The one thing you may need is some inspiration. It is difficult to know where to begin when wanting to change your style or incorporate some new, stylish pieces. These Instagram accounts put that inspiration at your fingertips, allowing you to make the change you might want, or even need.
You may recognise this Hypebeast, considering it is one of the most popular on Instagram when it comes to fashion-forward and unique clothing. Not only do they post new and upcoming brands, but the outfits and items they post are next level stylish.
Not only are they one of the best fashion accounts to follow, they also keep you in the loop when it comes to art, design, music and lifestyle trends. They really are an all in one for the modern day man.
Adam Gallagher, as he is known, is one of the most influential male style icons on Instagram. Not only are his pictures flawless, they showcase varying styles and pieces of clothing that the everyday guy can pull off.
Yes, some of the stuff he wears isn’t for everyone, but it’s the look and feel of the outfits that should get your creative juices flowing. Mixing vintage with modern, ultra-sleek with casual, this is a great account to see where varying style options can take you.
What can we say about Mr. Porter that hasn’t been said before? If you are into fashion and haven’t heard of them, you must be living under a rock. They are the go-to destination for everything men’s fashion.
A very well curated, quirky account showcases some of the best fashion in the world, and if you spend 10 minutes browsing their feed and don’t leave inspired, then there may actually be something wrong with you.
Highsnobiety is probably the leading Instagram account when it comes to the latest fashion and lifestyle news. From streetwear to suits, the newest must-have accessories and whatever weird product Supreme is slapping their logo onto, Highsnobiety will post it first.
They are also in the front seat when it comes to the latest news in music, design, and lifestyle, giving you a constant feed of the latest comings and goings in the popular culture scene.
If you are a die-hard sneakerhead, a lover of any Louis Vuitton or Supreme collab, or just an all-round streetwear lover, Grailed is for you. Not only are they an incredible fashion account, but they are also a shop of sorts.
If you are in the market for a rare pair of sneakers, looking to pick up a selection of designer threads, or just wanting to find that one cap that has always been out of reach, Grailed will most likely have it. They are also the go-to site for collectors wanting to sell off some or all of their usually incredibly collection.
If streetwear is your thing, then UpscaleHype is the account for you. They showcase the latest and greatest pieces in the streetwear game, as well as showing what your favourite rappers or athletes are wearing.
They pride themselves on their streetwear aesthetic but don’t think this is an average account. High-class and style is still the aim, this account takes streetwear from the sidewalk to the runway in each and every post.
Lastly, the godfather of Instagram fashion fame, Nick Wooster. He has worked every job in the fashion industry, as well as for some of the biggest names in the game, and the fashion knowledge he has gained or was even born with is evident in his feed.
Tailored suits, sneakers, hoodies, and sweatpants, Nick makes all of these look as great as they can. His choice of outfits and the curation of them is the definition of inspired, and even though he’s is 58 years old, there is nothing old-school about his style.
These accounts can quickly take your wardrobe from outdated drab, to slick and chic in no time flat. Whether you buy the same items, or put your own twist on the looks, with these accounts for inspiration, taking a step in the wrong direction is almost impossible.
]]>The differences can be seen in the food these different cultures take pride in, what their traditions are, and their clothing. The clothing is what we are most interested in, mainly because, in this day and age, western clothing has become common with traditional attire being used during important ceremonies or stages in life.
The Xhosa people have a very complex and diverse clothing culture as what you wear is decided by a person’s social standing. The clothing almost always features beautifully designed beadwork and colourful, printed fabrics. Women’s clothing defines different stages of her life.
For women, their main items of clothing include long skirts and aprons with amazing printed or embroidered fabrics. Elaborate beaded necklaces, called ithumbu, are worn around the neck, as well as beaded anklets and bracelets.
As well as the skirt, aprons and beaded necklaces and bracelets, the women will also wear what is called an iqhiya, or headscarf. This headscarf is traditionally worn by married women. To complete the ensemble, embroidered blankets are worn around the shoulders.
Xhosa men are the hunters, the warriors, and the stockman, therefore animal skins play a huge part in their traditional dress. On special occasions, embroidered skirts are worn, with a rectangular cloth over the left shoulder, or a tunic, with strands of beaded necklaces.
In the Zulu culture, the what the women wear is also determined by the stage of life they are in. A young bachelorette will wear her hair short, usually accompanying this look with a grass-reed skirt, embellished with beads. Engaged women will grow their hair and cover their breasts.
A married woman, on the other hand, will cover her body completely to indicate that she is spoken for. She will wear a thick, cowhide skirt which has been softened with animal fat and charcoal. Traditionally, a woman’s breasts would be covered with a cloth, but nowadays a cotton vest or beaded bra is worn with beaded necklaces.
One of the most iconic pieces of Zulu clothing is the circular-shaped hats called izicolo. These are hats made from grass, traditionally worn by married women, and often measure over a metre across to protect the wearer from the harsh sun.
For men, animal skins and feathers are the traditional items of clothing. In Zulu culture, the leopard is seen as the King of the predators, therefore leopard skin is reserved for Zulu royalty alone.
The men will wear a front apron, known as an isinene, and a rear apron, or ibheshu, which are worn to cover the genitals and buttocks. Tufts of cow’s tail are worn on the upper arms and below the knees to give the appearance of more bulk. Headbands are only worn by married men.
The Ndebele people are famous for their incredibly intricate beadwork as well as their very brightly coloured homes designed with geometric patterns. The main element of the women’s attire is her apron.
Younger girls wear a small, beaded apron, while the older girls will wear isiphephetu, a beaded apron given to them by their mothers. They will also wear isigolwani, which are thick, beaded hoops worn around their neck, arms, wrists, and waist.
Married women will wear longer aprons that are made of hardened skin and are very lavishly decorated with their traditional geometric designs. They will also wear isigolwani and copper rings known as idzilla around their necks, ankles, and arms.
Girls and unmarried women will usually not cover their breasts, but married women will cover their upper bodies in blankets, with multi-coloured stripes or beaded designs.
Ndebele men will wear animal skin aprons and beaded breastplates, known as iporiyana, which would hang from their necks. The breastplate is a symbol of manhood and is given to a son by his father after he has been initiated. Men will also wear animal skin headbands and ankle bands, as well as a cape.
Venda girls traditionally wear a shedo, which is a small apron that covers their pubic area. When the girls mature and develop breasts, they will then wear a nwenda, either at the waist or around one shoulder.
The nwenda is usually made from very brightly coloured strips of fabric. Beaded necklaces, bracelets and headbands are the traditional accessories.
Venda boys and men wear a loincloth known as a tsindi. The tsindi is a triangular piece of animal skin that covers the front, is then passed between the legs, and then tied at the back. In colder weather, a cloak is worn. Nowadays, Venda men usually wear a shirt made of nwenda fabric, and then trousers.
The Tsonga people are an offshoot of the Zulu tribe, and therefore there are similarities in the clothing. The men will wear animal skins, while the women wear a unique skirt called a xibelani. The xibelani is a colourful, gathered skirt that shakes when they dance.
Indian people in South Africa, even in this day and age, still adhere to much of their culture and traditions. When it comes to clothing, western attire is usually worn on a day to day basis, but more traditional garments are used for formal ceremonies such as a wedding or a funeral.
The Cape Malay community began with the import of slaves from South-East Asia. Found almost entirely in the Western Cape, the Cape Malays, much like the Indian community, preserve their cultural heritage in all aspects of their lives.
Cape Malays are mostly practicing Muslims, and therefore some will wear traditional Muslim clothing regularly. Others wear western clothing on a day to day basis and then wear traditional outfits when attending mosque, madrassa, or for special occasions.
As you can see, there are numerous traditional clothing styles in South Africa, many you can see every day. These are but a few, and the importance of this clothing is evident, and should definitely be admired and preserved.
]]>Suits, suits, suits and more suits, that’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a smart dress code. Johannesburg does not have a shortage of stores that can offer you, and make you, a suit that is your perfect fit.
Unlike some tailors, Tailor Me’s goal isn’t to make over-the-top, ridiculous suits that no one has seen before, they want to make suits that are unique for you. Off-the-wall colours and strange cuts aren’t always necessary to stand out.
One of the goals of the business is to let your inner style and confidence shine through, using one of their incredible suits as the basis. “We believe that the real you should shine through”
Their suits are custom made using wool, giving you a very comfortable and breathable suit that you will want to wear all day, every day.
Alexander - Fine Attire is another brilliant tailor found in the heart of Johannesburg. They pride themselves on the quality of their work and the materials they use, with standards so high you will think you are royalty.
One of the unique aspects of their business is that they save each and every customers measurements and pattern. Allowing you to have a suit made without having to redo all the measuring and fitting.
Considering they are a made to measure tailor, there are endless styles, materials, and colors to choose from, and include the fact that they save your patterns, even if your body shape changes, they can easily adjust for your new suit.
Berkshire & Black are old-school tailors who pride themselves on using the best fabrics, the best materials, and seamstress to sewing it all together. They are the best tailors, simply blowing the competition out the water.
They know that a perfectly fitted suit is a wardrobe essential for any gent, and they want to ensure that your suit is one that will never go out of style, that will never need replacing, and most importantly, fits your personal style and personality like a glove.
There is no shortage of stores where you can find high-quality, stylish casual clothing in Joburg. But, we have picked 3 of our favourite spots to find some laid-back threads. You may not have heard of them, but you should definitely give them a visit.
Found in Melville, Bill Craig has been open for business for over 40 years and has spent all that time dressing gents in high-quality, stylish garments. Stocking everything from suits to shoes and shorts, Bill Craig has something for everyone.
Not only do they offer you a huge range to choose from, they also have multiple brands covering many different types of tastes and styles, allowing you to lose hours browsing. It’s almost a guarantee you will find something you love.
Odrin is definitely a brand that not many people know or have heard of, but the next time you go shopping, they should definitely be your first stop. Stocking everything from sharp jackets to casual shirts and accessories.
Besides having a huge variety of clothing, they also offer to do your shopping for you. Go to their website, answer a few questions, and they will deliver a whole new wardrobe for you, you only have to pay for the clothes you keep.
Many of you would have heard of Old Khaki, but some may not know that they have a treasure trove of incredible clothing. With Khaki, you get incredible style, as well as amazing quality.
They have everything from regular t-shirts to shorts, button-up shirts, leather and casual shoes and coats. You could honestly get a whole new wardrobe at Old Khaki if you were so inclined.
Shoes are the glue that holds your outfit together, and a great pair can take it to a whole new level. These shops are a few of our favourites to pick up a new pair of lace-ups, freshies, or just some comfy sneaks.
Ok, we are aware that Men’s Shoe Centre is an online store, but we couldn’t mention it due to the ease of use and the wide selection of men’s shoes. With all your favourite brands in one place, shopping is a breeze.
With multiple styles including casual and smart, with brands such as Adidas, Nike, Onitsuka Tiger, Watson, and CAT, there is a shoe for absolutely everyone available on the site, all at great prices too.
What can we say about Tread and Miller, they are one of the best leather shoe stores in the country and we just can’t get enough of them. Whether you are looking for boots, lace-ups, or casual trainers, they have the right pair for you.
Not only do they stock most types of formal shoes and boots, they also have a range of accessories such as bags, wallets, and belts. They have also started stocking some formal hats as well if you want that extra touch of class and style.
