The Motley: Atlas Cologne

It's moments like this I wish they'd finally invent the smeller-net, because The Motley's Atlas cologne is just that good.
But alas, we're not quite there yet. Instead you'll just have to make-do with my (hopefully decent) description of the various aroma compounds and essential oils used in 'Formula 0142' - The Motley's very first foray into the world of fragrance. I'll be sure to elaborate, I promise. Consider this Smell-ology 101. I know, I'm excited too.

The Vibe:
Here's the deal (and by the way, this is always the deal): I'm not interested unless the packaging is worth mentioning. Well you guys, thank god - because this is the epitome of solid packaging. I'm digging the whole apothecary vibe that's happening. The label has a this-was-made-exclusively-for-me thing going on which, obviously, I like. What's more the bottle arrived in a fully customized tin case promising to ignite inner-notions of 'mystery', 'adventure' and 'nostalgia' - which are always good (oh, and major props on the cursive - that's a nice touch). 

The Smell:
Because the cologne is compounded and hand-poured in Los Angeles using a 10% concentration of fragrance-oil means a small splash is decisively potent. This is all incredibly fitting as Atlas the Titan held up the celestial sphere of planet Earth (translation: he was strong too, but you probably already knew that). The dominant notes including Algerian Atlas Cedar, American Oakmoss, Amber Musk and bergamot means the fragrance is intensely musky and masculine. The addition of Indian cardamom combined with an infusion of cloves not only adds spice, but also evokes the spirit of a world traveller. Smells good? I thought so.

The Destination:
Anywhere really. The perfectly compact bottle (1 fl. oz) means this puppy is perfect for planes, trains and anything else (yachts?). But if I had to pinpoint a location (go on, twist my arm) I'm definitely into being transported to any Balearic Island, wearing Atlas, and more than likely listening to this.

To discover more about The Motley's Atlas Cologne, and to purchase click here.
-Photos by Alexander Atkins

London Collections: Tom Ford Spring 2014

So London Fashion Week came and went. But truthfully it wasn't until Tom Ford's show that things really got interesting.

It seems menswear's impending horizon will dawn on a lush botanical garden - and I'm into it. Obviously Mr. Ford focused on Mediterranean warmth (think Flamingos in Capri) combined with a healthy injection of floral-mania. Sounds like a holiday? It is. Needless to say the whole mood pairs perfectly with Ford's Portofino Neroli - just FYI. But this collection reflected more than just great colour choices and immediate escapism. As expected, structure and form were essential. Fit, as always, was unparalleled.  

Here's the 411. Everything is going to be about that sharp two-button sports jacket (which Ford first designed for Daniel Craig's Bond premiere). Paired with single-pleated linen trousers, each look was firmly rooted by exceptional sets of hand-embroidered tasseled velvet slippers. Basically, I need no convincing and neither should you (we all know how much I adore a good slipper). Essentially Tom Ford's menswear collection exemplifies a future that is bold and bright. As for me, I can't wait to see it bloom.

Discover the world of Tom Ford by clicking here. Browse & shop my favorite Tom Ford scents below:

Salvatore Ferragamo Acqua Essenziale

Spring has sprung meaning one thing: it's time for a new fresh fragrance like Acqua Essenziale by Salvatore Ferragamo.

You might recall how much I love a good rich smokey scent, but the new equinox calls for many changes to my grooming routine (including a light-weight toner and moisturizer). Besides, smelling like an Old Boys clubroom doesn't exactly scream I'm-on-a-yacht-in-Capri, does it?

For Spring there are a few 'rules' regarding fragrance. Firstly go light and stay seasonal. There really is nothing worse than overpowering a room with your 'Eau de Whatever'. Ferragamo's Acqua Essenziale is perfect in that it boasts aromatic notes of geranium, rosemary and lavender - all of which are currently in season. Essentially it's like eating seasonally (think Gwyneth), so why not smell like what's in season too? It makes sense.

Ferragamo's perfumer Alberto Morillas included top notes of mint and lemon-tree leaf in Acqua Essenziale to enhance the casual vibe of the fragrance (I'm definitely thinking shorts). The dry notes (including patchouli, vetiver and cistus) add an ultra-refined yet musky quality, reflective of the Ferragamo gentleman. While that all sounds great, let's be honest, they had me at the name. I am Mr Essentialist after all...