The Unexpected Label

Georgie and Alex Cleary never intended to create a clothing label.  In fact, their penchant for designing t-shirts started off just as teenage past-time. However when their friends became firm fans and the demand started to soar, the brother and sister design duo decided to launch their own line. And so Alpha60 was born.

Needless to say, the label is unconventional to say the least. After all, their background most definitely did not include long arduous hours at fashion school (Georgie studied graphic design while Alex's first career was as an aircraft engineer). This perhaps lends itself to the fresh approach to the label.  With a tag-line "Sophisticated Quirk",  Alpha60's collection consists of classic garments reworked with a darker edge.

They cite their muse to be the lovechild of Maya Deren and Vinz from one of the films that has influenced their most recent collection, La Haine.

For more, click here.

Deeper Shades of Bleu

The latest men's fragrance from Chanel to hit the shelves, is the simplistically entitled "Bleu De Chanel". The cologne, which reveals a woody aromatic citrus blend,  represents a new bold image for the Chanel Man.

To celebrate the launch, the label has collaborated with legendary director Martin Scorsese to create a stunning short film. Featuring French actor Gaspard Ulliel and Canadian Model Ingrid Schram (who were reportedly handpicked by Karl Lagerfeld himself) the film was shot in New York and is dark yet stylistically sharp offering courtesy of Scorsese.

For more, click here.

New Digital Gucci Flagship

Since it first launched its online store back in 2002, Gucci's digital boutique has become the number one shopping destination, attracting more than 2.5 million unique visitors every month. This week however, Gucci has upped the ante with the launch of their brand new digital flagship store. After eighteen months of an architectural revamp under the direction of Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, the new retail experience proves that full advantage has been made of the most innovative technologies available today. Integrating rich content, shopping and social networking, the site aims to replicate the retail experience that one would have when entering one of Gucci's signature flagship stores in Rome, Tokyo, New York, London or Shanghai.

So why not head over to GUCCI.COM and check out the ultimate online shopping experience!

"Azure Lime" by Tom Ford Private Blend

7TH MAN welcomes the latest edition to the Tom Ford Private Blend series, “Azure Lime”.

Azure Lime captures the easy style and relaxed glamour of Mustique, one of Tom Ford’s favorite destinations; a private island nestled in the Eastern Caribbean. “There is a captivating sense of warmth and luminosity there, balanced with an old-world charm that is unique to Mustique,” says Tom Ford.

Azure Lime is a refreshing, citrus fragrance yet at the same time full of depth and ever evolving.

It opens with a radiant top note of lime, evocative of the region’s lush citrus groves, together with notes of Valencia orange, lemon and bergamot.

The heart of the fragrance reveals an intercontinental richness with notes of Egyptian jasmine, Tunisian neroli, violet leaves, and orange flower. A treasured local South African herb called buchu brings a rush of mint and citrus, softened by delicate Moroccan orris butter.

The base note provides the warm sensuality of sandalwood, patchouli, tonka bean, while sea moss and oakwood extract lend a charming twist.

The new scent is contained in the Tom Ford Private Blend signature packaging inspired by the dark brown glass coloring of the apothecary bottles used in perfume laboratories.

The 50ml flacon is created to be weighty in the hand and has the sleek architectural look of a chess piece and the 250ml decanter is carved with the highest level of craftsmanship.

As with all Tom Ford Private Blend collection of exclusive fragrances, each are “open to interpretation” and suitable for both men and women.

Private Blend Azure Lime is currently available exclusively from Harrods and Harrods.com and will be available nationwide from 1 November 2010.

Private Blend Azure Lime 50ml RRP £115.00

Private Blend Azure Lime 250ml RRP £260.00

www.TomFord.com

New F-Troupe Flagship Store!

The quintessentially left-field footwear brand F-Troupe has opened a brand new store in London's Soho which reveals a special store collection entitled 'MADE IN ENGLAND. The collection, which is produced by a small local Factory in Northhampton that began back in 1881, consists of a spectacular selection of footwear for both men and women featuring the signature Anchor design. Highlights include the patent 4-bow boot and the F-Troupe perennials such as the sheep-skin lined walking boot.

