CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

The way you dress for an interview is so important, not just because it affects your confidence and the interviewer’s first impression of you,’ Amanda Augustine, careers expert at CVApp.de stresses. ‘In summer, you’ve got the added risk of overheating in formal clothes, which affects your concentration and increases the risk of everybody’s worst interview fear: your mind going blank during a question.’

With their experience of applicants’ worries about interview outfits – the dreaded sweat stains, looking unprofessional in shorter garments, or not looking memorable enough – experts at CVApp.deinterviewed fashion expert Hailey Rizzo from feelinggoodashail.com on their most sought-after questions.

How should people dress for interviews in summer in general?

Hailey Rizzo: When dressing for interviews in summer, you want to opt for a balance between comfort and professionalism. Lightweight fabrics and layers are two things to consider in order to stay cool and also comfortable, especially if the interview is being held in an air-conditioned office. Your go-to interview style should start at the base with something like a blazer or cardigan and build up from there. 

In general, you want to aim for items with a well-tailored fit that will help give you a put-together appearance. Depending on the job you’re interviewing for, don’t be afraid to add your own unique spin to your interview outfit. Things like statement earrings and colourful nail polish can help show your personality without being over the top.

What colours work best to get people hired: are there trends people should go for or things they should avoid?

Hailey Rizzo: Neutrals and earth tones are always a safe bet for interviews. Beige, brown, black, and navy are universally flattering and help create a neutral visual first impression. If you have more colour than neutrals in your wardrobes, opt for a soft pastel or jewel tone. Both of these hues make a subtle yet bold statement while adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit.

You want to avoid overly bright or distracting colours. Remember, that’s where fun accessories and accents can come into play.

Which types of fabric are best to stay cool & professional at the same time?

Hailey Rizzo: Linen is the best fabric to stay cool and look professional. Linen is made from a loose weave which allows for air to circulate more easily, keeping your body cool. It also has a natural ability to wick away moisture, perfect for keeping you dry on those humid summer days. Not only is linen incredibly functional, but it allows for a crisp and polished aesthetic making it one of the best fabrics for professional settings. 

Other than linen, cotton is another great option because of its breathable and lightweight nature.

What advice have they got for people wanting to go for “dress code business casual”?

Hailey Rizzo: For those wanting to go business casual, go with a delicate balance for business on top, casual on the bottom, or the opposite. For example, a blazer layered above a French-tucked tee and black chinos as a great example of casual on top and business on the bottom. For the opposite, opt for a tucked-in satin button-down on top and relaxed wide-leg trousers on the bottom. Loafers are the perfect shoe for a business casual dress code as well. 

What types of clothing people should wear/avoid? 

Hailey Rizzo: A blazer is almost always a must for any interview. Underneath a blazer, I recommend either a silk blouse or a t-shirt, depending on how casual you want to go. On the bottom, I recommend wide-leg trousers, straight-leg chinos, or a satin skirt (which is an upgrade from a boring pencil skirt). 

In terms of what to avoid wearing to an interview, you want to avoid jeans and sneakers. These should be avoided no matter how casual the environment may be. I also recommend making sure the outfit is properly tailored to you in order to avoid anything too tight or loose. You may have to visit a tailor for this, but this is a good way to have 1-2 perfectly tailored outfits on deck for any interviews you may have.

How to best stand out/look memorable with your outfit in an interview without looking extravagant?

Hailey Rizzo: This comes down to subtle details that add a touch of uniqueness to your style without being overly extravagant. This can include a delicate pattern, textures, or even a tasteful pop of colour. If you want to stand out in a different way, I highly recommend statement earrings. While you don’t want anything too loud or flashy, wearing abstract or colourful earrings will add a touch of memorability to your outfit, especially since the interviewer will be looking at your face the entire time. 

So in a nutcase;

1) opt for a balance between comfort and professionalism

2) Consider lightweight fabrics and layers

3) aim for items with a well-tailored fit

4) add your own unique spin, such as stand-out accessories

Images

Andrey Popov-Shutterstock

Caterina Trimarchi- Shutterstock

Volodymyr Tverdokhlib- Shutterstock

Par(x), the newest name in the golfing world, has announced the unveiling of its state-of-the-art line of golf gear and accessories, fortified with cutting-edge Filium technology. The brand’s premium products are crafted using only the highest-quality natural materials, designed to provide golfers, or equally guys who just like the look, with a comfortable fit, superior performance, and unparalleled style both on and off the golf course.

