MEN'S LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL INSIGHTS FOR DISCERNING TASTEMAKERS
Disclaimer: #AD Many thanks to Son of Tailor Copenhagen for gifting me with a complimentary t-shirt from their new collection. As always all opinions will be my own based on personal style and taste as I only choose to promote brands I love to wear so I can give you honest feedback. Thank you for supporting ‘The Joey Journal’
Keep checking The Joey Journal for all the latest Fashion Week news, but for now, here’s the latest from Milano Fashion Week
It was a delightful evening one cold December but the party atmosphere was very inviting in the warmth as we tried out Festive Rum Cocktails with Celebrated Chef Mark Hix and.Jimmy Choo Men. The event was busy as one would expect during the Christmas Party season as I got to admire these exquisite shoes in the beautiful Dover Street boutique. I have always been curious how luxury shoes are made and the fine craftsmanship that goes into creating each style.
It was a pleasure to see the collection showcased at the event in an intimate setting which I’m keen to covet a new pair of Designer shoes for my Christmas Wish-list. Just a hint there for anyone wondering what to get for my birthday this month and Christmas present. I’ve always received two present’s with my birthday and Christmas being so close together but a pair of Jimmy Choo’s would be amazing don’t you think. But then again knowing me one pair may not be enough as I do love brand new shoes.
When’s it’s time to indulge in new shoes for that all important special occasion Jimmy Choo would be my first choice and I always say have a statement pair of shoes as you never know when that all important event may come up at short notice. With dressing request to the Star’s and Influencers Jimmy Choo shoes are the ideal companion for the Red Carpet without fail as the quality is so well made as the go to for luxury footwear and accessories every man should own to invest in.
It sure is worth the price tag, classic and they look amazing to wear from dressy in between to smart casual there is a style to suit all to make room in every discerning man’s contemporary wardrobe. So don’t be the last one to look sharp at the Christmas Party – be sure to always look exceptionally glamorous no matter the circumstances because trust me it’s worth it. While I had a chance to browse these amazing shoe styles I also got to enjoy some sumptuous Festive Rum Cocktails from classic favourites such as an ‘Old Fashioned’ to Negroni made with the finest spirits by Zacapa Rum was a great to try out and savour in good company. The twist on a classic rum cocktail recipe included a Negroni Spritz which was very Italian and one of my new go cocktails to add to my list to order at the bar. Why not have a go yourself try mix up one the cocktail recipes from the comfort of you’re own home in style come Christmas Day.
With Award’s Season just around the corner and fashion week it’s never too early to start thinking about it so it doesn’t hurt to plan ahead for upcoming event’s so don’t forget get to put an alert on your smart phone with so many shoe styles to choose from it must be you’re lucky day to spoil and indulge yourself.
Disclaimer: Thank you so much to Jimmy Choo London and Mark Hix for hosting an elegant Festive Cocktail Party. As always all opinions will be my own and I only choose to review brands I would use myself to provide honest feedback on products I love to wear.
Credits: Black Formal Blazer Zara Man, White Formal Dress Shirt Ralph Lauren; Black Silk Neck tie GUCCI, Skinny Trousers with patent effect; Zara Man, Shoe Accessories H & M Man
Photography: Jodie Weston
Hey! Guys I’m just reminding you its Awards Season with Fashion Week just around the corner I bet you’re really excited just as I am to attend any of the private events which are often very exclusive by invitation only. I’ve just returned recently from a long weekend in Italy to attend Men’s Fashion Week in Milan so it feels great to be back and catch up on the latest. Let’s begin with everyone’s favourite topic who’s wearing what to the EE Rising Star Bafta Award’s 2020 and which event’s are happening before the Awards Night this weekend.
Various Lifestyle Brand’s were also known to have hosted their own private soirees such as Chanel, Atelier Swarovski, Dunhill London and more. Most, importantly what did I get up to Pre-Bafta Awards About Town this Week as I had the pleasure of attending an Exclusive invitation with Perrier Jouet Champagne x Don’t Die Wondering at Ella Canta Park Lane.
