Should You Shave Your Beard for an Interview?

Posted on by dansinnott

Should You Shave Your Beard for an Interview, smartly dressed man with beard reading a newspaper, bearded man, bearded in in sunglasses, man reading the newspaper, beards for business

This is a tricky one.

On the one hand, you love your beard.

Then on the other, you probably could really do with that new job.

So the question is…

Do you take the hit on your man pride by shaving off your beard, effectively playing it safe – or do you go all guns all out – bearded, confident and dressed on point?

Ultimately, we think there are three major factors at play that you have to think about:

i) What does your interviewer think of your beard (and beards in general)?

Beards have become far more socially acceptable in recent times, that’s a given since the recent beard booms and what seems to be the undying trend.

Unfortunately, there is still a slight, albeit unfair stigma still attached to them. The typical one of course being – that a guy who sports a beard is lazy, unprofessional given that he can’t even be

bothered to shave. Harsh and largely untrue given that a good beard takes a lot more upkeep than just shaving every few days.

Of course, you won’t really know if your interviewer likes beards or not, but if you happen to know who you are going to be interviewed by, this could give you a little heads up.

It might be worth hopping on to your laptop or smartphone and do some classic ‘social media stalking’, checking out LinkedIn, Facebook – you know the drill and try and figure out if he is sporting one. If he is, it’s a good sign, he’s on your side. No beard? It could go either way.

The less risky route of course is to go shaven, if this is something that concerns you we will explain a little later why you should probably reach for the razor.

ii) Does it fit in with the ‘business culture’?

In some industries facial hair is just far more widely accepted.

Finance and law, it is almost an unspoken rule that wearing facial fur is pretty much forbidden. As with most things, there are exceptions to the rule but you best bet that those guys who sport their beards in such industries are incredibly well-kempt (again, this is something we will get into a little later).

Then there are industries that pretty much require shaven faces for health and safety reasons due to large industrial machinery or where they are a little frowned upon such as in food preparation areas (where they require you to wear beard nets and trust us on this – it just ain’t a good look).

Then there are much more beard friendly industries such as gaming design and development, photography and so on. We tend to find that with most creative jobs, they almost go hand in hand.

Ultimately, what we are trying to do is to encourage you to get your research on. Head to LinkedIn and check out the company you are applying to and other competing companies, and ask yourself does it look like many of their employees are bearded?

If so, take it is a thumbs up.

If not – it’s probably something you ought to think about.

iii) What do you think of your beard?

Of course, we know you love your beard.

What we really mean here, is do you think ultimately your beard will be working against you or not?

Whether it ‘actually’ does or not in reality, what you don’t want to happen is your subconscious screwing up your interview because you are stressing that the beard is not working in your favour.

If you are cool with it and don’t think there are any issues to be had, then that’s awesome. Keep that glorious man mane of yours!

However, if you think there potentially ‘might be’ an issue whether in fact there is or isn’t,, it could end up negatively impacting on your interview performance. In which case, we recommend you play it safe and get it shaved off. At least that way, your focus is 100% on the interview on hand.

That said, if that is the case though, we would raise the following question to ask yourself:

Can you go without your beard for the sake of your job?

I’m afraid, only you can decide that one.

iv) If you’re keeping the beard for the interview

First off, that’s awesome! We know it takes a bit of guts and we tip our hats off to you for that.

Now if you do decide to keep your beard and go ahead with the interview, you need it looking its best.

Even if your interviewer likes beards and is a beard friendly job – you still can’t turn up with it being scraggly with stray hairs sticking out all over the place. Tidy it up, apply some good beard goodies and have it looking its absolute best.

Here’s a quick step by step breakdown to have your beard looking awesome:

  1. Comb out your beard.

It’s a given, but the quickest way of dealing with tricky beard knots and generally making your beard looking neater and fuller is using a proper beard comb to help bring some order and get it all into place.

  1. Splash on some beard oil or a beard balm.

Make use of a high quality beard oil by thoroughly massaging it into your beard and skin to help moisturise and conditioning as well as to give you a great smelling odor. If you are still struggling with flyaway beard hairs, reach out for a styling balm that will help to give you some hold and control over your beard.

  1. Brush the beard and shape it up.

The final touch is just to help distribute the oils that you have applied and then helped to get your man scruff in order.

If your beard is looking particularly out of place we recommend heading to your local (and trusted) beard barber, they will help shape it up – take care of any neckbeard for you and ultimately give you a style that suits both your beard and your face. All you have to do now, is carry out the few steps we’ve just mentioned.

