Textual Conversation Archives - Page 2 of 11

Happy New Year ! Welcome to 2018 and here’s to this year being even bigger and better than the one we left behind. Thanks for sticking with us and we promise you, this will be our best year yet.

With this in mind, we are at a time for contemplating self improvement, self betterment, mindfulness, renewing one’s gym membership and throwing out all the uneaten Quality Street, After Eights, yes and even, the Terry’s Chocolate Orange. Everyone knows Health and Fitness is the new Rock and Roll, yeah that’s right, yeah ?

ROGER FRAMPTON has been an international model for over a decade, appearing in campaigns for the likes of JEAN PAUL GAULTIER, RALPH LAUREN, ORLEBAR BROWN and AQUASCUTUM plus walked in catwalk shows for international luxury brands including DOLCE & GABBANA, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, YVES SAINT LAURENT, MISSONI, VIVIENNE WESTWOOD and EMPORIO ARMANI. On top of all this he has over the years featured in some of the world’s highly regarded style publications including ARENA HOMME +, FANTASTIC MAN, L’OFFICIEL HOMMES and GQ.

Now after over 15 seasons of catwalks in Milan, New York, Paris and London, Roger realised the importance of consciousness in movement and created THE FRAMPTON METHOD, a combination of bodyweight exercises mixing aspects of gymnastics and yoga, but with the utilisation of consciousness. His training technique has been featured all over the media in The Sunday Times, Grazia, Esquire, Men’s Health and Elle Magazine and he has many private clients as well as maintaining an international career in fashion.

Frampton recently stood on the TED stage for his talk, Why Sitting Down Destroys You in which he talks about his refreshing approach to movement and mobility. The video has clocked an impressive 1.8 million views to date.

His first book THE FLEXIBLE BODY was recently released by Pavillion, giving readers conscious movement solutions which they can do at home and is available to order on Amazon now.

You can spend an hour with anyone from history – who would it be?

Winston Churchill. We could share a cigar & discuss tactics.

One album you would keep forever?

My model portfolio. Can’t go without that. Very important!

Describe your style in three words?

Comfort, Fitted, Stylish.

Best piece of advise you’ve ever been given and by whom?

That nobody can offend you.

Best present you’ve ever received ?

My cosy Orlebar Brown Jacket. (Thanks Adam). Ever ever?? The gift of life!

Who’s the most famous person’s number in your phone ?

999. True heroes.

What music are you listening to at the moment ?

I’m listening to a Maceo Plex mic on Frisky Radio.

Favourite hotel in the world ?

The W. The gym space is to die for.

If you could give your teenage self advice, what would it be ?

I’ll tell him that anything he wants he can have. He just has to be crazy enough to believe it.

If you could live anywhere where would it be ?

One day I’ll live in Australia. I just love the sunshine.

What do you have to do after this conversation ?

Coach a couple in their home.

What piece of style advise do you live by ?

Accessorise well! Watch/ Shoes.

What piece of clothing should everyman have in his wardrobe ?

A fitted jacket. I mean you don’t have to go to Saville Row. You can get one anywhere, and have it tailored to you.

If you had one day to live what would be your biggest regret ?

Why spend the last day of your life regretting? It doesn’t matter anyway. You won’t remember it.

Words by Charlie Britton

It’s clear that the fashion industry in particular is renowned for being a throw-away one, with fast fashion and high street retailers turning out new ranges of clothing every fortnight or so. This comes from the ever-increasing consumer demand for new product, particularly as clothing and accessories can now cost less than your daily coffee.

To our relief, brands are starting to turn a corner and follow in the footsteps of those who create beautifully manufactured, timeless goods that’ll last a lifetime if you take good care of them. Good craftsmanship should always be at the forefront of product design and it’s here, we’re thrilled to introduce Campbell Cole.

It’s true that we develop a connection with pieces we use each and every day and this is something designers and co-founders, Ian and Felicity understand phenomenally well and represent through their products. Inspired by simple timeless design, Campbell Cole produces a fantastic range of leather goods, which are of course intended to be used every day. From key wraps and card wallets, to pouches, bags and belts, Campbell Cole design and create beautiful everyday essentials for both men and women.

