CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

The extraordinary mens blog for the modern man
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Not just for the great outdoors – Sealskinz

Sealskinz, the Innovative, British performance wear brand is born and bred in the rugged beauty of Norfolk, a brand synonymous with waterproof, breathable, and windproof technology. Deeply rooted in the heart of the British countryside, Sealskinz has always embraced the wild, ensuring that every product stands up to the elements with unwavering performance and comfort.

Recently, Sealskinz has embarked on a refined mission: to blend high-performance functionality with contemporary design. This evolution enhances their renowned outdoor gear, infusing it with an elevated sense of style. From state-of-the-art socks and gloves to innovative hats and accessories, Sealskinz products now offer a perfect marriage of form and function.

The brand has expanded its current offering with the launchVitae, a dedicated fashion and lifestyle collection to run alongside performance accessories, waterproof socks and functional apparel.  The line is the brainchild of the former CEO and founder of Ted Baker, Ray Kelvin whose unparalleled passion for design and product development is clearly evident in pieces that combine premium quality fabrics, on trend silhouettes and innovative, multi-functional detailing synonymous with the brand.

Ray grew up in a family with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which instilled in him a keen eye for detail and a passion for unique, high-quality designs from an early age. His innovative approach and dedication to excellence have earned him a reputation as a trailblazer, blending classic elegance with contemporary flair. Ray’s journey began with a single shirt shop in Glasgow, which under his leadership, grew into the international fashion powerhouse, Ted Baker, celebrated for its distinctive style and uncompromising quality. Now, with his latest venture, Sealskinz, Ray is bringing his innovative spirit to the world of adventure wear. Sealskinz offers cutting-edge, weatherproof gear that combines functionality with style, further showcasing Ray commitment to creativity and excellence. His dynamic leadership continues to inspire and shape the future of both fashion and outdoor apparel.

Building on the brand’s unique heritage and expertise, Kelvin introduces Vitae as part of the brand’s next phase. Taking inspiration from his love of the outdoors, combined with his unparalleled passion for design and Sealskinz innovative technology, Vitae is built to perform and designed for life. Chore Jackets and unstructured Blazers are made from stretch fabrics and have water-repellent finishes, whilst tees and signature polos offer UV protection and feature secret pockets. Baseball caps are waterproof and foldable so they can easy be stored in a pocket. The premier performance with style collection also includes classically cut chinos, shorts, shirts and statement swimwear that will take you from the trails to the city.

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Top Ten Tips on Safe Tanning

The Summer is finally here its official ! It might only last for a few days, it could be here for a few weeks, who knows it could be a couple of months that we are basking it this seasonal halo. Now I don’t mean to bring your mood down, but there is a very serious side to this fantastic weather, because of Summer’s very late arrival it means we are not use to how powerful the sun it right now. Please take a few minutes just to watch the video below PLEASE –

OK then, now because we at Clothes-Make-the-Man care about our loyal readers and we want you around for as long as possible we sort the advice of an expert to offer her top ten tip for safe tanning. Clare O’Connor is the Suncare expert for one of the most trusted names on the high Street, Boots. Clare is a scientist with over 20 years experi­ence in the cosmetics industry spending the last 18 years specialising in sun protection. She works with experts internally and externally, plus academic institu­tions who manage research projects in the area of skin protection and was a key player in developing the Boots Soltan’s Once platform.

1) Make sure you use enough product – you should apply a blob about the size of a two pound coin for each limb and your front and back, as well as a blob about the size of a pound coin for your face, one 200ml bottle of Soltan contains roughly 6 full-body applications.

2) Protect your skin before you first go into the sun – we recommend applying sun cream 15 minutes before going into the sun, then reapplying again as soon as you go out in the sun. After that, you should reapply every 1 to 2 hours, as well as immediately after swimming or towelling.

3) Check for 5 star UVA rating – ensure your chosen sun care product has maximum 5 star UVA protection as well as a high SPF, as this will provide the best protection from skin ageing as well as burning. All Soltan products have 5 star UVA protection!

4) Use an SPF of at least 15 – you should be using a high SPF (30 or 50) if you’re going abroad or have fair skin. Also don’t forget
your lips, they are prone to drying and cracking and long term exposure can cause uneven colouration as well as more serious skin conditions.

5) Wear suncare in the UK – research by Boots UK has uncovered that nearly three quarters (72%) of adults admit that either they or someone else in their family has been sun burnt in the UK because they didn’t think it was sunny enough to require sun protection. Don’t forget to protect your eyes with sunglasses that offer 100% UVA & UVB protection.

6) Stay out of the sun during the hours from 11am – 3pm – spend time in the shade during these hours as the sun is at its strongest at these times and use clothing to minimise sun exposure. Pop on a hat and a long-sleeved t shirt.

7) Use self-tan – try to limit your sun-exposure and use a self-tan from the Soltan Beautiful Bronze range for colour. Self-tan has
developed enormously in recent years, with new colour-modifiers that make the colour more natural and less orange and new
technologies which eliminate the characteristic odour that always used to be associated with self-tans.

