Merry Christmas

What Christmas jumper will you be sporting today?

A Christmas gift from Monsieur Man: Enjoy 15% Off

Gentlemen's Tonic/ Monsieur Man:

For masculine rejuvenation, there’s simply no better destination than Gentlemen’s Tonic. Gentlemen's Tonic is a unique establishment that was founded in the heart of Mayfair that affords the modern man a traditional barbershop and a variety of lifestyle and grooming services. Monsieur Man is pleased to announce an exclusive introductory offer, were Monsieur Man followers and members will receive 15% off their first visit to Gentlemen’s Tonic, on all barbershop, grooming and massage services.

To take advantage of this fantastic offer, follow the link below, call or email to arrange your appointment, quoting ‘ Monsieur Man’ and then take the printed voucher with you. Please note, this offer is only applicable at the flagship establishment at:

31a Bruton Place
Mayfair
London

Monsieur Man wishes you a very Merry Christmas, and a happy new year. We will be uploading daily posts again in the New Year. In the meantime, enjoy pampering yourself with our exclusive Monsieur Man and Gentlemen’s Tonic promotion.

15% off Gentlemen's Tonic

Velvet touch

When shopping for clothes, it’s often about tapping into the 5 senses….well not quite, they have yet to design a garment that smells. Unless you count Lady Gaga’s meat attire a few years back, which I’m sure after about 10mins would have stank. 

Velvet however feels expensive and exquisite against your skin, I adore velvet jackets on men. When it comes to velvet, there are no rules. Black velvet is sleek and minimalist, but coloured velvets are making a comeback too. Coloured velvets in burgundy wine, forest green and midnight blue are personal favourites and perfect for the romantic feel of winter.

 

For a refined yet playful twist on wearing velvet jacket, team with a beautiful silk scarf, and a luxurious tie, no less than 7 folds and made some sort of cravat style tie as see below (something I styled earlier) This can be worn to any sophisticated function, or even your own birthday, when you want to stand out from the crowd.

How does men’s style differ in Hong Kong from London?

I was asked this question a lot whilst in Hong Kong, now that I am back in London, let me explain the difference I noticed. As soon as I touched-down in Hong Kong (in mid June 2012) it was scorching hot and very humid. So instantly I was looking around to see what everyone was wearing, and it was so interesting to see the differences compared with London.

The climate in Asia plays a big part in influencing the different styles. I mean, for most of the year in HK, forget layering, which is a style I love on men! In Hong Kong you see more cotton, linen and bright pop colours. I guess the sun is out so you want to dress in brighter colours, which in turn looks like Hong Kong men have more fun with their fashion.

Londoners, don’t shoot me for this, but there was definitely more inspiration there. I noticed a much wider scale of colours, fabrics and accessories are used. Don’t get me wrong, you see great styled men in London, but they are still more reserved in their style choices. It tends to be 20-30 year olds that experiment with fashion over here.

In Hong Kong, however, you can literally get any aged guy rocking a coloured sole shoe, matching belt, watch and a fab deconstructed linen jacket. The attention to detail in HK is on point, and extremely considered.  From the placket on the shirt to the pocket square in their right breast pocket.

However saying that, I look forward to styling the London men once more!

Hong Kong

London

Greyhound is a playground!

Last week, I went for lunch at my favourite Thai restaurant in Hong Kong, had to order the pad thai of course. Whilst I was waiting in line, I spotted a super cool dressed man, so naturally I took some photos. He was even sporting a Playhound carry bag which was so amazing!

The story behind Greyhound café, and Play ground is that in 1980, Greyhound first opened its door in Bangkok, offering men’s casual wear. In 1990, expanded into women’s wear, leather goods and accessories. And then in 1998, Greyhound opened the first Greyhound café, adding another aspect to our brand, turning Greyhound from a fashion label into a cutting edge lifestyle brand in Bangkok. In 2002, Greyhound launched Playhound by Greyhound, a second apparel line offering younger flamboyant clothes with modern, casual and experimental street attitude. See the amazing bag below! Today there are 14 stand-alone and shop-in-shop boutique stores plus 5 cafes and 1 bar and restaurant in Bangkok. Greyhound also expanded abroad opening 2 concept stores in Hong Kong, and one cafe were you will often find me, sipping on a lemongrass tea!

http://www.greyhound.co.th/

The man behind the Greyground concept

 The Greyhound cafe in IFC, HK

My usual dish- Pad Thai

 The guy in line: his shoes were great- Mark McNairy I think

 His amazing Playhound bag!