Like we say, it’s your call.

Play it safe and get a shave or stick it to the man and face that interview with a great luscious face forest.

Either way let us know how you got on.

A Cut Above: Dress to Impress in Any Interview

Posted on by dansinnott

 

Man in suit, what to wear for a job interview, job interview clothes man, man in navy suit, gentleman in navy suit, going for an interview

The pressure is on. You’ve found your dream job and landed yourself an interview. Your new task? Impress the interviewer and prove you are worthy of the role. Easy? Not so much.

Interviews are intimidating. You’re sat in front of people whose sole purpose is to judge you and your abilities. Unplanned questions, spontaneous testing, unfamiliar faces, indistinguishable rooms — the whole process is unpredictable. Preparation may be the key to excelling in an interview, but with so many uncertainties, it can feel like you’re entering a minefield.

Thankfully, there is one thing you have complete control over: your look. ‘Dress to impress’ or ‘dress for success’ may seem like tired cliches, but like all good cliches, they are grounded in fact.

Dress for success: the facts behind the cliche

First impressions are important. An average interview may last around 30-45 minutes, but your interviewer will have already made their initial judgements about you within the first seven seconds. It may sound unlikely or unfair, but it’s the way the human brain functions. We’re a visual species. Have you ever come across a dark alley and immediately made a detour? Or decided against buying that Gucci watch from a market stall? We all use visual appearance to make snap judgements.

Your interviewer is no different. They will base their first judgements on your immediate appearance. A dirty, ill-fitting suit suggests that you’re lazy and disorganised, whilst a sharp, tailored suit suggests that you’re smart, well put-together, successful — regardless of if this is true or not.

Remember: you only have one chance to make a first impression. The rest of your interview will be an opportunity for an interviewer to test their judgements. It’s far easier to reaffirm positive assumptions than to try and disprove negative ones. Don’t believe it? In a survey by Adecco, they found that 75% of hiring managers identified bad fashion choices as the top mistake made in interviews.

Fake it ‘til you make it: the lab coat effect

Would you feel more comforted by a doctor wearing a lab coat than a hoodie? Or feel more safe with a policeman in full gear instead of jeans and a t-shirt? You’re not alone. Studies conducted in the 20th century found that certain clothes inspire trust and faith in a person’s ability. Clearly, fashion informs our perceptions of intelligence, capability and reliability. But, did you know that your fashion choices can have the same positive effect on you?

A study at Northwestern University found that when people wore a lab coat, they performed better in science tests, and when donning an artist’s smock, became more creative. The conclusion? Our clothes change our perceptions of ourselves. If you dress like a boss, you’ll trick yourself into feeling like a boss. Asserting confidence and assurance is essential in an interview. So, try faking it ‘til you make it!

Interview clothes basics: 6 fail-safe fashion tips

Every interview is different. We no longer live in a time when a black suit is the only appropriate outfit to wear for an interview. Tech companies and start-ups have changed business fashion. So, it’s important to take the time to do the research and find out what the company’s dress code is.

Still, there are a few fail-safe tips that you can apply to any interview. Follow these six steps to give yourself the best chance of nailing your interview and getting your dream job:

 

  • A tailored suit is the only way: A poor-fitting suit is never a good look. If you’re buying your suit from a one-size-fits-all high street shop, chances are it doesn’t fit properly. You don’t have to go to a tailor or spend a fortune; there are cost-effective online tailors to check out. Invest in a suit that really fits and you’ll always look your best.
  • Breathable fabric: No-one blames you for getting flustered in an interview, but no-one wants to see sweat stains. Invest in a good shirt made from a breathable material like wool or cotton to keep those sweat patches at bay.
  • Colour code: Bright, garish colours belong on the beach, not at an interview. Keep it simple with neutral colours: white shirts, tanned shoes, understated trousers and jacket. Remember, you’re the main show, not that statement shirt.
  • Get grooming: No matter how dapper your suit or how polished your shoes, dirty nails and scruffy facial hair will leave a bad taste in the interviewers mouth. Before an interview, go for a haircut at a trusted barber, clean shave or tidy up your facial hair, cut and buffer your nails. It’s the small things that count.
  • Make it your own: Accessorise your outfits. You need to stand out from the crowd in an interview. Simple accessorising is the easiest way to do this. A smart tie, customised cufflinks or a leather watch will add a unique flourish to your look.

Stay calm and collected. Follow these steps and remember the rule: ‘dress for success’.

