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Posted by Calum

Good Hair

Sat on the sofa on a Saturday afternoon flicking through this months GQ I came across a face. I came across this face five times before I reached the middle page. Jon Kortjarena has worked for DKNY, H&M and Carolina Herrera but he is probably best known for his work with Tom Ford. An appearance in the film A Single Man (Directed by Mr. Ford) has helped this Spanish model become a superstar around the world.

In all the campaigns this man has wedged under his belt his hair seems to keep the same style. This non-fussy sweptback look gives a smart effortless feel that can be seen across the board in men’s fashion.

Another model whose hair I envy ever so much is David Gandy. He started his career after university by winning a competition on This Morning (back in the Richard & Judy days). The Brit has now become the poster boy for Dolce & Gabbana, who were so blown away by his beauty they created a book with nothing but images of him.

David also keeps us up-to-date on the world of male modeling in his blog for Vogue.

If you want to splash your cash on images of Mr. Gandy head to Amazon.
Posted by Calum
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A beach to bar lifesaver!

So you are half way through your beach holiday. A bit sunburnt with an earache from one too many dips in the pool. Your hair is starting to not look its best. Chlorine, salt and sunshine can seriously damage and dry out your hair so before you go make sure you pack a lifeline. Dry shampoo.

It’s not just for festivals. No, dry shampoo can be a big help whilst on holiday especially if you want help your scalp cope whilst you enjoy your time away.

On a recent trip I used Mark Hills Holiday Hair, which promised to ‘remove the days impurities like grease, sand, salt and chlorine’. When going straight from the beach to dinner the dry shampoo in my beach bag worked a treat. So give your hair a rest from daily washing and try some dry shampoo.
Posted by Calum
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A shavers lifeline

My new favourite thing comes from the manly world of Jason Shankey. The grooming expert started his brand in 1997 and has gone from strength to strength. They now have a range of unique products for your hair and skin but my favourite is for after shaving.

Shaving can leave the skin irritated and soar especially if you have sensitive skin. The pure alum block from Jason Shankey soothes irritation and helps with those Homer Simpson shaving cuts.
Posted by Calum

Holiday Grooming - Fake then Bake?

For many people this product is a huge no no - fake tan. But I have to admit I have been known to use the stuff to give my skin a little pick me up. I think when used correctly it can give your skin that subtle tint but by all means if you prefer the Robert Pattinson look ignore this post!

I was on the second floor of Selfridges in London (menswear) when a rather huge stand filled with Fake Bake products caught my eye. I guess Geordie Shore and The Only Way Is Essex is bringing tan from a bottle into our clothing departments.

If you are thinking of going down the fake route then I would suggest moisturising the skin before application, do not apply too much, make sure the room is well lit and ALWAYS use a mitt or glove. The dark edges around your fingers is the biggest giveaway!

If you're not so keen on using fake tan why not go for a tinted moisturiser and use it a couple of times a week. This is perfect just before going on holiday


Men's Skin Care with Ross has great grooming videos and in the one below he uses Clinique for men non streak bronzer and mixes it with an moisturiser before applying it to his face. One warning I will give is that if you are going to apply fake tan to your face use it sparingly because if it goes wrong then it will be very noticeable...at least if it goes wrong on your hand you can wear gloves!


Posted by Calum

Holiday Grooming - Day 2 - My ban on fussy hair!

Today must have been one of the hottest days of the year - there were whispers on the tube of it almost hitting 100 Degrees Fahrenheit!!

With the weather being like this and sweat pouring from every part of the body, keeping that over styled hair style must be wearing thin! Well it was for me. On the way to Oxford Street I was getting irritable, my hair kept sticking to my forehead and I thought enough is enough.

I went past a little hairdresser on the outskirts of Soho and saw it was £9 for a simple cut. Mr.Topper's was busy but I got a chair almost straight away. A simple short back and sides (grade 3) and a hefty amount off the top was what I wanted and that’s what I got. No wasting of time washing my hair or even styling it after my cut. It was quick and easy and seems to be the perfect place for the businessman on the go!

DO NOT go here if you are looking for your signature look, or if you want your hair straightened and styled when it’s been cut! This is a basic place for a good price.

So this summer go for short, sharp and simple looks. It will save you from spending time fussing over your hair in the mornings whilst you’re away. Besides don't you plan to get in the pool?
Posted by Calum
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...speaking of obsessions...

These shoes have been catching my eye for a few months now and I never really knew who they were by untill I saw a man wearing them in a London club. I was with my friend Rosie and the pair of us went to equire about his pair of shoes. He said they were Christian Louboutin and he got them free because he works in the store (now I know where to give my CV!). Yesterday I was sat in a coffee shop and saw a pair that looked just like them. So naturally I got the camera out.


I showed a couple of friends who thought I had gone mad for falling in love with a strange looking pair of shoes but to me they are pretty cool.
Posted by Calum

Holiday grooming




It's that time of year again where our hopes in a hot British summer are beginning to fade. On the 18th of July I'm off to the Dominican Republic for a couple of weeks so every day from today I will bring you something new to prepare you for wherever you will be spending your summer.

Lets start with that all important holiday fragrance.

It's become my latest obsession and comes from the brand that brought us Obsession. Calvin Klein's Man is a mature earthy fragrance, which is a refreshing change from the overpopulated sweeter aromas from Paco Rabanne and Jean Paul Gaultier.

Man is spicy, lasts longer than a lot of fragrances and will be a perfect when going for dinner whilst away.

No need to cake this on either it’s strong enough to use very lightly and is more a fragrance people will notice when they are close up.
Posted by Calum
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Helpful Website


Just stumbled upon this page on OUT.com which has useful tips on grooming for men as well as style videos.


Posted by Calum
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The times they are a changing.

Quick post about crimpers - I know its a long shot but hear me out.

A few weeks back I took part in the Diversity Fashion Show at uni. My friend Katie McCracken was one of the organisers so she roped me into saying yes (she used the 'its for charity' card!)

Beauty students from local colleges did the hair and make-up and I was one of the first boys to get my hair prepared. I sat there and allowed them to do whatever was needed to make me look good for the show. This involved a pair of mini crimpers.

They made my hair look thicker, gave it more texture and even made it easier to style. Though I would not suggest using them every day maybe buy a pair just to use on your routes to give that extra bit of boost.

Celebrity hairdresser Jamie Stevens says he uses crimpers on guys and its great to use on shorter styles.
Posted by Calum
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