CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

As we go into easing of the lockdown rules a much needed mini break staycation somewhere in the UK might be on the agenda. You maybe reaching to the back of your wardrobes and dusting off that old, faithful, reliable hold-all. Take a second, it has served you well, it has seen better days, is it really gonna see you through another Summer ? Does it really represent how you want people to see you ? No, I didn’t think so, in that case, I love a pun, sorry, treat yourself ! Make a new investment.

Created by entrepreneur, marketing guru and busy working mum Mindy Arora, ASALI is a family-run business that offers a range of genuine leather products that have been inspired by the beauty of aviation. The name ASALI, is a Hindu word for ‘genuine’ and this luxe brand boasts a wide range of products for him and her. Discover handcrafted weekend bags, laptop bags, washbags, cardholders, keyrings, wallets and exclusive gift sets to suit every personality and recipient.

The collection also features aviation inspired products with a subtle and sophisticated nod to flying. Plus, the introduction of personalisation on selected goods makes this luxe-brand all the more unique and desirable. Whether it’s birthday’s, wedding gifts, thank you gifts or gifts for every special occasion, these premium gift solutions available in embossed, nappa and Italian leather are ideal for all-year round gifting for a present that they’ll treasure forever

Since its inception ASALI has grown from strength to strength and has a loyal customer base. And that’s not all…the ASALI brand actively gives back to charity and is proud to support the RAF Benevolent Fund and RAF Association by donating a percentage of profits of sales, and by giving products to their various charity events.

Despite recent global events, ASALI continues to work on expanding their range and have exciting products in new leather options,  launching in 2020.

Now Ulverston, in Cumbria, might not be as well known as Milan, Paris and New York for its fashion and stylish credentials. But there is a shop which could very much challenge your preconceptions of this Northern English Town.

Working Class Heroes was founded in 2006 by Thomas Bowden. The initial idea was to sell a range of skate and street clothing from all around the globe to the good people of Cumbria, from his tiny shop in a shady looking alleyway. Since 2006 the company has moved to a bigger, better, less creepy location, sweeping up new brands, stories and people along the way and thanks to the information superhighway has made the delights of this proverbial Aladdin‘s Cave available to folk much further afield then Ulverston, and I’m not Stockport or Huddersfield.

Now, Thomas is a natural born creative, visionary and dreamer, much need in these times we currently live. The premise behind his inspiration comes from a much more historic, almost biblical notion dating back to the second half of the 19th century when the upper classes dress down to go out, the working class dress up. Ever since this,

Dating back to the second half of the 19th century, and ever since, sub-cultures have been created and driven almost exclusively by those in the working class communities. Starting with the Scuttlers of Manchester in the 1870’s and their monotony towards life in the slums, advancing through to the Teddy Boys, Mods and Rockers era of the 50’s, through to the Punk and Skin scenes, Ska, Reggae, the 80’s and 90’s skate scene, right up to today’s contemporary minimalism. They were all the brainchild of those fighting for an identity – an identity that correlates conclusively with fashion – so it makes sense to call these people heroes.

Wow, and wow is right as Working Class Heroes has developed and evolved way beyond that little back street shop in 2006. Their website is a visual delight of

footwear, clothing and homeware comprised of a brand mix that appeals to not other the guys behind it. Not one that follows a particular genre or alignment, but one that they feel goes together, blurring the lines between distinctions and classifications in order to create something beautiful. 

So yes you don’t have to pay a pilgrimage to Ulverston to visit this Mecca. Simply log onto www.workingclassheroes.co.uk/

to witness a platfora of carefully selected brands including from Adidas to Stussy and Patagonia to Norse Projects.

No matter what sex you are; an outfit is never complete without accessories. Even though plenty of people associate accessories with female fashion first, there are so many great ones that can complete a male look as well. Lack of accessories can also make an otherwise exciting outfit look dull. So, when you think about male accessories, what are the ones that come to your mind? Apart from a good watch, necklaces and rings (all of which are huge in 2020), what other accessories can a fashionable guy rock? Take a look at some of the best minimalistic accessories that any guy can rock, regardless of his style or age:

Don’t fear the sun

First and foremost, a good watch cannot go without a good pair of sunglasses, especially during summertime. Sunglasses can boost your confidence, make you look stylish, protect your eyes. They are also very convenient as they can also hide your dark circles after a short night’s sleep. As far as the style is concerned, it’s very flattering and it doesn’t really change a lot over time, meaning that you can take some ‘80s glasses and still rock them with your head high. You can find good ones from either way of the pricing spectrum – either very affordable or very exclusive ones, but choose good quality because you should never toy with your eyes.

Know where you put your money

A gentleman’s not a gentleman if he carries his money around in his pockets. We’re not University students anymore. If you really want to play the gentleman card and be seen and regarded as a professional, you should invest in a good wallet. Times change, and paying for stuff has become so ridiculously easy (paying by swiping your hand and your smartwatch anyone?), but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t own a high-quality wallet. A leather wallet might be the best possible option as it looks nice and it gives out the sense of luxury that everyone loves. If you want to strengthen this game, you can always choose to emboss it with initials or letters.

But where your cards at?

Speaking of looking like a gentleman, there’s an accessory that only true gents have around. What if you go on a lunch and you get a business card that can result in an amazing business opportunity? Where will you put your credit cards in case you have no cash and there’s no need to take your wallet with you? Opting for a high-quality men’s card holder is definitely a sound choice – this accessory might not be essential, but it screams “style and confidence”. You can also put it in your pocket, which means it’s super handy.