Anthony Horner is the director of Empire Outlet: a luxury menswear company that provides high-quality suits and accessories for affordable prices that will not break the bank. Empire Outlet operates online and serves customers around the world.

How much will your lads’ holiday cost?

Posted on by dansinnott

How much will your lads holiday cost, lads holiday, lads in the sea, boys holiday, lads lads lads, ibiza holidays, summer holidays, how expensive is a lads holiday

Knowing how much spending money to take on a lads’ holiday is always tough. You don’t want to take too much, but you definitely don’t want to be out of pocket when your mates are all having a good time. So, how can you work out how much spending money you should be taking on 2018’s top lads’ holiday destinations?

Taking into account food, drink and travel, QUIZMAN — leading retailer of quality men’s t-shirts — has worked out an average spending money total for how much you should have in your wallet for each lads’ holiday destination.

Ibiza

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Average daily cost: £361
Hotel per person, per night: £279
Food for a day: £51
Bottled water: £9.74
Taxi from airport to Ibiza Town: £13-£15
Taxi from airport to San Antonio: £23-£27.50
Beer: £2.20-£3.50
Currency: Euro

Ibiza has been Europe’s party capital for years — and it’s still going strong. Pretty much everywhere you stay on the Balearic Island of Ibiza, you get a 24-hour party scene, incredible weather, excellent pool parties, world-renowned DJs, heaps of hilarious daytime activities, party boat cruises, and more. The clubs here are visited by people from across the world and you have a great mix of bar vibes — from sports and Irish bars, to rock/indie and chilled pool bars. Head to the San Antonio area for the best nightlife. But bear in mind, drinks and entry fees in certain bars and many clubs get extremely expensive in Ibiza.

Krakow

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Average daily cost: £54
Hotel per person, per night: £41
Food for a day: £6.50
Bottled water: £0.65
Taxi from airport to city centre: £18
Beer: £1.40-£2.40
Currency: Polish zloty

The second-largest city in Poland is now a firm favourite for stag dos and lads’ holidays. If you’re after a long weekend of bars, beers and chilled times; this city is ideal. Made up of 18 districts, your best bet is booking accommodation near public transport to save on taxi fares or bang in the centre to be near the best nightlife spots. Krakow is full of cool basement bars with great atmospheres. You’ll find hundreds of bars and clubs stretching out from the city centre, while the best clubs lie on Szewska and Florianska high streets.

Amsterdam

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Average daily cost: £111
Hotel per person, per night: £65
Food for a day: £27
Bottled water: £4
Taxi from airport to city centre: £35-£45
Beer: £3.30-£4.40
Currency: Euro

Although it’s the most expensive holiday destination on our list, Amsterdam is well worth a visit. Ideal for an easy time away, the capital of the Netherlands has a world-renowned reputation for partying and is packed with clubs that attract the best DJs on the planet. During the day, you can make the most of this incredible location by taking a boat cruise along a canal, booking a group bike ride along the winding streets or going on a brewery experience.

Tenerife

tenerife boat party

Average daily cost: £91
Hotel per person, per night: £37
Food for a day: £27
Taxi from northern airport to south resorts: £53
Taxi from southern airport to south resorts: £13.50
Beer: £0.88-£2.65
Currency: Euro

Tenerife is a seasoned pro when it comes to offering a fun and chilled holiday. The biggest of the Canary Islands and found off the coast of Africa, you have an incredible beach and nightlife scene on your doorstep. After a day round the pool or doing water sports in the sea, you’ll want to see what Playa da las Americas has to offer if you’re into bars and DJ music — this is also where the brother of football hero, Gary Lineker, has his sports bar. Clubs here last until the early hours of the morning and we recommend flying into Tenerife Sur airport in the south, if you can, for a shorter transfer.

Split

Average daily cost: £81
Hotel per person, per night: £54
Food for a day: £17
Bottled water: £0.62
Taxi from airport to city centre: £32.50
Beer: £1.70-£2.40
Currency: Croatian kuna

Croatia is a titan on the lads’ holiday stage right now and one of your best options in this east-Europe country is Split. With beaches soaked in sun, a laid-back vibe and heaps of water activities to get involved with — like jet-skiing and boat parties — Split is a top choice if you’re looking to relax, enjoy the weather and have a laugh with your mates. At night, Split comes alive with chilled terrace bars, lively entertainment and booming clubs open until the early hours.