But, before telling you about what I wore to the event I just thought I’d mention that Don’t Die Wondering is an exclusive member’s club for high net worths and influencers in the luxury, music, film, art and fashion industries.
The exclusive service is available by application only and includes the crème de la crème of Hollywood A-list, industry veterans and highly acclaimed influencers as member’s. Lucky for me I got insider access to experience it firsthand and had the most wonderful time as it was my first Pre-Bafta bash this season as a style insider and I’m sure it won’t be my last the perks of being an influencer certainly has it’s advantages.
Especially when attending event’s what you wear on the Red Carpet is crucial to expressing your own style and confidence but sometimes you’re often found with a challenge with what options to wear. So, here’s my opinion on Menswear Style Pre-Bafta Style vs the Actual Awards night.
Firstly, Black Tie does not have to mean a full tuxedo and bow tie, that’s for Awards night, but for a Pre-Bafta Dinner for instance Chanel some male Celebrities wore a classic white dress shirt and black neck tie which has been seen spotted on George Clooney, Jude Law etc looks more relaxed but still sartorially sharp and edgy vs traditional black tie. That’s what kind of look I went for during the other night in a Polo Ralph Lauren White Dress Shirt, Black Silk Gucci Neck tie, formal Blazer and non matching skinny trousers by Zara Man and Shoes H&M. Sometimes a bit of contrast in your evening attire can make things looks overall flawless. Let me know your thoughts on this look.
DDW’s London and NYC Teams facilitate intel and global access for members across all the worlds most sought after gigs, fashion shows, theater previews, red carpet film premieres, magazine parties, luxury and PR Launches. It’s music, fashion & art blended into harmonious evenings of luxury; converging celebrities, socialites, influencers and trendsetters. Apply Below.
To find out more About Don’t Die Wondering (Society) Private Members Club – Music, Fashion, Art Blended into harmonious evenings of luxury; coverging celebrities, socialites, influencers and trendsetters. Apply now below.
dontdiewondering.com
@ddwlondon
Interested in signing up! – Each member is hand selected by a membership committee with only 30% of applicants being accepted. Prospective members can apply or email: [email protected]
Disclaimer: Many Thanks to Don’t Die Wondering London, Perrier Jouet Champagne, These Guys and Ella Canta Park Lane for hosting me for the Pre-Bata Event and Dinner ahead of the EE Rising Star Bafta Awards 2020 on Sunday. All opinions expressed will be my own
Merry Christmas guys!, I just wanted to remind you that the countdown to Christmas begins less than 3 weeks away and if like me you’re still hunting for the ideal gifts as presents I’ve come across these amazing Christmas gifts set from Ted Baker London. Just the other day I had the pleasure of receiving a gifted parcel from the brand and what a surprise it was being so close to my Birthday last weekend which made my day. Ted Baker unveils their exclusive Christmas Gift sets for the Festive Season at Boots UK available to buy now in store or online.
Design led, on trend and highly giftable everyday treats that lead to No Ordinary Experience.
I’m a great fan of their menswear and lifestyle products too which includes also grooming and accessories.
I recently discovered the brand also has various standalone Barber Shop’s Ted’s Grooming room where you can experience firsthand the finest grooming by Master Barbers such as authentic prestigious Turkish barbering skills inspired by quintessential British style. I’m very keen to try this out as I’ve heard you will enjoy the best haircut in London to Traditional Wet Shaves. Ted’s Grooming Room offers gift vouchers, Hair products, gift certificates and more to satisfy even the most dandy gentry debonair about town.
Expect and invest in fine new formulations at Ted’s Grooming Room that burst with active ingredients’ including making a long lasting impression with Ted’s invigorating signature cologne perfected in London and inspired by Turkish aftershave.
