CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

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.

Even though we’re on the seventh day of November it’s still no too late to get involved and do your bit for a great cause. The Movember Foundation is a global men’s health charity. Set up to deliver innovative, breakthrough research and support programmes that enable men to live happier, healthier and longer lives. Over £440m has been raised to date which funds over 1,200 projects focusing on prostate cancer, testicular cancer and suicide prevention. In addition to tackling key health issues faced by men, the Foundation is working to encourage men to stay healthy in all areas of their life, with a focus on men staying socially connected and becoming more open to discussing their health and significant moments in their lives.

In celebration of Gillette’s continued partnership with Movember, they have commissioned a survey to uncover the facts and stats around this year’s initiative. This year Gillette will contribute £5.00 to Movember for every three-month sign up to Gillette Club, the brand’s subscription service, throughout the month of November in an effort to raise awareness around men’s health.

The study of 2,000 men from across the UK and Ireland revealed that:

· over 50 miles of Mo hair (72,500 meters) will be grown throughout Movember 2016, the equivalent in length of 500 rugby pitches
· almost 6 in 10 (57%) men aged 25-34 will be partaking in Movember
· the average guy will take nine minutes to maintain and style their chosen moustache
· teachers will spend the most time shaving/grooming their Mo this month (183 minutes and 11 seconds), while builders will spend the least

To promote the initiative, rugby stars James Haskell and Vincent Koch took part in a live shave down. Ahhhh look at those Baby faces, errr maybe I wouldn’t say that to their face.

BEFORE

AFTER

P.S. – While we’re talking about Gillette I couldn’t resist showing you these brilliant Rogue One: A Star Wars Story gift sets !!!!

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.

This 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.

Did 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.

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.

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

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.

Last 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

Words by Charlie Britton

As Autumn sets in and the Winter months loom in the not so far distance, a good coat is a vital piece in any mans wardrobe. For the past couple of Winters, the camel coat has been a staple addition to any outerwear range, and this year it’s not going anywhere.

From retails such as A.P.C and Burberry, to the high street giants of River Island and TopMan, the undeniably British camel coat is making a shining appearance in this years Autumn collections. If a camel coat is something you already own, or you are considering purchasing, here is where you’ll find out how to make the most of it.

Our Favourites

This year, almost every designer has created some form of camel coat, whether it may be an overcoat, mac or duffle coat. The neutral camel colour works effortlessly with almost any look and it pairs with many other monochrome and saturated colours beautifully, allowing for an extensive range of styling.

This A.P.C coat is a beautiful piece, perfect for the coming colder months. Its tailored shape and streamline cut is fitting for any outfit, whether you’re pairing it with a shirt and trousers, or some jeans and a t-shirt. As you can see, this coat can be worn effortlessly with a denim shirt, some slim fitting jeans and a clean pair of white sneakers, so it doesn’t limit you to formal occasions at all.

This Whistles Menswear coat is slightly darker in shade then the A.P.C coat, with contrasting buttons and a breast pocket. This coat is again, perfect for any outfit, whether your rocking a suit or some raw denim jeans. Constructed from Spanish wool, this coat will undoubtedly keep you warm in the winter, and it’s traditional shape leaves room for layering under a jumper or a suit jacket.

The high street retailers are also rocking the camel coats this season. This River Island coat is very similar to the A.P.C coat, although the shade is unquestionably darker. A fraction of the price too, this RI piece is a great alternative if you don’t want to splash out too much of your hard earned cash. They’ve styled this coat with a classic oxford shirt, some black trousers and a pair of suede shoes, perfect for a smart-casual event. Swap out the trousers for some chinos and throw on some sneakers and your good to go for a roast at your local.

Last but most definitely not least, we have the TOPMAN coat. This coat is slightly different to the others, avoiding the use of exterior pockets completely, leaving a seamless finish from top to bottom. Again, this coat will not break the bank, and is a slightly lighter shade alternative to the River Island coat. This coat’s shape is also slightly more relaxed, pairing perfectly with jeans and a t-shirt or hoodie. This jacket has been styled with a Breton style tee, showing how versatile and clash-free this staple garment is.

