Man Day: The Life and Style of Oliver Hermanus

A couple of years ago I was lucky enough to meet a talented young guy called Oliver Hermanus. My friend Talia introduced us. And he needed a bit of help with his wardrobe. You see, he had to go and interview for a film programme with Cannes and wanted to look his best. Also, he had the pesky duty of touring the film festivals of the world with his first movie that he wrote and directed, Shirley Adams, and needed to look half decent for the premier red carpets and photo calls. So I lent him a hand. He also wanted to represent South African fashion while he was out and about. Awesome. I introduced him to Stiaan Louw. They hit it off super-well. It's amazing to see two young and talented people spark off each other. I also introduced him to Mark Gooding and his team at Carducci. And between them they kitted him out and he was off to seek his fortune.

Fast forward two years later and Oliver picked up his first Cannes award, the Pink Palm, for his film Skoonheid, which he also wrote and directed whist a part of the Cannes programme. Yes he got in.

And about a week later I looked at my Facebook page and saw a message from him from about a month before asking me to help him out again. I didn't even see it. How bad did I feel? He managed to get his own wardrobe together for the event, no thanks to me, although obviously forgot the haircut, and off he went to Cannes. Whereupon he was invited by none other than fashion-dude and film-chap Tom Ford whether he would like to be fitted for a suit for the red carpet. Um, sure, why not.
And while he was being fitted for his Tom Ford suit, guess who else was being fitted? Well, none other than that dashing chap Ryan Gosling. So really, I like to think that I did him a FAVOUR.
Anyway, congratulations to a Cape Town boy made good. I am sure he will go on to represent South Africa admirably both in film and fashion. And if any other local men's wear designers want to get in on the action, I suggest you hurry up. BTW, he likes a skinny leg and a fitted top - casual and lean. Go.

Man Day: More Clooney. This Time With Ryan Gosling in The Ides of March

Yesterday this poster for the new movie, Ides of March, was released. I thought it was pretty clever, featuring as it does the two faces, the duality if you will, of the political landscape that is featured in this film. Written, directed and starring the divine George Clooney, it deals with a young, impressionable presidential candidate staffer who gets a crash course in dirty politics. This role it taken by the equally edible Ryan Gosling. A veritable smorgasbord of hotness.

I thought we could take a look at how these two chaps scrub up for the red carpet. I so seldom feature the boys in their going-out kit, so let's begin with Ryan. Unafraid of a risky and dashing suit, this young man plays with fashion and makes it work for him and his own style. Slightly pretentious, but no less awesome in that, he is definitely worth keeping an eye on for great ideas on how to do formal in a more interesting and fashion-forward way.

And what about the old guy, The Clooney? Well, he just looks lovely no matter what you put him in. Much more of a classic dresser, you still see hints of his cheeky personality come through in his tux and in that amazing chocolate brown suit he wore a couple of years ago. I believe he can do no wrong and is an inspiration to other 50 year olds on how to age gracefully and very, very attractively. Feel free to copy him guys. So who do you prefer, age or edgy? Gosling v Clooney. Pick a side.

Man Day: The Hottest Men on the Planet Wear Levi's Denim

I am often amazed at how much effort some of my bloke friends put into finding exactly the right denim apparel. So I thought I would make a short list of famous chaps that I thought were the most respected, delicious and challenging in what they do. And find out what denim brands they chose to wear. I thought it would be something expensive and edgy. Probably something complicated. But what did I find? Well, thanks for asking, I found out that they wear good old classic Levi's. Seriously. Take a look.

Obviously no list of hot men is complete without The Clooney. Obvs. There he is, with photos taken on Tuesday, in his classic 501s. And the very awesome Sean Penn? Well he has gone for the double dose of denim delightfulness in a Levi's shirt and black jeans. 

Hot of the moment actor/director and boyfriend of Jennifer Aniston, Justin Theroux (and cousin of the amazing Louis Theroux), was spotted last month chatting to revolting but incredibly popular photographer Terry Richardson. Both in their Levi's jeans. And True Blood star (and recently single after splitting with Kate Bosworth) Alexander Skarsgard was also seen in his Levi's about a month or so ago. Could you have a better list of incredible man people? 

What do you mean I am missing someone? I know the youngsters love them some Justin Bieber. I know he is about the most famous man (well, boy) on the planet. And I also know he wears Levi's - as seen in that waistcoat. And so our list is complete. Whether you are a Bieber or Skarsgard or Clooney fan, you are in excellent company if you just stick to the classics. And that concludes the denim lesson for today.