The store takes reference from the classic English and Victorian influence that's already synonymous with the brand by giving it the feel of a Dickensian Curiosity Shop.  With a window that features large Victorian Carboys filled with coloured water; to other in-store oddities such as taxidermy animals and rare original imagery of circus sideshow acts, this a shopping experience not to missed.

F-Troupe will be celebrating  Vogue's Fashion Night Out on the 8th of September, so why not drop by for a drink and check out the new collection!

For more, Click Here.

Run, The Old World Is Behind You!

Hailing from Amsterdam, Outlaw Freelancers is a fresh and feisty approach to modern menswear. With its slick offering of handcrafted t-shirts featuring iconic imagery; this is menswear that is instantly wearable and directional with a sophisticated ease.

In presenting their new collection, the Outlaw Freelancers have teamed up with fashion photographers Petrovsky & Ramone to create this eye-catching launch video entitled 'Run, The Old World Is Behind You!'. Check it out.

For more, click here.

Wired For Creativity

Straight in for A/W 10 is Diesel's brand spanking new denim collection. Never one to shy away from unconventional threads, these 5pockets promote "DIY and spontaneity as a form of rebellion against the dull conformity". Featuring wire as a core material, it is interpreted here as different strands of thread running through the fabric, while decorative elements also appear on the denim reflecting the brave heart of the brand. In terms of washes for A/W 10, Diesel's signature 3D treatment is back, where a manual folding process is used resulting in a worn vintage look and sense of depth.

What's more, Diesel introduce a cool casual selection of footwear, perfect for the new season. So why not team the jeans with a pair of hi-tops from the new collection to complete the look?

For more, click here.

Something For The Weekend

7th Man favourite Dr. Martens are having a sample sale this weekend, so why not treat yourself this bank holiday?

For more, click here.

Machine-A Presents Fanny and Jessy 'Vaniloquence'

Tonight sees the launch of yet another visual delight at designer boutique Machine-A. In conjunction  with the arrival of design duo Fanny and Jessy's AW10 collection to the store, the new pieces will be exhibited upstairs while their new film Vaniloquence by Danny Sangra will be showing downstairs in  the Machine-A gallery space.

Inspired by an androgynous, unisex audience, Vaniloquence is a dark and polished collection consisting of sporty, streamlined silhouettes given a certain grunge demeanour thanks to materials such as mesh,  knit, and waxed cotton.

Vaniloquence is the second film that Danny Sangra has directed for Fanny and Jessy and will be showing at two intervals during the evening. Fanny And Jessy have been working with Danny since their first collection I hope you die soon, in which he has been responsible for their popular printed t-shirt designs.

“It’s a good combination as they [Fanny and Jessy] trust me to make something they will like. It’s great to be able to work on prints with them and make their films. Also Rowdy Superst*r created the perfect fitting soundtrack. He chopped and sewed together a surreal dark wonderland soundtrack.” -Danny Sangra

For more on Machine-A, Click Here.

For more on Fanny and Jessy, Click here.

100 Days Of Active Resistance

On the 8th of September, Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Lee  are launching a spectacular new online installation entitled "100 Days Of Resistance". The project, which encourages communication and individuality, invites the public to submit an artwork or photograph that best represents Vivienne's principle idea of Active Resistance.

Says Vivienne "It is that you get out of life what you put in and that the real experience of the world involves thinking. It is not enough to follow world politics, see films and read the prize-winning best seller. This is superficial, you need to go deep in order to understand who you are, what the world is and how things could be better. This involves culture which can only be acquired by self-education: human beings should mirror the world".

From the public's submissions, one image will be selected each day and shared online. Then, at the close of a 100 days, the 100 chosen images will be chosen to become part of a London exhibition dedicated to the project.

Vivienne Westwood will celebrate the launch of the website and their collaboration with Lee at their London W1 stores with an exhibition of Vivienne Westwood denim pieces from past to present on the 8th of September coinciding with Vogue’s Fashion Night Out.

So stand up and speak out! Take a photo, write a slogan, create an image and show your active resistance. Visit www.ar100days.com from the 8th of September and make a submission.

