Monday, 25 November 2024

4 Essential Clothing Items Every Man Needs

At some point, a man’s clothing-buying decision process should edge towards building an epic, timeless wardrobe that ensures you’re never short of something to work. While there’s still room for the occasional ‘trending’ clothing item, by and large, the wardrobe should be filled with items that will look just as good in 10 years as they do today.

Happily, this approach to building a wardrobe is highly efficient. Not only does it require less storage space (since you’ll have fewer items), but it can also be cost-effective. It’s much cheaper to buy quality pieces that you’ll rarely, if ever, have to replace, rather than buying cheap clothing that only lasts a few months.


In this post, we’ll look at some of the essential items that every man needs to have in their wardrobe. 


Pexels - CC0 Licence


A Go-To Suit


Most people only have to wear a suit every now and again. They’re for birthdays, weddings, christenings, and other special occasions where your usual ‘smart casual’ attire won’t cut the mustard. While most men have a suit they can draw upon, not every man has a suit that is stylish, timeless, and that they can still wear decades into the future. It’s recommended to invest in a tailored suit that is elegant and sophisticated. Plus, if you have that in your wardrobe, you’ll actually be excited when you get invited to the wedding of a distant cousin. 


Wardrobe Staples


Investing in quality everyday wear will save you a small fortune in the long run — and plus, you’ll have the added benefit of always looking sharp and stylish. It’s best to invest in quality versions of wardrobe staples — a few high-quality items are better than having an entire wardrobe of lower-quality clothing. So, what should be in your wardrobe? Black jeans from a leading brand are essential, while a mens wool gilet should also be towards the top of your list — it’ll keep you warm on those chilly autumnal days for decades to come. A few collared shirts and high-quality basics, such as t-shirts and shorts, will ensure that you have something to wear regardless of the occasion.


Boots


If you’re in the UK, then you’ll have ample opportunity to wear boots. They might be your footwear of choice for six months of the year, from October through April. As such, if there was ever an item where it’s worthwhile splurging a little extra cash, it’s your boots. There are some quality options available that may be a little more expensive than you’d like them to be, but they’ll be worth the money since they’ll last a lifetime. 


A Great Winter Coat


Finally, there’s a great winter coat. A heavy, warm, and timelessly classic coat is worth its weight in gold — and you’ll get plenty of use from it. You don’t necessarily need to buy a new coat. Since they hold their quality well, this is one of those purchases where you can dip into the second-hand market. With this and the other items on this list, you’ll always look good. x Neil.

Thursday, 7 November 2024

The Adidas Vibes Collection

scents
Discover six brand new unisex fragrances from the Adidas Vibes Collection that not only smell unique but also influence to elevate your mood and emotional wellbeing from the very first spray. The Eau de Parfums (EDP) formulations contain the expertise of world-class perfumers whilst also being inspired by the sport and cultural heritage of adidas, a perfectly combined partnership. Unveiled by Coty, each bottle is adorned with their own colours and slogan to easily find a place in your day or night "vibe" with just one spray, lets take a look at the collection. 

Adidas Energy Drive.

Aromatic Fougere citrus fragrance for women and men that contains cardamom & spicy pink pepper twist to help you to keep pragmatic and down to earth when always on the move. Perfumer: Fabrice Pellegrin

75% “Boost my energy” 

Adidas Full Recharge.

Aromatic Fougere fragrance for women and men that contains Cedar leaf & Clary sage to promote an uplifting feeling of escapism whilst boosting self-esteem and confidence.  Perfumer: Emilie Coppermann.

80% “Improves my sense of well being”

Adidas Chill Zone.

Oriental Fougere fragrance for women and men that contains lavender and vanilla notes to promote peacefulness and evoking relaxation with warmth. Perfumer: Ilias Ermenidis 

71% “Makes me feel more relaxed” 

Adidas Get Comfy.

Ambery Floral fragrance for women and men that contains vanilla and mandarin notes to present a warmth feeling of comfort. Perfumer: Gabriela Chelariu

86% “Inspired a feeling of comfort” 

Adidas Happy Feels.

Floral Fruity fragrance for women and men that contains jasmine and grapefruit to promote positive feelings of bliss. Perfumer: Marypierre Julien

 79% “Had a positive impact on my mood” 

Adidas Spark Up.

Oriental Floral fragrance for women and men that contains sweet orange & black pepper that invigorates and enchants whilst helping you to perform at your best. Perfumer: Frank Voelkl

87% “Boosts my mood 

Help With The Adidas Vibe Collection. 

The range is designed for all, providing scents that allow for individual expression, but if you are stuck on which one to choose: Energy Drive and Full Recharge profiles are more masculine, Happy Feels and Spark Up profiles are more feminine, Chill Zone and Get Comfy profiles are gender neutral. 

Adidas Vibe Collection Helping The Planet.