This may be a surprise to some, but Cape Union Mart does offer shoppers some very functional, and a few stylish pairs of shoes. They have boots that can easily match any suit, as well as casual sneakers.
Apart from these, they also have a wide range of outdoor shoes, from hiking boots to running shoes as well as sandals. Their range is quite varied and offers visitors a shoe for almost every occasion or activity.
Finding varying styles of clothing and shoes in Joburg is actually a lot easier than you may think. There are hundreds and hundreds of stores that cater to every want, need, and taste, all it takes is a bit of exploring.
]]>We are going to cover the best places for you to find some stylish smart suits, casual wear for summer or winter, and of course, shoes. There are obviously hundreds of shops that you can visit, but these are our personal favourites.
Trying to find a shop that has the right suit for you can actually be a bit challenging, and once you do find it, the price is usually a lot more than you expected. These stores, however, have a wide and varied range, as well as prices to fit almost every budget.
If you have unique tastes and needs, you are going to need a suit that you can’t find hanging on a rail. Frank Bespoke offers clients the skill and experience needed to create a completely unique suit for you.
The clue is in the name, Bespoke, your suit will be one of a kind, made to measure for you and you alone. Using the best materials they can find, Frank Bespoke will make you a suit that looks like it just came off the Hugo Boss runway, or even better.
With everything from the measurements, to material choices and fittings, you will end up with a suit that is uniquely you, that no one else can say they have. They also have a range of bespoke accessories and even shoes for you to choose from.
Another tailoring house to visit is Lock, Stock & Barrel. The business is famous for their exquisite eye for detail in their tailoring, and they partner with smaller brands to bring you high-quality, but incredibly unique suits.
Not only do they offer suits, but they can also make you a beautifully crafted shirt, like no other you have seen before. The shirts are quite pricey, but they will last longer than anything you have purchased before.
Yes, we understand that getting a tailored suit doesn’t fit into everybody’s budget, but if you have the money, and time isn’t a problem, we can not rate Lock, Stock & Barrel highly enough to sort out your suit needs.
Woolworths has become a great destination for finding a suit. Considering that they offer everything from suits, pants, belts, and ties, to shoes, cufflinks and everything in between, you could actually find a whole suit right here.
The bigger stores have a massive range of suits and accessories, with multiple colours, sizes, and fits. You can easily find a suit that will fit your wants and needs. Like we said, they have a pretty big accessory section as well, which is a huge plus.
The suits may not be made to measure, but if you find one you like you can easily take it to a tailor and have it adjusted. Woolworths is great due to their range, and you can quickly find a suit for a particular occasion in a breeze.
Casual clothing is so easy to find it is almost a joke, but we know you don’t just want any t-shirt or pair of shorts, you want something that is still versatile and stylish. These stores will probably have exactly what you are looking for, and so much more.
This list would not be complete without H&M. Since their arrival in the country, they have been the go-to for almost every clothing need. T-shirts, coats, underwear, you name it, they have it.
H&M is popular for one simple reason, the quality of the clothing far exceeds the price you have to pay for it. I still have a t-shirt bought from them when they first opened, I wear it more regularly than I should, and it still looks like it just came off the shelf.
Their range is also incredible. You can find casual clothing, smart attire, gym wear, underwear, sleepwear, and everything in between. They are a personal favourite, and if you haven’t visited one yet, you are seriously missing out.
Mr. Price still holds the title of being one of the most budget-friendly retailers. You get simple clothing and very decent prices. The quality is sometimes lacking, and this can be a turn off for some, but if you are looking for a few basics, they should be your first stop.
Nowadays, they are stocking different brands other than their own, allowing you to have a much wider variety of clothing to choose from, while they still keep the prices down. This combination is hard to turn down.
While the clothing styles are quite simple, they don’t have much variety when it comes to cuts or more fashion-forward type of designs like we mentioned above, they do the basics well, and for some, that’s all they need.
Topshop, and more specifically Topman, used to be the go-to for stylish casual, and smart wear. Since the arrival of H&M, their popularity has gone down, but their standards and quality certainly haven’t.
Topman is still a great place to find some stylish and on-trend casual clothing. They have a wide range of shirts, pants, coats, and even suits. They have a fairly complete selection of accessories as well.
They also have sales regularly, allowing you to pick-up more high-end items at a fraction of the cost. Even though H&M have taken over the game, Topshop still has many treasures to be found, and should not be overlooked.
Your shoes can make or break your outfit, whether it is a suit, or a casual Sunday afternoon lunch outfit, your shoes bring the whole look together. Keeping this in mind, these stores have your shoe needs covered.
We have mentioned Shelflife before, but they are definitely worth mentioning again. They are the kingpins when it comes to sneakers, and have a selection to prove it. With sneakers from the most popular brands, old and new, lining their shop walls, it is sneaker heaven.
Whether you are a sneakerhead, a lover of Nike or Adidas, or just looking for a new pair of freshies, there is almost a guarantee that Shelflife will have what you are looking for, and if they don’t, they will know where to get them from.
They are often the first store to sell the newest, most popular and rarest sneakers, regularly having raffles to own the newest pair of Yeezys or Jordans. We can not stress enough how important it is to visit them when looking for your next pair of kicks.
If you are looking for something more formal, Tread & Miller have got you covered. The store offers clients some of the best-made leather shoes on the market, ranging from boots to loafers and even a few pairs of casual sneakers.
The shoes come in a range of styles and colours, but all with the quality that one would associate with shoemakers in Italy. Their prices are also incredibly reasonable, suiting almost every budget.
Not only do they stock leather shoes, but also leather accessories such as belts, wallets, and bags. They have brought in a range of hats as well, giving you that stylish, modern look, all in the four walls of the store.
For the more budget conscious gents, Shoe City has a massive range of shoes that are priced much lower than at other retailers. Not only are their prices very reasonable, their range offers you everything from slippers to formal lace-ups.
They also stock a huge variety of brands as well, giving you endless choice. They have shoes suitable for sport, work, school, or just casual sneakers, allowing for choice on your part.
Once again, be wary of quality, as some may lack it more than others, but considering the number of shoes they have, it is highly unlikely that you will leave there without finding a pair you love.
Now that we have covered the stores that can, and will, dress you from head to toe in the Mother City, you can simply step into them and find exactly what you are looking for.
]]>Considering how much clothing is bought every year, it is easy to assume that everyone has at least jersey, t-shirt, or a pair of track pants that we just don’t wear anymore, and these charities will help you get it to someone who desperately needs it.
Aaron’s Rock Your Socks is a charity started by Aaron, who is 8 years old, whose main goal is to ensure everyone has a warm pair of socks every day. Especially in winter, the charity aims to give the less fortunate some warmth during these cold days.
Nic Harry has donated many pairs of socks to this worthy cause, and even though it may seem simple, to the people Aaron and his charity are helping, this small gesture of receiving a fresh, new pair of socks, can make a world of difference.
Facebook page - Aaron's Rock Your Socks
The Clothing Bank is an incredible charity that has built connections and relationships with Woolworths, Mr Price, Pick n Pay, Clicks and the Foschini Group. These relationships allow the charity to receive the excess clothing from the end of season sales and returns.
The charity then sells this excess clothing at a discounted price to unemployed people, usually women, to allow them to start their own business and resell the clothing. Not only supporting unemployed people but allowing the less fortunate people to purchase new, good quality clothes at discounted prices.
Many people don’t realise how useful their old clothing is for animal charities like the SPCA. It does not matter if you donate big or small, t-shirts or socks, these charities can turn your old clothing into beds and blankets for needy animals in these cold months.
Animal charities are often overlooked, and most people donate food. Obviously donating food is brilliant and everyone should keep donating bags or dry food or tinned food, but clothing can keep these animals warm during the long cold nights, as they often have to sleep outside.
Nkosi’s Haven homes children who have HIV or who have lost parents to the disease. They house and feed these kids, often times for years, and like most charities, they are always in need of donations.
They not only take clothing but food, toys, bedding and furniture, anything that can help each child have a more comfortable stay and life. Even if it is just a jersey or a pillow, that is something a child may not have had to begin with.
Just Us For Children, in Durban, is a non-profit organization whose aim is to protect and take in children who have been the victims of any kind of abuse. Whether it be mental, physical or sexual, Just For Children’s only goal is to get these children somewhere safe.
Like most charities, they require clothing, food, special care packages and school supplies. They are a great cause to donate to if you are living in Durban, and your donation will not be misused and will definitely be well received.
These charities can always do with more help and donations. If you are wanting to donate clothes, food, stationery or even just your time, you will be making the world of difference to at least one child.
]]>Let’s be real, shoes are a vital part of any gents wardrobe. The right pair for the right occasion can take your outfit from 0-100 really quick, and the wrong pair can make you stand out for all the wrong reasons.
South Africa has a wide range of stores that cater for all kinds of customers. Whether you are looking for a brand new pair of leather boots, new sneakers, or some leather loafers for a wedding, one of these stores below will definitely have what you are looking for.
This list is of stores that you can go into and shop yourself
Shelflife, with stores in Cape Town and Johannesburg as well as an online store, this is the go-to place for any of your sneaker and streetstyle needs. Shelflife is famous for having the best and newest sneakers on the market, from the moment they drop.
They often have raffles of brand new, limited edition sneakers such as Yeezy’s and Air Jordans, they are usually the only store to stock some of the most sort after sneakers in the country, and often the world.
They also stock many different caps and hats, socks, spray paint for graffiti artists and have recently started stocking different clothing brands as well as offering their own. This is the perfect place for sneakerheads and streetstyle connoisseurs.
Jack Lemkus, also found in Cape Town CBD, is similar to Shelflife in the sense that they have a wide range of sneakers available, but where they differ is their enormous range of clothing on sale.
They also offer many different accessories such as hats, caps and sneaker cleaners. Jack Lemkus definitely does not get the attention they deserve and are well worth the effort when you are in the Mother City.
Tread & Miller may be the new kid on the block when it comes to leather formal shoes, but they are gaining popularity at a rapid pace. With a wide range of formal shoes made of the best quality leather, they are definitely worth the visit.
Not only do they offer leather shoes and casual sneakers, they also have a range of leather accessories such as wallets and belts. They have a selection of hats and watches too if you are wanting to add something more dapper to your wardrobe.
Shoe City has been around for a long time now and a store can be found in most cities across the country. They offer a very wide range of shoes and styles at very reasonable prices.
Not only do they have formal shoes, but they have many styles of casual sneakers, boots, slip ons and whatever else you could want. With the wide range and many stores, it is easy to find a shop and a style you will like.
Superga is on this list due to the fact that the Superga style of shoe has been very popular for a long time. They are very easy to spot and almost everyone has owned a pair before. If sneakers are your thing but you don’t want to spend too much money, Supergas are for you.
This list is of online stores that deliver to almost every corner of the country and are great for anyone living somewhere without a decent shoe or sneaker store near them
Superbalist needs no introduction. They have become a juggernaut in the online fashion world and their massive range and very competitive deals and specials make it clear why they are so popular.
Superbalist has a very wide range of shoes on their site, ranging from sneakers to formal shoes and boots. They also have shoes from every popular brand such as Nike and Adidas and can offer many different colourways and sizes.
Considering their huge collection of clothing, Superbalist can almost be your one stop store for everything you need fashion wise. You can pick up a pair of shoes and a new outfit with a few clicks, no matter where you are in the country.