It is a leading brand of premium golf gear and accessories, dedicated to providing golfers of all skill levels with the tools they need to elevate their game. The company’s innovative products are designed with style, performance, and sustainability in mind, making Par(x) a favorite among golf enthusiasts worldwide.Par(x) is committed to using sustainable materials and production processes, and the brand’s products are powered by Filium® technology, a groundbreaking process that transforms ordinary fabrics into durable, odor-resistant, water-repellent, and stain-resistant materials.

“Par X Golf is the newest initiative in performance, earth-friendly, natural clothing, bringing to market the same dedication to sustainability and performance as we have with numerous other natural cotton brands. The Par(x) collection is activated with Filium, the proprietary patent-pending apparel technology that imparts performance characteristics – liquid, stain, and odor-repellency – to natural fibers like cotton without sacrificing prized features of natural fabrics like soft hand and breathability. Golfers have been crying out as they appreciate the comfort and updated styles offered by Par(x); many have said that feeling and looking good has helped their game. And when they head to the 19th hole, they are still looking and smelling as fresh as when they arrived at the course. Finally, in a world riven by the effects of climate change and environmental pollution, Par(x) is a desirable choice for golfers who want to contribute to a more sustainable planet. As we like to say: “lower your handicap and carbon footprint with Par X Golf”. – Raj Shah, Founder

For decades, golf apparel has been 99% synthetic textiles. Par(x) breaks that mold with its natural cotton. But the standout feature of Par(x) products is the integration of Filium technology, a revolutionary innovation in the textile industry. Filium transforms ordinary fabrics into extraordinarily durable, odor-resistant, water-repellent, and stain-resistant materials without sacrificing their softness, breathability, or comfort. With Filium -activated fabric, perspiration, and beverages roll off the surface of the material, and liquids known to stain like coffee or wine can be rinsed off without damage. Filium-activated fabric means sweat evaporates and prevents bacteria growth, thus allowing garments to be worn multiple times between washes, leading to less laundry. Filium‘s core technology is produced according to Bluesign standards for sustainable materials and production, making it eco-friendly and harm-free to the Earth. Par(x) is the first golf brand to incorporate this groundbreaking technology, setting new standards in golfing apparel and accessories.

The Par(x) product roster encompasses a diverse range of golf gear and accessories, all enhanced with Filium technology and meticulously designed to provide golfers with unrivaled performance and style. The brand’s clothing line features chic golf shirts, shorts, pants, jackets, and dresses for both women and men, crafted from breathable and moisture-wicking natural materials to ensure golfers remain comfortable, whether on the golf course or beyond. Par(x)‘s accessory range, includes hats that offer the perfect finishing touches to any golfer’s ensemble.

As a new entrant in the golf industry, Par(x) is committed to utilizing the most advanced technology and inventive materials to furnish golfers with the highest-caliber products. Par(x) is not only dedicated to enhancing the golfing experience but also to making a positive impact on the environment. By using Filium technology in its products, Par(x) aims to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact, while providing golfers with ultra-comfortable, long-lasting, easy-to-maintain options, to revel in the sport they adore.

For many of us with sensitive skin, curly hair, or stubborn ingrown hairs that pop up, it’s painful and embarrassing. I want to bring Patrol Grooming onto your radar. 

Patrol Grooming has created shaving, beard, and skincare products with all-natural and organic ingredients. With over 12 million customers and products sold anywhere from Target, Walmart, and Amazon, it’s a no-brainer why they have such a cult following. Interested in testing out our ALL-IN-ONE KIT?

Since 1991, Patrol Grooming has been revolutionizing the grooming industry, providing top-quality shaving, beard, and skincare products for both newcomers and seasoned shavers alike. What sets Patrol Grooming apart is its commitment to using all-natural and organic ingredients. With their products, you can rest assured that whoever is getting this awesome kit, their skin will be treated with the utmost care and gentleness. No more worries about harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances irritating his sensitive skin.

