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August 6, 2016

How To Wear A Blazer

The Guide On How To Style Your Blazer

The blazer is a garment which every man must have in their wardrobe. The versatility of the blazer can take you from the office to the bar, and it can be worn in so many different ways to create both smart and casual looks. This blogpost has been put together to give you helpful hints and tips on how to wear your blazer.

The fit

If the blazer pulls across the shoulders, there’s a possibility it is slightly too tight. If the shoulders of the blazer extend over your natural shoulders, the blazer is too big. When the blazer fits right you’ll see no wrinkles or pulls in the material.

1. With a shirt and trousers

For a formal occasion such as a wedding or a christening, wear your blazer with matching suit trousers and a dress shirt. Don’t be afraid to jazz up this formal ensemble with a quirky, colourful tie to give your outfit a pop of colour. If you’re wearing a three button suit jacket, remember the rule; Sometimes, Always, Never when it comes to fastening.

2. Layered with a cardigan or jumper

For the cooler days, wear your blazer layered with a shirt and cardigan or jumper. It’s a stylish way to layer up and gives a casual outfit a formal feel if you leave the blazer unbuttoned. Complete the look with a pair of slim fit jeans and a pair of tanned brogues.

3. With an Oxford shirt or polo shirt

Wearing an Oxford shirt underneath your blazer is always a winner for the smart casual occasions, such as a day at the office or a trip to the pub. Experiment with different prints and colours, but always make sure that they match your blazer. Polo shirts also have the same effect, and are more practical for the summer months. Wear your blazer unbuttoned for a laid-back look.

What is your favourite way to wear your blazer? We hope this guide has helped! Shop our range of blazers online here.

June 23, 2016

How To Clean Suede Trainers

A Guide On How To Clean Your Suede Trainers

Are you the type of person who loves to keep their suede shoes clean? If so, you can follow our guide on how to clean suede with essential Jason Markk UK products.

Image courtesy of Jason Markk UK

You’ll Need

Jason Markk Shoe Cleaning Solution

Jason Markk Premium Brush

Jason Markk Microfiber towel

The Steps

Before you begin, be cautious of dyed suede as the colour can bleed when in contact with water.

First of all, use the brush to remove any dirt lying on the surface of the shoe.
Fill a bowl of water and dip the brush into it, applying an appropriate amount of shoe cleaning solution to the brush before dipping it back in the water
Shake any excess water from the brush before scrubbing the entire suede area evenly. You can repeat this depending on how much you need to clean the suede.
After cleaning, it’s time to focus on the drying process. Grab your microfiber towel, it’s important to move fast in order to absorb the water.
Use the dab and twist method, repeating several times before allowing to dry naturally.
After an hour or two, work the nap back and forth with the premium brush, then allow to dry naturally. Make sure you keep working the nap back and forth several times throughout, until the shoes are completely dry.

You can purchase Jason Markk products on our website, did you find this guide useful? Watch an exclusive Jason Markk video below on the suede cleaning process.

Video courtesy of Jason Markk UK on Vimeo

Jason Markk | How To Clean Suede from Jason Markk on Vimeo.

February 2, 2016

How To Re-Wax Your Barbour Jacket

UK based heritage brand Barbour are world renowned for their waxed jackets and we often get a number of customers how they go about re-waxing their favourite jacket. Barbour have now put together a video showing the entire process from start to finish.

You can purchase a tin of the Barbour Thornproof dressing from our website priced at £9.95

November 18, 2015

How To Clean Suede and Nubuck With Jason Markk

Jason Markk teams up with sneaker enthusiast blog Sole Collector for a series of videos on how to use his products to clean a variety of high-end sneakers. Through discussions with sneakerheads in our shop and online it is obvious that some people are scared to clean their shoes, especially when they have suede panels. Many people have their own tried and tested methods but an overwhelming number of sneaker lovers use the Jason Markk range of premium footwear cleaning solutions.

In this particular video, the sneaker of choice is the mixed material Nike Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” that has been worn out to a club and needs some TLC. Sporting a combination of suede and nubuck uppers, you might normally think twice about the way you clean them. Yet in this video, Jason Markk makes the cleaning of the shoes relatively simple and guides you through the process from start to finish.

