May the Festivities begin ! – 6 of the VERY Best Advent Calendars

 Image result for Christmas banners for the white companyThe White Company

Yes it’s the 1st of December, the first door of your Advent Calendar can be opened, is a chocolate behind it ? Remember, Advent Calendars have come on an awful long way, since our day, no more when you prize open the window are you met with some sorry looking Robin, or a wonky Snowman. By Golly gumdrops those days are far behind us, with this in mind we’ve scoured the aisles of some of the most illustrious shopping destinations both on and off line, looking for the best and most interesting Advent calendars for every member of the family. You’ll be the envy of the whole workplace or school when you answer, What was behind your window this morning ? If you purchase any of these little beauties.

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It had to be, MR PORTER, who have launched an exclusive advent calendar designed in collaboration with Welsh knitwear brand Corgi. Treat someone special to a season of fresh socks with this clever gift. From the first day to the 24th, each drawer is stuffed with a cotton-blend pair of Corgi brand socks in festive patterns, while Christmas Eve reveals a luxurious cashmere and silk-blend design. But Shhhh let it be a surprise.

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Of course, what’s good for the Gander is equally good for the Goose and what could be more luxurious then this shapely form of a Jo Malone Advent calendar. Twenty four spoiling surprises mark the countdown to the holidays and all the joy they bring. Look forward to the moment each day when you open the doors of your very own Jo Malone London Townhouse to reveal gift after gift.

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One for the kids, no matter what there age and hey there is no sexism here at Clothes-Make-the-Man a Star Wars Lego Advent calendar is for everyone. Can you believe a different surprise including an albino wookie, behind each door !

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Ok so not technically an Advent calendar and more of the 12 day of Christmas but after a month of overindulgence your skin is likely to be showing the signs of exhaustion. Late nights and partying can take their toll on skin, however, help is at hand with ClarinsMen 12 Days of Christmas Calendar. Starting on 25th December, open each window to discover hero products as well as some new favourites to help your skin on the road to recovery. Everything from detoxing, cleansing and fatigue-fighting, these products will make sure that you are ready for the New Year!

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This Eleanor Stuart Ginger Bread House Advent Calendar, available from Harrods, naturally, is perfect for counting down to Christmas in festive style. With a ginger bread house design complete with 3D candy canes, icing and a miniature ginger bread man, this amazing calendar has twenty five numbered draws for you to fill with your favourite treats to celebrate the holiday season. A perfect gift for or an investment centrepiece for your Christmas decorations.

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You could say I’ve left the best til last, OK I have, this year, be sure to count down to Christmas in style with this Whisky advent calendar from Drinks by the Dram. Behind each of the 24 windows lies a different wee dram of whisky. As each calendar is the same you’ll be able to discuss the dram that’s revealed each day with your friends, whether it be a single malt Scotch whisky or some other treat from around the world. Yes I know, thank you.

the-white-company-1The White Company

 

6 of the best MANLY Scented Candles

The properties of Scented Candles are no longer the remit of the fairer sex and hippies, this antiquated notion belongs with the Flat world movement and Donald Trump replacing Barack Obama as leader of the Free World, fingers crossed. Scented candles have come on a long way and are, seriously, not just the property of ladies trying to relax in a long, soapy, bubble bath. Men really are getting in on the act and grooming brands are raising to and catering for the wants of their male consumer. We’re not talking apple blossom, rhubarb or Japanese Camelia, no we are genuinely seeing masculine scents and packaging to reflect this rugged customer.

img_8236This indulgent single wick candle blended with notes of ylang-ylang, amber and cardamom from Molton Brown has top notes of ylang-ylang and bergamot and base notes of musk and amber.

img_0265Did you know each individual Acqua di Parma candle is the result of a careful hand- made process which takes 24 hours to complete. It all starts from a mix of three fundamental ingredients: top quality wax, fragrance, and colour pigments.

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Wood, brandy and spice notes intermingle to create this classic in Byron by Cire Trudon, the oldest candle maker in the world. It has supplied candles to some of history’s most glittering characters and has survived intact some of the most momentous events in European history.

