was trying to impress upon Master Wayne that only when things go tits-up, can real progress be made. It's also the adopted philosophy of Cuttance who expresses in his interview with Jocks&Nerds magazine: 

"I’m only able to do what I do because of years of hard work, experimentation, and failure. But I've learnt a great deal by getting things wrong, and now find myself lucky enough to spend my time in the studio making things."

Throughout 2015, the series has invited crafts people from various disciplines to set up their own shops within the Shinola store. One most possess devotedness, be capable of impervious discipline in order to become virtuosic." - thanks to the internet you can now also show and sell your work all over the world." Phil Cuttance will be handcrafting resin vases and pots, as well as taking bespoke orders at the Shinola store from 12-6pm on Friday 20 November and Saturday 21 November, and from 12-4pm on Sunday 22 November. Head down and see a true artisan at the top of his game. Be sure to check out the full interview with Phil Cuttance over at Jocks & Nerds.

Article by Menswear Style