Flawless

Since their sterling debut album I Had the Blues But I Shook Them Loose, Crouch-End based Bombay Bicycle Club have gone on to achieve critical acclaim like no other. With an inaugural collection of songs that truly epitomized indie cool, the band have not only gained a series of accolades but a long legion of loyal fans.

Their latest offering entitled “Flaws” is a considerably more acoustic affair and perhaps marks a notable change in their direction. The beautifully written and complex album is testament to this band’s musical ability, while their whirlwind calendar of tour-dates this summer (from major music festivals to gigs at churches and arts centres) prove these boys are no doubt a force to be reckoned with….


So tell us about your new acoustic album Flaws…
Well making acoustic music is something we’ve always done; the album probably started with what we thought was a b-sides session that my dad was producing. Over the next year or so the album was finished in Jack’s bedroom, it was a pretty informal process, which was a nice change after the intensive sessions for the first album. The whole thing has just been reinvigorating for us I think.

Can I ask, what’s with the church tour? Is there a symbolic reason behind this?
Well when you’re playing quiet music it’s important that people are quiet, otherwise you end up not being able to hear the music, in a church you’re not going to talk loudly.

How has your life changed from doing basement gigs and support acts to massive festival arenas?
Not really, I write this from my parent's living room. Being in a band is definitely all about extremes, either you’re playing gigs and recording or sitting around doing absolutely nothing.

Where do you see your sound going from here?

Well the next album is going to be electric again, though might have one or two acoustic songs on it. I probably see the next album carrying on from songs like always like this and the giantess. After the next album who knows though, maybe another acoustic album or maybe something completely different.

Their new single, ‘Rinse Me Down’ will be released on September 20th.

For more, Click Here.

Key Looks Online

As devoted followers of Burberry and with a considerable penchant for one of their signature pieces, the label’s venture- Art Of The Trench- has consequently been quite an obsession of ours.

The site, which documents the history of the trench through iconic Burberry imagery, also reveals an intriguing project in collaboration with the world’s leading image makers as well as featuring works from the global creative community.

Launching with specially commissioned trench portraits courtesy of Scott Schuman of The Sartorialist, the site consists of an eclectic mix of trench lovers from across the globe and even gives you the opportunity to submit your own portraits which you can do here.


Another luxury brand to catch onto the viral marketing bandwagon through Art/Fashion collaborations is Hermès with their newly launched  J’aime mon Carre. This highly visual site features street style inspired photograph’s of ‘IT’ girls from London, Paris, NY and Tokyo sporting their favourite scarves.

A particularly nice touch is their “Knotting Card” which teaches you to tie different knots, as well as some retro videos and snappy interviews.



All this site needs is a nod towards some gentlemen brandishing some scarves and the site would be complete!

For more on Art Of The Trench, Click Here.

For more on J’aime mon Carre, Click Here.

Off To The Theatre

Despite its French title, Theatre De La Mode is an English brand that supplies ready to wear with understated intricacy.

Season after season a mish mash of muted colours, patterns and juxtaposing textures are sewn together with a calm playfulness and an overall feeling for good taste. Spring 2011, the Olympian collection delivers exactly what we expected. Items are subtle, some not so much. Either way all looks are well fitted, and the collection succeeds in having a look for everyone. And anything that can offer an elasticated waistline and still look smart is good in my books!

For more, Click Here.

Words: Alexander Bishon Rowland

Redesign Tomorrow. Today.

The Earth Awards is an aspirational platform that recognizes innovation and inspires positive change for all our futures. The awards celebrate designers from the worlds of Architecture, Innovation, Product Design, Process Efficiency, Fashion and Social Justice and gives shape to their vision. In all, it is the only truly global awards dedicated to identifying viable designs which have the potential to improve our quality of life and build a new economy.

Within the Fashion category, it blends sartorial design leadership with innovation in the use of sustainable ecouture materials, right through the supply chain and garment lifecycle. The Earth Awards believes in both the aesthetic and the ethical when it comes to high fashion.

Out the top six innovations within the fashion category, Jamie Lim's bamboo Kayu Eyewear has come out on top and will now compete with five finalists for $50,000 funding in a ‘Dragons Den-type’ pitch to CEOs at an FT Innovators to Investors Summit on 16 September. Selected finalists will also exhibit at HRH Prince of Wales’ Start Festival in London.