Man Day: Joe Jonas for Mr Porter

I thought it was time for another man day. Whenever I start seeing pictures of David Beckham and George Clooney every image feed I look at, I know it is time to get it out of my system. So while there is no Becks on the blog today, there will be plenty for the girls and gays to feast their eyes on. And hopefully some fun fashion facts for the straight boys to enjoy as well.
Let's start with the new-ish online shopping site, exclusively for men, Mr Porter. It is, of course, linked to the yardstick by which all online shopping is measured, Net-a-Porter. Just the man version. And they have recently released a new campaign. Featuring Joe Jonas. Yup, that surprised me too.
Look, don't get me wrong. Joe seems to be a hot young guy with a bit of a reputation of being a player. He has scooted through Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato, Camille Belle and Ashley Greene as girlfriends in the past couple of years which is one hell of a resume of young, beautiful stars. And now he has settled for a bit on runway star Karlie Kloss. Who is quite a catch. So props to the chap.

But I didn't know he was into fashion, or that fashion was into him, so to speak. But he recently said, "Over the past year I've got heavily into it. Whether I'm going out for the night, or during the day, I love putting on something that pops and makes me feel comfortable." And his favourite labels to wear are Gucci, Burberry and Calvin Klein amongst others. Cool. Welcome to our world, Joe Jonas. Lookin' good.

Man Day: The Lesson in Short Shorts

I know, guy readers, that you almost certainly have not been watching The Bachelorette on Series unless forced to by your lady-partners. But, in the series that has just finished, the winning guy, Ed Swiderski has shown some dubious taste. I mean the guy was chosen by the otherwise-normal-seeming girl, Jillian Harris, despite wearing the worst green short shorts in the history of shorts. They are so bad, that a Facebook page "Ed's Green Shorts from the Bachelorette" has been formed. No lies.
Shorts are tricky. Dear Mr Tom Ford says ixnay on the shorts unless tennis or beach is involved. I say that's probs not practical here in Cape Town. But I do think that both Ronaldo and Jamie Hince (Mr Kate Moss) teach us a few things about what not to do on the shorts front. (aiming to cover sports guys and indie guys with these examples. Good hey?)
And please, sweet peeps, can we step away from those ubiquitous cargos that flatter NO ONE. In the dying days of this summer, do yourselves a favour and go with something tailored, something simple. And read this story about why next summer you may decide to nix the shorts altogether. Click here.

Man Day: History of the Trucker Jacket

I know I am not a bloke, but the quest for the perfect denim jacket (aka the Trucker Jacket) this winter is a top my mind as I am sure it is for you guys everywhere. I mean a classic wardrobe is not complete without one. And this year, when wearing denim on denim is not only acceptable, but encouraged, it is so much more essential. So I asked my mates at Levi's about denim jackets and found out that the classic jacket has actually had several iterations over the years.
Can you believe that the first denim Trucker Jacket was made in 1905? That's over a century ago, chaps. And yet it still looks so fresh and modern. What I found equally interesting was that the last revision on the classic shape (after Iconic Type I in 1936, Type II in 1953 and Type III in 1967) was the addition of the side pockets in 1984. It was this version that I bought myself on my first visit to London and wore throughout the Bros years and well into the early Maroon Five decade. How I wish that I had hung onto that jacket now as this season really begs to have it back.
And I don't think that there is a leading man in Hollywood or Nashville or London who doesn't own one. Just starting with the delicious Jake Gyllenhaal and hipster actor Ryan Gosling. Obviously I have not missed an opportunity to celebrate Kelly Slater again in his. Or popped a cheeky pic of Becks in here too. Fun. Click on the pic to make it bigger for a closer look.

Man Day: Kelly Slater, King of Surfing, Turns His Hand to Fashion

I went through a 'surfer' phase once. I am not going to dwell on it too long. But let's just say I dated a string of surf boys at one point in my life. For about a year. And then, just as soon as it began, it ended and I left the sands and returned to my more familiar stomping ground of the mosh pit where I took up once more with drummers and lead singers. But somewhere along the line, I accepted the beauty and prowess of one Kelly Slater. And once you have witnessed this, you never, ever forget it.
Just last November in Puerto Rico he won his 10th world title, something unsurpassed in surfing. And at the age of 38, he became the oldest ever surfing world champion, 18 years after he became the youngest, in 1992. GQ listed him as one of the 25 coolest athletes of all time, joining Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Björn Borg and Arnold Palmer. Kudos indeed. And, let's be honest, he is so pretty.

Kelly Slater's main patron, surf apparel brand Quiksilver, has sponsored him for more than 20 years. In fact he now owns three per cent of the company and recently signed on for another five-year deal. In addition, Quiksilver has now asked him to design his own range for the company, which is still in development. I was relieved to hear that the dude is going to take a different sort of approach to the whole thing as he describes his personal style as 'trying not to smell and wearing things that match'. He says, "my input with the clothes is more about a lifestyle and a philosophy rather than me actually trying to style or design them. We're looking at organic and eco fabrics - mainly for travelling clothes, which is something I know a little about." I'll bet you do Kelly. Rock on.

