CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

Champion has never been a brand to sit on the sidelines. From collegiate roots to streetwear staple, its credibility has always been built on performance, authenticity and cultural relevance. Now, it’s stepping firmly back into the ring.

The heritage sportswear brand has announced a long-term partnership with undefeated heavyweight boxer Agit Kabayel (26–0) — a move that signals Champion’s continued investment in elite combat sports and its growing focus on Germany, one of the brand’s most important European markets.

Kabayel, the current WBC Interim Heavyweight Champion, is widely tipped as boxing’s next generational talent. Known for his relentless pressure, technical discipline and unshakeable composure, he represents a new era of heavyweight boxing — one rooted in consistency rather than hype.

The timing couldn’t be better. The announcement comes just ahead of Kabayel’s homecoming fight in Germany last weekend, an event that sold out more than 12,000 tickets in just two days. It’s a clear indicator not only of Kabayel’s drawing power, but of the cultural moment surrounding him.

For Champion, this partnership feels less like a sponsorship and more like a return to form. Boxing has always embodied the brand’s core values: grit, resilience and the quiet confidence that comes from putting the work in. Kabayel, with his undefeated record and understated approach, fits that narrative perfectly.

In an era where sportswear collaborations often chase short-term hype, Champion’s alignment with Kabayel feels considered — a long-term play built on substance rather than flash. Much like good style, real champions don’t shout. They let the results do the talking.

And if this partnership is anything to go by, both Champion and Agit Kabayel are only just getting started.

Words By Tim Winton, Cambrian Classics

If a classic car is on your wish list but you’re nervous about choosing the right one — or worse, ending up with a money pit — a bit of preparation goes a long way. These eight tips will help you find a car that brings years of enjoyment rather than unexpected bills.

Buy the Best You Can Afford

This is the golden rule of classic car buying. A sound, well-maintained car is almost always cheaper and far less stressful than rescuing a “bargain” project. Once you factor in welding, paint, mechanical work, electrics and interior trim, a tired example almost always ends up costing more than a better one would have in the first place.

If possible, look for a car that’s already on the road and being used regularly. A running, MOT’d car that’s been regularly driven and maintained will almost always be a better bet than one that’s been off the road for years.

Bring an Expert With You

It’s easy to fall in love at first sight, but a second pair of knowledgeable eyes can save you from an expensive mistake. Take someone who really understands the model you’re buying — ideally a specialist who works on them.

They’ll know what correct panel gaps look like, where rust typically forms and how to recognise poor repairs. They’ll also pick up mechanical issues on a test drive: weak braking, odd noises, steering feel, or a misbehaving engine. Even when buying from a dealer, an independent inspection is worthwhile; no dealer can know every model inside-out, and a marque specialist may spot things they’ve missed.

Bodywork Matters Most

Rust, welding and paintwork are by far the costliest parts of classic car ownership. Even on small cars, proper restoration involving stripping, repairing and repainting can easily run into five figures, and complex or fibreglass-bodied cars can cost even more.

Inspecting bodywork thoroughly is therefore essential. Look for ripples, bubbling paint and mismatched panels, and don’t be afraid to get on your knees with a torch to check underneath. Avoid viewing a car in the rain or in poor light — both hide a multitude of sins.

For most buyers, avoiding project cars is the safest route. If you do want a restoration project, try to buy the soundest shell you can. Even enthusiasts who enjoy the process often underestimate the time and money involved.

Budget for Maintenance, Not Just the Purchase

Running costs vary hugely between makes. Many new owners end up struggling with the upkeep of their dream car.

More modest classics — MGs, Minis, Triumphs and similar — tend to be mechanically simple, inexpensive to repair and well served by parts suppliers. It’s wise to check parts catalogues before committing to a model so you know what routine replacements will cost.

Set aside a yearly maintenance fund. Even the best-cared-for cars need regular attention: servicing, adjustments, occasional repairs and fresh tyres. Tyres in particular deserve scrutiny — always check date codes; anything over ten years old should be replaced.

Who Will Fix It

It’s important to find a mechanic familiar with older technology. Many modern workshops are geared towards computer diagnostics and modular repairs, not carburettors, contact breakers and ageing wiring. Classics often suffer from multiple small issues rather than a single obvious fault, so finding someone who understands how the whole system works is invaluable.

Cars with carburettors are usually straightforward; fuel-injected classics can be much more complex. Don’t buy one with running issues unless you’re prepared for a potentially expensive recommissioning.

Be Honest About What You Want From a Classic

Emotion plays a big role in classic car buying, but make sure the car fits your lifestyle. Think about how and where you’ll use it. Are you happy pottering along country lanes, or do you want something capable of keeping up with modern traffic? Are you planning local shows, weekend drives or long-distance touring?

Comfort, practicality and storage also matter. A small roadster might be perfect for solo use and easy to garage; a large saloon, vintage tourer or camper may require more space and be less convenient.

Above all, choose something you’ll actually drive. Classics deteriorate when left unused, which reduces reliability and enjoyment. A car that suits your habits will stay healthier and give you far more pleasure.

Don’t Buy for Investment

Classic cars are rarely good financial investments. Values fluctuate, and most cars simply hold steady rather than increase. Some markets have even seen declines — pre-war cars, for instance, have softened considerably, while certain 1980s and ’90s models have risen.

Tools such as Hagerty’s valuation guide can help you understand current market conditions, but remember that maintenance, storage and insurance usually outweigh any profit.

The real return on a classic comes from enjoyment. If it appreciates, great — but buy the car that makes you smile when you open the garage door.