Cancun

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Average daily cost: £80
Hotel per person, per night: £66
Food for a day: £5.30
Bottled water: £0.70
Taxi from airport to city centre: £27-£35
Beer: £1-£1.90
Currency: Mexican peso

A party-goers paradise, Cancun is one of those destinations you can have a different holiday experience every time you visit. From Vegas-like pool parties and party cruises to nearby islands, to some of the best clubbing experiences in the world and great places for local food; Cancun is a must-do at least once in your life. Although the clubs here can have expensive entry fees, some of these are world-class and the entertainment is out of this world.

Best lads’ holiday prices

Looking at the average daily cost per person of a mid-range style holiday, Krakow beats Amsterdam hands down as a city break scene, with its cheap accommodation and cheap beer prices. As expected, Ibiza appears to be your most expensive location, partly due to its popularity, while opposing beach destination, Tenerife, offered lower hotel, food and beer prices. Although, Cancun has a slightly higher average daily cost, the average prices of its food and drink per person work out far cheaper than competing beach getaway destination, Split. However, once you factor in flights, you may see the holiday cost start evening out.

Prices are per person for a mid-range holiday. These figures were taken from Price of Travel and Budget Your Trip, correct as of July 2017.

Sustainable Underwear, Tops and Socks for the Adventurous Man

Posted on by dansinnott

Sustainable Underwear, Tops and Socks for the Adventurous Man

Bluebuck is a bold new brand of sustainable men’s underwear, tops and socks. Made from premium organic cotton, each product is robust yet refined, just like its wearer.

Founded by Pierre David, a Frenchman living and working in London, the label combines the best of French style, British cool and a global sense of adventure. Bluebuck’s mission is to craft superior ecofriendly collections with a rugged, masculine sensibility.

Bluebuck, who?

BLUE speaks of the sky, the sea and the natural world as well as being a colour closely connected to purity, while the image of the antlered BUCK is one of raw masculinity. Bluebuck is a brand for the man who combines the rugged and the natural; who has a keen sense of environmental responsibility aligned with a strong sense of self.

Eco-friendly underwear with a lower carbon footprint

Bluebuck organic mens underwear 44

A Bluebuck man takes climate change seriously. He believes he can take action to minimize his impact on the planet. Bluebuck believe this too. So at every step of design and manufacturing process they ask themselves: ‘How can we minimize our
carbon footprint?’ Bluebuck is committed to producing a truly green product.

Clean renewable energy

Bluebuck pride themselves in selecting factories that use clean energy. By harnessing wind, sun and hydro-power, Bluebuck create products with minimum impact on the environment. In fact, 75% of the electricity used in their Austrain factory and 50% in their Portuguese factory come from renewable energy sources.

To add to the mix, they are also proud that 100% of the electricity used in their London office comes from renewable sources, supplied by Ecotricity.

Made in Europe

Bluebuck organic mens underwear 33

Unlike many brands that are ‘Made in Europe’, which usually simply refers to where the product is assembled, all components are produced in Europe. The fabric is knitted, then cut and assembled in Portugal using organic cotton sourced from Turkey. Even the finer details are produced in Europe: waistbands are made in Austria and the labels are created in Italy.

Once assembled, all products are moved by road, which produces around 75% less CO2 than fuel-guzzling planes.

Last longer. Waste less.

Bluebuck organic mens underwear 26

By design Bluebuck products are made to last longer, meaning less waste. They are extremely hard-wearing, durable and reliable.

Bluebuck select the very best materials available in order to ensure quality and durability. Fabrics longevity is also woven into the very design of Bluebuck products. Don’t subscribe to collections that fall in and out of fashion over the seasons. Bluebuck design all pour products in classic styles that remain stylish and timeless

The Nautical range of briefs and trunks is available in navy, white, pink, grey or ice blue with contrasting stripes. With 95% super soft organic cotton and 5% elastane, they’re kind to the skin and flexible enough to take on the most challenging of outdoor activities.

Like the Bluebuck? Shop here.

5 Bonding Activities for Men apart from Drinking

Posted on by Peter Minkoff

bonding activities

I don’t think it’s necessary to stress how important bonding is in life – making any relationship stronger is a very positive thing. And just like girls need their time out to gossip, go shopping or share their sex life with their girlfriends, men have to do the same, but in a slightly different way. Theirs will not involve any gossiping or shopping, but it can include so many great activities. So, if you have no idea what to do next with your guy crew, or you just want to organize something in your company where all the men will bond and have fun, take a look at five of the best activities for this:

Watch a sports game

Men in general love sports. Yes, it can happen that we don’t all love the same sport, but we don’t have any problem watching a match of the sport that we don’t follow. Even though it will involve a couple of drinks here and there, watching a sports game is a great experience where alcohol doesn’t play the biggest part. Hanging out together, watching and commenting on the game while actually talking in between the breaks is a great bonding activity. Depending on the result, it might also involve some table hitting, screaming and being barbaric – but that is the whole point of this great bonding activity. If you have the chance, you should definitely buy tickets and actually go see a sports game live.