The brand concept 

How to style it: The Great White

Monsieur Man, is the new style contribute for NeonPunch Hong Kong. This is our first featured post, enjoy:

Kemi Olaofe tells us how to do the great white.




Kemi Olaofe is the chief stylist at menswear site- Monsieur Man. As Neonpunch.com’s new style contributor, she tell us how to wear the white shirt.

Every man, boy and child without question needs a great white shirt in his wardrobe, it is an indispensable must-have! I mean, Thomas Pink has even come up with a concept called ‘The white shirt bar’ providing customers with a shirt menu, and staff to help them choose the correct shirt, guess the only disappointment is, there is no alcohol involved.
 
Kemi’s tips in selecting white shirts: 

• The key to white shirt selection is that  it should be 100% cotton — accept nothing else.  No polyester, poly-blends, or silks.
• One white shirt is not enough; the minimum is three in your wardrobe.
• When choosing these shirts, there is one ultimate element you need to get right….the FIT!

The 4 key essential white shirts to have in your wardrobe are: 
1.  A simple oxford cotton shirt is great for the office. Oxford shirts almost always use two different threads of different colour and thickness to create rich textures and colours without resorting to synthetic fibres.
2. A cotton poplin shirt is one of the simplest weaves out there, just one-under/one-over weaves. Crisp poplin, works well under a, blazer, a casual jacket and even with a pair of shorts, for a relaxed weekend look.

3. A bespoke shirt is definitely worth the investment, as it will be tailored completely for your shape, and designed to your taste. I would opt for a sea island cotton, it is the most prestigious fabric and will last you a long time.

4. Finally, a dress shirt, with either a pique bib, or pleats (depending on how daring you are) for when you need to whip out the penguin suit.

Four little pointers to ensure your shirt fits properly:

• Collar – should be just enough room in the collar for you to slip you index finger in and comfortably move it around.
• Shoulders -the shoulder seam should fit just right, so that there is enough movement, the fabric shouldn’t stretch across the chest, to create a gap. You don’t want to be blinding someone with a flying button.
• Sleeves- should be 1.5 inches longer than your jacket (around thumb) so the shirt can be seen beneath a suit jacket etc.
• Tapered at waist – they is no need for excess fabric. I would rec­om­mend finding a slim fit­ted shirt, as it’s much eas­ier to tuck in and stay tucked, along with giv­ing you an overall slim­mer appear­ance.

Where to buy white shirts in Hong Kong?

• In need of a casual shirt- G2000
• In need of a formal shirt- PHERES
• Treat yourself to a bespoke shirt at Ascot Chang
• In need of a dress shirt- Gieves & Hawkes

Should you need help in finding the trends, styles that suit your personality and shape, contact Monsieur Man for style and shop consultancy at info@monsieurman.com

The art of packing II

Yesterday we talked about how to pack, and today we will highlight ‘what’ you should pack.Guys who are meticulous can make a checklist, although I don’t think its really necessary for a 2/3 day business trip, just be sure to check the weather of where you are going, so you can pack appropriately. 

So, the first day of a business trip normally entails hitting the ground running with meetings to attend and colleagues and clients to impress. Particularly if you're meeting a client for the first time, this day is the most crucial in terms of how you dress. Your day that starts with a morning flight and progresses to an afternoon presentation, you should don a Richard James wool travel suit, it is tailored from a pure wool fabric that has been woven to resist wrinkles, ensuring you always look your best. The classic navy shade and two button jacket guarantee it's a fail-safe investment in smart style. At this point, forgo the tie whilst on the plane. Once you get to your hotel, however, add your tie and you're ready for action. Just slip into your comfiest black Oxford shoes and go. 

So it’s the next day, and with first impressions and deal-making presentations out of the way, you can concentrate more on relaxing on day two of your trip. For a smart- casual business day, go for a contemporary look by pairing your white dress shirt with ultra-dark rinse, trouser-cut jeans, a smart sports blazer and a funky pocket square, like this Drake’s polka dot one.

The next day you are not due at the airport till early afternoon, just enough time to check out the hotel’s gym and pool facilities, so be sure to pack your gym gear, and swimming trunks. For your journey home wear your third and final shirt with your great travel suit trousers.

Other things not to forgot include-

• Wash bag
• Undergarments
• Belt
• Socks
• Watch
• Ipod/Ipad/Phone/Laptop
• Chargers, and adapters
• Business cards

Happy travels!