Zando can be called the original daddy of online fashion stores. Even today, they still have a massive range of shoes, clothing and accessories for anybody and everybody, and if you have exhausted every other avenue, we are sure you will find what you are looking for here.
Europe Art is a bit of a dark horse on our list, but they should definitely not be overlooked. They offer shoes for the more discerning gent, with formal and classy shoes being their main selling point.
There are leather, suede and faux leather options, with many different styles as well as colours on offer. No matter where you are from or what you like, they will have a pair of shoes that will be perfect for the office, a wedding, or just for styling up on the weekend.
Spree often gets mistaken as a store for the ladies, with not much to offer the gents. With a little searching though, they do have a trove of great shoes for the guys. Not only that, but their clothing and accessory section is one not to be missed.
Once again, they have a range of casual and formal shoes from many different brands, in a range of sizes, styles and colours. They also have incredible sales regularly, allowing you to pick up a pair at a great price.
Never feel like you can’t find the right pair of shoes again with this list, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for, as well as some surprises you never thought you wanted. Never underestimate the power of the perfect pair of shoes.
]]>Summer is one of the best seasons for personal style since you usually have the most freedom. Shorts and tees, casual jackets and jeans are all possible, and you can even use some of your winter layers on cooler nights.
We are going to run through some of our favourite summer must-haves, and some items that you should definitely be included in your summer wardrobe.
T-shirts have always been a staple during Summer, have been for many years, and will be for many more. They are simple to style, easy to wear with anything, and can easily fit into a casual or more formal look.
Neutral colours are the easiest tees to pull off as they can be used as a backdrop for the rest of your outfit. If you are into patterns and designs, keep the rest of your outfit simple or you will end up looking like a Jackson Pollock painting.
A white tee is obviously the most simple and basic tee you can buy. They are very versatile and easy to wear with absolutely anything. These are perfect for casual days by the pool or pairing with a dinner or lounge jacket for a more formal event.
Black tees have the same versatility and are once again great if you are pairing it with some more colourful patterned shorts or jacket. Patterned or colourful tees work better on their own, as they are sometimes difficult to pair with a pinstripe or checkered jacket, or shorts that have a different pattern or colours that clash.
Another obvious summer must have are shorts. We know there are some guys who love their jeans all year round, but sometimes jeans just won’t cut it, or it just gets too hot to slip on your favorite pair of Levi’s.
Chino shorts should definitely be on your list for summer as they are a great combination of smart and casual. They are very comfortable, come in a multitude of colours, and can be worn with a tee or with a blazer.
These shorts are perfect for a day at the beach, out for a meal, or dress them up for a summer soiree. They are also incredibly easy to find and with prices varying, you can pick up a few pairs with zero problems.
Once again, simple, neutral colours are your friend, beige, dark blues etc. match with almost every type of shirt or t-shirt, and can stylishly offset a bright coloured shirt or t-shirt, offering a neutral accompaniment.
Now we know what you’re thinking, button-up shirts are for winter. Don’t be mistaken, button-ups are one of the many items that can easily transition into your summer wardrobe. Depending on the material, button-ups can actually be worn all year round.
Whether it be a long sleeve or a short sleeve shirt, the material of your button-up is what’s most important during the summer. You don’t want anything too heavy, something designed to keep you warm, you want something light and airy, but still with a cut and shape that keeps you styling.
A short-sleeve button-up is a must-have in any guys wardrobe, smart, casual, easy to wear, and perfect for most occasions. But if the short-sleeve look just isn’t for you, a long-sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up is the perfect alternative, and adds another level of style.
We bet you didn’t know that there are multiple ways to roll your sleeves up, check out this video for 3 easy, and stylish sleeve rolls.
There isn’t much we can say about jeans that haven’t been said before. They are staples in everybody's wardrobe, they are one of the most versatile pieces of clothing to ever exist, and there are so many different styles and cuts that finding a pair that doesn’t suit you is almost impossible.
Bootleg or skinny fit, there is a pair of jeans for everyone, and they are also great for summer. Maybe not on the really hot days, but in the cooler evenings out on the town, you can never go wrong with some great fitting denim.
Summer is also the time to upgrade your poolside and beach looks. The days of oversized, baggy board shorts are long gone, with super-stylish chino swim shorts making their way to the top of the swimwear pile.
Once again, there is no need to match your swim shorts with anything, so pick any colour or pattern that takes your fancy. These are a great way to express your personality or to just stand out from the crowd.
We can never forget one of the OG’s of street-style, sneakers. Summer is the time to pull out your freshies that you didn’t want to damage in the rain and bad weather, and put them on show under the sun.
There are no rules when it comes to sneakers, they don’t ever have to match what you are wearing, they don’t have to have the same colour palette as any of the clothes you have on, your sneakers go with anything and everything.
Nike, Adidas and Puma have a huge range of sneakers that will fit every person's taste and personal style, as well as having a multitude of shapes, sizes, colours and patterns. There is a sneaker for everyone, you just have to find it.
There are some classic shapes and styles that have been doing the rounds for years, such as the Nike Airmax, or many of the Air Jordan styles. Adidas have launched some instant classics recently, such as the NMD’s.
Your summer wardrobe can easily be a mix of some of your favourite winter items, paired with your summer essentials. Whether it is a hot day or a cool night, mix and match your outfits, a long-sleeve shirt with some chino shorts and sneakers, great combination of smart and casual.
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Summer is one of the best seasons for personal style since you usually have the most freedom. Shorts and tees, casual jackets and jeans are all possible, and you can even use some of your winter layers on cooler nights.
We are going to run through some of our favourite summer must-haves, and some items that you should definitely be included in your summer wardrobe.
T-shirts have always been a staple during Summer, have been for many years, and will be for many more. They are simple to style, easy to wear with anything, and can easily fit into a casual or more formal look.
Neutral colours are the easiest tees to pull off as they can be used as a backdrop for the rest of your outfit. If you are into patterns and designs, keep the rest of your outfit simple or you will end up looking like a Jackson Pollock painting.
A white tee is obviously the most simple and basic tee you can buy. They are very versatile and easy to wear with absolutely anything. These are perfect for casual days by the pool or pairing with a dinner or lounge jacket for a more formal event.
Black tees have the same versatility and are once again great if you are pairing it with some more colourful patterned shorts or jacket. Patterned or colourful tees work better on their own, as they are sometimes difficult to pair with a pinstripe or checkered jacket, or shorts that have a different pattern or colours that clash.
Another obvious summer must have are shorts. We know there are some guys who love their jeans all year round, but sometimes jeans just won’t cut it, or it just gets too hot to slip on your favorite pair of Levi’s.
Chino shorts should definitely be on your list for summer as they are a great combination of smart and casual. They are very comfortable, come in a multitude of colours, and can be worn with a tee or with a blazer.
These shorts are perfect for a day at the beach, out for a meal, or dress them up for a summer soiree. They are also incredibly easy to find and with prices varying, you can pick up a few pairs with zero problems.
Once again, simple, neutral colours are your friend, beige, dark blues etc. match with almost every type of shirt or t-shirt, and can stylishly offset a bright coloured shirt or t-shirt, offering a neutral accompaniment.
Now we know what you’re thinking, button-up shirts are for winter. Don’t be mistaken, button-ups are one of the many items that can easily transition into your summer wardrobe. Depending on the material, button-ups can actually be worn all year round.
Whether it be a long sleeve or a short sleeve shirt, the material of your button-up is what’s most important during the summer. You don’t want anything too heavy, something designed to keep you warm, you want something light and airy, but still with a cut and shape that keeps you styling.
A short-sleeve button-up is a must-have in any guys wardrobe, smart, casual, easy to wear, and perfect for most occasions. But if the short-sleeve look just isn’t for you, a long-sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up is the perfect alternative, and adds another level of style.
We bet you didn’t know that there are multiple ways to roll your sleeves up, check out this video for 3 easy, and stylish sleeve rolls.
There isn’t much we can say about jeans that haven’t been said before. They are staples in everybody's wardrobe, they are one of the most versatile pieces of clothing to ever exist, and there are so many different styles and cuts that finding a pair that doesn’t suit you is almost impossible.
Bootleg or skinny fit, there is a pair of jeans for everyone, and they are also great for summer. Maybe not on the really hot days, but in the cooler evenings out on the town, you can never go wrong with some great fitting denim.
Summer is also the time to upgrade your poolside and beach looks. The days of oversized, baggy board shorts are long gone, with super-stylish chino swim shorts making their way to the top of the swimwear pile.
Once again, there is no need to match your swim shorts with anything, so pick any colour or pattern that takes your fancy. These are a great way to express your personality or to just stand out from the crowd.
We can never forget one of the OG’s of street-style, sneakers. Summer is the time to pull out your freshies that you didn’t want to damage in the rain and bad weather, and put them on show under the sun.
There are no rules when it comes to sneakers, they don’t ever have to match what you are wearing, they don’t have to have the same colour palette as any of the clothes you have on, your sneakers go with anything and everything.
Nike, Adidas and Puma have a huge range of sneakers that will fit every person's taste and personal style, as well as having a multitude of shapes, sizes, colours and patterns. There is a sneaker for everyone, you just have to find it.
There are some classic shapes and styles that have been doing the rounds for years, such as the Nike Airmax, or many of the Air Jordan styles. Adidas have launched some instant classics recently, such as the NMD’s.
Your summer wardrobe can easily be a mix of some of your favourite winter items, paired with your summer essentials. Whether it is a hot day or a cool night, mix and match your outfits, a long-sleeve shirt with some chino shorts and sneakers, great combination of smart and casual.
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It is obvious that a suit is the best option for any formal situation, but there are suits that fit into a particular kind of situation. You wouldn’t wear a suit with tails to a wedding unless you were the groom maybe.
We will cover the 8 different types of suit that can be worn for any event, ranging from a work function to a formal occasion and a wedding. Each of these has their own unique look and in some cases, their own unique occasion.
A single-breasted suit is one that you are probably more familiar with. It has a single line of buttons and a single line of buttonholes. Buttoning up one button is the most common practice, but buttoning up 2 buttons is also sometimes done.
A single-breasted jacket is commonly worn with a waistcoat when worn for formal occasions, but its versatility allows you to wear a t-shirt underneath for a classic smart/casual look. Single breasted jackets fit into almost any occasion and should be the go-to when wanting to smarten up.
A double-breasted suit is one that has two lines of buttons and buttonholes. It is also a ventless, meaning it does not have the same flaps at the back as a regular single-breasted suit would have.
A double-breasted suit has 4 to 6 different button options, and it is sometimes referred to as an Italian style suit. Double breasted suits are sometimes favored by taller men, as they usually allow for a more elegant and slick look.
Lounge suits are kind of the in-between suit. They can be worn as either casual or formal, and are usually made of materials that are sometimes lighter or warmer, and much more comfortable to wear.
Lounge suits also come in a variety of different colours and patterns, and you can switch between wearing the suit with one button done up, two buttons, or all three for a very formal look and feel.
Dinner suits are very simple. They come in a variety of colours, darker colours are usually preferred. They can be single or double-breasted, and are the typical “black tie suit”. They also have a variety of fits, with the slim fit being the most popular at the moment.