Top image: Ted Baker Travel & Grooming Range This image: Flight of Fancy Christmas Gift Set RRP £18
It’s a good job then that Ted Baker has released its Festive Gift Set’s just in time for Christmas and my favourite pick from the limited edition range exclusive to Boot’s UK has to be their ‘Flight of Fancy’ Men’s Grooming Kit. What I love about this range is that this gift set comes equipped with everything a Ted clientele needs, including a manicure set to keep you perfectly groomed on your travels.
In addition the set comes complete with graphite black hair & body wash plus matching fragrant body spray that has an invigorated scent with aromas of enticing smoky spiced blend of pink pepper, tobacco and rich cedarwood for the man on the go.
The Eagle illustration on the packaging cleverly suggest it’s a gift set for made for travel as you can see where flight of fancy gets its name from. It’s definitely for those who love to jet set and travel on vacation either for business or pleasure making it the perfect travel companion as an addition to refresh your grooming kit.
Ted Baker began life as shirt maker during the late 1980’s in the UK as quintessentially British Brand with its presence in over 380 stores and concessions all around the world. I would definitely say that Ted Baker’s Lifestyle Collection should be part of every discerning man’s lifestyle from his wardrobe to essential grooming routine from distinct clothing collection to accessories to dress yourself or your home.
Make Ted Baker a must have style statement for your bathroom this Christmas, with design led, on trend prints and fashion inspired colour pallet. I have to say that trying on the men’s grooming ranges deliver both formulations and compelling fragrances with a contemporary edge taking the lead from fine fragrance.
To find out more about Ted Baker please visit their website and social media handles below.
Instagram @ted_baker
Disclaimer: Many Thanks to Ted Baker for kindly gifting me with their latest Christmas Gift Sets for Men exclusively available to buy now at Boots e.g Flight of Fancy – Ted Baker Gift Set £ 18. All prices quoted in this article review are subject to change by Boots plc. All opinions will be my own and I will never promote products I otherwise would not use myself as I would like to give my honest opinions and feedback on products.
When I heard that Fashion Illustrator Megan Hess was in town to Launch her new book at a private preview with Designer Amishi London I decided late one afternoon I would take a detour as I made my way into London’s West End in between my Press Appointments to attend the Launch of acclaimed Fashion Illustrator Megan Hess latest book Elegance The Beauty of French Fashion
Megan Hess Artistic work has been commissioned by International Fashion Houses Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Vogue, Chopard, Tiffany & more
As soon as I received the invite I just could not help feel excited to preview Megan’s latest work sketching an exclusive fashion illustration for Fashion Designer Amishi Dhanuka and I can see why they choose Annabels. The elegance of the Flower Room inside the private members club was the perfect setting to host the most delightful afternoon tea and cocktail party to celebrate the new artistic collaboration between style illustrator and fashion house.
For those of you who are not familiar with Megan’s work she has worked for numerous international luxury fashion house all over the world. Her clientele includes Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Fendi, Tiffany & Co, Vogue, Chopard and recently Amishi London.
It was so great to see up close the amazing work showcased by two talented individuals Amishi and Megan and celebrate their latest work in an intimate setting which made the experience much more personal to meet and greet them both was a pleasure.
I love all things style related from style sketches to luxury fashion and reminisce those days during my fashion course where learning to draw and present fashion sketches in all types of media from hand drawn techniques to using digital technology to create a unique style.
For me it was an artistic process to showcase the clothes and emphasis the collection the best way possible and appreciate true beauty as style the same way photography captures moments as movement to tell a story.
The book from cover to cover shows the most beautiful drawings illustrated by Megan and exclusive collaborations with internationally acclaimed fashion and luxury houses which would make the perfect addition to my coffee table to admire over and over again. There is also another book in the series named Italian Fashion which is worth checking out also for your favourite Italian brands to covet.
