Aesop Futurist Intensity Gift Set

Futurism was easily the oddest thing I ever encountered during my Art History studies (and that's saying something).

I remember thinking the whole thing would be all Back To The Future-ish and therefore intrinsically fun. Au contraire! In fact (and much to my disappointment) Marty McFly, time travel and a DeLorean DMC-12 did not factor at all. Instead extreme confusion, disorder and exceptionally odd 'poems' featuring loud jolting noises did. Rather appropriately the movement that promised to modernize 20th century Italian culture through rebelliousness, inventiveness and unabashed eccentricity left me (and much of Italy) confused. Very confused. That is until now.

Yes friends, Aesop has saved the day again. How? The art-minded skincare brand has created six gift kits that pay homage to the ground-breaking (i.e. WTF-inducing) Futurist language, art and typography. While each kit targets different concerns (academically and cosmetically) I was drawn to the 'Intensity' set. Inspired by the vibrant paintings of the movement (personal favorites include works by Umberto Boccioni and Giacomo Balla) and crafted specifically for the active man, the Intensity kit offers a trio of formulations that are ideal for post-workout purification (which, let's face it, we all absolutely need). Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion soothes, nourishes and offers excellent moisture while any unwanted odors are neutralized by Aesop's signature spray Déodorant (featuring Vetiver notes - ahhhh!). And finally there's the low-foaming, incredibly invigorating Coriander Seed Body Cleanser which, if you must know, leaves skin conditioned and refreshed. Sounds good? It is.

- Image courtesy of Aesop. Watch Aesop's interpretation of the Futurist Manifesto and shop the products mentioned, below.

Aesop Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream

Aesop is a repeat offender, and I mean that whole-heartedly, in the best possible way imaginable. So let's chat fall skin.

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp your skin will be in dire need of moisture. Take note! Feed it. Also, a sound skincare routine is ever-evolving. It's seasonal. You wouldn't wear shorts in winter would you? Well, perhaps you would (especially if you're a New Zealander) - but that's not what my point. Back to your skin!

For summer you might recall I was all about Aesop's Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator. And for good cause. Its lightweight texture meant moisture was absorbed and instantly locked-in. (The whole thing was easy and to-the-point, just the way I like it.) But now, with all that dry air thrashing your face it's time to transition to something richer, more powerful and long-lasting. Enter Aesop's Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream. The anti-oxidants and botanicals derived from mandarin, lemon and tangerine rinds deliver exceptional hydration and overall replenishment. Used following the Parsley Seed Facial Toner, skin is left nourished, supple and refreshed. The hazel base means absorption is prompt and moisture is long-lasting. The dominant citrus notes not only smell great, they ensure that fresh feeling (which we all undoubtedly love). Sounds good? It is. 

Browse and shop Aesop's product line here.

- Photos by Alexander Atkins

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

How to Shave: Dove Men+Care

Shaving is a big deal, but it doesn't have to be. In a mini Q & A, Dove's Dr. Peterkin addresses some pressing concerns.
(And because the good doctor has written several books on the topic, and specifically on the cultural history of facial hair - i.e. The Bearded Gentleman: A Style Guide to Shaving Face - I'd say we should take a leaf from his page.) Read, relax. And then, you know, try it?

1. It's like the chicken and the egg thing. What's better: shower then shave, or shave then shower?

"I would recommend shower then shave. That way, the heat from the warm water will soften your facial hairs and open your pores to make for a more comfortable shaving experience. It’s also important to use a quality shave gel (like the Hydrate+Shave Gel) to help soften the beard and reduce the friction between the razor and skin. This results in less razor burn and fewer ingrown hairs and nicks." 