Business suits are the much more smart and formal version of a lounge suit. They often come in more somber, dark colours, and the fit is usually much sharper and conservative. These come in either single or double-breasted options.
A Mandarin suit is defined by its band collar. These suits are generally worn completely buttoned up and can be made from lighter materials. Due to the buttoning and structure of the suit, it will give you a more streamlined and leaner look.
Wedding suits are exactly what they say they are, suits that are perfect for your wedding day. Nowadays, there are many different types of cuts and fits available, allowing for versatility while still staying formal and stylish enough for the big day.
A tux is the ultimate style of suit. Worn by the rich and famous at events and ceremonies, tuxedos are considered the most stylish suit for obvious reasons. The cuts and fits are always perfect, and they suit any and every formal event and function.
We have mentioned the fit of a suit above, but what exactly does that mean? The fit of the suit is how it forms itself around your chest, waist, shoulders, and back, and there are different fits depending on your height, weight, and your general body type.
An extreme slim fit suit is for someone who wants to wear their suit, and not allow the suit to wear them. This fit is for a slim guy who wants a suit to not hang, not be baggy and to fit their form without it looking like it belonged to someone much bigger before they got their hands on it.
Much like an extreme slim fit suit, a slim fit hugs your body and adapts to your shape without having excess, baggy material. The difference between extreme and slim fit is that a slim fit suit can be worn by anyone with any body shape, the same look can be achieved.
A modern fit suit falls between a slim fit and a classic fit. It is not as boxy as a classic fit suit but has more room than a slim fit. These suits are great for guys who feel constricted in a slim fit but have more fashion-forward tastes.
A classic fit is exactly that, the classic suit shape. It has extra room in the chest and waist area but still holds its shape nicely to ensure you don’t look like you are wearing a sack. Once again, great for guys who feel too constricted in slimmer suits.
Unfortunately, not every guy can pull off a slim fit suit, some need that extra bit of room in the front. A portly suit is great for bigger guys who just want something stylish and fashionable, without feeling like they have to hold their breaths to just make it fit.
There are many different types of suits and fits that can be worn by every single guy. No matter what the occasion, or your body type, there is a suit that can fit in perfectly and seamlessly, and make you look like you just stepped off the red carpet.
]]>Having company branded or personalized socks for your employees is a brilliant, little gift, especially during winter. Branded socks are also relatively cheap and are a great way to celebrate a landmark for the company or a gift for employees.
Nic Harry offers corporate branding on socks and can fulfill almost any order you require.
Almost everyone nowadays has a smartphone that they use to keep track of their schedule, important meetings, and notes. But a beautifully bound leather notebook is still a classic gift for anyone in business.
Especially if you are in the printing business, a publisher or a media house; these notebooks are not only relevant to your business, but they are also something that can be used regularly and spoken about, giving you free advertising.
Solar chargers are a more expensive gift, but they are incredibly functional as well. If you have a business that requires your staff to be on the roads, ensuring their devices are constantly charged is a necessity.
These solar chargers are also versatile gifts for companies who focus on electricity and environmental protection. They can use them as corporate gifts for their employees, or more importantly, at conventions. This can help spread the message of green power.
Gift bundles are great presents to hand out to employees on their birthdays or at the end of year function. They are also useful at conventions or trade shows, as you can run small competitions to win one; not only encouraging people to visit your stand but to take home some of your merchandise.
These types of bundles are useful as they attract people to interact with your brand and to take part in company activities, this also gives businesses the chance to talk to potential clients about their products or services.
Engraved pens would fall into the category of more expensive gifts. These are often handed out larger businesses, as customized or company engraved pens are used more often in the corporate world.
Personalized luggage tags are great for travel agencies and companies who have employees who are often required to travel. Not only do they allow for constant advertising, but they are also useful items for customers when they travel.
Bluetooth headphones are great pieces of gear to improve productivity in the workplace. No need to worry about cables or having to keep your phone nearby, you can make and receive calls no matter where you are.
These headphones are also brilliant gifts, and putting your company logo on them once again, gives you great advertising.
MusicOomph.com - image credit.
Much like the solar chargers, external battery packs are brilliant for companies with employees who are constantly traveling or on the road. It is necessary to always stay in contact.
A desktop punching bag is more of a novelty stress reliever, but there are still great gifts for employees. You can find them online at reasonable prices and are a fun alternative to regular stress balls.
Business cards may seem a bit outdated, but they are still incredibly useful in the business world and they are still very common, especially in the convention and expo worlds. Having a customized card holder to bring out or hand out really does add a touch of class.
These are also relatively cheap to purchase, and therefore are great for smaller companies or new companies looking to advertise more or to hand out gifts to clients or to their employees.
Another very useful bit of swag is branded backpacks. These are great to hand out to employees, clients, and customers. They are also very versatile as you can brand them and use them for either work or travel.
This means that many different types of companies can hand out and brand backpacks and still keep them relevant to their business.
Nowadays, and for a very long time, USB sticks have been incredibly popular amongst businesses. Not only are they the quickest way to move large pieces of information, but everyone always wants or needs one.
This means that having uniquely branded USB memory sticks will make you the most popular booth at any convention. The novelty of them will draw people in, giving you the chance to interact with potential customers and clients.
Another simple idea is branding coffee mugs. Not only are these gifts very useful and will be used constantly by everyone who gets one, but they are another cheap alternative to mass branding.
These mugs can be part of gift bundles, handed out to employees, and given to customers who buy a product at a trade show or sign up for your services. They are versatile and well-liked.
Sometimes there isn’t anything that already exists that you would like to use as corporate swag, but you would like to stand out from the crowd. This is where some imagination can be incredibly useful in creating a gift or small item that is completely unique.
For instance, an architecture firm can place their business details a small piece of card that can then be folded into a house, or a car company can hand out small remote control versions of the cars they sell. Either way, it’s something unique and fun, and definitely memorable.
Corporate swag is a very versatile and useful concept, not only do you get to reward your employees, customers and potential clients, but if the gear is cool enough, it will draw people into your brand and business.
]]>If you need a definition, “slow fashion” means designing clothes that use ethically sourced and produced materials that are then used to make longer lasting garments. The fact that the garments are so durable ensures they don’t need to be replaced as quickly; lessening the effect the production process has on the environment.
Toad & Co. are one of the leaders in ethical and sustainable clothing. They make high-quality garments with very high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting clothing that will not need to be replaced any time soon.
The company itself backs and supports petitions that aim to lessen fossil fuels, introduce carbon caps and keep public lands public. Their business also supports people and charities with disabilities.
Their support of people with disabilities extends to the fact that they donate a portion of each sale to aiding those with developmental disabilities achieve more in life.
Absolutely Bear is a fairly new fair trade business that is based in London. All of their suppliers are part of the Fair Wear Foundation, which ensures workshop and factory conditions are kept up to a legal standard.
The menswear range may not be the biggest, but supporting this small brand also means you will be supporting smaller charities, so picking up an item or two will help those who need it the most.
Patagonia has quickly become the leader in ethically sourced and produced clothing. Even though they have a massive range, and supply millions of garments around the world, they do not sacrifice their mission to remain environmentally friendly.
They have a fully transparent supply chain that anybody can access, they also perform regular check-ups on all of their factories to ensure conditions are at the very best of standards. They also donate 1% of their sales profit to environmental charities year-round.
Real + Simple Denim is a South African based ethical clothing company that specialises in long-lasting denim. They make limited numbers of products to ensure they produce the highest quality clothing that will last longer than anything else you own.
The company uses local craftsman to help uplift and empower the community around them, ensuring local people are able to support themselves.
Nau is one of those brands that perfectly blends the rebellious spirit with sustainable materials and designs. They design clothes that fit into your lifestyle, whatever it may be, they pride themselves on their versatility.
Their clothes are designed to change with the seasons and be versatile enough to fit into any climate and weather, thus ensuring you do not have to purchase new clothes every time the season changes. This lowers your carbon footprint and contributes to saving the environment.
Thought Clothing, previously Braintree Clothing, is an Australian company that is now based in London. With ranges for both men and women, they champion the use of 4 main, sustainable materials; bamboo, cotton, wool, and hemp.
Being a founding member of the Ethical Fashion Forum, Thought Clothing is unique as they make their clothing from start to finish, in the same country, further reducing the carbon footprint.
People Tree is another leader in the ethical clothing game. With more than 25 years of experience producing and selling fair trade and environmentally friendly clothing, their knowledge and expertise are evident.
Their producers are dotted across 13 different developing countries, and they follow fair trade guidelines across the board. For example, they do not use azo dyes, which are very common in the clothing industry, but become incredibly toxic once they start to degrade.
Komodo is a London based company which focuses on using 4 environmentally friendly and ethical materials, namely cotton, hemp, bamboo and Tencel. They have been advocates for sustainable clothing since the nineties.
Each year, the brand travels and spends at least two months a year at each of its factories in Kathmandu, Bali, India and China. All of these factories are subject to an incredibly strict ethical code of conduct that combats the trends of poor working conditions that one would usually expect from factories in these countries, and encourages such factories to follow in their ethical footsteps.
The White T-Shirt Company does one thing and does it incredibly well. They produce high-quality white t-shirts, made with highly sustainable organic materials. They also use environmentally-friendly production techniques to keep the process ethical from start to finish.
They are upfront with their supply chain and dedication to their social responsibilities, which are fully evident and traceable. They have expanded their range, with t-shirts in different colours, neck designs and lengths.
Finisterre had a goal, which stated that by the end of 2017, they would be completely fluorocarbon free; fluorocarbon being a water-pollutant. Fluorocarbon is often used for waterproofing in clothing.
They use organic and recycled materials to make their clothes, which are designed for the outdoors. Should your clothing becomes damaged or tatty, you have the option to send the item back to the factory to be repaired.
Sustainable fashion came to the forefront in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. Brands like Patagonia and ESPRIT were the leaders in slow fashion when they wanted to make their brands more sustainable.
The owners of these brands were keen outdoorsmen, and they were witness to the effects their industry was having on the environment. They commissioned research into finding out the impact their fibres were having.
Through the 90’s and early 2000’s, many brands joined the movement and made sweeping changes to ensure they were fully sustainable and ecologically friendly. Patagonia and ESPRIT were quick to point out that exponential growth and consumption were the main culprits damaging the environment.
These brands set out to make and design clothes that were not only environmentally friendly but also well-made and long-lasting, thus slowing down the need for consumers to constantly purchase new clothing and therefore lessening the impact on the environment.
Many companies and clothing brands across the planet are making it their mission to produce high-quality, versatile and sustainable clothing that can replace mass-produced garments.
Ethical clothing may be the current trend around the world, but some brands are using this as a way to hide the fact that they themselves are not sourcing and producing ethically. It has become quite shady in some instances, but here are some easy ways to find out if a brand is doing their part for the environment, and their workers, or not.
The first place you can look is on the brands' policy page. If a brand doesn’t have anything to hide, they will have extensive information about every step in their sourcing and production stages.
This may be a simple test, but it isn’t completely reliable as it isn’t difficult to just lie on that page. The next thing is to do research on all their claims, if some of them, or all of them, aren’t true, there will be articles online refuting their claims.
The next thing you can do is look for ethical and fair trade certification symbols on the brands' website. These certifications hold their weight as they are received when a brand passes rigorous tests and deep dives into every step of their process.