Viewing Megan’s latest book French Fashion is a remarkable work of art and it’s definitely one I will put on my Christmas Wish List to own at home and cherish for style inspiration which kind of reminds me of what I love to do best go shopping or window shopping and you know Paris would be the ideal place for that……
To find out more about Megan’s Book and Amishi London please visit their websites and social media handles below.
IG @meganhess_official
IG @amishilondon
meganhess.com
amishilondon.com
Disclaimer: Thanks ever so much to Amishi London and Megan Hess for kindly inviting me to the preview launch party for their latest work. All opinions will be my own
Be Scared or Prepared this Halloween with Swizzels
Halloween falls on the 31st of October where both kids and adults of all ages will partake in the fun activities such as Trick or Treating, wearing sometimes silly but amusing costumes and attending friends Halloween Parties. Some of my most fond memories growing up were eating sweets and staying up late on Halloween watching cult Horror Genre Classics such as The Halloween Movie Franchise, Friday 13th to Nightmare on Elm Street if you fancied staying in to celebrate with fun food bits and take out delivery food.
But, whether you choose to stay in or not don’t forget to have some snacks at hand to last you til the end of the movie or the Halloween party for those of you that are Celebrating the end of this month. Halloween party food often consist of fun sweet treats and other Halloween themed food but I wanted to re-kindle what was the most popular sweets I reminisce from my childhood growing up before pic’n mix. In fact some of my most favourite sweets were often found in glass jars of my local news agent. In case you’re wondering my choice would be Swizzels from their drumstick lolly’s to refreshers and who could forget the love hearts are still an absolute British classic that’s been around since 1929.
With reference to the un-dead when ghouls and ghost come back to earth on Halloween, my love for Swizzel sweets will never die, because these taste just sooo good especially at parties when I attended recently the Swizzel’s Halloween Campaign Party launching their new vegan sweets range as well as all my classic favourites. I just have to tell you all about the event and how it actually went during the celebration where the crowd from bloggers, influencers to the press all came down to enjoy the inspired spooktacular pumpkin syrup cocktails and sin and tonic drinks all served with scrumptious canapés during the fun evening.
Swizzel’s Halloween Campaign Party launching their new vegan sweets range as well as all my classic favourites.
The best part of the entertainment were live zombie actor’s in character lurking in the dark which made cool photo ops for social media and insta stories GIFs.
It just had to be done. One more thing, it get’s even better as there was even a Tarot Card reader present who could tell the future, to a coffin full of sweets with a tomb stone which fogged up with smoke using dry ice using water which was pretty cool special affects to add to the ambience of the party. Wow!!!!what a great idea!, anyway I think I’ll have to try that one at home next time. Oh and the best part to end the night was being gifted lot’s of sweets by the Swizzel’s team based in Manchester I had the best time celebrating with you guys in preparation for my Halloween. I’ve just been down my local supermarket where you can fully stock up on Swizzel Sweets this Halloween Night!!! so don’t forget yours in case you want to share with your little monsters at home ha ha.
To find out more about the Swizzel Sweet’s please visit
#scaredorprepared
Swizzels.com/Halloween
Instagram @swizzels_sweets
Disclosure: Many Thanks to Swizzel Sweets for inviting me to attend their #Scaredorprepared Halloween Campaign Launch party in London and for gifting me with product. All opinions will be my own as I only promote things with I’m a fan of to give my honest opinion and feedback on products I choose to review.