The craftsmanship in these products is immediately evident, with the design, construction and raw material being well considered at every respective stage of development. The result is a strong and beautiful end product and each new collection clearly represents the growth this brand continues to make.

We wanted to know a little more about Campbell Cole, so we spoke with Ian and Felicity and went through a handful of questions we had. It was a great opportunity to get to know the brains behind Campbell Cole a little better and understand the brand from their point of view;

Q : When did Campbell Cole start and what was the foundation for the brand?

Felicity and I started Campbell Cole in 2011.

After a number of years working as designers for other people, we wanted to create something meaningful for ourselves that represented our personal values and beliefs. Neither of us are big consumers of stuff. We like beautiful things that have been made to be used and loved for a long time and believe completely in buying less but better. I know this sounds like a bit of a cliché but it’s super important to us – there’s so much stuff being made with so little care and consideration – it doesn’t seem sustainable to carry on producing rubbish that’s going to wind up in landfill within a matter of weeks. We are by no means perfect in everything we do, but as conscientious designers we feel it’s important to do the best we can.

Q: What inspires you when designing products and why?

We create products that we would like to own and use ourselves. The details, shapes, colours, patterns and so on are inspired by various different things that interest us.

The Simple Coin Pouch with lanyard is probably quite a good example of this – I wanted a small zip pouch for holding a few essentials when out on my bike – couple of cards, coins, folded notes and a house key. Carrying the pouch with a lanyard works really well if you don’t have secure pockets. A couple of years ago, Felicity and I got quite obsessed with watching films about climbing in Yosemite in the 60’s which led to our use of paracord and the knot details. Our colour palette and emboss details are inspired by the paintings of Le Corbusier.

Q: What are the biggest challenges you’ve tackled with Campbell Cole?

There’s been too many to mention! But probably starting a business with no experience of running a business. Everything we have learnt, from finding reliable factories and suppliers, through to doing our accounts, we have figured out from scratch. I think that’s also what makes it exciting – learning so much, and beginning to feel in control of it – particularly now as the business is growing. It’s all starting to make sense.

Q: How has Instagram had an impact on the brand?

Instagram has been great for Campbell Cole. We are not really big ones for words so using a platform that allows us to communicate our taste and aesthetic through images is perfect for us. I’m not sure where we’d be without it really – probably still trying to figure out the point of Twitter! Instagram has also been great for meeting people. There are so many like-minded people out there doing amazing things… many of the people we have met and become good friends with over these last few years have come through Instagram. I like how informal it is too – nice and friendly.

Q: What’s next for Campbell Cole?

Next up is our new Simple Zip Corner Wallet, which we are launching at Design Junction in September.

We’re attending Design Junction in September, so we’re excited for the new release and look forward to seeing what else Campbell Cole has to offer. One thing we know for sure is here at Clothes Make The Man, we’re in strong agreement that this is one of the best accessory and leather brands we’ve come across to date. If you’re looking for a new wallet or belt gents, head on over to Campbell Cole and check out their range. We guarantee you wont be disappointed.

The Private White V.C. brand is a true heritage range based on the on the everyday wardrobe of Private Jack White, not to be mistaken with the White Stripes guitarist. The VC part of the moniker is after the Victoria Cross which was awarded to Jack at the tender age of 20 for outstanding bravery under intense enemy fire during World War I. The clothing line has a subtle nod to Jack’s military legacy, with many items based on classic wartime pieces, updated with added functionality and detail for the modern man.

After returning from the killing fields of the Great War, he undertook an apprenticeship with a local outerwear factory, Cooper & Stollbrand, which is where to this very day his Great grandson, James Eden, produces the collection inspired by the clothing he wore in his daily life, items he customised to suit his everyday activities .