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The clue is in the name with this classic by Jo Malone. Peppery basil and aromatic white thyme bring an unexpected twist to the scent of limes on a Caribbean breeze, just what you need after a long old day

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Created in 1902 exclusively by British Hertiage brand Penhaligon’s and taking its name from Blenheim Palace. The Blenheim Bouquet is a bracing mix of citrus oils, spices and woods. It’s hard to imagine it was created over one hundred years ago. It is a fragrance that is discreet, sensual.

img_8260Last but by no means least is a timeless classic, Green Irish Tweed from the House of Creed is as popular today as it has ever been. Created by Olivier Creed in 1985, Green Irish Tweed achieved worldwide success simply by word of mouth, so beguiling was its blend of floral, green and woody notes. Green Verbena, Violet Leaves, Florentine Iris, Sandalwood and Ambergris are subtly orchestrated in a fragrance that is virile, elegant and irresistibly charming

6 OF THE BEST ANTI-PERSPIRANTS, THAT WON’T LET YOU DOWN !

imageNone of us like to look a sweaty mess and you can guarantee on that occasion you get caught out, they’ll be a camera around to capture the moment for prosperity. Look at poor old Tony Blair, giving that key speech at the Labour party conference and holding his hands up a little too high, by the way, the little blue shirt didn’t help, sack the stylist Tone. He wasn’t remembered for what he said during his speech, ohh no what he was remembered for was sweaty armpits !

Crossing the line of a race or marathon is really the only occasion that this is seen as socially acceptable and yet we can’t help it ! The ever changeable weather that we’ve had of late, leaves us not knowing if we are coming or going. Work often throws us a side ball which catches us off guard and throws us into the lion’s den. There are all sorts of modern day scenarios that we have to combat nowadays that can leaves us a little more than hot under the collar. This is why we at Clothes-Make-the-Man thought we would put ourselves on the line and try a number of the ever reliable Anti-Perspirants that are on the market and compile for our loyal readers a list of 6 of the best. So in no particular order we have –

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Whatever the situation SureMen Anti-prespiarant deodorant promises 48 hour long lasting protection to ensure you’re feeling fresh, dry and confident whether, it’s that big presentation for the boss, running for the bus or keeping you cool on a big night out.

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Lab Series is a global leader and authority in men’s skincare, Lab Series is solely dedicated to men and their skin’s unique needs, which is completely different to those of our female counterparts. Their PRO LS Fragrance free antiperspirant deodorant Roll on delivers protection against odour and wetness. The Sheer formula leaves no white residue and is unscented, so it can be used with any fragrance, without interfering, you never want conflicting fragrance battles of a morning.

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The Nivea Men Stress Protect anti-perspirant, proved really popular on a number of internet forums when I was researching for this post. Now did you know, that after heat, stress is the second most common trigger for sweating and is very different to the sweat produced from heat or physical exercise. It has a more rapid onset and smells much worse, making it harder to control. NIVEA Stress Protect is proven to minimise this stress sweat by up to 85% and helps reduce the formation of body odour. The deodorant contains a unique formula which combines two ingredients – Stress Protect Actives and a Zinc Complex – which work together to provide protection in stressful situations.

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Don’t let sweat and odour get in the way of a good time by using Lynx Urban Advanced Anti-Perspirant Deodorant. Along with a pleasant fragrance, it’s a quick drying and long lasting product. So it will keep you cool and odour free all day long.

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In addition to skin care Clinique offers a carefully edited choice of no-nonsense, performing products designed to meet a man’s unique grooming needs. Perfect for traveling and ideal for a wash bag, Clinique’s Skin Supplies For Men Roll-On Antiperspirant-Deodorant is a unique formula which is so top secret it’s patented. Once applied, it dries immediately without passing through a sticky phase. And when it is dry, it is thoroughly dry, with no obvious residue of the skin. That means no waiting to dress on those hurried mornings, you know what I mean !

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Right Guard Total Defence 5 provides freshness & maximum confidence when you need it most making it perfect for life’s everyday day ‘sweaty’ situations like when you’re running late for work, meeting your boss, having an awkward conversation with that girl you like or being put on the spot to tell a joke by your mates in the pub.