8) Exfoliate and moisturise now ready for the summer – it’s easier to keep your skin in good condition rather than repair it after the sun dries it.

9) Choose a well-known brand that you trust – when buying sun care make sure you look for a brand that are investing in research into the latest suncare technologies as well as in educating people about sun safety.

10) Aftersuns can help – sun exposure is incredibly dehydrating for the skin, aftersuns are formulated not only to provide moisturisation but also to cool and soothe sun reddened skin like Soltan Aftersun Soothing Gel with Aloe Vera. Many also contain ingredients such as antioxidants which help your skin to recover after sun exposure.

 

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Expert reveals 7 car maintenance tips to protect your vehicle this summer

Three heatwaves are forecasted to sweep through the UK this Summer, tempting sun-seekers to hit the open road or flock to the beach for a sun-kissed glow. But have you checked in on your four-wheeled pal to ensure it is ready to take on the baking sun?

To help car owners prepare for the scorching weather, the experts at Carlease.co.uk have shared their top maintenance tips to ensure your car is in for a smooth cruise this summer.

Seven car maintenance expert tips to prep your vehicle for summer

  1. Is your tyre overinflated? Consider swapping to nitrogen

Warm summer months often spell a surge in tyre-related accidents as tyre pressure naturally rises in the heat. Typically, for every 10°C increase in temperature, the pressure of tyres changes between 1 or 2 pound-per-square-inch. Without proper handling, drivers might face a tyre blowout, risking their own safety due to reduced traction from overinflated tyres. Always check their condition using a good-quality gauge and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level ahead of long drives.

Consider filling your tyres with nitrogen instead of air, as it shows less pressure fluctuation with temperature swings. Before making the switch, check with your tyre manufacturer to ensure compatibility.

  1. Ensure your air conditioning is in tip-top condition

Traffic jams and sweltering cars can be a recipe for disaster if your air conditioning isn’t functioning properly. To avoid frustration, do regular checks and test the airflow within the vehicle by running the AC to its highest settings. Observe the type of air blowing out – is it weak or even worse, hot? Listen for any unusual noises coming from your car’s AC system as it could be a sign of problems such as a broken condenser or fan belt, which would require professional attention. If it’s already been two years since your last regassing, it’s time to replace the old refrigerant gas with fresh refrigerant to stay cool all summer.

  1. Replace the wiper blades for summer downpours

It’s not unheard of to have the UK sun catapulted back to rain, wind (and sometimes hail) even during summer.Prepare your car for any weather and replace worn-out wiper blades to maintain optimal visibility during sudden downpours or glare from the sun. Check for signs of deterioration such as cracks or splits, and ensure the wiper blades are making full contact with the windshield.

  1. Say no to clogged car filters

Thick debris and salt can clog your car’s air filter if left uncleaned for a long period, reducing fuel efficiencyand compromising the air quality within your vehicle. The increased use of air conditioning in hotter months can strain the engine if you’re running on a blocked filter, causing unnecessary wear to your AC units that could incur repair costs of up to £1,000.

As a rule of thumb, replace your air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles – depending on the road and air conditions you drive in – as a clean filter can improve gas mileage by up to 10% and extend the life of your car. Doing so can also keep your car pollutant-free, especially during summer when pollen counts are high.

  1. Check coolant levels to prevent overheating

An overheated engine can lead to a domino effect of costly repairs, and even total engine failure. Extreme heat depletes engine fluids sooner, hence it’s crucial to maintain a well-tuned cooling system when the sun is at its peak. Open the hood and regularly check the coolant level. A combustion engine is most efficient at around 93°C, anything too high can result in metal parts melting and fusing together. To keep this essential fluid working at its best, flush the radiator and top up new coolant every two years to reduce the risk of overheating.

  1. Put your brakes to the test

Summer road trips often mean longer journeys and heavier traffic. As a vital safety feature, it’s crucial to ensure your brakes are always in top condition – especially after colder months where ice and road salt can deteriorate your braking system. Take your car for a test drive and pay attention to any excessive squealing and grinding. If the brakes feel ‘spongy’ or are slow to respond, it’s a sign they need professional inspection and possibly replacement. Also check for wear on the brake pad lining and ensure the brake shoes haven’t worn down below the manufacturer’s recommended thickness, ideally 3mm.

  1. Change the oil and oil filter

As the lifeblood of your vehicle, it’s advised to change your oil and oil filter every 7,500 miles (or as per your manufacturer’s guideline), especially during the demanding summer months when the engine is more prone to overheating. Regularly check your car’s engine oil levels and colour using a dipstick – the oil should be a translucent amber colour. If it has turned black and has a thick consistency, it’s time to change it immediately. Fresh oil ensures optimal lubrication, reduces friction, and helps prevent overheating to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently all summer long.

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Beat Festival Fatigue: Experts Recommend Viral Sleepy Girl(or boy) Mocktail for Restful Nights

As festival season kicks off, many of us are enjoying late nights, long weekends, and time off work. However, this can disrupt our beauty sleep and daily routines. While having fun is important, it’s essential to take care of your body. Multiple sleepless nights and constant adrenaline can weaken your immune system.