These certifications are all from third-party organisations, and it means that the brand has met the ethical criteria required to be called ethical and environmentally friendly. These organizations are extremely reliable and informative, Fair Trade being the most famous.
Another route you can do is to just Google the brand. We live in a world where every piece of dirt on someone or something famous is written about, this is a simple way to find any indiscretions on the part of the brand.
You can also just email a brand with your questions and concerns. In some cases, they won’t respond, but when they do they will often ether back their claims with third-party research that was done on them, or be even vaguer, either way, you’ll get the answers you are looking for.
You can also research businesses that sell or promote ethical clothing. This way at least shows you that there are people and other brands in the know that are supporting said brand. There is no way they would put their ethical reputation on the line for a brand that doesn’t support them.
There are also some potential red flags that can be found within the brand's company policy. Some important ones would be saying they are Fair Trade, but if you take a closer look, you may find only a small part of their massive line may be Fair Trade.
Another one would be a company saying something like “Made in the United States”. This may mean that the clothing is made in the US, as in sewn or created, but they could still be sourcing their materials and labour from sweatshops across the globe.
Another red flag, and possibly one that is the most aggravating, is when a brand talks about donating some of their profits to charities. Yes, they may actually be donating profits, but that doesn’t always mean the clothing they are making is produced ethically.
At Nic Harry, we are proud to use a highly sustainable material such as bamboo across our range. We do our part to reduce our carbon and environmental footprint, while still producing high end, quality items of clothing.
]]>There are two different approaches to extracting the bamboo fibres and making bamboo textile. You can use either the mechanical or chemical process. The mechanical process is less popular as it is more labour intensive and costly.
The mechanical process involves crushing the woody part of the plant, and then using natural enzymes to break the bamboo walls into a mushed up mass, the fibres can then be mechanically combed out and rolled into yarn.
The chemical process involves turning the bamboo fibre into a regenerated cellulose fibre, similar to rayon or modal. This is the most popular and most common process used in the manufacturing of bamboo clothing.
The chemical process varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but there are common steps taken when using hydrolysis alkalisation with multi-phase bleaching technology. This is the most used process, and it goes like this.
Nowadays though, more eco-friendly methods and chemicals are being used in the chemical process. These processes have substantially reduced the amount of waste and damage to the environment, atmosphere, and the health of workers who handle the material.
The same processes used to produce lyocell from wood cellulose can be adapted and modified to use bamboo cellulose. The lyocell process uses N-methylmorphine-N-oxide to dissolve the bamboo cellulose.
N-methylmorphine-N-oxide is a part of the amine oxide family. Amine oxides are very weak alkalis that act like surfactants and they help break down the cellulose structure into a viscose mixture.
This process is substantially healthier for the environment and for the workers involved in the process. The chemicals used are also captured and recycled, and only trace amounts escape, meaning there is vastly less pollution caused.
The most important question many people will have after reading this is, is bamboo fabric ethical? The answer can be somewhat tricky, but simply, yes. If it is sourced correctly and processed in the best and most environmentally friendly manner, it can be ethical.
Like most things that gain popularity, there will always be a section of the production sector that wants to produce the material in the quickest time, in the cheapest way, and take make their money as fast as possible.
This is why we said answering if bamboo is ethical can be tricky, cause it completely depends on the growers, the manufacturers, and the clothing makers that then source the material.
Like we mentioned above, these days more and more companies and manufacturers have become aware of the harm fast and mass production of bamboo material can cause and have therefore made huge leaps in improving the process and lessening its effects on the environment.
On the surface, the bamboo fabric may seem like something that damages the ecosystem and environment, but we at Nic Harry are proud of the fact that we use ethically sourced bamboo that is treated in the best possible manner to protect the environment and the people that produce it.
]]>Bamboo clothing is almost always made of bamboo rayon, now, the important question is, what is rayon? Rayon is a semi-synthetic fibre made by chemically reshaping cellulose. Cellulose extracted from bamboo can be made into viscose rayon.
Bamboo leaves and the soft, inner part of the bamboo are extracted using steam and then crushed, which produces the cellulose. The cellulose is then purified, treated with lye, dissolved and then reformed into rayon.
Silk is an incredibly popular, but expensive material that is used and wanted worldwide, many people want to use silk, but can’t afford it. A cheaper alternative was then made, and that is how rayon was invented.
Rayon is a man-made material that is neither natural or artificial. Rayon is made from cellulose which is found in plants, but it undergoes a vast chemical process before reaching its final form.
Rayon is a highly absorbent material, which makes it ideal for dying. It can easily be knitted or woven to make clothing such as skirts and shirts. It was originally intended to be used for house furnishings.
The downside of rayon is that is doesn’t withstand wear and tear, and requires repairs on a frequent basis. It also yellows with age and forms small balls in rough areas.
There are several different types of rayon, namely, polynosic rayon, super absorbent rayon, Tencel rayon, Lyocell, and fire-retardant and micro-denier fibres. The most common forms of rayon are the high-wet modulus rayon and viscose rayon.
Viscose rayon is made from viscose, which is a naturally occurring, organic liquid that is used as the main component in the production of rayon and cellophane. It is also used to make art silk, modal, and synthetic velvet.
Viscose is made by dissolving wood pulp or cotton linter in caustic soda, and by letting it soak for some time. After it is soaked, the mulch is then shredded and aged.
It is then treated with carbon disulfide to produce xanthate, which is dissolved again in a low concentration bath of caustic soda and acetate.
Viscose rayon feels a lot like cotton and looks very similar to silk, which makes it ideal for light clothing. It also drapes incredibly well and can be used for curtains. It is a cheap and versatile material but requires maintenance as it wrinkles very easily.
To turn the bamboo into a fabric, there are two different methods used. There is the mechanical method, which is very labour intensive and costly, and there is the chemical method, which is a more popular method used by clothing manufacturers.
The mechanical method for producing bamboo is not used for mass production of the material, as it requires a lot of hard work and is very expensive, therefore the chemical method is prefered by larger manufacturers.
The chemical method of producing the material is more controversial due to the fact that it causes damage to the environment and to the workers involved in the process. However, advances in technology have allowed businesses to produce the material using the chemical method in a safer and healthier way, for both the workers and the environment.
The growth of bamboo makes it a very sustainable plant to use for the production of clothing. It grows incredibly quickly and can be found in cold and hot climates. Being able to grow in various weather conditions allows it to be easily grown and maintained.
You are able to harvest the bamboo after about ten weeks, and since it is a grass, it regrows exactly like grass, meaning there is no need to replant it or clear the fields for a fresh crop, saving on space and damage to the environment.
Bamboo is incredibly beneficial to the fabric industry and the communities that surround the fields. It can be used for food, shelter, and fibre and its incredibly fast growth rate and clumping nature means you can grow a lot of it in a relatively small space.
Due to deforestation, forests aren’t absorbing as much carbon dioxide as it once was. On the other hand, bamboo absorbs 35% more carbon dioxide than trees, making it a brilliant substitute in the case of deforestation.
On that note, bamboo also slows the rate of deforestation as it provides an alternative for building materials and textiles, allowing businesses and communities not to have to solely rely on the planet's forests and jungles.
Bamboo barely requires any water other than natural rainfall, it is also stores that water more efficiently and can withstand droughts much better than regular forests. Since cotton is the largest user of water in the material industry, bamboo is a brilliant water-saving alternative.
Bamboo is superior in the fact that it helps prevent, and even repair soil erosion. The constant harvesting and replanting of other crops erode the soil, but bamboo does not get uprooted when harvested and therefore does not have to be replanted.
Bamboo clothing is biodegradable if it isn’t treated with any colourants that aren’t. Old clothing can be composted and disposed of in a more efficient and environmentally friendly manner.
There is no need to use pesticides or fertilizers when growing bamboo, once again, helping to protect the environment it is grown in. In some places though, herbicides and fertilizer are used to promote the growth of the roots, which are used for food.
Bamboo is an efficient and environmentally friendly crop to use for the clothing industry. Even though it may go through a chemical process, that process has been modified and changed to help the environment instead of harming it.
It is a brilliant alternative to cotton, and should most definitely be considered as a replacement for your more water hungry and environment damaging materials.
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Whether you are a streetwear aficionado or someone who prides themselves on their stylish, everyday smart casual look, there are some winter essentials that every guy should have, that will elevate your winter wardrobe to the next level.
If, after reading this, you still have no idea how to even put a stylish, sharp winter outift together, we have you covered. Take some inspiration from here.
Winter is the perfect time to pull out a pair or buy a pair, of leather boots. We aren’t talking about combat boots, we are talking about a classic Chelsea or Brogue shape, perfect for those cold winter days.
A pair of stylish leather boots go well with almost every outfit. They are incredibly versatile and match with jeans, chinos, a suit, a casual button up or a coat. Buying a pair of these boots this winter is a worthy investment, and you will struggle not to wear them every day.
Adding a pair of colourful socks will brighten up your outfit on those cold, muggy days.
This may seem like an obvious one, but many guys have gone into their late twenties, even early thirties without ever owning a decent coat. A hoodie or a sweatshirt works well in some situations, but when you want that more sharp, stylish look, a coat is the way to go.
You don’t need a long, leather jacket like Neo in The Matrix, but a warm, neutral coloured coat that you can wear on a day-to-day basis. They add a more formal feel to your outfit without having to wear a suit and tie.
Winter is the time for darker colours and dark-wash jeans are the perfect all-round pants to fit this brief. The darker colour will match with everything in your wardrobe and is a more formal choice compared to lighter, blue jeans.
Winter is the time for layering and there is nothing easier to layer with than a sweater. This simple item of clothing will add warmth, style and a touch of class to any outfit; and they are so simple to match.
A black or grey sweater can be worn with a work shirt and tie at a meeting, or under your coat when you go out. Wear both a coat and sweater when you really feel the cold as they are versatile, easy to style and keep you warm without having to whip out that old hoodie stuffed into the back of your closet.
Just like the rest of your wardrobe, your suits need to change and adapt to the season. Most suits are made from lighter materials such as cotton, but that just won’t cut it when the weather turns cold.
Tweed, flannel, and wool will become your best friends and it is highly advisable to invest in a suit made from these warmer materials, especially if you are someone that wears suits regularly, you don’t want to have to wear a bunch of undershirts and sweaters just to stay warm.
Ok, we get that a t-shirt may not be the most obvious choice for a winter essential, but they really are. T-shirts are an easy way to keep you warm when you are wearing a suit and don’t have a coat.
A simple, white or black tee can be worn under your shirt, and having it made of a temperature regulating material keeps you warm when it’s cold, but also ensures you don’t overheat if the day gets warmer.
When it comes to accessories, you’re really only going to need a beanie and scarf. Keeping your ears and fingers warm can be the difference between a good and a bad day, and these items will 100% do the job.
You aren’t going to always be dressing for an occasion in the winter and having some more casual items of clothing is needed. Once again, flannel or wool are your friends here and will keep you toasty.
These shirts are the casual option of choice during the summer and they do the same job in the winter. Just remember, the material needs to match the season.
Next, to the more formal coat; a bomber jacket can be your casual choice. These jackets are incredibly warm, very comfortable and perfect for day-to-day use. The styling options are endless and so are the colour and trim options.
Like we said above, a hoodie isn’t always the best choice for every outfit, but a hoodie is still a staple during the winter months. Once again, they are very versatile and are an alternative to a bomber jacket or coat that may be too warm or that is just not your cup of tea.