Man Day: David Beckham is a Fantastic Gentleman

You probably knew this was coming. I mean, to quote the men's glossy, Fantastic Man, Mr David Beckham is perhaps the most famous man in the world. So it stands to reason that this rare magazine cover opens another "Man Day" on the blog. I was alerted to this potential goodness by a tweet from his wife, my mate, Victoria Beckham. She tweeted, "David looks AMAZING in Fantastic Man by Alastair McLellan!!!!!!looking soooooo good!!!! X vb X"

Well, it's not like we are going to disagree. But what I find particularly of interest is the retro styling. A 1960s, East End respectable gangster look. And it works. That coif is a particularly good use of the latest hair too. I was rather wondering how it would manifest next. And I saw in some pics yesterday that he has carried the side part into his real life too, which we can all celebrate since it means the middle part is gone again. Phew.
The story was shot in a pie and mash shop in London, apparently one of David's favourite places to stop by when he is home to remind him of his youth growing up there.
Like most things that are nostalgic, however, pie and mash shops in London have gone rather up-market these days and are totally worth eating the next time you are other there. Although, for photo shoot purposes, I am pretty sure that this one is not one of those 'posh' ones. If you will excuse the pun. Enjoy.

Christopher Kane Men's Wear - Explosions and Space Inspired

Vogue.com reported earlier this week that, fresh from his BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund nomination, British designer Christopher Kane is launching his first ever menswear line as a capsule collection for Dover Street Market next week. Not only do I love Dover Street Market - scene of many a London lunch hour for me - but it is now being used by a leading designer as a launch pad for a new collection. This is exciting stuff.
Regarding his inspiration, Kane explained, "I became obsessed with the explosions and landscapes from space pictures." Like his womenswear, the designs will consist of lots of neon-colored knits and cashmere; there's also plenty of black leather, particularly in the form of tailored shorts, black suit jackets with zipper details, and patched hoodies.
I can't imagine more perfect boy-clothes frankly.

Man Day: For the Girls and Gays It is David Beckham and Matthew Morrison

I am not sure what your personal taste is in blokes, not that it matters, there is a lid for every pot, so they say. But I do think that the appearance of King David of Beckham is pretty universally enjoyed. And this week I nearly slipped off the front of my chair, such was my laughter when I saw a very genuine headline in the fashion media declaring, "David Beckham Grows a Beard!" Seriously. But what a lovely excuse to post a pic of the chap with a twinkle in his eye.
And while we are about it, if the Timberlake, I mean Matthew Morrison (from Glee) thing is more your speed, hows about this cover then, eh? Pretty fine for a chap no longer in the first flush of youth. And he can sing, dance, act and charm the ladies it appears. Well then. Here you go. Friday afternoon fodder. Enjoy.

Interview with FaceHunter - Or Yvan Rodic: Man About World

One of the most prolific traveling style bloggers is FaceHunter. You are never quite sure where he lays his hat as one minute he is in London, next he is in New York and a week later in Hong Kong. You know this because he posts pictures on his blog of all the folks he comes across and snaps up with his camera.
Currently he appears to be in Melbourne and it appears that the same tribe of people he ferrets out all over the world, he has found there too. It can become a bit samey, as his eye is trained on a certain type of young man or woman, but what is endlessly fascinating is his journey (metaphorical) to where he is now. It really is an extraordinary tale of a ground-breaking, fearless style adventurer. Read an interview with Yvan Rodic, the FaceHunter.

Man Fashion Refuses to be Creatively Constrained

Sigh. So it takes a man to change things in fashion. Why does that surprise me? In an industry comprehensively dominated by women's wear, it is possible that there is more latitude allowed in the men's wear realm. Let me explain.
This week Haider Ackermann decided that he wasn't going to present another men's wear collection until he felt like it. He doesn't feel that he was going to compromise his creative integrity by forcing it into the fashion calendar.
Anne Chapelle, the owner of the Antwerp-based company that operates and produces Haider's collections is more lucid on the subject, saying:

"Haider wanted to underline the image he made for his women's line with the man at her side. The men's collection will be added again at the time Haider wants to and it will not be linked to a season. Creativity cannot be forced into a time frame. It is the emotion of the moment being translated to a collection, which is presented and sold to retailers who believe in creativity as such."