A man who knows a thing or two about style and is at the forefront of fashion, Patrick Grant, British fashion designer and creative director of Norton & Sons of Savile Row, amongst other things, briefly explains in this short clip why the camel coat is such a timeless wardrobe staple, so if you don’t want to take our word for it, you can most definitely take his.

As you now know, the Camel Coat is a perfect addition to your wardrobe. Its versatility and effortlessly clean finish makes for an essential garment this coming season, and will carry you through to Summer next year, without aging one bit. Lastly, as Samuel Johnson once said, “A man with a good coat upon his back meets with a better reception than he who has a bad one”, and here at Clothes-Make-The-Man, we couldn’t agree more.

Words by Suzanne Vallance

For today’s post we sort the advice of an expert Suzanne Vallance uses her knowledge of all things horology to share her passion of traditional timepieces and she currently works for repairsbypost.com

With temperatures dropping and winter, approaching makes sure you are up to date with watch trends this autumn. A timepiece will make excellent addition to your new winter wardrobe, however, with so much choice out there, it will be hard to narrow down the options.
If you have some time on your hands, make sure you shop around for a piece of wrist wear that will show off your knowledge of watch innovation as well as your flair for street style. Stay ahead in the world of watches as we have narrowed down our top picks for Autumn Accessories.
MINIMALIST WATCHES PERFECT FOR GENTLEMEN
If your style consists of pain white t-shirts and a classic skinny jean, then a minimalist watch design is perfect for you. Sometimes it is best to be basic as Minimalism has proven to be one of 2016’s biggest trends on and off of the catwalk.
If you are looking for a watch that works with your style day in and day out then a simple vintage style watch, is probably the best choice for you. Daniel Wellington timepieces are male fashion blogger favourite, as their simple yet classic design can be described in two words: Instagram worthy.
This versatile brand creates watches for every occasion. From formal evening wear to Sunday style a Daniel Wellington timepiece is a gent’s perfect partner. Although minimalistic style is at the forefront of fashion right now, Daniel Wellington believe that they create timepieces that men can keep for years to come. Matte black is a timeless option, however, metallic fashion is also trending so it could be an idea to match your watch with a silver or rose gold clock face with a NATO or leather strap.

If you like to change up your look Daniel Wellington owners have the option to easily switch up their watch straps. Online watch repair, brand, Repairs By Post suggest that if you do invest in a leather strap. A regular cleaning will keep the dirt to a minimum and prevent any unwanted odours.

WORK WITH THE WOODEN TIMEPIECE TREND
What could be more authentic this winter than a timber timepiece? Wooden jewellery an excellent choice for a manly man who is looking to alternate his accessory style. The wooden watch market will break your bank and it and will be the subtle addition that will change your style vibe for winter 2016.
Sustainability is huge right now in the fashion and accessory world and figures have shown that 91% of millennials living in the UK, would switch brands to one which is associated with a cause that supports the environment.
Original Gran is a sustainable wooden watch brand that has partnered with Trees for the Future. The accessory creators have listen to today’s watch wearers and have and gone one above competitors and plant 10 trees for every watch sold! Therefore, a timepiece by Original Grain is not only a stylish choice but one that is definitely worth style blogging about!

ONES TO WATCH

Independent watch makers are breaking all the rules and going back to watch design basics, creating quality time pieces that are built to stand the test of time. If you are looking forsomething different that is out of the mainstream eye, then INSTRMNT are the one to watch this winter.
INSTRMNT’s goal is to create a high quality minimalist design minimalist which is at an affordable price. Their tagline promotes the ideology that the customer is top priority on the list, stating that they; “value process and design primarily with the user in mind”.
By creating utilitarian pieces, they offer high quality design. INSTRMNT are creating a new trend in watchmaking design, influencing consumers to move away from big brands and to start investing in the future of wrist wear.

CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

Textual Conversation – Barry Alford

Do your bit for a good cause – Movember

6 of the best MANLY Scented Candles

Make the Most of – The Camel Coat

Our Favourites

Winter Watch Trends

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