What you will need:

Bowl of Clean Water
Jason Markk Standard Brush
Jason Markk Premium Brush
Jason Markk Premium Cleaning Solution
Jason Markk Microfibre Cloth

Simple Directions (Would suggest watching video):

Dip the Standard Brush into the water, apply the solution to the brush, dip it into the water again and rinse off the excess. Scrub the midsole. Be mindful not to get too much water on the nubuck for too long. Take the microfibre cloth and wipe excess water off. To clean the nubuck, use the Premium Brush with the softer hog bristles and wet slightly. Scrub the nubuck area and then wipe clean with a microfibre cloth with backward strokes. Leave to dry for 24 hours and then work back and forth with a clean, dry microfibre cloth once again. Please watch the video for full instructions on how to complete the entire cleaning process.

Shop our entire range of Jason Markk products

August 25, 2015

How To Clean Your Sneakers With Jason Markk

Jason Markk has teamed up with the Sole Collector blog to produce this great video with a demonstration of his cleaning products. Focusing their attention on the Nike Flyknit in this particular video, Jason Markk uses his quality products such as the cleaning fluid, microfibre cloth and premium cleaning brush to get these Nike’s that have seen a better day, back to their former glory.

Head on over to the Aphrodite website now and shop our range of Jason Markk products that you see featured in the video

May 16, 2014

How To Wear Long Sleeved Polo Shirts

An Introduction On How To Wear Long Sleeve Polo Shirts

A truly trustworthy garment is hard to come across, and like many firm wardrobe staples, the long sleeve polo finds itself drifting in and out of favour of the fashion pack; even though its credentials as a “go to piece” for instant style is unquestionable.

One of the many fables of fashion history, the true origins of the polo shirt may well have been lost to the pages of the past. Many believe that it was the French tennis player, Renė Lacoste, who bought the polo shirt and its classic pique fabric to the forefront of fashion after controversially wearing a white version of his own design on court. However, some fashion historians believe that British polo players based in India in the early 19^th century utilized something similar to today’s modern polo shirt so that they would remain comfortable on horseback. It was at this time that additions such as button down collars, to prevent the collar moving were added to the style.

No matter where the polo shirt’s origins may lie, one thing is for certain; it is a versatile and fashionable ally. The long sleeve polo became a later edition to a wardrobe staple, proving to be just as versatile as its short sleeved counterpart, with a huge host of ways in which it can be worn.

Layering A Long Sleeve Polo Shirt

(see photograph to right)

A sure fire way to introduce an extra layer of warmth on a cold day, the long sleeve polo is a great piece to work with when you’re going for a layered look.

Never be afraid to experiment with contrasting textures and colours, however, if you want to opt for a sure fire piece that is going to sit well with the majority of your wardrobe, aim for neutral colours such as grey, black and white.

Extra touches, like collar and placket tipping can add subtle details if you’re layering up with something that still reveals a lot of your long sleeve polo, such as a body warmer. This look gives off a well thought out casual feel, so it’s perfect for linking up with dark denims and a pair of hiking style inspired boots to tie in with the outdoor background of the body warmer.

A strong collar shape on a long sleeved polo will make them easy to wear with a host of knitwear too, so don’t be afraid to link yours with a of crew or v-neck jumper.

Achieving A Smarter Appearance With A Long Sleeve Polo

(see photograph to left)

Long sleeved polo’s aren’t just for casual wear. Going in for a fine gauge knitted piece can help add a classic feel to your smarter ensembles and help to give the tailoring elements of your wardrobe a whole new lease of life.
Opting for a knitted long sleeve polo shirt gives a much smarter resemblance than any style that is made using a pique fabric, meaning that you can wear them with trousers, chinos, or dark coloured jeans and shoes. To progress this smarter look further, introduce extra layers and give your style more depth.

Consider mixing your knitted long sleeve polo shirt with a thin half button cardigan with a deep V, then finishing it off with a well tailored blazer jacket to create a sartorially thoughtful image.

The Casual, Laid Back Look

(see photograph to right)

The range of materials and designs behind the long sleeve polo really help to make it applicable in a range of situations. For a more casual look, aim to get a style made from pique cotton. This was the material used on the original polo shirt styles- it’s comfortable and breathable, as well as easy to dye with a host of colours. It is perhaps for the last reason in particular that the majority of casual long sleeve polo’s are produced using pique cotton.