Take care of your hands

Did you know that hands are amongst the top 10 hottest body parts? Apart from that, there really is something in hands that can make you a true gentleman. Moving them in a nice way, paying attention to how soft they are, working on your handshake – hands matter. That’s why a pair of leather glovesshould be one of the must-have items for everyone who wants to come off as a successful, confident guy who knows what matters and how to pay attention to nice things. This is a very elegant option that does not only look good, but it’s super helpful during winter time as well.

Taking notes with style

As the last accessory that is a must-have, especially if you’re a business person or someone who takes notes very often, is a good leather notepad case. Being extremely elegant and looking luxurious, this is the piece of accessory that will make you stand out from the crowd as it will emphasize your style and the importance that you put in your work. You can choose from many different colors, so go with the one that best matches your personality (even though brown leather might be the best option). Even if you keep it in the office, it will give that special look to your desk.

Minimalistic, yet handy and essential. Make sure to know how to wear each one of these – the matching will be easy as they are very minimalistic, but it’s your attitude that’s going to wear them!

As restaurants and pubs get set to reopen this weekend, YES CAN YOU BELIEVE IT THIS WEEKEND,  there are only two things on our mind: finding the perfect outfit and sipping that first drink. But if you’re struggling to style an outfit that looks effortlessly stylish at close proximity(and at a socially acceptable distance) or have no idea what drink to order, then we’ve got the help you need.

Those good people at Joe Browns have created a quiz that matches your style and personality to the perfect cocktail. You’ll be given some fabulous styling tips and accompanying recipes for a delicious tipple — handy for raiding your drinks cabinet, if there is anything left in it and getting creative at home!

Get ready to find out what your tastes say about you. Are you loud and outgoing like a Mojito? Effortlessly chic and cool like a Mimosa? Or does your style and sense of humour pack a punch, just like the first sip of a Cosmopolitan?

The way you dress showcases your individuality, whether you shake up your wardrobe with prints or love to stir up your look with the latest trends. Every outfit you choose is a cocktail of different styles, creating a look that’s as unique as you!

So whether your wardrobe is playful like the flavours of a Mojito, laid back like a Sea Breeze, or smooth like the Cuba Libre, it’s all about embracing your own style!

Mimosa

A men’s tailored jacket, just like a Mimosa, is classic piece that you’ll keep coming back to year after year. Style with brogues for a rooftop bar, or keep it casual with trainers for a more relaxed pub garden. 

Your chic style complements the classic Mimosa. Invented in Paris in 1925, this sparkling cocktail is effortlessly sophisticated, making it the perfect pairing for your wardrobe. An eclectic mix of vintage-inspired, bold and classic pieces, your outfits permeate a cool, Parisian vibe.

Cuba Libre

A splash of colour which is bold and adventurous, just like the citrusy taste of a Cuba Libre. Pair with shorts and slides on a sunny day or jeans and Oxfords for an all-day brunch. 

Your adventurous style is a perfect match for the distinctive Cuba Libre. Believed to have been created in the colourful city of Havana in 1902, this smooth cocktail carries refreshing hints of citrus. Never one to follow the crowd, this drink goes hand-in-hand with your eye-catching wardrobe.

Mojito

An eye-catching Hawaiian print shirt is a must for the summer, just like the herbaceous flavours of a delicious Mojito. Get ready for the sunshine by pairing your outfit with stylish retro shades and sandals to really set off the look.

Your wardrobe is fun-loving and full of life, just like the classic sun-drenched Mojito. Formulated in the colourful streets of Havana, this cocktail is filled with herbaceous and sweet citrus aromas. Always cool, you make a habit of shaking off the latest trends to create outfits that showcase your playful personality. 

Cosmopolitan

A graphic tee is cool and colourful, just like the fruity tang of a classic Cosmopolitan. Embrace your inner Joey Tribbiani and with a New York Cosmopolitan vibes and style with jeans to add texture.

Your outfits are unapologetically loud and proud, just like the dominating flavours of a Cosmo. Devised in 1975, this cosmopolitan concoction is a perfect choice for the bold, with its fruity and refreshing tang. Your cool urban vibe and vibrant personality are encapsulated by your colourful wardrobe.

Martini

Channel your inner Bond for a long-awaited date night, and look sharp and sophisticated, just like the taste of a Martini. Be dinner-date ready with an single breasted navy suit teamed with a simple white shirt and formal white sneakers.

Your metropolitan style is a great match for the effortlessly cool Martini. Created circa 1860, this classic vodka cocktail never fails to pack a punch. The same can be said of your wardrobe, with every piece of clothing carefully chosen, with outfits that are sharp, sophisticated and creative.

Sea Breeze

A unique t-shirt is sure to stand out, just like the zingy and sour taste of a Sea Breeze. Add that extra edge to your ensemble by accessorising with vintage-style sunglasses and a men’s leather pendant and beach-vibe.

You love to take it easy, so enjoy long sips of a zingy Sea Breeze. Formulated in the 1920s, this deliciously sour cocktail combines vodka, cranberry and grapefruit, making it an energising treat for the taste buds. Just like the Sea Breeze, your wardrobe features distinctive pieces with a laid back yet uniquely stylish feel.