The backstory to this fascinating brand, was celebrated in the Channel 4 documentary, Made in England, which looked into the transition of the Copper & Stollbrand factory from a fossil of a bygone era to the journey James Eden and his business partner Nick Ashley, dragged the business into the 21st Century. Creative Director, Nick has a long and illustrious history in the fashion industry, having worked for Kenzo, Tod’s of Italy, and Dunhill Menswear, amongst others. The son of Laura Ashley, the renowned fashion and interiors designer, Nick was immersed in design and creativity from an early age, so it was little wonder that he should follow in his mother’s footsteps.

The collection is designed by Ashley who’s designs are influenced by Private Jack White’s wardrobe and classic military garments, as well as his passion for motorcycle and car racing. Nick’s ability to immerse himself in everything he does is testament to the passion that goes into his creations. His long-standing love of history and the military make Private White V.C. an ideal outlet to unleash his inspiration.

All clothing is expertly constructed by hand in the Private White V.C. Factory in Manchester, where garments are designed and developed using only the finest regionally sourced fabrics, trims and materials.

Materials are sourced locally where possible with the majority of cloth being supplied from the mills in the surrounding area. These too have a wealth of history behind them.

You can spend an hour with anyone from history – who would it be?

Bob Marley, everything’s gonna be alright

If you could keep one book – what would it be?

The colour wheel manual, harmony is everything

Private White VC Spring/Summer17

Which British subculture will have the greatest style legacy?

Punk, it was the last, before mobile phones killed subcultures

What are you most excited about at the moment?

The craft resurgence

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given and by whom?

Always turn a disadvantage into a massive advantage: my dad

Favourite hotel in the world ?

Il Pellicano, Porto Ercole, Italy

If you could collaborate with one brand who would it be ?

A carmaker in Britain, we are all in the same industry

Do you have a Style Icon ?

Gary Cooper : working classy.

What piece of clothing should everyman have in his wardrobe ?

Every man should have a clean white shirt.

Private White VC Spring/Summer17

Tell us something no one else knows ?

Bob Marley’s father was a Welshman

If you could only wear one brand for the rest of your life who would it be ?

Private White V.C. of course, because it makes me feel good about myself

If you could have invented anything what would it be ?

The Helicopter

Preview of Private White V.C. Autumn/Winter2017

As half of the successful grooming brand duo of, Alford & Hoff, Barry Alford recognised a void in the market for men’s luxury grooming. After teaming up with his old University pal, Jefferson Hoffman, they set out to create a lifestyle brand directed at the “New Generation of Men”. Tapping into Jefferson’s business savvy and Barry’s medical industry experience they formed Alford & Hoff, Inc. in 2008.

After the global popularity of their first two fragrance, this year the brand continues to expand upon its success and introduced Alford & Hoff No. 3 this summer. This fragrance is an contemporary aromatic scent, constructed around a woody personality and boasts a trio of refined vetivert extracts.

Who is your style icon?

No one in particular, I believe is more about being graceful, and how you carry yourself versus what you wear. Tom Brady, David Beckham or Connor Mcgreggor for example all carry themselves with grace and command presence with impeccable style. Clothes and accessories are ornaments on a person. If a person has “it” factor, it doesn’t really matter what they are wearing….

What piece of style advice do you live by?

Always put your best face forward.

Who would be your ideal diner guests?

My two best friends from college.

If you could give your teenage self-advice, what would it be?

Chill out. Live in the moment, enjoy the ride.

If you could have invented anything what would it be?

An easy button that would take us back to the old days where we could all slow down for a moment and get away from this crazy busy ride were all on…

Best present you’ve ever received?

I would have to say some of the vacations I was able to take with family and friends on my birthdays. Time spent with the people closest to me is always the best gift.

What style mantra do you dress by?

Less is more, and comfort is key.

If you had one day to live what is your biggest regret?

That I wished I valued time as much as I do now.

What track always gets you on the dance floor?

Not really a mover and shaker on the dance floor, but love all kinds of music from classic rock to jazz to alternative rock. A little mix of everything. I love music.

Best piece of advice you’ve been given & by whom?

Nothing good happens after mid-night. Head College Football Coach. Something that was oh so true in college.