2. Razor burn is officially the worst. What's the best solution?

"Razor burn can be easily remedied with quality products and extra attention to your shaving habits. For starters be sure to apply pre-shave oil before a shaving gel (the oil will further lubricate your skin and reduce friction between the blade in your skin). It's also a good idea to use a fresh razor when you’re shaving. After four or five uses it’s time to replace your blade because once it dulls, it becomes jagged and loses its high-tech coatings that also reduce friction. Always use a light touch. Pressing the razor too hard on your skin will increase friction. Also, make fewer passes. The more times you shave the same area, the more likely you will experience irritation. It might be a good idea to try a razor with fewer blades. Not everyone will benefit from the four or five blade models. Guys who are particularly prone to irritation should consider a two or three blade design. Avoid shaving against the grain and using a soothing moisturizer or aftershave that does not contain alcohol is a huge help. Dove Men+Care has two great options (the Hydrate+Face Lotion and Hydrate+Post Shave Balm). Moisturizers and alcohol free aftershaves will help your skin heal and provide protection from the elements, while alcohol based products will only further irritate your skin."

3. What's the deal with sideburns - Yay or nay (for real though)?

"Sideburns, like any facial hair choice, are a personal preference; however, I always recommend consulting with your barber, friends and/or partner to get a second opinion. Sideburns can be worn at any length and by men with just about any face shape and can change the appearance of your face. Men with round shaped faces in particular can really benefit from the slimming effect provided by the vertical lines of sideburns. Guys with longer faces should wear their sideburns shorter to minimize the length and narrowness of the face."

4. How should guys really clean their faces? (I'm thinking squeaky clean...)

"We all should cleanse our faces (and facial hair) regularly. Using a simple face twice daily is sufficient. You only need a small amount of cleanser, which you should massage gently all over your face and facial hair. This will loosen debris, skin flakes, and oil that build up on your skin, and will also help to tone the skin."

5. Semi-related, but mostly because I have to know. Do we like Clarisonics?

"Electronic facial brushes of all sorts and at different price points have become popular, especially in the last year. I think most men want to keep things simple- a good face wash used with or without a face cloth and lots of rinsing after should suffice!"

Dove Men+Care is available at most all good drug stores. Visit Dove's online site for additional tips, tricks and how-to videos by clicking here.

Travel Essentials: Aesop London Kit & Carry-On Case

Aesop really is the best friend anyone could ask for. Good-looking, trustworthy, useful - did I mention good-looking?

There’s not much to argue about. But it gets better. Aesop now curates perfectly compact travel kits for those unexpected on-the-go situations. And because we all hate the inevitable scramble (not least disastrous results) of rushed packing (unless we’re receiving instruction from Louis Vuitton), nothing could be more practical than a pre-packed toilet bag. Can you tell I’m into it?   

Besides convenience (ahem, always a major point) there’s nothing like guinea pig-ing yourself out to a whole bunch of travel-sized miniatures. I mean, they all need to be tested. It’s only fair. The whole thing can be very liberating - you might find yourself deciding: “fuck it. I will try that face mask and listen to Gilles Peterson in Brazil while starfishing on my bed.”  Yo-to-the-Lo. What’s the worse that could happen? You might go crazy and commit to a full-sized product? Ok, I hear you. You’re probably going: “what about my 3 steps? I’m ALL ABOUT my 3 steps.” Yes, you’re right. A solid skincare regimen is great and all, but sometimes the best part about the routine is breaking it. I’m human. You’re human. Switch-it up, no one likes a bore. Now let’s discuss the details.

I was drawn to Aesop’s ‘London’ travel kit immediately, simply because I lived there (probably not the best justification, but whatever - this isn't physics class). Then I discovered it included a few of my favorite products (now staples) from the Parsley Seed range. 

WHAT'S INSIDE  You'll be getting all the necessities including the Classic Shampoo and Conditioner, Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, Rind Concentrate Body Balm, Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser, Toner and Hydrator, and of course the Bain de Bouche. Basically the only thing left to worry about is your toothbrush.

I’d recommend keeping your Aesop travel pack fully stocked and ready for grabbing at any given moment. Life is about spontaneity - not bad grooming practices.

CUSTOMIZE IT  Aesop's brand new Carry-On Travel Case means you can now choose to pack your own in-flight grooming essentials. Designed to conform to international travel restrictions and requirements, each signature amber bottle (100ml) and pot (15ml) can be filled with any of your favorite Aesop products, time and time-again. Because Aesop is all about being thoughtful, blank labels have been included to avoid any mid-air confusion.

Alongside the 'London' Kit, Aesop also makes a 'Boston' and 'Jet Set' Kit. Click here for more details and to shop.