Hero products include the BUMP PATROL COOL SHAVE GEL

A successful shave starts with the perfect lather. Bump Patrol Cool Shave Gel is super silky and refreshing. The Bump Patrol Cool Shave Gel has a rich, creamy lather made from a refreshing, naturally derived concentrate specially formulated to help prevent skin irritation while shaving.

Add a layer of protection from those painful razor bumps.

Then we have the SKIN MOISTURIZER. With a soothing blend of skin-loving botanicals. Feels good. Non greasy, fast absorbing every day, hydrating skin moisturiser . Also protects skin from razor burn and ingrown hairs. Vitamins E, Chamomile and Aloe Vera keep skin calm and complexion even.

Lastly we have the BEARD OIL. A well-groomed beard calls for a finishing touch of oil! Our premium beard oil is designed to nourish and moisturize your beard, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable. Infused with 100 % natural oils, like hemp, argan, and coconut oil. Talk about a happy ending.

The oldest, most prestigious tennis tournament in the world returns to London next week, with stars like Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Iga Swiatek expected to grace the courts.

While spectators’ eyes are firmly focused on the talent on display and the incredible skill being demonstrated, the media lens often finds itself attracted to the ‘off-the-court’ style instead, snapping some of the most traditionally fashionable fits on the planet.

Would it be fair to say that Wimbledon has established itself as one of the world’s most glamorous events? Let’s take a look…

The Royals

Wimbledon has had a longstanding relationship with The Royal Family. The first royal visit was in 1907, when King George V and Queen Mary, then the Prince and Princess of Wales, attended.

Despite being a patron of the All-English Lawn Club, the late Queen Elizabeth II only attended Wimbledon on four occasions, the last of which was in 2010 to watch Andy Murray beat Jarkko Nieminen of Finland.

There is no denying that, just like the FA Cup and the Grand National, the Royal Family’s association with the annual South London event instantly enhances its stature and makes it, well, regal!

When it comes to fashion however, it was the late Princess Diana and in more recent years her son’s wife, Princess Kate, who’ve really made a unique, albeit impressively stylish royal stamp on Wimbledon.

Diana’s bold prints in the late 80s and 90s were well received by both fashion critics and the wider public. These outfits, often a classic blazer and power shoulder combo, delicately negotiated a fashion-forward look from the 90s while in-fitting with what was a rather strict Wimbledon dress code that, if broken, could easily be a cause for controversy (more on that to come).

Kate, meanwhile, a now-regular attendee at SW19, often sports old money glamour, choosing ‘quiet luxury’ chic as her go-to for the July tournament. The Princess of Wales has often graced the Royal Box with a fitted, sleeved dress, in a bold tone.

A-listers 

A Vogue style piece in the build up to last year’s event delved into the celebrities and what they’ve chosen to don at the tennis club. One simple observation is that of the sheer amount of Ralph Lauren on show.

Hollywood actress Sienna Miller is a regular visitor and quite often chooses Ralph Lauren as a go to – having worn a simplistic, yet equally stunning striped jumpsuit in 2021. The same year, Derry Girls’ star Nicola Coughlan and model Poppy Delevigne also wore Ralph Lauren while in 2019 it was Kendall Jenner and Tessa Thompson.

Of course, much like the Royal Family, Ralph Lauren and Wimbledon have a strong, lengthy relationship. Since 2016, Ralph Lauren has been the official outfitter of Wimbledon, owing in many ways to the unique, classy style.

Writing about the collaboration, Tatler journalist Chandler Tregaskes notes: “while all-white is strictly the only way to go for competitors, Ralph Lauren concocted his own elegant colour code for his official uniforms: purple and green (the All-England Club Colours) juxtaposed with a striking navy and embroidered accoutrements. Umpires, ball boys and girls, and linesmen ooze preppy perfection in timelessly elegant uniforms as they regulate the annual games on the sidelines.”

So, the officials dress smart, the Royals and the celebs are draped in stylish threads but what about the competitors and the rest of the spectators?

The players

Since tennis was introduced to Wimbledon more than 145 years ago, a number of traditions have established themselves, some that we’re very accustomed to, and some that we might not know too much about…

Pimms? Yes. Strawberries and cream? Yes. An all-white attire to prevent any signs of perspiration because it was deemed improper? Really?

