That Dapper Chap

Thursday, 10 December 2015

What I Wore Today #42 - The TM Lewin Shirt

Craig of That Dapper Chap shows us one of his daily looks in this #WhatIWoreToday post wearing a new shirt by TM Lewin

The styled up flat lay as seen on my Instagram page

The TM Lewin slim fit Geo print shirt £39.95

TM Lewin first opened in the famous Jermyn Street in London in 1898 and pioneered the button front shirt, since then they have built a reputation for quality menswear using some of the same techniques used all those years ago. With over 100 stores now in the UK you're never far away from being able to get yourself a great new shirt and any other piece of menswear that you may be in need of!

This wool blazer keep out the autumn chills

So, using the TM Lewin shirt as a basis for this look I went with a blue theme but wanted to bring in a bit more of a contrasting colour story with some deep red, complementing the navy and creating a bit more interest.

Since getting this blazer it's become a real favorite. It's a less formal style and has some quirky elements and design features that are missing from a lot of others out there. These little additions give the blazer a bit more personality and therefore you do too by default just by wearing it.

It's all in the details with buttons and wristwear

Walking the walk in this blue outfit for a chilly autumn day

Under the blazer I added a thick cotton waistcoat to add an additional layer against the chill in the autumnal air. Again in navy it continues the colour story and smartens the look up. The red and blue diagonal striped tie also makes the look more formal and brings the colours directly together.

A better look at this heavy cotton waistcoat

The detail on the wool mix scarf

Maintaining that blue and burgundy theme, the scarf is another good addition and helps to tie the other elements together. The burgundy in the leather contrasting satchel again continues the theme and shows a considered effort of consistency.

Take a look at the foot of this post for details of brands and links for your to buy anything you like. See you again soon!

Complete with my new embossed satchel

A closer look at the embossing on my new satchel

All the blues with just a touch of burgundy

#CuffPorn and a close up of todays watch

The burgundy adds some contrast to an otherwise all blue outfit

Keep warm and button up

The whole look complete with burgundy accents

The polka dot socks ass some additional interest

I love the easy construction and shape of this wool blazer

The club style tie keeps the look office appropriate

Where It's All From

'Brooksbury Grain' Burgundy Leather Shoes: Base London

Burgundy Polka Dot Socks: £5.00 pack of 6 Primark

'Lawson' Navy Cotton Chinos: Racing Green

London Slim Fit Blue Geo Print Shirt: TM Lewin

'Gents' Navy Cotton Waistcoat: White Stuff

'Welford' Navy Wool Blazer: White Stuff

'Downing' Navy & Burgundy Leather Satchel: The Cambridge Satchel Company

Burgundy & Navy Polka Dot Reversible Scarf: Next

Watch: Daniel Wellington

Burgundy Leather Watch Strap: Handmade by BWeiss Leather

Mallard Duck Club Tie: Butler & Webb at Primark

Red Jasper Bracelet: Parvenu London

Other Bracelets: Home Made

Thanks for visiting, please come back soon!

The Mankind Grooming Box

Craig of That Dapper Chap takes a look at the annual grooming box on offer from Mankind where you get up to £80 of products for just £25!

An example of this years Grooming Box

If you're on the prowl for grooming products I honestly suggest that you check out Mankind as they stock a huge variety of products from well known names and maybe some others that you have yet to try. One of their best offers is their Grooming Box where you can enjoy up to £80 of products for just £25. Madness right!
My box contained a few different items to that on offer on their website right now but I am very impressed with what I received. Arriving in a plain black sturdy gift box, the items were packed together and presented nicely with shredded black paper. This really will make an ideal Christmas gift for that special guy in your life!

The contents of my Grooming Box

Men-ü D-TOX 'Deep Clean' Clay Mask

First of all we have the Men-ü D-TOX 'Deep Clean' Clay Mask which removes impurities and controls excess oils and shine. Its unique formula contains powerful ingredients, including kaolin clay, witch hazel and zinc oxide to exfoliate and unblock clogged pores, revealing healthy looking skin. Suitable for normal, combination and oily skin, the fast-drying mask deeply cleanses skin to leave it smoother and firmer.

Just apply an even layer to cleansed skin and allow to dry for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a towel. For best results, it is recommended that you use it twice a week.

Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturiser

Formulated for everyday use, this lightweight moisturiser gives a broad spectrum Sun Protection Factor of 20 while providing lasting hydration to the skin without oiliness or heaviness. The emollient formula contains potent antioxidants and vitamins to visibly improves skin's overall appearance as well as helping to shield the skin from premature ageing due to sun exposure.

Locks in moisture and forms a protective barrier on the skin
UVA & UVB absorbers (including Parsol 1789) block damaging rays and protect the skin from sun damage.

Non-whitening, lightweight moisturisation without a greasy after- feel

Korres Fig Shower Gel

self described as a 'jucey scent of freshly cut figs' this moisturising shower gel from Korres delivers on both hydration and a great scent. Wheat proteins create a film layer that maintain the hydration of your skin, so even the driest of skins won’t feel rough and itchy after use.

Just use it like you would any other shower gel!

Mazorin Liquid Asset Working Late Eye Serum

A unique rescue serum for tired eyes, the Mazorin Liquid Asset Working Late Eye Serum is made specifically for men. It works to reduce puffiness and the appearance of dark circles, giving you an instantly refreshed and rejuvenated look and feel. Boasting a unique de-congestive eye complex and an anti-dark circles complex which use a tetrapeptide and an oligopeptide for instantly soothing results, it's a must have.