The art of packing

I’m packing frantically at the moment, for my return to London, and it got me thinking...there is no fun way in doing so, Ive tried turning up the music and a glass of wine doesn’t hurt, but it is still a monotonous job, regrettable it is a task that needs to be done. So Monsieur man has decided to lend a helping hand to all you business men out there, that must pack. In today’s post, we will outline 'how' to pack, and  in tomorrow’s post we will continue explaining 'what' to pack.

Unlike personal travel when you can pack haphazardly at the last minute if need be, business travel involves more consideration, after all, your aim is to look as polished and presentable as possible while keeping your luggage light. Packing everything into one bag and getting it there wrinkle-free is the business traveler's greatest bane. Before you begin packing, assess what you plan to wear when you fly. Chances are it will be your suit as you'll likely have a meeting to attend once you land. Try these techniques to keep your clothes neat and crisp while they’re en route to your destination.

Monsieur Man suggests:

1. One way to avoid creases in clothing is by placing one garment between the folds of another garment. By placing another garment between the folds, you can prevent a crease from forming. As so:

   

 

 

2.   Another technique is rolling: Roll up garments that don’t wrinkle as easily. These include t-shirts, underwear, jeans, and cotton trousers. But make sure you fold garments like formal trousers, dress shirts, and dress coats.

3.     Place the rolled up garments on the bottom of the bag. Then place the folded garments on top.

4.     Place shoes, socks, and your wash bag along the sides of the bag.

When you arrive at your hotel, and you still have wrinkled items, most hotels carry irons, and suits that obtained creases in them can be ‘pressed’ by hanging them in the bathroom, and taking a very hot shower. Hope that helps men!

PS: I can’t help be love the great interactive Youtube video Louis Vuitton has created in mastering the art of packing. Check it out. 

Party season inspiration

Guys, Monsieur Man has styled and captured some snapshot outfit ideas, if you need a little help and inspiration playing dress up this party season! Try to mix and match your cravat tie, with your bow tie, and add a complementary cummerband and pocket square to complete the outfit.

Collection by PHERES

Pictures taken by Michelle Proctor 

Flower pins

A boutonnière is a floral decoration worn by men, typically a single flower or bud.

Most men will wear a flower on the lapel of their jacket only a handful of times in their life, which is a shame, they shouldn’t be reserved for proms and weddings.  Nothing adds panache to a man’s appearance like the confidence in wearing a stylish boutonniere. Some men will dismiss the boutonniere as feminine, this is the polar opposite, as many great statesmen, warriors, and poets have worn flowers for over a millennium.

The boutonnière is worn on the left lapel of a men’s suit, sport jacket, or blazer jacket; it can also be worn on an overcoat.  It is all about the detail, and confidence when wearing a flower pin, do not be afraid to be an individual, wear a boutonniere because you want to. I find however, wearing a real flower when you are, not going to a prom or wedding, can be some what obtrusive, and to in your face, I much prefer the fabric flower pin for everyday wear. Remember men that just like the bow tie, only wear a flower pin when you have nailed your styling capability. 

I personally am not the biggest fan of these less then subtle designs.

These fabric flower pins however, are a great way to make a  fashion statement without losing any classic style. 

Picture Perfect

Click, flash, (it’s bright)… so you blink, oh and opps you’ve forgotten to smile and pose! There are so many things to think about in just one second of someone whipping their camera out.  With all the Christmas parties in full swing, everybody has their cameras and phones at the ready which means a lot of Facebook, and Instagram pictures to "un-tag" the next morning. So in order to get ready for all the candid photos here are a few Monsieur Man tips for taking a great picture…and I don’t mean being behind the camera.

• Firstly wear an outfit you feel comfortable and dapper in, if you look good you feel good-correct, so this will automatically give you the confidence to smile.
  
  
•  Secondly, to avoid that dreaded double chin, (which even the slimmest of people can get, if they don't position their head probably) you must pull your head slightly forward and tilt your chin down ever so slightly. If it feels slightly awkward, it looks good!
  
  

•  Finally guys always remember to stand up straight (imagine a string pulling your spine up), shoulders back and relaxed, and remember to gently suck in your ‘Christmas’ stomach.

12 days of Christmas--12 men of Christmas Cont

The final three men personality types- this Christmas are:

THE GREEN MAN: care free, often on the go from city to city, Mr green fingers is often outdoors, either in the garden or at festivals. For a stylish yet practical gift, a pair of classic wellington boots are an ideal purchase.