The all-white vibe at Wimbledon is some that was written into the dresscode back in Victorian Times when sweating was considered improper and white was introduced in a bid to disguise perspiration!

According to the Wimbledon dress code: “white does not include off-white or cream, and while a single trim of colour around the neckline and around the cuff off the sleeve is acceptable, it must be no bigger than one centimetre.”

Shoes, caps, headbands, wristbands and socks all follow the same rules, with undergarments that are visible during play also expected to align with the same standards as above – the latter of which having been amended in the build up to this year’s tournament to allow female players to wear dark coloured undershorts.

This change comes after current and former players described the stress of having to wear an all-white ensemble at the tournament while on their menstrual cycle.

Many players have previously tried to find loopholes in the Wimbledon dress code in a bid to brandish their own styles at the event but have had little joy. Roger Federer was one such competitor who abided by the ‘white trainers rule’ only to unveil his orange soles, for which he was later reprimanded and the club then solidified the rule on soles for the next year.

Meanwhile, tennis great Andre Agassi chose to boycott Wimbledon between ‘88 and ‘90 because of the all-white dress code as he preferred to wear colours.

The spectators

Outside the Royal Box and the seats of the celebrities, what do things look like for the ‘everyday’ spectators? Well, while there is no official dress code for spectators, there are a few forbidden items on the clothing list and an unwritten rule or two, that sheerly out of respect for the event are most usually respected.

The things that will get you turned away? Ripped jeans, running vest, sports shorts, and dirty sneakers!

While these are the only things that are actually enforced, it’s somewhat of a given that people will dress formally. Men, traditionally, wear suits of the summer variety, and while women have a bit more to play with in terms of what’s acceptable, expect white dresses and typically summery-fits.

Spectators often treat the event a bit like a summer wedding, especially when the weather lives up to expectations, and therefore the event becomes an ever more glamorous occasion.

A combination of royal attendance, celebrity spectators, written and unwritten rules for visitors, and traditional albeit sometimes outdated enforcements, make for a truly fashionable fortnight at one of the world’s most sought after events. As of yet, who knows what will be unveiled this year –  but we’re confident that it’ll look good!

The summer blockbuster season is here and a recent study looked back on half a century of films released between May and August, comparing their box office profits alongside their popularity with audiences. With, get ready for it, Steven Spielberg’s 1975 classic Jaws being named the greatest of all time.

However despite this summer’s line-up filled with big-budget movies, less than a fifth of UK viewers say they are excited by any of them and half (48%) would rather watch a movie at home.

The study looked back at the last six decades of films released between May and August, ever since production companies in the early 1970s decided to save their biggest movies for the summer. It compared the box office takings of these movies as a percentage of their budgets, alongside their popularity with audiences.

Weighting those factors equally Jaws, first released in 1975, was the clear winner.

With a modest budget of roughly $7m — one of the smallest of all the blockbusters studied — Jaws made a staggering $253m worldwide, equivalent to a profit of 3,514%. The classic shark horror also has a 97% rating among film-goers on review website Rotten Tomatoes.

Table: The 10 best summer blockbusters of all time

Source: WatchTVAbroad.com

From the ocean to outer space, Jaws is followed by ET: The Extra-Terrestrial, which made a 3,321% profit coupled with a 99% Rotten Tomatoes rating.

Next came the original Star Wars: A New Hope, first release in 1977. It recorded an astronomical 6,949% profit but the force was less strong when it came to audience approval, with 93% putting it in third place.

Rounding off the top five is animated Disney classic the Lion King (1994) and 1985’s Back to the Future.

The only recent film to make it into the top ten was last year’s Top Gun: Maverick, with the Tom Cruise-starring sequel finishing in 6th.

And while there were few 21st-century releases in contention for the blockbuster crown, the research also found that this summer’s big-screen offerings are struggling to inspire much interest.

Among UK viewers the season’s most anticipated film is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, which will see 80-year-old Harrison Ford playing the bullwhip-cracking hero for the fifth and final time. However less than a fifth (19%) of Brits say they are actually excited to see the archaeologist in action again.

Meanwhile, just 15% of viewers are looking forward to seeing Tom Cruise’s seventh Mission Impossible film, Dead Reckoning Part One. This is followed by Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, with 14% admitting the animated spin-off gets their spidey senses tingling.