Press gently on the dispenser until the product is released, then massage the roll-on on the eye contour. Half a pump is sufficient for both eyes.

Redken Working Wax Maneuver

Mold and manipulate your style with Redken Men's Maneuver Working Wax. Offering full flexibility, you can work and re-work your hair as much as you like, so it's ideal for transforming your style from day to night. The exclusive formula contains protein, carbs and panthenol to instantly smooth and sculpt with a natural finish.

And it smells incredible!

AB Crew's Mens Shave Gel

Tame your beard with AB CREW Men's Shave Cream, a moisturising shaving cream that helps deliver a close shave whilst awakening your senses.

Fortified with lubricating mushroom derivatives and renewing black rock minerals, the cream will enhance comfort during shaving and impart a masculine scent of high mountain woods.

FIND MANKIND

Thanks for popping by! See you again soon I hope! - Craig

I #FOUNDIT at Debenhams!

Craig joins Debenhams on their #FoundIt campaign and wears one of this seasons party outfits from Hammond & Co

So, the party season is well and truly upon us! it's the time to be a dapper dresser and get into that Christmas spirit and that Christmas outfit! As always I chose to go just a little more formal than some other gents out there, and went for items from the Hammond & Co range, opting for some velvet.

What else says Christmas more than a tartan velvet waistcoat right?

Over the waistcoat I added another sumptuous and luxurious layer of velvet with this navy blazer. To keep it crisp and clean I chose a double cuff long sleeved white fine twill shirt. The shirt comes with its own cuff links but you can always add something a bit more special if you prefer.

As you know I'm a fan of fancy neckwear so I had to get this mustard bow tie as a contrast to the navy and green colour scheme. It also adds a touch of christmassy gold into the mix.

This bow tie is a mix between a self tie and a pre-tied tie. It comes pre tied but has a clip at the back so those that are a little less inclined to tie their own won't need to worry, and those purists can tie and untie to their hearts desire!

It might be warm while you're sipping that mulled wine and dancing the night away but it may be a bit chilly when you leave the party at 3am with a bauble hanging off your ear and a lipstick stained collar. So, bring a blazer! This navy blazer ticks all the boxes. It's slim fit and smart enough to wear to any event. It also has a great lining.

If you want to look the part at the party get yourself some slipper loafers. The suede on this pair compliments the velvet of the waistcoat and blazer and are very on trend. You can wear them with this look with or without socks. I opted for a thin fabric knee high italian sock as these slippers are new and I didn't want to get blisters while throwing my shapes on the dance floor!

These skinny fit green teal trousers continue the colour story and compliment the green in the tartan waistcoat. It also makes the look a little different by adding a distinct colour which can sometimes be missing from formal wear. They have added formality with black satin piping on the back pockets which is a nice touch.

I hope this article has inspired some of you to go for something a bit more adventurous this year. It's Christmas after all. If you can't wear tartan and velvet now, when on earth can you!?

FOUND IT!

Hammond & Co Tartan Velvet Waistcoat

Hammond & Co long sleeved, double cuff fine twill shirt

Hammond & Co Mustard Bow Tie

Black Italian Knee High Socks by Cal'Zineri

Green Team Skinny Fit Trousers by Next

'Eton Square' Black Suede Slipper Loafers by Dapper England

Thanks for taking a look and Merry Christmas!

Racing Green in Prague

Craig wears an outfit by British menswear brand Racing Green and shows us that classic style that you can wear on any city break

The outfit flatlay as seen on Instagram

Prague has been on my wish list for years! I wanted to go at Christmas, I wanted it to snow, and I wanted the streets to be lined with Christmas markets and twinkle with lights in the magical way that only thousands of LED bulbs and some imagination and willingness to believe can conjure.

Three Party Looks From Burton Menswear

Craig turns to Burton Menswear for three looks to take you from super smart party to pub party

Burton Menswear have a great selection of stuff for us blokes this season. I usually get invited to a couple of parties, and at least one of them is usually formal. Others may be more relaxed and while you may not want a full tux you still want to look good, even if it's a party at a local pub.

I've therefore chosen three looks for you from the range at Burton to cover all bases and each one is under £200.

The Uber Smart Party

For that black tie dinner you need to look the part. Keep it modern by going for a slim fit suit and some slipper loafers. Details are important and you can add a twist by choosing a purple bow tie and pocket square rather than the traditional black.

Get this entire look for £160.00

2 Piece Black Essential Slim Fit Tuxedo - £80.00

Black quilted slipper loafers - £30.00

Tailored white dress shirt - £25.00

Reversible leather belt - £12.00

Pre tied purple bow tie - £8.00

Purple pocket square - 6.00

The Smart Casual Party

So, taking the formal down a notch, we have a look that you can wear at the office party or a more informal dinner. Still very smart, it's a more relaxed approach.

Get this entire look for £182.00

Burgundy Leather Shoes - £58.00

Navy Check Skinny Fit Formal Trousers - £25.00

White Stretch Skinny Fit Shirt - £25.00

Red Jersey Blazer - 50.00

Burgundy & Blue Paisley Tie - 10.00

Burgundy & Blue Pocket Square - 6.00

Rose Gold Tie Clip - 8.00

The Casual Party

This look is a more relaxed and is definitely a more informal look. Still retaining smart elements, like the fleck print long sleeved shirt to show that you've made an effort (please don't go to ANY party in a T Shirt). If it's a party at a friends house or a buffet at the local pub, this is a good option for you.