Play a video game

Boys will be boys, they say. And there’s probably no truer saying, as men will always love video games, just like boys. This is also one in the limited range of activities that men can do with young sons or cousins – everyone will have fun. That’s why this is a great activity that you can do with your friends or colleagues. It doesn’t really matter what game you’re playing, as long as you have a competitive spirit and you’re playing against each other, it’s going to be interesting. On the other hand, you can always choose a game that will require teamwork and thus build your relationship as all of you try to come out victorious.

Go for teambuilding activities

Teambuilding activities have gained so much popularity in recent years, especially those interesting ones such as room escape, where you have to solve a mystery using teamwork. That is what makes the whole activity teambuilding, as you definitely have to be a part of the team. Another great option are corporate game events that are extremely interesting, and also involve a lot of teamwork. If you’re up for something that doesn’t require any physical activity, this one’s definitely for you, and you can find more about it here. However, if you’re up for something more active, you always try paintball, as it’s probably one of the most popular teambuilding activities at the moment.

Go fishing

Yes, it might sound dull, but fishing is more than meets the eye. You have to deal with a lot of things such as boats, pay attention to the weather, know everything about the equipment, bait and everything else. However, if you’re into this, and you go with your friend or friends, you can figure everything out by yourselves. This is an excellent activity if you haven’t seen your friend in a long time – chatting in a serene environment while taking a break from work obligations at the same time sounds like an excellent idea.

Go bike riding or on an exploration trip

Lastly, you can always take your bike with you and head to the countryside. Not only will you be doing something active that’s also healthy and has many other benefits, but it’s a great bonding activity as well. Also, you can discover so many hidden corners of your town or village, and that’s always an amazing experience. If you’re bolder, though, you can go on an exploration trip such as rafting or diving. Both of them are very sporty activities, so it’s guaranteed that everyone will love them.

There is a plethora of options to choose from, but believe us when we say that, apart from drinking, these are the best ones. And it doesn’t matter which one you choose, you’ll have so much fun and you’ll awaken that competitive and teambuilding spirit that you might not have known you needed that much.

Looking fresh this summer 2018

Posted on by dansinnott

The men’s style world is, thankfully, a tad less fickle than the merry-go-round realm of women’s fashion. The concept of “trends” doesn’t really resonate with most men, which is why we tend to buy items less often. That being said, for this summer there are subtle tweaks the style-literate fellow-about-town can make, should he want to add a dash of modernity alongside the standard pieces of his wardrobe, and dare I say it…compete with the fashion forward females of Derby.

Whilst the task of heading into town at the weekend may seem daunting, intu Derby makes it that little bit simpler. All the top brands are under one roof, as well as parking, restaurants and the flicks (so you can treat your girlfriend after a strenuous day of shopping for her!)

Now I love an exceptionally cut navy-blue suit as much as the next man, but it pays to update your baseline style formula, and branch out a little and it always pays to know what you’re buying from the high street is cost-worthy, and can withstand 2018.

Here are our top headline trends that you should consider this season, all bought from the fantastic intu Derby:

The Eighties (once again acceptable)

Eighties adidas shorts, bright coloured shorts, man wearing shorts, swim shorts, 80s style, intu Derby, intu Derby shopping centre, intu

From bright colours, clashing patterns to boxy suit jackets and light wash jeans with frayed hems (or gulp! Even a crease ironed in). Take your favourite elements of the Eighties trend and blend them with your existing wardrobe to create a look that feels fresh.

Footlocker in intu Derby has some of the most wearable 80’s inspired items, ready to don at any upcoming festival or holiday. Pair it with a pair of Nike trainers and a short sleeve denim shirt, you’ll be rest to bust some shapes from Ibiza to Creamfields.

Find these shorts at Footlocker for £39.99 at intu Derby here.

After the 90s comes the 00s

Man in blue shirt, All Saints shirt, Men's style, Black jeans, guy in white trainers, nike trainers style, intu Derby, intu Derby shopping centre, intu

There’s early signs of baggy cargo trousers, matching double denim, long belts that grazed the thigh and sweater-vests…expect this trend to only get bigger as the season progresses. If you’re not as brave as us on the whole Britney and Justin Timberlake double denim approach, we headed to All Saints to grab a classic cut shirt to layer up this summer. The beauty of this shirt, is that if you’re into the details, it has an alternative 3/4 length sleeve.