6 of The Best – Summer Swimshorts

by: Keanu Adorable

Let’s admit it, this summer hasn’t lived up to it’s name, but is anyone really surprised? Not us! But on the off chance that the sun does show up, in all its full glory. It’s best to prepare, and what swim shorts you’re going to wear for the day trip to the seaside (or on a tropical beach abroad if you’re lucky enough). As always, we’ve done the searching so you don’t have to, ranging from high end designer options to high street and everything in-between, we’ve got you covered. Literally.

Here are our top 6 picks:

PAUL SMITH – Palm Print Swim Shorts 

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Paul Smith

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VILEBREQUIN – Rolling Stones Special Edition Swimshorts 

“St. Tropez-based swimwear label Vilebrequin and The Rolling Stones have launched a limited-edition collaboration to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary Exhibitionism show. The collection features a couple of items, including this special edition ‘Moorea swim shorts’ featuring various prints of the Rolling Stones’ iconic discography, with album covers created by Andy Warhol, Robert Frank and David Bailey.’

 

DAN WARD – FLAT FRONT NYLON SWIM SHORT 

“This flat front, mid-length short is key to the DANWARD design aesthetic. Introduced in the first collection, its honed tailored look is a favourite. The style has been studied to afford the clean sharp silhouette while its semi-elasticated back waistband ensures an easier fit for all.”

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LEO JOSEPH – CLIFTON SWIM SHORT 

“The Clifton swim short : Leo Joseph’s original, mid-length tailored swim short. Developed to put fit and tailoring back into the men’s swimwear market, it’s a modern cut with well considered details throughout. With custom soft touch and quick drying fabric, these will keep you looking stylish from beach to bar, season after season.”

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LINEA- Deck Chair Print Swim Shorts 

“Opt for the playful yet understated aesthetic of these Linea swim shorts. The simple silhouette of this pair is accented with a deckchair pattern which adds a touch of contemporary appeal. Feel secure with the handy drawstring fastening and elasticated rear waistband.”

 

M&S COLLECTION – Quick Dry Wave Print Swim Shorts 

“For chic holiday bathing this summer, M&S Menswear has a variety of printed swimwear to suit your destination and style. All swim shorts feature Quick Dry fabric and drawstring fastenings, adding practicality to poolside looks.”  

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6 OF THE BEST – ALTERNATIVE SUNGLASSES FOR SUMMER

Words by: Keanu Adorable

It’s suns out and shades out season, as we approach the hot summer days and nights, please, please, please as the newspapers are predicting. One accessory that all men must have are cool shades. Here at clothesmaketheman, we are used to showcasing the big names when it comes to eyewear, so for this edition we decided that we are going to take a look at alternative options that you might not have come across. These choices will sure be making you wish you were sunbathing outside on the beach on a remote island with your shades on and a cocktail in your hand. Enjoy

Bailey NelsonMarkova 

The Markova is a thin acetate frame with minimalistic metal arms and a classic shape. This vintage-inspired frame offers a timeless look suitable for any occasion. The stylish design of the Markova combined with the Aquabumps Bondi print on the inside of the frame makes it the perfect summer accessory! Includes a fun limited edition Aquabumps case.

Hyde’s SpectaclesNo19 D-frame

This frame is Hyde’s interpretation of the club master, but with some extra everything. It’s an update of the famous American heritage shape, but with a silhouette that reinvents it by pulling its angles right down to the present day.

IllestevaLe Steel Creem

The Le Steel series come with various options with mirrored lensed, these are handmade in Italy.

RetroSuperFuturePanamá League

Designed for the Summer 2016 ‘solid liquid’ collection, Panamá League interprets the recurring theme of the collection — the purity and simplicity of water — with a transparent crystal acetate inlayed with pieces of earthly havana acetate. Paloma league sports mirrored lenses by zeiss in gold and deep blue.

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SmokexMirrorsShout

Inspired by East Coast Rock of the 1950’s, Shout is an intricate alliance between impeccable craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

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Orlebar BrownGrandy

These round frames combine a retro ‘50s feel with a more modern look. Handmade, with coloured acetate frames and the signature OB band on the arm. To be worn by the OB man or woman for all occasions.