The Kayu sunglasses, designed as an ethical fashion statement where each pair sold funds sight-restoring surgery in the developing world, highlights the groundbreaking innovation needed to make the Earth Awards Shortlist.

Says Julie Gilhart, Earth Awards judge and Fashion Director at Barneys New York: “The Earth Awards is about empowering a new generation of innovators to propose new designs and technologies which have the potential to redesign our future. Cutting-edge fashion has always responded to the latest social trends; in such a competitive industry, it’s exciting to see undiscovered designers push through the crowd by gaining an ethical edge.”

For more on The Earth Awards, Click here.

For more on Kayu Lim's incredible bamboo eye-wear, Click here.

Magic In The Air

"A bee kept trying to get into my mouth in the first song.... so that was a little disconcerting", proclaims Luke Temple of Brooklyn quintet, Here We Go Magic as he takes a large gulp of water. It's the height of the summer and as the sun drenches the Suffolk countryside to the hum of guitar strings, all of Latitude is reveling in the quintessential festival atmosphere.

In the dressing rooms behind the main stage, the band are relaxing after playing a crowd-pleasing set to the music hungry fans. But momentary sit-downs are rare and few for this hard-working band, who the very next day were jetting-off to Chicago to play at Pitchfork festival after a whirlwind tour of Europe. "Yep, it's just TOUR TOUR TOUR TOUR, at the moment", the band reveal with a laugh.

With world-wide domination under their belts thanks to an old-school drive of pulling in the fans through a multitude of incredible live gigs; it's not bad considering this indie collective began little over a year ago. Originally, Here We Go Magic was the 4-track project of vocalist and guitarist Luke Temple, before his gang of talented friends entered the equation.

"I had been playing with Pete (Hale, drums), just kind of jamming. Then all of a sudden some shows came around, so I had to put a band together", reminiscences Luke. " So we decided to turn what we were doing into Here We Go Magic". Shortly after that, the musical duo were joined by Michael Bloch on guitar and Kristina Lieberson on the keyboard. Finding a suitable bass player however, took a bit of time; "We had a different bass player on board originally, but that didn't work out. Jen meanwhile had seen a few of our shows and was probably our only fan in the world. Then one night, we ran into her at a party and she was like 'If you you ever wanna jam-and I'm not asking to be in the band-but just if you ever want to get together and play, I play bass'. So we got her to come round the next day and that was it! The band formed and we've been on tour ever since".

Despite their hectic schedule on the road, the band have some how managed to produce a follow-up to the self-titled Here We Go Magic, Luke's debut which has been touted as a "Stream-of-conscious lyrics and swirls of psychedelic, lo-fi noise" . The latest offering meanwhile, the obscurely named Pigeons, is a beautiful collection of hypnotic tracks fused with dense yet sweet harmonies all rolled together with an ethereal blend of heightened repetition.

"We were really into Krautrock when we were making this album", Luke explains, " We listen a lot to these German bands from the 60's. That's a sort of running theme for us." Indeed, this heavy influence from the experimental music scene from the last century is evident in their latest repertoire. With Krautrock submerging the music industry at a time where iconic bands strived living on the road and lived for playing to live audiences, it appears the movement not only inspires Here We Go Magic musically, but their rock'n'roll work ethic too.

So with two epic albums to their name and having threaded the main stage of some of the world's biggest music festivals, what's next for this band of talented friends? "More tours!", they exclaim. Begs the question really doesn't it, do Here We Go Magic ever sleep?

Nautical But Nice

Summer holidays may be but a blissful memory for many people as the Autumn breeze starts to roll in and you find yourself trapezing back to the office under a rain cloud. So why not cheer yourself up with a subtle nod to those long lazy days spent at the seaside. With the Paul Smith Scuba Diving Cuff-links featuring two encased website -clad  figures, all you need is a flick of the wrist and you'll be instantly transported back to that Mediterranean vacation...

For more on Paul Smith, Click Here.