Layers are key, so it’s easy to start with a white t-shirt under everything (and maybe double layered tees!)

Find All Saints shirt for £69.99 at intu Derby here.

Pink and pastels aren’t going anywhere

Men's sportswear, menswear, adidas jumper, adidas, men's style, man stood in alley, intu Derby, intu Derby shopping centre, intu

“Millennial pink”, that warm, blush rose colour you can’t help avoiding on your guys right now, is set to grow up next season – and is expanding into other hues. When we popped into Infinities, the set up had us blushing, at all the options to keep us on trend!

For those loungey and more casual days, grab an Adidas sweater jumper for 329.99, and stretchy jeans and head to the corner shop…

Find Infinities very impressive range of affordable athleisure at intu Derby here.

Two pocket realness

Man in blue shirt, Denim jacket, Guy stood in the garden Men's style, Black shorts, intu Derby, intu Derby shopping centre, intu

Safari jackets, field jackets and Seventies-style military shirts are back. The key detail? Double breast pockets on items with a slouchier shape, to keep things feeling modern.

New Look Men in the upper mall at intu Derby has this trend on point. We couldn’t resist the double-breasted denim jacket for £29.99, with double press-stud fastening to keep us on trend through until winter 2018.

We paired it with some black chino shorts, pink striped tee, and wicker shoes for something more smasual.

Find New Look at intu Derby here.

Floral Shirts

Floral printed shirts are not a novelty, in fact if you wear them with the right thing and at the the right time, they will set you apart from the rest of the guys. However, don’t get these confused with a Hawaiian shirt, which utilise larger summery graphics which are repeated, and don’t usually use small graphics. There’s plenty of variations in the shirt patterns that you can go for, so it’s worth having a good look around to find one you really like the look of.

There’s a couple of different ways to style the floral printed shirt. What you wear with it will determine how good the shirt looks, and whether you stand out for the right or wrong reasons, but always wear one with confidence!

Wicker Shoes

Men's summer shoes, summer shoes, wicker shoe, slip on shoes, sunglasses, menswear, men's sunglasses, intu Derby, intu Derby shopping centre, intu

Looking to separate yourself from the crowd, or like your shoes to have a bit of character? Latticework-inspired motifs can breathe life into even the most tired of slip-on silhouettes.

While the skater-style slip-on trainer is trending for summer 2018 (particularly minimal leather versions), a woven upper lends more of an eye-catching, dynamic finish to your footwear.

Some might argue that designs in tan and brown run the risk of looking a little like a naff wicker basket, but we say it’s a risk worth taking. The right woven style, whether in the form of a loafer , will lend your summertime tailoring looks a classic sixties feel – think Jude Law in The Talented Mr. Ripley and available from New Look Men at intu Derby for a very reasonable £7.99.

Complete your look

This season, feeling good stems from looking good. Treat your skin after a shower with Kiehls Facial Fuel. This vitamin enriched, energising, non-oily moisturiser wakens and uplifts dull fatigued skin.

For a scent that holds, the L’Occitane eau de toilette will absorb perfectly into your clothes, not damaging them, and keeps you fresh all evening.

Click & Collect

Whether searching for a fabulous shirt or a gift for that special someone, find it online at intu.co.uk. Browse from the comfort of your own home and pick up your order in centre free of charge – simply amend the delivery address at the checkout to intu Derby.

Located in the heart of Derby with great transport links, finding intu Derby is easy. Come by car and you’ll have no trouble parking with parking for 3,600 cars as well as disabled and family spaces available. If you’re coming by bus, the bus station is adjacent to the centre. By train, the nearest station is Derby and from here it’s a leisurely 10 minute walk to the centre.

What’s the best fragrance to wear on a date?

Posted on by dansinnott

Man spraying aftershave, aftershave, perfume, man in suit, smell nice

We all know women love the smell of fragrance on a man. In fact, one study by the famous Kinsey Institute in America found ladies who smelled a male fragrance while fantasising about an erotic experience became more sexually aroused due to the aroma. The erotic effect of choosing the right eau de toilette, then, is far from just a marketing gimmick.

If you’re after summer perfumes to take that tinder date to the next level, it’s most certainly important to get all the senses titillated. But, remember, not all scents are created equal in the sensuality stakes. Eau de toilettes from the ‘oriental’ family of fragrances – characterised by notes of wood, gum resin and sweet notes such as vanilla – tend to be the sexiest, holding her attention in a way that bright, citrusy fragrances don’t.