Hunters are the original wellington boot, and are a great investment gift. Founded in Scotland in 1856, they offer traditional style and functionality. £87.50 / Approx. HK$1,092

THE MAN WHO HAS EVERYTHING: he literally has everything. Impossible to buy for, this man reads a paper every morning, so thinking innovatively a newspaper holder may be a great gifting option.

This Jil Sander newspaper holder features a typically sleek exterior with a push-lock fastening. It is lined with bright red leather and contains further pockets and card slots, providing an aspect of practicality. £454.17 / Approx. HK$5,667

The twelfth man of Christmas is the TIGHT MAN, he knows you very well, and you know him however he never splashes out on you, or anybody for that matter and every year you buy him some fantastic present. So this year you have decided to just give him an empty bottle with a sticker on it saying, MY CHRISTMAS FUND 2013. 

All products available at Mr porter 

12 days of Christmas--12 men of Christmas cont

Continuing on with our 12 men of Christmas, we have: 

SCRUFFY STUDENT: he has just left the birds nest, and has to fend for himself. My pet peeve is seeing what brand underpants a guy is wearing, students tend to be flashing their boxers the most, so to ensure this is no longer a problem- a simple solution is a belt.

This fun colourful Anderson woven belt will do just the trick. Wear with a pair of jeans or chinos to brighten up an understated look. End result no more visible boxers. £50 / Approx. HK$624

THE GENTLEMAN: he appreciates the finer things in life, for a refined gentlemen treat him to a functional yet elegant umbrella.

No other than Swaine Adeney Brigg, polished chestnut umbrella, they use a mix of exquisite materials. The Brigg umbrella has been an international byword for the best of British craftsmanship since 1836.  £275/ Approx.HK $3428

THE METRO SEXUAL: statics now state that, men spend 83 minutes a day on personal grooming, including cleansing, toning and moisturising, shaving, styling hair and choosing clothes. An ideal gift would be a cool and stylish washbag to house all his grooming essentials.

This fair isle pattern, Paul Smith vibrant woven wash bag is the stylish way to keep your essentials in check, with a practical waterproof lining and inner zipped pocket, this leather-detailed case is ideal for the modern day man. £104.17 / Approx. HK$1,300

All products available at Mr Porter.

12 days of Christmas- 12 men of Christmas cont.

The next three gift buying personality types: 

HIGH FLYER: air miles at over 50,000 this man seriously travels the world, and rarely has two feet on the ground.

A Burberry travel wallet offers style and substance in equal measures. Compact yet capacious, this rectangular piece will make a refined impression at the check-in desk and its understated design makes it a safe bet as a gift to your globetrotting guy. £279.17 / Approx. HK$3,488

SPORTS ADDICT: fitness freak, always at the gym, or playing sport, this man can never sit still.

 Ensure he walks around with his sports gear in style with this London based brand Ally Capellino bag. It is water-resistant and hard-wearing, this piece will even fit everything you need for a weekend away.
£275 / Approx. HK$3,436

DAPPER DAD: he is cool, he is loving, he is your old man.

Treat him to a polka-dot cotton dressing gown from Derek Rose, it exudes old-school charm. Layer it over a luxurious pyjama set to work a refined loungewear look. £140.43 / Approx. HK$1,755

 All products available at Mr Porter.

12 days of Christmas--12 men of Christmas

Buying gifts for the men in your life can sometimes seem taxing rather than pleasurable. This holiday season Monsieur Man has broken it down into 12 different men personality types. For the first three:

JACK THE LAD: this guy has a jammed packed social life. So a watch is an ideal gift, so he never misses a night out. 

This Uniform Ware watch is Sleek, minimalist, and affordable at HK$1,500/ £120.83. Ideal set it against a sharp white shirt for a stylishly monochrome look.

SMOOTH CRIMINAL: ladies man, he needs to make sure he constantly remains dapper, and irresistible. A grooming kit will ensure he looks the part, way past late night Christmas shenanigans.

Try Aesop they offer the ultimate grooming kit exclusively for MR PORTER. Comprising of a face cleanser, hydrating cream, shaving serum, spray-on moisturiser and lip cream, this pack contains everything you need to freshen up and look smooth. £116.67 / Approx. HK$1,454

CLEAN FREAK: OCD about most things this meticulous man would continue to want things in order.You can’t go wrong with an organiser, an ideal gift as it will hold all his essential information in impeccable style.

Try the Smythson leather bound organiser, it has sections devoted to your diary, address book and phone numbers. With a metal pencil tucked discreetly inside, it seamlessly marries function with form. £241.67 / Approx. HK$3,010

Tomorrow we will provide you with more gifting ideas. 

All available at Mr Porter