Styling Credits: Leather Biker Jacket; Iceberg Italy, White cotton Tee; Boohoo Man, Skinny Jeans; Forever 21 Men, Desert Boots; United Colours of Benetton
Photography: The Adelaidian
When I first heard that the Italian Fashion Label was hosting a private event during London Fashion Week I knew it was going to be a great party to kick off the start of fashion week. Having attended the very first Iceberg Catwalk show in London since it made a comeback it was definitely one of those labels to watch. Also, I’m such a big fan of their Street Wear since the label was taken over at the helm from Designer James Long their newly appointed creative director from the UK. On Friday 13th Yes!! – I know what most were thinking in case anyone is superstitious it happened to be my lucky day as they had food catering from my favourite Meat Liquor Restaurant – just trying their burgers was delicious as I was feeling very hungry by 6pm while out and about accompanied by Aperol Spritz drinks served throughout the evening. My outfit staple to the party yesterday evening was my signature leather jacket from Iceberg worn with a white t-shirt from Boohoo Man and Skinny Jeans with a pair of desert boots as it’s officially autumn season. The Iceberg event was hosted at the 18montrose store in Kings Cross featuring DJ set’s from Tommy Gold, Jordss and Lifestyle Donald who entertained the crowd last night
What will you be up to this Weekend? Nevertheless I hope you make the most of it before the new season starts and we begin to see autumn again. I don’t think I’ve ever planned that far ahead even though its already just around the corner and we see a shift again in our wardrobe from spring/summer to autumn/winter styles our go to closet staples get their chance to take centre stage. Lucky for me I know this city at the back of my hand having been based here a few years I won’t ever find myself bored getting dressed up to head out. Even more so, there is so much to see and explore in London which boast the best cocktail bars, restaurants to luxury hotels serving the most exquisite drinks with imagination catering to the ever more discerning drinkers. If you’re open to finding you’re new favourite tipple for a change, here are just a couple of places I’ve suggested that tick my boxes in London’s West End as my go to hang-out spots in town.
Situated a stone’s throw away from China town just 3 minutes walk – The Dive Bar located on the lower ground floor of The Hamyard Hotel.
This hidden gem is named in honour of a 3 ft neon lady diver which hangs on the wall with a lit bar area event space for intimate gatherings. The bar is kitted out with cascading signature Kit Kemp designed Rick Rack Wall fabric by De Gournay for a personal touch. Gain access to secluded private rooms adjacent to a theatre screening room including an array of eclectic artwork and furnished with eccentricity of wanderlust appeal.
Perhaps take a moment on a lazy rainy afternoon to explore the hotels most treasured rooms to unwind? Let your imagination run wild by burying your nose in a good book. Head on upstairs in the guest areas of the hotels library and discover literature to piqué your interest from other-worldly subjects and cultural affairs to satisfy book worms selected by literary expert Philip Blackwell.
But, what about the cocktails? Let’s say the drinks speak for themselves. The clever twist on classic to contemporary favourites are re-invented with tailor made martini’s using gin or vodka to homemade ingredients such as the homemade tonics in the signature Hamyard Gin & Tonic blended with Campari, St Germain, Portobello Road Gin and grapefruit bitters – you can be sure to find your new tipple that will impress gin and martini fans alike.
Today I took a walk from Trafalgar Square and while I was there visited the National Portrait Gallery for a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the west end just slightly after lunch time. It’s always good to walk on foot if you have the time to spare as well as spontaneously find new places to check out. I’d say unique Hotels with a quiet bar as well as a luxury dining room with exquisite ambiance is my sanctuary. After a busy morning you’d want to find somewhere to relax and unwind to spend the rest of your lazy afternoon. I’d just arrived at this Hotel on the corner of Suffolk Place on Haymarket where a friend and I decided to pop in for quick drink in The Brumus Bar and Restaurant located inside the Haymarket Hotel before heading over to The Hamyard Hotel Bar in Soho later in the evening. The hotel interiors were very elegant and quirky as I noticed the Canine Doggies upholstered onto the back of the bar stools and restaurant in a regal purple and pink fuchsia appealed to me. For all you pet lovers at home as they say ‘a man’s best friend is also his dog’ so immediately I felt very at home here. I thought it had a personal touch as well as being distinctly sophisticated which stood out as a style statement. I’m really impressed from what I’ve seen so far even though it was just a brief visit I definitely would pop in again for the foreseeable future.
Renowned for its exquisite elegance where you’ll experience a traditional afternoon tea in style at the newly refurbished and spacious Brumus Bar & Restaurant situated in the heart of London’s Theatre district..