A double-breasted is almost the best blazer choice for winter. The wrap around design keeps your torso warmer than a regular blazer while cinching in your torso to give your upper body a great shape whilst wearing layers.
Even though leather boots can be worn with almost every casual or formal outfit, you are still going to want a pair of casual shoes. Leather sneakers are probably the best choice for this and do incredibly well in winter.
The leather or nubuck sneakers will keep your feet warm and protect them from any rain; and being leather, they are incredibly sturdy and strong, long-lasting and very easy to clean. Perfect for winter.
Use this guide to keep your leather sneakers clean and fresh no matter what the day throws at you.
Socks can never be underestimated in winter, and a really decent pair can be the difference between frozen toes and toasty ones. having thick boots or sneakers isn't a guarantee against the biting the cold.
Heat regulating socks are your best option, bamboo socks, in particular, they will ensure your feet don't overheat and start to sweat. You want socks that will keep your feet at body temperature, not make them so hot they start to sweat and end up feeling colder.
Winter does not have to be the season for wearing every jersey you own or rotating the same three or four items every day. Winter is the chance to expand your wardrobe and there are far more options than you may think.
Using our guide above, your winter wardrobe will be just as stylish as your summer one. Simply remember that these essentials can fit any outfit, or make entire outfits on their own.
]]>There is plenty of choices out there when it comes to choosing which high-top sneakers to wear, Converse, Adidas, and Nike are a few of the brands keeping high-tops fashionable year-round.
High-tops originated as an athletic shoe, particularly for the popular American pastime, basketball. The high-top style was believed to provide extra support around the ankle and improve flexibility, vital in an active sport like basketball.
They became associated with the sport in 1921 when American basketball player Charles “Chuck” Taylor joined a basketball team sponsored by the Converse Company called The Converse All Stars.
After becoming a spokesperson for the company, the Chuck Taylor All-Stars became the signature shoe for basketball, even being endorsed as the standard issue for the U.S Olympians in 1936, and for American troops training during World War II.
Eventually, Converse All Stars veered into the casual footwear market, becoming a widespread trend across the globe. Bigger brands such as Nike and Adidas followed suit, and high-tops have found their way into almost every closet across the globe.
Brands like Nike, Reebok and Vans have all come out with their own variations of the high top sneaker to popularise the trend.
The difference between the types of shoes is simple. Low-tops are ankle-grazing shoes that reveal the back of the ankle, and most of the upper foot. Mids reach no higher than the wearer’s ankle.
High-tops, however, are characterized by the shoe extending over the ankle. Most high-top sneakers will come with laces, however slip-on high-tops, while not as popular, are also available.
All-year-round, skinny or slim-fit jeans or chinos work well with high tops. Try to avoid wide leg pants as these tend to hide the sneakers, and detract from the polished off look.
With the abundance of colorful high tops available out there, it’s a good idea to wear brightly colored sneakers (like orange or yellow) with a more subtler shirt or t-shirt on top in order to avoid clashing.
For staple sneaker colors like black, white and blue, bring some variation in with bright socks. For sneakers with patterns on them (like polka dots, stripes, or a print) a sock with a solid color often works the best.
Rolling up the bottoms of jeans or chinos draws attention to the sneakers, and creates a balanced and tidy look. Paired with chambray/denim shirt or printed shirt/ t-shirt, a jacket and bold socks is all you need for an effortlessly stylish look.
In the hot summer months, a t-shirt, shorts and bright socks peeking out of the high tops is a classically cool outfit, perfect for the beach, festivals or other outdoor activities.
There are some sneaker and fashion brands that have absolutely dominated the high-top for years now. Air Jordans, Converse Chuck Taylors, Vans, and recently Adidas have all stamped their mark on the high-top trend.
Michael Jordan’s sneaker namesake has been the dominant force in the sneaker industry since the 80’s. The sneakers have evolved with the times, collaborated with some of the biggest fashion houses and artists, and have always been in fashion.
Every sneaker since the Air Jordan 1’s has been a masterpiece, and most sneaker and fashion heads have had at least one pair in their closet at some point in their lifetime, and it’s easy to see why.
Not only are Jordans some of the most stylish sneakers on the planet, many of them are very affordable, yet all are high-quality. They are also incredibly easy to style, with most models coming in different colorways, allowing you to find the perfect pair for your wardrobe.
Check out the iconic history of this classic sneaker.
Chuck’s are probably the most widely recognised high-tops on the planet. They have been worn by great artists, sportsman, musicians, and celebrities for years, and quickly made their way into millions of people's everyday outfits.
The design has barely changed since they first made their way onto the sneaker scene, making them the definition of retro-modern. There have been hundreds of different colors and patterns thrown onto them, making them one of the most versatile sneakers as well.
The clean-cut look fits into any outfit. If you are a skater, they won’t let you down on the board, hit the basketball court in your favorite pair, rock out at your next concert like Kurt Cobain, or simply wear them wherever you go. They are simple, comfortable, and timeless.
If you look up “skate shoe” in the dictionary, the Vans Sk8 Hi-Tops will be the first thing that comes up. They are the epitome of stylish skate shoes and can find their way into any outfit, whether you’re hitting the half-pipe or the pavement.
These sneakers can be dressed up or dressed down, and much like the Chuck’s and Jordan’s, they have been a firm favourite since the day this iconic silhouette debuted. It has never gone out of fashion.
Pair them with some baggy shorts and a t-shirt for a day at the beach or in the city, and at night time, dress them up with some chino’s and a button up, they will definitely catch people’s attention, and their versatility is endless.
High-Tops are probably the most popular sneaker silhouette to ever come onto the fashion scene. They are versatile, incredibly stylish, and can fit into any outfit and into any situation. If you don’t have a pair already, what are you waiting for? You’ll still be wearing them in 10 years, believe us.
One of the most popular, and well-recognized collars, is the Forward Point Collar. A shirt with this kind of collar is possibly the most common shirt in any man’s closet. It’s simple, traditional, and timelessly stylish.
This type of dress shirt is, if anything, the one shirt every gent should have in their collection. It doesn’t matter if you own one smart shirt, or you are some kind of collector, this is a staple that works with a smart casual, all the way up to incredibly formal.
We like to think that the Button-down Collar is the laid-back, relaxed brother of the Forward Point Collar. It is another staple in any man’s wardrobe, but it is a bit more versatile as it fits right into a Sunday lunch outfit or in the boardroom.
The buttons that secure the collar keep it looking sharp and stylish, but also allow you do not have to wear a tie. This type of collar was introduced on the Polo field, the epitome of casual style, and should make its way into your wardrobe as soon as possible.
The Spread Collar is the sometimes overlooked middle ground of collars. It gives you the suave and stylish look of a forward pointed collar and the relaxed, forward-thinking look of the Cutaway Collar. This collar is the perfect middle-man.
The Spread Collar is the most versatile of all the dress shirt collars. It works with a tie, it works without a tie, and in both situations, you will still look stylish, but with a subtle hint of personal flair that will make you stand out from the crowd.
The Tab Collar is most definitely one of the lesser known types of collars, but travel back in time, and it was far more popular and much older, than the Forward Pointed Collar. The Tab Collar is for the 21st century Gatsby gents.
The Tab Collar is from back in the days when collars were removable when you would clip it together with a tab that is hidden under your tie knot. This type of collar is for the aficionados, someone who knows what they want out of a shirt.
A Tab Collar dress shirt is very difficult to find nowadays, but it is worth the hunt or having one made to size. It is the more distinguished version of the Forward Point and the more sartorial choice for someone who doesn’t like the Cutaway Collar.
The Cutaway Collar was a bold style choice in the 1930’s, as it was a massive stride away from the narrower and longer collars of the 1920’s. It is also often referred to as the Windsor collar, as the widespread made it the ideal collar for Windsor knot ties.
The Cutaway Collar can be a big step for some people, as it is the opposite of the classic narrow forms such as the forward point collar, but if you are feeling daring, give it a shot, wearing a Windsor knot with it will get you noticed for sure.
The Band Collar, or the Mandarin collar, is unique in the sense that is isn’t a collar at all. Simply put, instead of the traditional turn-down collar, the Band Collar is just a band of material that runs around the neck.
The Band Collar can be used for smarter outfits, but it comes across looking very hipster. It is a very cool looking collar, therefore it is more suited for casual days out. It is relaxed, yet stylish.
The Club Collar came into existence when students from the exclusive Eton College wanted to distinguish their formal wear, dress shirts and school uniforms from their neighboring schools. By simply rounding off the sharp points of the collar, the Eton, or Club Collar, was born.
The Club Collar is a bit tricky to pull off, as you can sometimes look like the angry boss from a comic book. It is most definitely for a veteran of style who knows when and where is the perfect time and place.
If you are a bit of a fashion trailblazer though, the Club Collar is more suited for formal occasions. If you are having a super-sharp formal night out or attending a cocktail party, this collar can be the thing that sets you apart from the suits.
The Pin Collar is almost the same as a Tab Collar in the sense that while a Tab Collar has a tab that fastens underneath your tie, a Pin Collar uses a bar. This bar then creates a unique nuance by lifting the tie knot slightly, as well as holding it in place.
Much like the Tab Collar, the Pin Collar is suited for specific occasions, it won’t do for lunch by the beach. Formal occasions, cocktail parties, and even the boardroom will suit this collar well, and give you that stylish edge over your counterparts. Add a tie clip for that extra flair.
If you want to make your tie stand out as well, use this guide for a fancy new knot that will grab everybody's attention.
We hope this guide has given you an insight into the differences and intricacies of an often overlooked aspect of a men's dress shirt. This will definitely give you an idea of which shirt to purchase next, as well as the ideal place to show off your new found knowledge.
Many people just have cold feet. It’s an unfortunate problem that you are just born with. Women usually suffer with cold feet more often than men, hence the constant need to out their cold feet on your warm ones at night.
Another reason is poor circulation. If you have trouble with your circulation, your hands and feet are the first things that will get cold. It doesn’t matter which of these problems you have, socks can solve them.
If your feet stay cold, and nothing seems to help, we highly suggest seeking the help of a medical professional, as this could be a sign of something more serious.
Being warm when you go to bed allows you to relax and settle down quicker, therefore helping you fall asleep quicker, and stay asleep for longer. Basically, you need warm feet to have a proper night's sleep.
Having constantly cold feet will most definitely affect your sleep patterns, and will affect them a lot quicker than you think. Sorting out your cold feet people quickly and efficiently is strongly advised.
Having warm feet is only one of the many benefits associated with sleeping with socks on. Others include :
There are some simple methods to improving circulation in and to your feet.
Keep in mind, there is a downside to wearing socks while you are sleeping. Even if your feet are cold, the rest of your body can overheat. Make sure you either take your socks off once your feet are warm, or you take them off during the night. Don’t leave them on if the rest of your body is getting too hot.
Compression socks are designed to improve circulation, therefore it is easy to see why people think they are a good choice when sleeping. In short, they are not to be worn when sleeping.
Compression socks increase blood flood to your legs and feet, but this process only works while you are standing and moving around. This process is reversed when lying down, and the socks will actually draw blood away from your feet and potentially create blockages while you sleep.
Loose socks will actually help improve circulation, and are a much better alternative to tighter, more constrictive compression socks.