Coming in a huge variety of colours, finding one to match your personality is easy; whether you’re quiet and understated with a sleek black edition, or wanting to make a statement with a bright red or purple.
Wear your casual long sleeved polo with a classic laid back feel-link them with tapered jeans and trainers for instant style with a timeless feel.

Wearing A Long Sleeve Polo To Achieve A Sporty Style(see photograph to left)

Finally, bring the polo shirt full circle and wear your long sleeved interpretation with a sporting flair. Link it up with jogging bottoms that have a premium feel, to give a sleek athletic look to your casual attire.

A jogging bottom with a tapered leg, whilst a wise trainer choice will help keep you away from looking like you’ve just come out the gym, whilst the long sleeve pique polo will give you one of the ultimate laid back yet stylishly well appointed looks.

Browse this seasons full range of mens polo shirts

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May 14, 2014

How To Wear Patterned Shirts

An Introduction To The Shirt

A true wardrobe staple, the shirt has been a well dressed necessity for any concertedly dressed man throughout history. Well placed and adored throughout pretty much every fashion movement in history, from the gingham check shirts of the mod’s in the 1960’s, to the plain coloured Oxford shirts of preppy culture in the 1980’s and beyond, the shirt has played its role in pretty much every look that became a popular trend throughout our fashionable past.

A simple and elegant design, the shirt was perhaps favoured for its versatility. Being able to be crafted in a huge host of materials was the shirts original forte, after being made with everything from sleek cottons for formal attire to be worn with suits and tuxedos, to soft flannels that are perfect for wearing in the winter with denims. The huge variety in shirting options have helped to make them into one of the most effective multipurpose pieces hanging in your wardrobe.

Like anything that survives in the fast paced world of fashion, the shirt has changed and adapted with developing trends, changing everything from the fit, to the collar shape, colour and material to remain in the desirable eyes of your wardrobe.

One of the most recent movements in shirting has been a shift from the plain and simple, to the loud and proud. Prints and patterns have become the norm for casual and smart shirts, with everything from traditional checks and stripes, to full body prints and bright floral patterns taking over the mainstay of today’s fashion; the shirt has received a new lease of life that brings it up to speed with a sleek, imaginative look.

The Patterned Shirt

With so many options now available in patterned shirting, finding a way to work them into your wardrobe can prove to be a trying task. From using full printed shirts all year round, to picking the right pattern for the right occasion, patterned shirts give your outfit a whole new feel thanks to the many ways in which they can be worn.

Simple With A Classic Edge

For a laid back feel, aim to keep your patterns simple with a classic edge. Shirts with an eye catching check are perfect for this; they pack a punch when it comes to getting a heritage look, so link them with a few other classics, with a pair of slim fitting dark denim jeans, and classic runner styled trainers. This whole ensemble offers a well thought out yet relaxed look, which makes the most of tried and trusted style pieces.(see photograph to right)

Smarter Attire

(see photograph to left)

Not just confined to casual wear, patterns can also be worked into your smarter attire. Don’t be afraid to blend a striking pattern, such as a bright floral print, with the tailored elements of your wardrobe.

Blazer jackets work wonders in this department thanks to their wide chest opening; they perfectly frame the pattern of any printed shirt you’ve linked it with. Using a pattern underneath a piece that by definition gives a smarter appearance offers you the chance to make a more dressed up look, it has more fashionable freedom than the simple clichéd white shirt ensemble.

Luxurious Style

(see photograph to right)

The print on the shirt should be loud enough to ensure that it stays as the focal point of the entire ensemble; however, details can still be achieved in the finer touches of the pieces you select to go around it, such as suede tassel loafers.Patterned shirts that feature bold and striking prints can also help craft a feeling of luxurious style. Wear these shirts on their own to fully display their entire look, and then link them with carefully selected unobtrusive pieces, such as black denim.

Classic Look

(see photograph to left)

If you’re aiming for another classic look that remains casually conservative yet supplies enough details to give a well thought out feel, then consider layering a finely striped shirt with a piece of quality knitwear.

The ideal ensemble to link with dark jeans and boots or trainers, a textured knit can set this look off and give your casual look an undoubtedly smart edge.