The Modern Artist

Liverpudlian fashion illustrator Richard Kilroy has always had an affinity for fashion and art since a young age. Having been mentored by acclaimed  artist Dave White during his teens, Kilroy has since gone on to work for the likes of Ponystep, V Magazine and designer Keko Hainswheeler.

This summer will see the launch DECOY: Visual Distraction, a newspaper based primarily on fashion illustration and areas of related interest of which Kilroy will assume the role of acting editor.

Already, we here at 7TH MAN are huge fans of work and particularly have taken a liking to his series "An Illustrated Look At Modern Menswear".

Jean Paul Gaultier, A/W 10

Dunhill A/W 10

Burberry A/W 10

Bottega Veneta, A/W 10

Jill Sander, A/W 10

Raf Simons, A/W 10

Alexander McQueen, A/W 10

For more on Richard Kilroy, click here.

Step Out In Style

New for Autumn/Winter 10 comes the expansion of Levi's Men's Premium Footwear collection following the success of the line in previous seasons. Taking inspiration from the brand's quality craftsmanship and strong work-wear heritage, the collection focuses on the classic boot silhouette that has now become synonymous with Levi's.

The range- which exudes a certain sense of Americana which ties into the apparel line- features six iconic styles. With Levi's signature buttons and rivets, the traditional work boots-Hob Cap and Hob Monkey- are produced from painted and washed leather with brushed uppers to give them a classic rugged style.

A key look this season courtesy of Levi's is the Crepe Desert Boot. With a chunky side stitch and layered construction, the boots come complete with plain aged studs, simple heat embossed flying tabs and Levi's signature red lining.


Produced from premium nubuck, the traditional Forchelsea boot and Lebrog brogue styles are washed and dried slowly with brushed level uppers which give them a distinctive vintage softness. To complete the look, both styles are signed off with an embossed Levi's two horse logo.

Finally, to complement more formal attire, Levi's have created the Forankie Oxford Boot, featuring recycled tunit soles with a brass finishing. The timeless style also features a gently curved sole, the result of the washing process which gives the appearance the shoes have been worn over time. The over all branding is subtle, using self-embossing and stitching, reminiscent of the clothing features.

The collection is previewing in select retailers from July 2010 and will be available at Levi's newly re-crafted flagship store, ASOS and select Kurt Geiger stockists.

For more, click here.

Hey, Hey, Happy Birthday!

2010 marks the 50th anniversary of iconic footwear label, Dr. Martens. From humble beginnings in the English midlands to an all out infiltration of the international high-fashion market; Dr. Martens has been the brand of choice for a multitude of social groups over the years.  Why not check out this video, detailing the history behind this British institution:

What's  more, in celebration of their anniversary, Dr. Martens. have asked ten artists to record their version of a cult classic track which represents the spirit of the people who have worn DM's over the past fifty years.  They have also asked ten directors to make videos for each of the tracks. 

Here's  The Duke Spirit cover of Sham 69's The Kids Are United. Be sure to check out the rest though, which you can find here.

Fancy owning a piece of DM history? Well get yourself over to the anniversary website, as Dr. Martens are offering you the chance to win one of 50 special pairs of 1460's which were made in their original factory in Wollaston, Northamptonshire. Closing date is the 25th of August, so get entering here.

Check It Out

Last week saw the launch of the highly anticipated Dominic Jones window at Machine-A and the spectacular design has been catching the eyes of Soho ever since. Executed by the extremely talented Luke Abby and his team Tonea Charley, James Barnett and Poppy French; Dominic Jones's exquisite  installation consists of stacked, mirrored boxes which are cut at an angle and contain rotating platforms with various different trees attached. The result is a stunning visual illusion. Says Luke, "The window is very unique, clean and exciting. I'd love to say simple, but that wouldn't be true as it was very hard to do!"

Luke however, is no stranger to hard work as he juggles careers both in-front-of and behind-the-camera. As a successful set designer, he's produced creations for the likes of Fiasco, Disorder and Notion, as well as having worked on the presentation for Twenty8Twelve at LFW. (Luke's even worked with us here at 7th Man!) Meanwhile, as a hot up-and-coming face at AMCK, his modeling career is also certainly on the rise.