To keep your children's feet warm, it is advised to stay away from electrical blankets or heated socks. These can be dangerous and you run the risk of your child overheating while they sleep.
The best solution is to bathe them before bed in warm water, and then to dress them in pre-warmed socks.
If you think your baby is too warm, look out for :
⦁ Overheating
⦁ Excessive or even minimal sweating
⦁ Red, flushed cheeks
⦁ Fidgeting and irritation while trying to sleep.
Bamboo is one of the better sock materials for keeping your feet warm. Other materials, such as cotton or wool, provide too much, or too little, heat protection. Your feet will either be too cold or way too hot. Bamboo will give you the perfect temperature.
Bamboo also has exceptional temperature control properties. This means your feet will stay at a comfortable warm temperature when they are cold, but they will also cool down slightly if your feet are too hot.
The bamboo fibers have superior moisture wicking abilities, preventing your feet from sweating too much, but also allowing them to stay slightly moisturized and help with dryness and cracks.
Bamboo socks are most definitely the right choice of sock if you are suffering from cold feet. They will ensure your feet stay warm enough without the rest of your body overheating. They are also incredibly comfortable, this is a winning combination for a good night's sleep.
Polyester is a man-made petroleum-based synthetic fibre. If you were to look at it under a microscope, you would see the plastic fibres are woven very finely and very close together.
One of the main benefits of polyester is its durability. It is a very strong material and will last much longer than cotton if cared for properly. Polyester also holds color better and longer than cotton, as well as being quick drying and non-absorbent.
There are two main problems with polyester.The first is that it’s incredibly bad for the planet as it does not break down once thrown away. It also isn’t breathable, therefore making foot sweat and overheating real problems.
Cotton is much softer than polyester and is a much better choice if you are wanting more comfort from your socks. Cotton holds color relatively well, but there are materials that keep color better and for longer.
Cotton socks are breathable, much more so than polyester. This ensures your feet will sweat less, and the material will wick away excess moisture. Cotton is also very good for sensitive skin or if you suffer from any allergies.
Cotton can be much more expensive than other materials, especially if you are buying something that is 100% cotton. It does become cheaper if you are buying a product with a material mix, but the benefits of the cotton will be diminished as there is less of it.
Wool socks are most definitely more suited for winter weather, as your feet will get way too hot in the warmer months. Unlike cotton, wool is a brilliant insulator and will ensure your feet stay toasty, even in the coldest conditions.
Wool can also absorb high amounts of moisture, much more than cotton. Wool socks also keep their insulating properties, even when wet, meaning excess sweat or water won’t make your feet cold.
There are a number of downsides to wool socks, though. They cannot be worn in warm weather, as they will make your feet way too hot and uncomfortable. They are also difficult to clean as using a washing machine or dryer is inadvisable.
It is also advised not to wear wool socks for long periods on carpeted floors as the fibre friction will wear down the soles of the socks quicker. This process is sped up with lower quality wool.
Lower quality wool and Merino wool also can also be incredibly itchy. If you do not spend money on a high-quality pair of wool socks, you do run the risk of buying socks that are exceptionally itchy and will remain so for a long time, no matter how much you wear them.
Bamboo is one of the softest, if not the softest sock material you can buy. Bamboo is much smoother than cotton, and feels more like a high-quality silk or cashmere, making them very comfortable to wear.
Bamboo has incredible moisture wicking capabilities, being able to keep feet dry even if there is excess sweat. Bamboo socks are also very absorbent, due to the micro-gaps in the bamboo fibre.
The main benefit of bamboo socks is their anti-bacterial abilities. Bamboo socks have a natural antimicrobial agent called “bamboo kun”, which is found in the bamboo fibre. This agent keeps your feet free of bacteria, and smelling fresh.
Now that we have discussed the other main materials used to make socks, you may be asking: why did we choose bamboo? There is a very simple answer to that: everything cotton, wool, and polyester can do, bamboo can do better.
Bamboo’s anti-bacterial capabilities are unmatched when it comes to sock material. “Bamboo kun” (the antimicrobial component found in the plant fibre itself) is what keeps our feet clean.
Bamboo also has exceptional moisture absorption qualities. Due to the micro-gaps between the bamboo fibres, it absorbs almost twice as much moisture as cotton. This quality also aids in keeping dampness off the skin, keeping your feet dry.
Bamboo has great temperature control: it keeps you warm on cooler days, and cool on warm days. The material is breathable, much more so than most other materials, keeping your feet at a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
If you suffer from any allergies or have any persistent skin irritations, bamboo is the perfect material for you. It is incredibly soft, and the combination of the breathability and temperature control ensures your skin won’t get irritated.
Bamboo is also a very earth-friendly material to grow, process and use. You are able to grow the same amount of bamboo as cotton, but use 10% less land. That means your production is not limited, but the damage to the land is.
Considering how precious water is, using less of it is a priority. Bamboo does not need to be watered to grow. Naturally falling rain is more than enough to keep the plants hydrated and growing effectively.
Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on earth. This speed allows for quick and effective production, while keeping damage to the land and the environment at a minimum, as no chemicals or poisons need to be sprayed either.
Apart from being environmentally-friendly, and very efficient to produce, bamboo is one of the best materials to use for clothing. We at Nic Harry pride ourselves on using bamboo In every pair of socks we create, thereby ensuring you receive high-quality, comfortable, and long-lasting product every time.
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Give it a watch!
]]>Well, I'm Nic. I'm the founder of Nic Harry. Unfortunately I am absolutely not a Saint.
I would like to tell you the story of the actual Saint Nick (or Saint Nicholas or in Greek Aγιος Νικόλαος). Many people know who Father Christmas is told to be. Many people have heard of Santa Clause and almost everyone knows that the Big Daddy of Christmas is a round looking, white bearded and jolly old man.
The question I'd like to answer is why Father Christmas is Father Christmas and who Saint Nick is.
The historical Saint Nicholas was born at Patara, Lycia in Asia Minor (now Turkey). In his youth he made a pilgrimage to Egypt and the Palestine area. Shortly after his return he became Bishop of Myra and was later cast into prison during the persecution of Diocletian. He was released after the accession of Constantine and was present at the Council of Nicaea. According to Western Christian tradition, Italian merchants took his body to Italy in 1087. (Wikipedia)
Apparently the modern Santa Claus grew out of traditions surrounding not just Saint Nicholas but also the British figure of Father Christmas and the Dutch figure of Sinterklaas (who apparently is also based on Saint Nicholas).
There are many, many incredible stories about Saint Nicholas but perhaps the most well known (and Christmas relevant one) is as follows:
The most famous story about St. Nicholas tells how the custom of hanging up stockings to get presents in first started! It goes like this:
There was a poor man who had three daughters. He was so poor, he did not have enough money for a dowry, so his daughters couldn't get married. One night, Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney and into the house (This meant that the oldest daughter was then able to be married.). The bag fell into a stocking that had been hung by the fire to dry! This was repeated later with the second daughter. Finally, determined to discover the person who had given him the money, the father secretly hid by the fire every evening until he caught Nicholas dropping in a bag of gold. Nicholas begged the man to not tell anyone what he had done, because he did not want to bring attention to himself. But soon the news got out and when anyone received a secret gift, it was thought that maybe it was from Nicholas.
And that, dear fan of the "Nics" is the story of Saint Nicholas.
If you're wondering why we think of Saint Nic as a bearded white dude who needs to go on a few runs then wonder no more. We owe the general look of Father Christmas to an 1881 illustration by Thomas Nast who, along with Clement Clarke Moore's poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas", helped to create the modern image of Santa Claus (see image on the right).
Now, if you want a secret gift from this Nic, then I suggest you enter our Saint Nic Christmas Giveaway!
]]>You can buy this incredible rainbow inspired sock in stores and online too.
Nic Harry believes in inclusion. We're born from a Rainbow Nation and these socks are the stripiest, craziest way we could think to show the world that in the Rainbow Nation we're a company that spreads pride, respect and inclusion of everyone and for everyone.
]]>This is an absolutely must-have item for anyone who's as Christmas Crazy as we are.
You can purchase the Christmas Stockings in store or online!
]]>Earlier this year we launched a range of bold and colourful cotton boxer shorts.
We put them out there and waited to see if our fans loved them. And you know what? You didn't really love them. So we went back to the drawing board, quite literally.
We looked at the design, the cut, the fabric, the colours, the way they were made and our own processes involved in production and we started again.
Our new range come in three simple colours: Black, White and Navy Blue. They are all made from 100% bamboo. They have no backside seam which means no sneaky fabric in the wrong places. There is no itchy label sticky out at the back and there's a double front flap to keep your parts in place!
I am so proud of these boxer shorts that I decided to model the underwear myself! Yep, scroll up a little, that's me in the middle! I wear these bad boys every single day and I've never felt something so comfortable in my pants. Actually, that's good, I like that:
The most comfortable thing you'll put in your pants!
You need these boxers in your life. You want this underwear in your pants. You'll love wearing the hell out of bamboo.
]]>In the past we've experimented with a wide range of products including umbrellas, ties, pocket squares, lapel pins and many others.
Today I am so proud to launch our very first range of bamboo t-shirts.
We've had such great response from our bamboo socks over the past 5 years that we decided we wanted to push the fiber as far as it could go.
Bamboo is breathable, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and comfy as hell to wear. Since I started wearing our bamboo t-shirts, everything else feels rough on my skin. These are the most comfortable t-shirts that I've ever worn and I hope you'll agree once you've put them on.
As with our socks, our t-shirts are produced locally. The yarn is knitted locally, the designs are printed locally and the shirts are put together in Cape Town. We are proud to work with experts in South Africa to make the best possible product out there. We support local and we think it matters that we continue to do so for a long as we can.
I experimented with many, many, many designs before understanding what we wanted the Nic Harry t-shirt to look and feel like. I didn't only want the regular chest print. I wanted to start with a simple, clean, white t-shirt and enhance it with a subtle but fun design that you know and love.
There are very few items in a man's wardrobe that scream class and simplicity as much as a well fitted white t-shirt.
Try them, you'll never look back.
]]>Some time in 2012 I decided that I wanted to sell socks as my next fun side project. In November of that same year we launched NicSocks and started selling our first three sock designs made from bamboo fibers.
Five years later and we're selling hundreds of thousands of pairs of bamboo socks every year. We've also grown our product range to include amazing bamboos t-shirts and underwear. We ship our products across the globe, we've launched a European warehouse to service our loyal fans in the EU and the UK and we've rolled out a few stores in South Africa.
It hasn't all been dreamy as I wrote about recently. There have been tough times and fantastic times and this is what makes building a company such a thrill.
As a small thank you to our fantastic loyal sock fans and the new ones who haven't discovered us yet, we're going on sale!
We're giving you 1/5 off everything for November. That's right, 20% off everything* for the entire month
Simple click around our store, pick something you like and BAM, it's at 20% off. You can also visit our physical locations and get the same fantastic reward for just being there for us over the past five years. Well done you!
*This doesn't include our subscriptions which are already great value for money.
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Thinking about these things got us wondering what was going on the world in the year that we started making our amazing bamboo socks.
So here’s a collection of our five favourite throwbacks from 2012.