Expect plush interiors nonetheless, unique art installations reflects the passion of its founder and Creative Director Kit Kemp is present within the interior design of the hotel. Experience the homely and inviting ambience of the hotel restaurants or drawing rooms were afternoon tea is served all day with quintessential flair. Definitely make this your pit stop after a day of shopping or pre-theatre dinning before a West-End show. But the most enticing thing about this place is most definitely the sumptuous hotel cocktail and bar menu with carefully curated wine list and spirits to deliciously mixed cocktails to complimenting menu of continental taste from main dishes to sharing platters.
A GENTLEMEN’S GUIDE TO POLO SEASON SPORTING ATTIRE: STYLE DRESS CODES 101
With the all important summer social events and invitations coming in all at once dress codes are crucial to make the right impression with the exception of Polo In The Park for a fun day divot stomping in between chukkas. Dressing to impress is a must where not only the elite polo players take centre stage but so does style.
Here’s my Essential Guide on Menswear Polo Style how best to incorporate vibrant pastel colours into your summer wardrobe during the English Sporting Social Calendar.
The polo is always fun day out people watching from the Celebrities to the Spectators to who’s wearing what this year and where to be scene at the After Parties such as the Mahiki Enclosure. From today’s event here are my observations of the movers and shakers of the elite polo crowd veterans take on style and what they wore.
It’s a known fact guys hate shopping, but in fact it’s quite the opposite when it comes to summer social event’s, even the debonair man needs to look his best. From experience I learn what suits best and give my recommendations for outfits and how to wear them by including these in your daily style edit.
Why not take an optimistic approach to colour and pairing your outfit with a bold statement set of bright trousers and the contrast of colours from red, green and yellow which are available to purchase from the high street to designer labels. These are worth investing in especially if you’re looking at brightening up that essential summer wardrobe so you’ll be sure to blend right in with the Chelsea locals alike.
Fitted shirt styles from Ralph Lauren are always great because they come in a variety of classic styles in the white button down collared shirt to pastel shades and bold stripes in blue. Then finish off the look with a neutral seer sucker blazer to even out the contrast of shades. A Seer Sucker blazer is unlined, so designed to keep you cool during the hot summer months at event occasions.
STYLE TIP: Seersucker blazer is unlined, so designed to keep you cool during the hot summer months.
With the English social calendar upon us we focus our attention towards stylish sporting events from the Varsity Polo, Polo in the Park to the Gold Cup at Cowdray.
For this look at Polo In The Park, I decided to keep it neutral but relaxed and I felt I had to express a style identity of my own. With summer you can’t go wrong and what better way to do this is to keep it neutral with a classic Ralph Lauren Seersucker Blazer but still include a splash of colour as you find the contrast helps bring out the best of both shades.
Even by adding the slightest finishing touches to a look such as a colour coordinated pocket square to tailored jackets can overall emphasize the best features of the whole outfit’s attire.
Looking for the perfect summer shoes can depend on the softness, texture and comfort to make it easier to walk on the lawn and inside the marquee enclosures. A slip on suede loafer in tan or dark brown rather than leather shoes helps the foot breathe more freely during the spring summer season.
Finally, your accessories choice can either create a luxury feel of sophistication or faux pas which is all down to preferential discerning taste. You can’t go wrong with skinny belts either in brown is minimal. Less is more. One of my personal favourites is a preppy style collegiate belt in dark navy with diagonal red stripes which adds a bit of character.
Next up, let’s think about that final touch of elegance such as Accessories and the best luxury Watches on the market to consider would be ‘The Chronograph’ Wrist Watches for Men. So far these are my favourite picks and there are quite a few Brands out there I’m crushing over this season to match my Sporting Attire. Whatever takes your fancy, so take your pick from these on my wish list to covet now.
That’s it, you’re now ready to be fully kitted out for a Polo Match so let’s bring on the rest of summer it’s not over yet!
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