Designed with the planet in mind, the ‘Vibes’ collection is made with a great portion of recycled packaging: the cap contains at least 96% of post-consumer recycled plastic and the bottle 25% of recycled glass. The formula is vegan. Committed to use upcycled alcohol from carbon emissions, which means CO2 that is recycled into alcohol instead of being released into the atmosphere.

The Adidas Vibes Collection.

The ‘Vibes’ fragrances are available in 100ML, 50ML and 30ML. All products are globally available with pricing at sole discretion of retailer, which one will you choose? I have been personally enjoying the long-lasting scents of Happy Feels, Get Comfy, and Spark Up and will for sure checkout the rest of the collection x Neil. #adidasvibes #adidasvibesfragrance

Saturday, 5 October 2024

Peach & Lily Collagen Cushion Peptide Lip Balm Duo

skincare

Combining an expert blend of specific ingredients, the Peach & Lily Collagen Cushion Peptide Lip Balm Duo is certainty a product to include in your skincare routine. Formulated with an innovative Cushion Complex™, this lip balm sets itself apart from any other lip balm available on the market by hydrating every lip layer, supporting the barrier function, whilst also locking in moisture to stop trans-epidermal water loss. Featuring humectants hyaluronic acid and collagen to hydrate and plump, the formula also features 9 short-chain amino acids known as "Peptides" that have multi-tasking benefits which in-turn helps to improve the appearance of the lips and mouth area. Reinforcing the skin's natural lipid barrier, the 5 ceramides are also a welcomed addition to lock-in moisture for dry, flaky, or chapped lips whilst also creating a nourishing and protective barrier. 

Peach & Lily Collagen Cushion Peptide Lip Balm Ingredients:

skincare

Polyisobutene, Diisostearyl Malate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Microcrystalline Wax, Octyldodecanol, Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/ Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Tribehenin, Synthetic Wax, Squalane, Collagen Extract (Vegan Collagen), Polyglutamic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Water, Glycerin, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Ceramide NS, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide AS, Ceramide EOP, Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide, Chlorella Ferment, (-)-alpha-bisabolol, Butylene Glycol, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-9, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Dipeptide-2, Nonapeptide-1, Tripeptide-1, Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Stevioside, Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Flower Extract, 1,2 – Hexanediol, Allantoin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tocopherol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylyl Glycol, Pentylene Glycol.

skincare

Presented in a squeezable tube for easy applications, the balm formula glides over the lips with ease thanks to the hygienic applicator, that you can wipe after every use to keep clean. Instantly hydrating and nourishing when applied to clean and dry lips, you can even apply this lip product before applying your favourite lipstick to support the lips underneath, The Peach & Lily product should be a staple in your skincare routine whether that be in the morning or used as an overnight treatment, but thanks to the skincare ingredients it contains, it is much more than just a lip balm! Available as: Peach & Lily Lip Balm DuoPeach & Lily Lip Balm ClearPeach & Lily Lip Balm Peach x Neil.  

Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Paula's Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment

skincare

The Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment from Paula's Choice is expertly created to improve breakouts, texture, and dull skin while also being a product to consider for its anti-aging benefits. Combining two retinoids that are 0.1% Retinaldehyde which is encapsulated in calcium phosphate to minimise irritation and only needs one conversion to retinoic acid, the formula also features the oil-soluble 0.16% Oleyl Adapalenate that binds to the retinoic acid receptors within the skin and needs no conversion. I really like how the formula not only contains these retinoids but also includes soothing and supporting ingredients such as pomegranate peel extract, jojoba seed oil and mushroom extract that help minimise irritation or discomfort when using a retinoid product. Disclaimer: The link and discount code at the end of my blogpost is affiliated. 

Paula's Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment Ingredients:

Water (Aqua/Eau), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (antioxidant plant oil/emollient), Dimethicone (emollient/texture enhancer), Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate (emulsifier), Propanediol (humectant), Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate (emulsifier/stabiliser), Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate (emulsifier), Retinal (vitamin A/antioxidant), Tocopherol(vitamin E/antioxidant), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate (hydration), Albatrellus Confluens (Mushroom) Extract (plant extract/antioxidant), Punica Granatum Pericarp Extract (plant extract/antioxidant), Oleyl Adapalenate (antioxidant/retinoid derivative), Glyceryl Stearate (texture enhancer), Stearyl Alcohol (texture enhancer), Hydroxyapatite (texture enhancer), Butylene Glycol (humectant), Cetyl Glyceryl Ether (emollient), Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil (emollient plant oil), Sodium Polyacrylate (film-forming agent), Isopropyl Myristate (emollient/texture enhancer), Hydroxyacetophenone (humectant), Caprylhydroxamic Acid (chelating agent), Sodium Phytate (chelating agent/stabilizer), Xanthan Gum (stabilizer), Glycerine (humectant), Hydroxystearic Acid (texture enhancer), 1,2-Hexanediol (preservative), Sorbitan Oleate (emulsifier), Naringin (antioxidant), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891) (occlusive/opacifying agent).