Pravin Gordhan was our Minister of Finance
Gordhan was the Minister of Finance for five years (coincidentally how old Nic Harry is), under the nepotistic reign of Jacob Zuma. Things then went pear shaped and our corrupt "President" ploughed through four finance ministers in three years. Gordhan was the longest standing Finance Minister and others included Nhlanhla Nene, weekend special David van Rooyen and current minister Malusi Gigaba. You could be next!
Just in case you forgot about it, here's Nhlanhla Nene falling off a chair on live TV:
Gangnam Style
In 2012, Psy’s Gangnam Style was released on YouTube. It went on to be the most watched video on YouTube. It currently sits third on the list with 2.97 billion views. It was also the very first YouTube video to reach the billion milestone.
Apple iPhone 4s
2012 is basically when Apple and Samsung started their public feud with each other. Apple releases their iPhone 4s and Samsung releases their hallmark Galaxy range in the form of the S II. Also Nokia and Windows tried to rebound with the Lumia 900.
Still, no one knows who the hell HTC are.
Glasses without lenses
Considered cool then, now a crime. Probably made famous by Zooey Deschanel in New Girl. Glasses without lenses is arguably the worst fashion fad of 2012. Anyone can still poke your eye out and they won't do you any justice. Don't do it again world!
2012, the End of the World
If the world did end in 2012, Nic Harry would have been a total of 63 days old.
Thankfully it didn't and we've been able to reach our fifth birthday.
Basically the story goes that the 21st of December, 2012 was the end of the Mayan calendar and therefore the world had the possibility of ending. Kind of like the Y2K bug that never happened.
Hopefully the world, and Nic Harry, continue to survive for a very long time!
]]>If you want the long answer, keep reading.
Five years ago I started a small experiment that I called NicSocks. We sold socks. I used R5000 (±$350) to build a small business that turned a profit after 30 days of running.
Fast forward 3 years and we had opened 5 physical retail stores, we had a website that shipped globally, we had plans to open more stores once we figured out which store size/model worked best for our business and things were pumping. Our team had gone from 2 to over 20 people in 12 months and were sprawled across 3 cities.
Everything was amazing and we were flying high off the back of great store performance through rocking summer weather and tourist trade in Cape Town.
Nic Harry started as an ecommerce sock business in November 2012. In August 2014 we opened the doors to our first physical sock experience. By this time we had a wider range of product and a deep range of socks.
The store was a banging success. We paid off our capital investment and the store was profitable within 2 months. I worked the store myself with my co-founder and we really dug into the customer and in-store experience.
A few months into this I decided that the path to profit in South African retail lies in physical outlets and since our first store did so well that perhaps we should open another, immediately.
I hustled my way into the V&A Waterfront with a small 10mx10m kiosk. A fantastic size for a young brand selling premium socks in the country’s premium mall.
Again, this store was a banging success. We paid off our capital investment and were profitable in less than two months. We believed that we had a model that worked for us: Physical stores complimented by fantastic product, customer service and ecommerce capabilities.
I brought on a new investor and raised further funding to grow our store footprint in South Africa. We did this aggressively. Between August 2015 and February 2017 we opened five physical stores in three cities. That’s a store every 3.6 months. I used to be quite proud of that number. Now I think it’s insane and I’m actually quite tired if I’m honest.
We opened stores in the following locations:
Rosebank Mall - Johannesburg
Menlyn Park - Pretoria
Tyger Valley - Cape Town
V&A Waterfront - Cape Town
Wale Street - Cape Town
We specifically set out to experiment and learn which store model would work for Nic Harry. We had 10m², 20m² 30m², 50m² and 60m² stores all ready for testing and experimentation.
I thought that I had it all figured out: Open stores, sell socks, make money, open stores, etc etc. But here’s the thing; store size isn’t really the single variable that we should have been measuring. There’s a lot that goes into making physical retail work. Things like product depth, staff training, logistics, turnover per m² of store space you occupy, cost per m² calculations and an immense amount of other things that pile on.
I am a naive retailer and had no clue what was going on much of the time! I still don’t. In fact, some of the best retailers I know don’t have a clue either.
We have officially closed our Menlyn Park and Tyger Valley stores. Menlyn closed in August 2017 and Tyger Valley closed at the end of October 2017.
These two stores closed for vastly different reasons.
Menlyn Park itself is battling with vacant stores and retail rot. They have incredibly bad management and the people running the centre don't give a damn about their tenants or the relationships they are damaging. There is also a distinct lack of foot traffic (humans) and the mall is simply too big for people to shop in an easy manner.
Much of the blame lies with me and how we opened and ran this store.
Menlyn was our third store and it was our first outside of Cape Town. We hired an inexperienced team and struggled to maintain the same ethos with a team far away that we manage in our Cape Town stores. I spent 6 months flying from Cape Town to Johannesburg every other week to try and rectify this. These costs mount and are unsustainable.
We practice a very flat structure at Nic Harry. This means no managers. Everyone is a key-holder, everyone has access to our systems, figures, processes and everyone is responsible for themselves and their store. This requires the right people in the right positions. We did not have this at Menlyn. We had really great salespeople who battled to gel into the Nic Harry way of doing things. No amount of work, new product, sales could turn this struggling store into a profit centre for us.
Tyger Valley is a different beast altogether. This store began as a pop up in a really bad location in the mall. This incurred losses for us over a period when we should have been making serious money. We then relocated (a second shop fit was required which meant more capital expense) but unfortunately the move didn't give us the increase in turnover we required to stay open. The landlord in this scenario was much more helpful, pleasant and well-intentioned.
Menlyn and Tyger were our biggest stores by size (50m² and 60m²). They were also the highest actual rental. The size of the store + the rental + staff costs + low turnover meant that our previous dream store model broke.
I thought we could turn it around with a wider range of product and improved team performance but I was wrong. There is only so much you can do if your model won’t financially work out.
Here’s the thing about startups: It’s fucking hard to focus when profit is small, staff is few and opportunity is big.
As we began rolling out stores one major side of our business began to suffer: ecommerce. While I was focused on hiring staff and building stores and negotiating leases and moving into stores and training staff and firing staff and designing new product all the while our ecommerce kept falling by the wayside. It became less and less of a priority because turnover was kicking up in our physical stores.
Over the last 24 months our turnover has grown but our profit has been in decline. We’ve been spending money opening stores in the face of a major recession and shift in spending habits.
Our website is the lowest cost centre in the business and logically it’s where the growth should come from: low cost = high profit. But due to the lack of focus it slipped and that potential profit was missed.
The last 18 months has taught me that focus is imperative.
Focus on getting your model right.
Focus on getting your product right.
Focus on getting your profit right.
Focus on getting your customer service right.
Lots of lessons come from failure and if you don't look back and learn the lesson then all you've done is fail. So here are a few things I've learned over the past two years:
A physical presence is an imperative for the future of retail. I believe that in the future people will want to experience a brand in real life as much as they want the convenience of online shopping. When a store works, it really works well. When it tanks, it tanks hard.
Physical stores are expensive to set up and maintain. This is something that I was warned about. Everyone told me that physical retail is tough on the bank account. They weren't wrong, I just didn't listen.
Leases are like buses, there's always another one coming. One of my investors told me this. A friend of his who has opened thousands (literally) of stores told him to mention it to me. I ignored this one and it cost me. If you are thinking of opening a physical store and you are unsure of the lease terms, location, your businesses cash position then do me a favour and stop. Take a pause, wait a month. See if that lease is still there, see if you can get a better deal or location. Don't rush to open because there will always be another store sometime in the future.
Experiments are fantastic but test one thing at a time. We chose to test a lot of things: new location, new product, new team, new store sizes, new business model, new logistics, new systems. Sometimes this can work with magical effect but most of the time if you are testing everything out you won’t know why you fail or what is working.
Experiment more slowly.
Overall, the thing that I learned is that nothing worth doing is easy. This is not the first time I've learned this lesson. Sometimes you have to relearn things. If it's difficult, it's probably going to help you be better. If it's easy it probably won’t.
I would have loved to have saved a bit more of the capital that we spent opening these two stores and used it to grow a different part of my business but I've learned so much in the past 2 years that I can't say I regret anything.
Hopefully the lessons I'm learning continue to help you sift through the decisions you have to make in your own life and business.
I've been selling socks for a long time. Believe it or not I am passionate about extraordinary socks and daring colours.
However, the best compliment I receive is about how comfortable the Nic Harry bamboo socks are. I haven't worn anything else in 5 years so my feet swear by bamboo.
Over the past 1825 days selling socks I have also seen some pretty incredible feet, toenails, rips, holes and sock-ladders from customer all over the world. Sometimes it's good to remember how to care for your luxurious bamboo socks.
Here are a few tips from me to you:
There really isn't a better tip than this one to make your socks last longer. Trim those big bad big toes. They are #1 on the wanted list of crimes agains extraordinary.
This helps with the threads coming loose, the dirt being cleaned and generally keeps your socks in a much more friendly condition. Trust me, this one works.
Do not tumble dry your socks. They will more than likely shrink. The heat will damage the fibers and your socks wont last as long. Drip dry them. It's the only humane thing to do.
Every morning I take a few minutes to think about my planned outfit and the socks I want to wear to bring it all together (or sometimes rip the outfit apart). Taking this minute slows me down and prepares me for my day. The next move is critical. I sit down, slowly put my comfy bamboo socks onto my foot and then use a shoe-horn to help my foot into my shoe. It sounds obvious and really simple but this trick saves the heal of my sock from lots of holes.
Wear and tear is a real thing. The more pairs you own, the less frequently you will wear and wash your socks. This will mean they hang around your closet for longer. If you wear them every day, they're bound to wear down, that's the nature of a soft, natural fiber like bamboo.
I hope this was a helpful quick little email that keeps your socks lasting longer!
If you've just realised that you're running low on socks, I suggest you take a look at our range of best sellers and our end of range socks for a sneaky discount.
]]>I have a confession to make... I have no fucking clue how to dress myself.
I act like I do. I know how to put my pants on and I know how to button up my shirts but I don't really think I know how to put together an outfit. Aren't all 33 year olds supposed to know how to do this by now?
Here's the thing thought - I don't think that even the most stylish of people believe that they know what the hell they are doing. I think they just do it. Like Nike says, they just do it.
Deep down we all know what is comfortable to us. We all believe we have a good understand of what we find stylish or at the very least makes us feel good.
I'd like to suggest that this, in fact, is how you dress yourself properly. If you like wearing khaki chinos with camouflage t-shirts then that's what you should wear because that's what is going to make you feel amazing.
If you like wearing salmon (not pink) button up shirts with bright neon-green shorts then hell, my man, you should go with your bad self.
Ultimately, I don't think any of us feels like we have a clue about style, fashion, trends, fads, the difference between any of those but in truth, I think it doesn't matter.
Hi, I'm Nic and I don't have a clue how to dress myself. Every day I wake and throw on whatever is in my cupboard and hope it works out OK.
Most of the time it does. Some of the time it doesn't. A lot of the time I feel like I don't fit in but I am almost certain that everyone else feels the same and that means they are not looking at me. They're worrying about how they look instead.
]]>It's not often that Nic Harry goes on sale. August is one of these rare occasions.
If you visit any of our stores nation wide we are on sale and if you shop online right now we'll give you 30% off any purchase you make (excluding the sock subscriptions unfortunately - those offer permanent value add).
All you need to do is use the voucher code below when you are at checkout and the discount will be activated on your cart!
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