Layering Up

(see photograph to right)

Finally, make use of printed shirts that are destined for you summer wardrobe all year round by layering up. Counteract any short sleeve edition that you’re keen to wear throughout the year by wearing a cardigan that when worn open can display the full effect of the print. Short sleeve shirts can often have a summer themed print, which can give your look a touch of eccentric luxury, so back this up with a pair of premium designer denims and show off the best prints the summer has to offer no matter what the weather.

Browse this seasons full range of mens designer shirts

Wrote by Samantha Carruthers

March 21, 2014

How To Wear Spring Knitwear

One golden rule of mastering all year round style; never pin knitwear as something that only warrants wear during the winter months. Versatile and incredibly useful, knitwear is the perfect piece to work into a layered look to give you a well appointed outfit. Of course, the weight of the garment is key- forget the cumbersome thick knitwear that you may well have relished during the cold winter, and turn to fine knits that reserve an unparalleled fit and timeless aesthetic.

Lightweight, warm, and carrying a strong feel of stylish elegance, Spring knitwear is the ideal way to give your look a fashionable edge, being readily available in everything from v neck jumpers, to hoodies and polo shirts- knitwear offers an iconic heritage that adds a smarter touch to any look.

With a texture that gives off an astute feel that is unmistakably sleek, knitwear is the perfect way to incorporate sharply tailored style into your wardrobe with a huge variety of fashionably timeless styles that are regularly provided by some of the worlds most sought after labels.

Polo Shirts

The timeless style that has been a stalwart for classically inspired cool looks for years on end, the polo shirt is an elegant collared piece that has been adopted from pretty much every fashion movement; from mod culture, to lovers of preppy style, the polo shirt has always featured in everyman’s wardrobe. A knitted polo shirt adds a touch of formality to what has always been a relatively casual look, by dispensing with the pique cotton look and replacing it with a fine gauge knit that affords a sleek fit and sharply tailored image- perfect for wearing with dark denim for a simple yet effective look.

Knitted polo’s offer a few different features that are hard find on their pique cotton counter parts. Features such as colour splits, or extra details with contrasting patterns and fitted hems ensure that knitted polo’s are a must have piece. Long sleeved editions increase the styles credentials for smarter wear, giving an elegant feel to an iconic look.

Jumpers – V Neck

Carrying on with the smarter feel that knitwear can provide, lightweight knitted jumpers are key elements for getting a fashionable spring look right. With a huge host of styles being available, from v necks to crew necks, the options for fine gauge knitwear are endless. Perfect for layering thanks to their close fit and unobtrusive feel, a thin knitted jumper is incredibly versatile, sitting just as well with a simple t-shirt as with a shirt or polo.

Choose a v neck option if you’re looking for a style that will flaunt the layer underneath. V neck jumpers are also perfect if you’re searching for a jumper to wear with tailoring; their deep cut perfectly frames a tie, whilst staying elegant enough to wear underneath a blazer or suit jacket.

Jumpers – Crew Neck

Round or crew neck knitted jumpers provide a much more reserved and astute look, but still carry the same layering credentials as a v neck jumper. Ideally suited for wearing with collared pieces such as shirts and polo’s, the crew neck jumper showcases any collar detail, making them perfect for wearing with shirts that feature a heavy, eye catching pattern.
Bold statements can often be made with a pull over knit, making them fantastic stand out pieces that will draw plenty of attention. Turn to the likes of Vivienne Westwood for a look that won’t disappoint in the style stakes, and makes for the perfect piece to link with simple, plain garments such as crisp white shirting.
Alternatively, opt for simplistic elegance that makes a great base to build a layered look on. Brightly coloured pieces from brands such as Moncler can offer a look that will contrast against any additional layers, whilst remaining lavishly understated with simple, effective branding. Alternatively, darker colours, such as black and grey can help support a shirt that has a heavy pattern, as well as a piece of well chosen tailoring.

Casual Pieces

Casual pieces – Not just for wearing with a smart look in mind; knitwear is just as at home on more casual styles. Covering looks from hoodies to full and half zip jumpers, the look of a knitted weave on casual styles gives them an extra touch of class that can’t quite be achieved with a typical thick wool or sweater material. Allowing you the freedom of an easy to wear style, but with the fit and credentials of a piece of well appointed knitwear, these elegant garments can take your casual style to a new level.

View our full collection of Designer Knitwear

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