Also, what grooming products can’t you live without?

Tweezers to pluck the ridiculous hairs that are starting to grow on my ears now that I am in my 40’s, can’t stand those. Definitely an eye cream and facial moisturizers with SPF.

Favourite Hotel in the world?

Right now I would have to say the Berkley in London. It is a beautiful hotel, but what makes it my favorite is the impeccable customer service and outstanding attitude of the entire staff.

As a child growing up in the small Swedish town of Olofström, Martin Andersson was inspired by iconic British Fashion Magazines such as I-D and The Face, “I wanted to create the style and look I was seeing in British magazines, but couldn’t buy anything right in Sweden so began sketching my own designs”. Martin’s passion for both British style and fashion design was only heightened by attending the preigious Fashion College Central St Martin’s in London. Where after graduating he was snapped up by classic British brand Hackett London; whilst here Andersson launched his own signature line. The label was greeted with an extremely warm welcome by the Fashion community and media and continued to grow organically in a global market.

After a period at, another classic British brand, Aquascutum, Martin was offered a position which would blend his passion for British Fashion with his Swedish sensibilities and heritage as Head of Menswear Design at COS. The Swedish retailer who pride themselves on offering good quality, understated classics and wardrobe essentials at affordable prices. Since it’s launch in London in 2007 COS (Collection of Style) are now located in over 30 countries throughout Europe, North Amercia, The Middle East and Asia Pacific.

For Autumn Martin was inspired by the work of Berlin based artist Lev Khesin (see below), the emphasis on Khesin’s work is reflected in both the collection’s rich colour palette and layered silhouette.

Best piece of advise you’ve ever been given and by whom?
“ God is in the detail” by German-born architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, This wasn’t a piece of advice that was given to me directly but it is something which I have lived by throughout my career, to always pay attention to the finer details.

What track would always get you on the dance floor?
Good question, it would have to be “no one gets the prize” by Dianna Ross but it must be the 12 inch version.

What are you most excited about at the moment?
I am super excited to be travelling to New York this week for the opening of the Agnes Martin retrospective at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, COS is sponsoring the retrospective. Martin’s work is a continual source of inspiration for COS so it will be a memorable and honorable moment.

Best present you’ve ever received ?
I am obsessed by the book “The Hyena & Other Men” by Pieter Hugo and one year for my birthday I received a photographic print of one of the images taken from the book, it is one of my most treasured possessions.

If you could collaborate with one brand who would it be ?
I would ask Helmut Lang to come out of retirement and start designing again that way we could collaborate .

Favourite hotel in the world?
I once stayed in the Ammankila resort on the East coast of Bali; it was the most understated, serene place overlooking the sea, everything from the food to the service, it was simply paradise.

If you could live anywhere where would it be?
To be honest it would be London, it really is one of the greatest cities in the world. The infusion of different cultures and the juxtaposition between the old and new creates such an eclectic city.

If you could give your teenage self advice, what would it be?
I would have perhaps told myself to experiment with style more, have fun with it and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Who would your ideal dinner guests ?
If I had to choose a mix of people I would start with Donald Judd after visiting his house in New York I have so many questions that I would want to ask him, Franz Klien I would want to know how his first figurative paintings from the 40’s later provoked the abstract expression movement. Thirdly, Cormac McCarthy to pick at his literary brain and lastly to inject some fun ( and hula hopping) Grace Jones to provide some entertainment to finish the evening.

What piece of clothing should everyman have in his wardrobe?
A white shirt, it is one of the most versatile garments; it transcends age, dress sense and occasion.

What piece of style advice do you live by?
A very common one but very personal to me “less is more”.

Who is your style icon?
It’s not so much an icon but more an admiration for Colin Firth in “A Single Man” the sharp, sleek suiting really honors the craft of tailoring.

What’s your favourite piece of clothing?
I have a wool trench coat from our AW09 collection; it’s the first coat I reach for when the autumn chill comes. It’s a timeless piece which will always remain in my wardrobe.