Choosing the right cologne for you isn’t quite as difficult as, say, disarming a field of landmines. On the other hand, choosing the wrong cologne can blow up on you in less obvious ways, including the fact that you may offend that very individual you’re trying to impress!

You don’t want to be that guy; the one who creates actual distance between himself and others, and ruins a potentially hot evening before the flame ignites. Choose wisely. As they say, knowledge is power, and we hope to provide you with the kind of knowledge that makes your buying choice easier – and appropriate.

With that in mind, before heading off on your date and wanting to ‘woo’ her whole heartedly, here are 6 things to consider before you choose the fragrance for the big night…

  1. DO A PATCH TEST

Never buy a cologne, perfume, or eau de toilette without first trying it on your skin. It’s one thing to do the bottle-sniff test, but another to put it on your skin and allow to interact with your skin chemistry. And how it smells on your skin is slightly different than how it smells on the next guy’s skin, and the next guys, and … you get the picture.

  1. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS (AND YOUR NOSE AND STOMACH)

You can do a ton of research, read reviews, look at labels, and find out plenty of detail about the base notes and to notes of each fragrance. Not that it’s bad information, but how you react to its scent is an emotion, one you won’t find on a label. Trust your instincts.

  1. TAKE SOMEONE WITH YOU

Or, even if you do trust your instincts, why not bring someone with you, especially a significant other or trusted female friend? Let’s cut the b.s., one of the reasons you wear cologne is that it’s a seduction tool. We’re not saying that cologne guarantees that you’ll get laid, but its good to have every tool (pun intended) at your disposal. Or, bring a man. Just make sure it’s someone you trust enough to tell you that a certain cologne works on your skin or it doesn’t.

  1. COMPOSITION

“Composition” refers to the different elements that make up a scent, such as notes of leather or sandalwood, and the best colognes typically have a unique composition that separates them from the rest. It’s tough to judge composition and what you see on the label is often written by marketers.

The composition is another reason to test a fragrance with a sample that you leave on for up to 15 minutes. By then, the initial notes have gone and you’re much closer to experiencing the cologne’s overall scent – the scent that’s going to last you through the day.

  1. THE SEASON

Experts advise that you change your fragrance for each season. For example, summer-appropriate scents are fresh, fruity and floral, while wood and spice scents – the kind that “warm” you up – are best when the temperatures start to drop.

  1. WHAT YOU EAT MAY INFLUENCE WHAT YOU WEAR

Experts even suggest that the cologne you wear should complement what you eat: if you eat a lot of spicy food, you probably have a weaker sense of smell and taste than the next guy. So, buy a cologne that has a bit of spice to it.

 

5 Pairs of Trainers You Need in Your Closet

Posted on by dansinnott

5 Pairs of Trainers You Need in Your Closet

Trainers have vastly outpaced their original function, no pun intended. These days, the trainer has become an essential staple in any man’s wardrobe and has become the default casual footwear for men. From the continued loosening of the noose that is corporate dress standards to the expanding presence of fitness in our culture, the athletic sneaker is more popular than ever.

For this reason, any discerning gentleman will definitely feel that they need more than one pair of sneakers in their closet. After all, compared to traditional hard-sole footwear, the comfort and versatility of sneakers can hardly be beat as long as the situation allows for it. Feeling a bit clueless? No need to worry, check out our list of the five essential types of sneakers to own!

All-White Trainers

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The all-white sneaker is an absolute must. This classic representation of the sneaker is versatile, and if you have a truly high-end pair of all-white sneakers, you can even wear these with a suit (caveat: only if doing so is appropriate given the occasion!). The all-white sneaker isn’t just a fashion statement, but it’s a sensible one that can save you money, as you can pair these shoes with just about any outfit: dark jeans to light chinos –– even shorts.

The only downside with the all-white sneaker is the maintenance that it takes to keep them in mint condition. If you decide to add these to your wardrobe, it is encouraged that you also purchase a shoe cleaning kit. They’re not meant to last forever, but you can keep a pair of all white sneakers going for a number of years as long as you are for them properly.

Sneaker Boot

As paradoxical as it might sound, the beauty of sneaker technology isn’t relegated purely to sneakers themselves. In fact, one of the most valuable aspects of sneakers is how their arch-friendly soles and polyester top layers have been applied to other styles of shoes.