So what does he make of his latest venture at Machine-A? "This was my first major project by myself but I'm so glad that I took it on as I've been wanting to do something for Machine-A for a long time now. So to get this opportunity was a great satisfaction. Plus it was nice to do a window display as I hadn't done one before, so I'd definitely love to do more".

Dominic Jones's window was inspired by the work of the World Land Trust. Now celebrating their 21st year, they are devoted to raising public awareness of the endangered Atlantic Rainforest of Northern Argentina. Ultimately, the window is an innovative approach to create awareness, while Dominic Jones's beautifully designed t-shirt will help raise funds for the cause. So be sure to head down to Machine-A to check out the window and why not buy a t-shirt while you're at it and help save the earth in style!

For more on Dominic Jones, Click here.

For more on Luke Abby, Click here.

A Modern Take

Prada's new shoe collection is a sleek and sophisticated reinvention of classic shoe designs. The modern interpretations are made in polished leather and saffiano on rubber sole and features stylish shapes such as the loafer, driving  and lace-up shoes as well as the signature Prada boot.

For more on Prada. Click here.

John Varvatos << USA Accessories Collection

Debuting this Autumn/Winter is John Varvatos's latest export of cuting-edge cool. With rather a more youthful slant than the designer's eponymous collection, John Varvatos USA exudes a preppy-meets-rocker style based on an "imperfectly perfect" appeal.

The collection has a meticulous attention to detail, with the bags hand-stitched in Italian leather, complete with raw-cut edges and chunky hardware that give an edge to their refinement. Soft skinned wallets are toughened up with biker chains; while zippers, studs and hanging medallions featuring iconic symbols add a certain attitude to the bracelets and belts of the collection.  Unexpected twists complement the range such as the the special "x-ray" detail featuring on some of the belts, where studs are actually covered in leather for a signature one of a kind look.

Says Varvatos of chic line; " This collection brings both design and value to our customers. It's not just about a price point though, it's about giving this younger guy accessible options that he can relate to".

For more on John Varvatos, Click here.

A Close Shave

When it comes to male grooming, Notting Hill's Carter and Bond is, without a doubt, the best place in town. With a highly-knowledgeable and friendly staff, Carter and Bond furthermore offer the ultimate experience thanks to a huge level of skill and use of the finest tools and products.

Having been treated to a sleek haircut where luxurious products such as the Pashana American Bay Rum Hair and Scalp Tonic revitalized our hair, 7TH MAN can honestly say we're huge fans.

What's more, while we got our hair coiffed, we were lucky enough to receive some shaving tips courtesy of Carter and Bond's in-house barber Mustafa:

Preparation

● Wash the face before shaving to remove impurities which prevent the hair shafts from absorbing water – soaps tend to dry out the skin so use a facial cleanser or mild scrub

● Have a bath or shower before you shave as this will open the pores, soften stubble and make it easier to cut. Better still, shave whilst in the bath or shower.


Products

● Use an ‘undercoat’ of shaving oil or the legendary Proraso Pre Shave Cream beneath your chosen cream or soap. This will make for a smoother, more comfortable shave by giving both extra lubrication and protection.

● Lather up with a good quality shaving cream or soap. These not only lubricate the skin, improving razor glide, but also prevent stubble from drying out and becoming tough as you shave.

● Avoid gels and foams that use synthetic perfumes, artificial colours, preservatives, alcohol and toxic propellants to generate an artificially rich lather. These not only dehydrate the skin but provide little lubrication or protection The fact that they are applied cold also means they close the pores causing the hair to stiffen.


Technique

● To get the best out of your razor use light, gentle strokes, letting the razor do the work. Little strokes help prevent skin irritation.

● Shave in the direction of growth. Going against the grain can cause razor burn
and ingrown hair. However, hair on the neck can grow upwards so the correct shaving direction for this area may well be upwards.

● Use your fingertips to check if you’ve missed any areas as you shave. It’s easier to feel for patches of hair when the skin is wet.

● Leave the toughest stubble until last – usually on the chin and beneath the nose – and start on the cheeks. This way the cream will have longer to soften up the difficult areas.