I say good for him. Other than very basic seasonality (which we need for the fashion pages of our magazines), the idea that trends and seasons are hard-fixed is, in itself, a dated notion. As we move into the fifth summer of the gladiator trend here and indefinite season of the leather jacket up north, the idea that trends are only for one season seems crazy. Similarly, we make most of our wardrobe work across winter, summer and the in-betweens these days. Very few people still pack a season's clothes away as soon as spring has sprung. I wonder if this new approach will filter over into women's wear at any stage. It will be interesting to see.

Ian Somerhalder Vamps It Up for Vogue Italia

Last post of the week and this is as much for the boys as it is for the girls. Ian Somerhalder is the actor who was the pretty boy in the first season of TV series Lost and now plays the sexy and dangerous bad boy with a glimmer of a heart in Vampire Diaries. Which I think is back on our screens in SA this month. Yay!
This editorial was shot for Vogue Italia October issue and I have kept these photos on file for just such a Man Day on the blog.
Well I also kept them on file to stare at every so often when I needed cheering up. For he is just delicious.
And so we close out this week in fashion. See you at the markets this weekend. SG out.

For the Boys: Candice Swanepoel - South African Angel

For the straight guys, I have a treat for you. Local model-made-good, Candice Swanepoel. Victoria Secret Angel. GQ cover girl. New muse of global photographer Mario Testino.
She walked in the big Victoria Secret show this week, including being selected as one of the girls with wings. She featured on the cover of GQ South Africa in May this year and she has just been shot for VMAN in Copenhagen by none other than Mario Testino who has said of our local girl, "Candice is an amazing new find for me. Gorgeous, free, fun. I decided to do the whole trip on her visiting Denmark. She was awesome and did not feel inhibited. She made the shoot an amazing experience. The guys were in awe of her.”
Some are even suggesting that she may be one of the rare girls who crosses over to high fashion. Well, whatever she decides, we will be behind her all the way.
Stop it. I know what you were thinking.

My First Experience With Stiaan Louw '6' And It Was Like a Rebirth

Last night I attended the Elle New Talent Photography Search announcement function. And as much as I loved the incredible array of photography talent on show, I also fell in love once more with Stiaan Louw's clothing.
I know, it is terribly rude. But one of the most talented of the photographers in the final ten of the competition (won very fittingly by Freddie Child-Villiers) was Gerard Muller who was dressed in brand new Stiaan Louw '6' collection and he looked utterly marvelous.
I made him stand there as I fondled the fabric. Peeked underneath the drape of the neckline. Tweaked the small, rounded collar. And yes, walked around to check the signature pockets on the back were as they should be.
I was, of course, intending to post the new campaign from Stiaan anyway. And this opening look - or Genesis as I like to call it - of the new campaign entitled '6', was exactly what Gerard was wearing. Isn't it grand.
Subtle, soft, emerging, blossoming, evocative, rebirthing, cocooning. These are my adjectives. I am sure there are plenty more.
Model: Eric Bester from Boss
Photographer: Byron L Keulemans from Vision
Stylist: Michael Cooper from One League
Hair and makeup: Laura Kingma from One League.

Koto Bolofo Shoots for GQ UK and it's White Heat

The most exciting and successful photographer that South Africa has ever produced is the prodigiously talented Koto Bolofo. Or Uncle Koto as we call him here due to our intern being his niece.
Uncle Koto's lastest fashion editorial was this beautiful summery story shot for GQ UK. The timelessness of it all is what drew me in before I even knew it was his work. It is something that I often aspire to capturing in my fashion stories. A little bit Talented Mr Ripley. A lot of searing pretty-man.
Model: Danny Beaucham
Fashion Editor/Stylist: Jo Levin

Man Day on StyleGuideCT. Starting With Five Men's Fashion Blogs.

So the guys often complain that they get left out on this blog. So today I am dedicating an entire day's postings to the guys. We will have some fashion for men, some male photography of men, some treats for the straight guys and the usual hook up with Man of the Cloth. Action packed.
But starting off, I thought that you may be interested in some men's wear fashion blogs. Women and women's wear really dominates fashion blogging around the globe, but there are a few chaps doing it for themselves, so to speak.
Here is my top five:
1. Man of the Cloth is the leading local men's wear and society blog - manofcloth.blogspot.com
2. Fashion Bits and Bobs by Swiss student Pascal Grob has gorgeous images - www.fashionbitsandbobs.com
3. We Could Grow Up Together by fashion photographer Kwannam Chu is a behind the scenes and personal blog - wecouldgrowuptogether.blogspot.com
4. Maketh Man is another local blog great for style and grooming tips - aficionado.co.za/makethman/
5. The Sartorialist. Well who doesn't know this one. I have been following it for about five years and it does get samey and formulaic, but it is totally worth checking out during and after the Pitti Uomo shows in Milan. thesartorialist.blogspot.com/