How To Use The Paula's Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment.

The pump dispenses the perfect amount of this yellow based treatment that should be applied after you have cleansed the skin from previous products applied. I typically apply any retinoid in the evening and find that one pump is enough to cover the face and neck but avoiding the eyelids, lower lash line, and the lips. Absorbing quickly, the yellow hue soon disappears and i wait around 10 minutes before applying a moisturiser over the top to provide emollience and nourishment that my skin can crave. It is recommended to only apply three times a week to build-up tolerance and the end goal being for you to apply every night, my skin is used to using retinoids so every night i have been applying this exceptional retinoid skincare treatment. My skin has begun to look and feel more smoother with a more uniformed skin tone and with continued usage those pro-age signs have started to diminish. 

Suitable all for all skin types and even acne-prone skin, easily slot this Paula's choice treatment into your skincare routine, just don't forget to use a broad-spectrum SPF when using any retinoid product! Purchase here: Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment

Don't forget to use my discount code on all Paula's Choice full-priced products at the checkout: DUEL10-KRNN59K6G9 x Neil.

Saturday, 28 September 2024

paula's choice multi-level exfoliation trial kit

skincare

Expertly resurface the skin while still respecting the barrier function when incorporating the Paula's Choice multi-level exfoliation trial kit into your skincare routine. I am a huge fan of exfoliation because not only does it revive dull complexions by breaking the bonds of dead skin cells, but it can also unclog and remove impurities from the pores, whilst also helping to dimmish fine lines. The great thing about the trial kit is that not only do you receive the oil-soluble BHA (BETA HYDROXY ACID) that works on the surface of the skin and also the pores, but also included is a water-soluble AHA (ALPHA HYDROXY ACID) with specific ingredients to not only exfoliate but also target discoloration for an improved skin tone while also supporting and improving the microbiome of the skin. Disclaimer: Discount code with affiliated link is at the end of my blogpost. 

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.

skincare

The leave-on BHA exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.2-3.8 for maximum results, but without any irritation that sometimes occurs when using exfoliating products. Applying after cleansing either using your fingers or saturating a cotton pad, apply over the whole face, neck, and eye area but avoid the lash line and eyelids. I was really impressed with how it absorbs really quickly, without leaving any residue of stickiness or tackiness, while leaving the skin feeling clean but not stripped of its moisture. It is important to apply every other day to begin with, to note what your skins response is, and then you can introduce this brilliant exfoliant into your skincare routine more frequently. I use this in the morning after cleansing, followed by my skincare products, and then a broad-spectrum SPF50 which is must! Available in the sizes 30ml, 118ml, 238ml, 

The full ingredient list:

Aqua, Methylpropanediol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, exfoliant), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (skin calming/antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancer), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer).

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 6% Mandelic + 2% Lactic Acid AHA Liquid Exfoliant.

skincare

The leave-on AHA exfoliant is a gentle form of exfoliation by the larger molecule of mandelic and a time release of lactic acid, but the yarrow extract and a fermented blend of antioxidant plant extracts also supports a healthier microbiome with skin renewal benefits. Applying a coined sized amount after cleansing to the face, but avoiding the lower lash line and eyelids, it absorbs quite quickly leaving the skin feeling perfectly hydrated. It is important to apply once every other day and then see how your skin reacts, and if used in the mornings after cleansing then apply a broad-spectrum SPF. I typically use this in the evenings to brighten and support the skins renewal process overnight whilst it works perfectly in conjunction with my evening skincare routine. Available in the sizes 30ml and 80ml   

The full ingredient list:

Aqua (Solvent), 2,3-Butanediol (Skin conditioning agent), Mandelic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy acid), Lactic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy acid), Sodium Hydroxide (Solvent), Myrica Cerifera (Bayberry) Fruit Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Akebia Quinata Stem Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Prunus Lannesiana Flower Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate (Skin conditioning agent), Saccharomyces Lysate (Skin conditioning agent), Achillea Millefolium Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Saccharide Isomerate (Skin conditioning agent), Arginine (Skin conditioning agent), Hydroxyacetophenone (Antioxidant), Butylene Glycol (Humectant), Sodium Phytate (Chelating agent), Pentylene Glycol (Humectant), Xanthan Gum (Antioxidant), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Sodium Citrate (Buffering agent), 1,2-Hexanediol (Skin conditioning agent), Caprylyl Glycol (Skin conditioning agent), Sodium Benzoate (Preservative).

skincare

The Paula's choice trial kit is a great choice to try out both exfoliating products before buying the full-sized versions. Purchase here: Multi-Level Exfoliation Trial Kit 

Don't forget to use my discount code on all Paula's Choice full-priced products at the checkout: DUEL10-KRNN59K6G9 x Neil. 

© Blonde Male
Maira Gall