● Try to have a day or weekend off from shaving whenever possible to give the face maximum time to recover.

● If you have sensitive skin or suffer from razor burn then try shaving in the evening rather than the morning. This way instead of exposing just shaved skin to the elements this will give the face time to rest overnight.



Razors

● Always use a sharp blade. Unless your preference is for a traditional safety or open razor we recommend using the Gillette Sensor or Mach3 swivel head blades. There really is no need for more than a three blade razor and for those with sensitivity, razor burn or ingrown hair, the more blades the greater the likelihood of irritation.

● Rinse your blade regularly during shaving to prevent a build up of hair and shaving cream that will diminish performance.

● Maximize the life and sharpness of blades by rinsing thoroughly after shaving with very hot water and then drying carefully with a towel in the direction of the blades
(i.e. not the direction that would tear the towel). This simple ‘stropping’ action can massively extend blade life.

Shaving Brushes

● A shaving brush not only feels great but its action lifts the beard and ensures that each hair is thoroughly lubricated with shaving cream.

● Badger hair retains water like no other making it ideal for shaving use. Bristle hair brushes are slightly coarser and less effective but cheaper, whilst synthetic hair brushes have come on a long way

● After use, once excess water has been shaken off hang the brush to dry with hair facing downward so that water and suds do not seep into the handle where they can damage the bonding of the hairs.



Post Shave

● Rinse face thoroughly and end with a few splashes of cold water to close the pores.

● Apply a post shave balm or moisturiser to soothe the face, lock in hydration, protect from the elements and encourage new skin cell growth. Post shave products tend to have antiseptic and astringent qualities not usually found in ordinary moisturisers.

● Avoid splashing aftershave directly onto the face after shaving. The fragrance may be nice but aftershave is very dehydrating. If you want to smell nice then you should use Eau de Toilette, applied to the base of the neck and/or the shoulders.


For more on Carter and Bond, Click here.

Sounds Of The Summer

From its humble beginnings as a birthday barbecue, Standon Calling this year celebrated its tenth anniversary by proving that it’s bigger and more colourful than ever. Set in the rolling countryside in essentially founder Alex Trenchard's backyard (complete with swimming pool...); this boutique festival relishes in its non-corporate philosophy and this year pulled out all the punches in making it the ultimate independent festival of Summer 2010.

Striving on a level of authenticity fused with a certain whimsy, this year's offering not only included a killer musical line-up but also served up the quintessentially apt murder mystery theme of Murder On The Standon Express. Featuring such wonders as a Sweeny Todd's Barber Shop, an abandoned cinema, and a night club in a cowshed (as you do), the site alone provided fancy dress clad punters the perfect setting to revel in this devilishly delightful world of debauchery.

Fully expressing this particular narrative throughout the course of the three days, it was however, the Saturday night that truly became the epicentre of an alternative universe as the site became invaded by the likes of the cast of Scooby Doo as well as some rather literal interpretations of the classic Cluedo characters.

Musical highlights from this momentous weekend included headliners Liars and Etienne De Crecy whose phenomenal sets drew the masses to the main stage; while Orchestre Buena Vista Social Club rounded up Sunday night’s excursions in typical spectacular fashion. Meanwhile over at the Twisted Licks Tent, British Sea Power and Delorean where hot favourites, providing majestic anthems to the eager crowds who packed out the Baker Street Station inspired stage.

In all, Standon Calling 2010 was an epic affair and one we hope retains its personal edge. It may not be the biggest festival in the world, but with a line-up that boasts quality over quantity, an over-whelming friendly atmosphere and an added bonus of random quirks; this is a festival whose charm grants it the best-kept secret the UK festival calendar has to offer.

For more, Click Here.

Hello Doctor

Last week we gushed about the Dunhill iPad Cover and today we're in love with the perfect accessory to sport it in...

Introducing the Dunhill Doctor's Bag- a timeless creation which is handmade to order and based on the shape of traditional Physician's bags yet reworked with a decidedly modern edge.

Incorporating distinctive detailing such as an original Dunhill designed closure mechanism; the luggage is crafted in the most superior of materials and guarantees a soft yet surprisingly durable finish.

For more on Dunhill, click here.