The sneaker boot is a great example of this. The hybrid sneaker boot takes the comfort and functionality of a sneaker and applies it to something infinitely more fashionable. High top design has always been a very desirable aspect in the more esoteric of fashion circles, and the sneaker boot takes the utilitarian aspect of sneakers to a whole new level of fashion. Any sneaker boot is sure to complete any smart casual ensemble.

The Running Shoe

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Whether you’re the type of guy who gets up and goes for a jog every morning before work, or you prefer to hit the gym after you clock out, a pair of quality, dependable running shoes is mandatory. The running shoe (or the “tennis shoe”) is a versatile pair of shoes that can not only serve you during your workouts, but when you’re helping a friend move a couch, taking a weekend trip to the hardware store, or doing yard work.

But real importance of running shoes is not necessarily what they do for you, but the break they give your other sneakers; you shouldn’t try to wear your go-to white sneakers to the gym, nor should you throw on sneaker boots to clean out the gutters. Your running shoes are the shoes that do the dirty work, so your other sneakers don’t have to.

Exotic Leather Sneaker

5 Pairs of Trainers You Need in Your Closet, trainers, running, men's shoes, men's trainers

Who says that sneakers have to only be casual? A pair of leather sneakers crafted from exotic animal skins can become the focal point of your outfit. These sneakers are ideal for a classy night out or a high profile event where traditional black or brown leather footwear just won’t cut it, stylistically speaking. In fact, several of these shoes are created to be specific for the occasion, from shoes that wouldn’t be out of place at a work event to shoes that you could wear out to any casual event.

This type of shoe combines the luxury of classical footwear with the comfort and functionality of modern footwear. These sneakers can address any man’s search to declare very bold and assertive aesthetics while retaining the reliability of the classic sneaker.

Slip-On Trainer

Anyone who’s ever stood in line at airport security knows the importance of a pair of slip-on shoes. No one wants to be that guy holding everyone up because he’s unlacing a pair of boots. Sometimes you really do just need a pair of shoes that have no laces whatsoever and can be slipped in and out of with ease. Such shoes are absolutely vital for travel, but also function well as a pair of house shoes as well as an easy alternative for any casual occasion.

In recent years, the slip-on sneaker has been more associated with skater culture, thanks to the advent of Vans skateboarding shoes, but make no mistake: these are must-have shoes for any guy, regardless of whether or not you skate. Once you discover the ease that they offer, you’ll try to wear them everywhere!

Slip Inside A Pair Of BOX Briefs

Posted on by dansinnott

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We know that wearing briefs keeps everything tucked away and gives full support, unlike a pair of boxers which make you feel a little freer. That’s why at BOX they stock a simple yet supportive style of briefs, fit for everyman’s wardrobe.

Briefs are an underwear classic, they’re high up the leg with a classic look that epitomize underwear, they’re best used when wearing slightly tighter fitting clothing and help to keep everything in place and secure. A standard go-to style for underwear, they cover your entire backside and package, leaving your upper thighs and leg exposed, making them comfortable with almost anything.  Whether its for everyday dressing or physical activities such as sports, briefs help to keep everything in check, whilst still remaining comfortable.

BOX briefs follow the same formula. Created using the softest Cotton and combined with a elasticated waist, branded with the distinctive BOX logo, these sleek, supportive and frankly quite sexy briefs belong in your wardrobe. Experience comfort and style, moulded into the perfect brief with BOX Briefs, available in both white and black for simple yet effective style.

Anybody can be a BOX boy and with the varied sizes ranging from Small to X-Large there’s something for every package. So why not slip yourself into a pair, feel comfortable and send them a selfie of you in your BOX!

BOX are a hot topic many celebs as we speak!

Top Tips To Look After Your BOX Briefs:

When Washing, use a cool wash to ensure the material does not shrink and the material stays soft and comfortable.

Stop the wear and tear of your briefs by turning them inside out when washing and drying. This reduces pilling which contributes to dulling of the fabric and when drying, stops the sun zapping colour right out of the material.

Washing too often can cause wear and tear, and do not mix colours with whites. This will help to keep the full colour in the material.

Take a look at some of the BOX boys showing off their briefs below.

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Man in white briefs, man in underwear, underwear, briefs, man in white pants, hot guy in pants

Man in white briefs, man in underwear, underwear, briefs, man in white pants, hot guy in pants

Man in white briefs, man in underwear, underwear, briefs, man in white pants, hot guy in pants

As always, you can find more about BOX briefs by visiting their website, and view and purchase more underwear collections on the product pages. For more sexy images and stories from BOX and the boys, you can read more of of blogs and check out more of the boys here.