Think Twice About Cars Without an MOT

Even though cars over 40 years old are exempt from MOT testing, a valid certificate remains highly reassuring. It shows a qualified tester has recently inspected brakes, suspension, steering and lights.

A car with no recent MOT may be hiding rust, seized brakes, perished tyres or electrical faults. Some owners avoid testing altogether, but this has led to many unsafe cars returning to the road. An MOT is not a guarantee of perfection, but it’s an excellent snapshot of condition and a sign of responsible ownership.

If a seller hasn’t put the car through an MOT, ask them to do so. Any issues revealed can be addressed before purchase or considered in your decision.

Classic car ownership is deeply rewarding, offering a connection to engineering, history and the pure joy of driving. With research, realistic budgeting, and advice from experts and fellow enthusiasts, you can find a car that brings years of pleasure. Buy with both heart and head and choose a classic you’ll love to drive.

There are collaborations that feel forced, and then there are those that make complete sense. The ongoing partnership between British menswear brand &SONS and the Steve McQueen Foundation firmly sits in the latter camp — a meeting of shared values around authenticity, craftsmanship and timeless style.

This latest expansion of the collection introduces two winter-ready staples designed for men who appreciate substance as much as style.

The Clay Blazer

Inspired by one of Steve McQueen’s most recognisable off-duty looks, the Clay Blazer is all about quiet confidence. Strong, purposeful lines meet earthy, heritage tones, resulting in a jacket that feels relaxed yet considered. It’s the kind of piece McQueen wore so effortlessly — and one that &SONS have refined through their own uncompromising standards of fit and finish. Easy to layer, easy to live in.

The Taylor Roll Neck Knit

Taking cues from one of McQueen’s most understated on-screen moments, the Taylor Roll Neck strips things back to the essentials. Clean, confident and refreshingly simple. Crafted from Italian-sourced merino wool, it delivers warmth and texture without excess, proving that true style rarely needs embellishment.

Together, these pieces speak to a shared design philosophy: clothing that lasts, improves with wear, and never chases trends.

January has a way of showing up on your face before it hits your calendar. Post-festive breakouts, congestion and irritation are all-too-familiar after weeks of indulgent food, late nights and disrupted routines. The good news? Your skin isn’t “ruined” – it’s simply asking for a reset.

To cut through the noise, we spoke to expert facialist Laura Porter, founder of FAB Skincare, who sees the same pattern every January in her treatment room. Her advice is refreshingly no-nonsense: step away from harsh fixes, support the skin barrier, and let targeted treatments do the heavy lifting.

Why festive indulgence triggers breakouts

Alcohol, sugar and rich foods increase inflammation and dehydration, while late nights disrupt the skin’s natural overnight repair cycle. Add heavier makeup and inconsistent cleansing into the mix and pores quickly become congested – leading to spots, dullness and uneven texture.

“Your skin is often the first place to show signs of internal stress,” says Laura. “But overindulgence doesn’t mean you’ve damaged your skin permanently. What it needs is calm, not correction.”

Laura Porter’s practical post-festive skincare rules

1. Don’t strip your skin

When a breakout appears, the instinct is often to attack it with strong cleansers, scrubs or acids. According to Laura, that’s where many people go wrong.

“Over-cleansing and harsh acids compromise the skin barrier, leading to more inflammation and prolonged breakouts,” she explains. “Cleanse thoroughly but gently, twice daily, and avoid anything that leaves the skin feeling tight or squeaky.”

A healthy barrier helps regulate oil production and allows active ingredients to work properly.

2. Treat spots with precision, not panic

Rather than applying aggressive products across the entire face, Laura recommends a targeted approach.

“Spot treatments such as FAB Skincare No.6 Overnight Spot Treatment (£22) are most effective when applied directly to the blemish before bed,” she says. “There’s no need to punish healthy skin.”

This approach reduces redness and dryness while helping prevent post-inflammatory marks.

3. Prioritise overnight repair

Night-time is when skin naturally switches into recovery mode.

“While you sleep, the skin is more receptive to active ingredients,” Laura explains. “An overnight treatment can reduce redness, improve texture and support collagen production.”

Consistent night care can make a visible difference in just a few days.

4. Hydration is non-negotiable – inside and out

Dehydrated skin often overproduces oil to compensate, increasing the risk of congestion.

“Drink plenty of water, reduce alcohol where possible, and use products that hydrate at multiple layers of the skin,” says Laura. Hydrated skin heals faster and defends itself better against future flare-ups.

5. Be patient. Be consistent.

January is not the time for a complete skincare overhaul.

“Consistency beats intensity every time,” Laura stresses. “Stick to a simple routine and give your skin time to recover. Constantly switching products will only slow the healing process.”

Hero product: No.6 Overnight Spot Treatment

Designed to support skin during a post-festive reset, FAB Skincare No.6 Overnight Spot Treatment (30ml, £22) is a targeted solution that treats breakouts without compromising the surrounding skin.

Key benefits include:

• Clears pimples and congestion
• Helps prevent dark spots post-breakout
• Gently resurfaces to improve texture
• Supports natural collagen production
• Hydrates the skin at multiple layers

“What I love about No.6 is that it heals rather than punishes,” says Laura. “It treats the spot while protecting the skin around it.”

Reset, don’t regret

As the new year begins, the message is clear: avoid extreme measures. A calm, targeted approach will always outperform aggressive quick fixes.

“Your skin is incredibly resilient when treated with care,” Laura concludes. “Support its natural recovery process and the results will follow.”

January skin doesn’t need discipline. It needs understanding.