Since May, the global search for effective sleep remedies has increased by 25%, as people look to improve their sleep during the summer. In response, experts at Mattress Online have explored the popular‘Sleepy Girl Mocktail,’ a trendy drink with over 1.5 million views on TikTok. This concoction promises a good night’s sleep, making it an ideal solution after busy summer events.

The Expert-Approved Drink to Keep You Fresh During Festival Season

Approximately one-third of adults aren’t getting the amount of sleep we require, but ‘The Sleepy Girl (or boy) Mocktail’ may be able to help. Originally shared by creator Gracie Norton, her TikTok video showcasing the mocktail recipe has garnered over 1 million views andover 100 thousand likes.

If you’re curious to experience the potential benefits for yourself and inch closer to that coveted eight hours of sleep or more, here’s how to make it:

  • Ice
  • Pure tart cherry juice
  • 1 tablespoon of magnesium powder
  • Lemon flavoured soda or sparkling water

The Benefits of The Sleepy Girl Mocktail

The Tart Cherry: Tart cherry juice is known to contain melatonin, a sleep hormone often taken as a supplement to aid with sleep. The hypothesis is that incorporating this juice into your bedtime routine may augment the melatonin your body naturally produces, meaning a quicker transition into sleep.

The Magnesium: Research indicates that magnesium supplementation can be effective in addressing primary insomnia, impacting sleep duration.

Mattress Online has also devised their own new mocktail for us sleepy girls to try.

Other foods Mattress Online recommends to help you sleep:

Carbohydrates (e.g., pasta and rice):
Despite their negative reputation, carbs are essential for our diets and can contribute to improved sleep. They increase the availability of tryptophan, an amino acid that produces melatonin. Opt for complex carbs like brown rice or whole grains to avoid blood sugar spikes.

B Vitamins (from protein sources like poultry and nuts):
Crucial for brain function, B vitamins are involved in melatonin production. A slight deficiency can disrupt sleep. Vitamin B12, found in animal-based foods, is crucial; for vegans, focus on high-quality protein sources like nuts and lentils.

Melatonin (from plant foods, such as peppers):
While the body produces melatonin naturally, certain plant-based foods, including vegetables (especially peppers), mushrooms, legumes, and select berries, contain melatonin with natural sedative properties.

Magnesium Sources (seeds like pumpkin, hemp, sesame, sunflower, flaxseeds, almonds, and dried thyme):
Essential for muscle relaxation, magnesium enhances melatonin secretion, promoting better sleep.

Zinc (found in oats, wheat germ, sesame seeds, oysters, meat and eggs):
Linked to improved sleep quality, zinc intake from various sources can contribute to a better night’s sleep.

Supplements and Sleep:
Some supplements containing ingredients such as sugar or caffeine have the potential to interfere with sleep. It is recommended to refrain from consuming vitamin B, multivitamins, energy herbs, vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin C close to bedtime. For optimal absorption and to avoid late-night cravings and potential indigestion, it is advisable to take fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) with meals during breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

 

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KEEPING YOUR SHOES IN TIP-TOP CONDITION – 6 TIPS FOR SHOE CARE

Summer time not only brings us warm beautiful weather, sometimes, outside drinking, bbqs, not having to wrap in layer after layer, but it also brings us Wedding season, proms and weekends away with the boys. Now if you have any of the aforementioned events coming up we have some indispensable advice on caring for your footwear. Take a shuftie at this great sic step guide –

Step 1 – Your shoe shine kit

1 SLIGHTLY DAMP CLOTH

• SHOE POLISH

• SHOE BRUSH

• 1 CLEAN, DRY CLOTH

Step 2 –

REMOVE LACES AND PLACE SHOES ON A FLAT NEWSPAPER TAKE THE DA SUP CLOTEN AND WIPE OFF ALL DIRT FROM

THE SHOES

Step 3 –

TAKE THE SHOE BRUSH AND»

ENSURE ALL DIRT IS REMOVED

*FROM ANY CREVICES

Step 4 –

USING A SMALL AMOUNT OF POLISH, START RUBBING IT INTO THE SHOE IN SMALL

CIRCULAR MOTIONS.

YOU CAN ALWAYS ADD MORE POLISH

IF NEEDED

Step 5 –

BRUSH EXCESS POLISH OFF

THE SHOES USING YOUR SHOE

BRUSH UNTIL THERE ARE NO

STREAK MARKS, THIS WILL ALSO

HELP GET POLISH INTO ANY

CREVICES ON THE SHOE, THEN

TAKE THE DRY CLOTH AND

BUFF THE SHOES UNTIL YOU

ACHIEVE THE DESIRED RESULT

Step 6 –

PAIR YOUR SHOES WITH FORMAL WEAR FROM FIELDS MENSWEAR AND TAKE YOUR

NEW SHINY SHOES OUT FOR A SPIN

Imagery by –

Ban Yido

Sid Verma

Tim Mossholder

Nordwood Themes

Nathan Dumlao

Radek Skrzypczak