Fall Fashion Essentials for Men

By Peter Minkoff

As summer is coming to an end, it’s about time you started thinking about your fall wardrobe staples and ways to combine them in order to come up with some flawless clothing combos. However, if you still aren’t sure about what the fall fashion essentials are, just be sure to stay with us and keep on reading. Here are five of them you simply have to have this season! Stridewise is where I nurture a maniacal obsession with footwear and share my findings.

Quality wool trousers

As soon as fall arrives, you should definitely turn to a bit thicker fabrics like wool and corduroy. These are the best ones for crisp weather and lower temperatures typical for this season. Cotton can also be a great choice, even though it isn’t as comfortable and warm as wool. When picking appropriate trousers, one of the most important things is their cut. Slim cut is always a good idea, just make sure that your trousers aren’t too tight. As for the color, black, navy and grey are an amazing idea, as well as all shades of brown. Burgundy and deep green will work, too!

Shawl collar cardigan

This timeless item is pretty much everything a fashion-forward man needs to own, so make sure to get a shawl collar cardigan for an upcoming season. As its name suggests, the high shawl collar is what characterizes this piece and makes it what it is – a staple for cold weather. Such cardigan will definitely help you feel warm and cozy. Apart from that, it’s trendy, stylish and just a little bit nerdy, and you know what? Girls really dig that, so don’t skip it this fall!

A rain jacket

The season we’re about to enter is well-known for its unpredictable weather, so don’t let it fool you and be prepared no matter what. Getting a rain jacket is an absolute must, so be sure to pick one that perfectly combines function with a fine design. Such piece will help you stay dry on a rainy day without looking like a tourist lost in space, which is exactly why you should look for brands that provide both protection from the rain and stylish designs. Make sure that the jacket you’re about to get is 100 percent waterproof, and you won’t make a mistake with it!

Fashionable accessories

No outfit is complete without proper accessories, and that’s the case with fall clothing combos, too. A trendy umbrella is always a good idea, especially when matched with the rest of your outfit. However, we can all agree that it maybe isn’t even necessary if you decide to get a rain jacket. Ties made from wool blends are a fantastic choice if formal attire is your everyday choice, as well as patterned pocket squares. Apart from these, you can never go wrong with a statement wrist watch. These simply scream class, so get some quality watches online ASAP!

Smart boots

If there’s something that can keep you safe from the rain, apart from a rain jacket (obviously), it’s a pair of smart boots. Quality footwear will keep you warm and protected from rain and snow later on, so be sure to get the best boots you can find. Apart from providing more coverage than an average pair of shoes, these are also highly versatile – you can wear them both in casual and in formal occasions, and even in combination with suits! Matte leather is one of the most convenient choices when it comes to fall, whereas black, gray and chocolate brown are fantastic in terms of color selection.

As you can see, each of these four pieces, alongside with appropriate accessories, is absolutely essential when it comes to this season. These will allow you to stay warm and cozy while being really fashionable at the same time, so get them as soon as possible and rock your fall outfits like a pro!

At Your Table: A Personal Chef Experience While Planning an Event Abroad

By Peter Minkoff

Newyorker in London? Planning an event? In need of a catering service? We got it covered!

At Your Table is an established artisan personal chef catering service with the style and creativity only world renowned culinary experts are able to bring to life. Being around for almost a decade, the brand has already made a name for itself in the bespoke dining industry, attaining stellar reviews from numerous satisfied companies and individual clients in the UK and Australia.

The company currently services the UK regions of London, Bristol, Manchester and Leeds as well as every major city in Australia. You can organize private dinner parties, intimate settings or even large-scale events requiring substantial catering for numerous attendees.

An adventure of style and taste

The renowned service of the At Your Table staff is characterized by the need to serve your unique wishes and cater to your specific needs, allowing you to tailor your menu in preparation for the event. The chefs do not only cook your meals in a divine display of artisanship and experience, but the accompanying team of waiters will ensure your private setting is transformed into an intimate and relaxed ambiance.

The private sommelier provided to your by the At Your Table staff will make sure to present the best wine options to complement your meal, either by securing exquisite tastes for the party or even serving the best options from your private collection.

The fine culinary art

As for the food itself, the At Your Table chefs certainly are the masters of their trade. Ranging from a wide variety of fusion dishes all the way to modern European and Italian cuisine, there is no shortage of innovative and dazzling flavours to satisfy every palate.

A chef of your choice will be able to offer you their signature recipes, crafted with years of culinary experience under the tutelage of renowned culinary institutes around the world. The interesting detail that makes for a unique experience is the fact that the chefs tailor their menus according to the season, making sure the ingredients are fresh and of top quality at all times.

This is where the bespoke experience of At Your Table truly shines, as you will be encouraged to get in touch and fine tune every detail in order to create a unique menu that complements your specific tastes and the unique palates of your guests. You can choose from a variety of options, ranging from ten-course tastings to exquisite three-course meals.

These culinary experts consider their trade to be a true art form, and although open to various suggestions, they will remain steadfast in maintaining the integrity of their signature creations. You can inquire about vegetarian and vegan cuisine and tailor the menu to your liking, as they say, within reason.

Remember, it is best to leave details to the professionals, and let them tailor an unforgettable dining experience, imbued with taste and aroma, accompanied by stellar service and professional conduct.

In conclusion

At Your Table is the best possible solution for escaping the hectic nature of the modern world and creating an intimate, bespoke and unforgettable experience abroad, tailored to complement your every need. Whether you are organizing a formal gathering or planning a rekindling of an old flame for two, the culinary artisans behind At Your Table will allow you to create cherished lifelong memories, imbued with vibrant tastes and passionate aromas.

How To Be a Fashion Minimalist this Fall

The fall fashion forecast was definitely inspired as well as versatile, and with the abundance of floral prints, bold silhouettes and deconstructed classics one might be inclined to believe that minimalism has given way ‘maximalism’. This, of course, couldn’t be further from the truth. Minimalism is still holding the reins, especially now that it’s autumn. This season is every minimalist’s dream as they get to experiment, play with layers and prove that minimalism is everything but boring.

For all of those who are feeling increasingly drawn towards the realm of simplicity and timeless, effortless elegance only minimalism can provide, worry not. Putting together a minimalist look is easier than it seems, and all you need is a bit of guidance so you can choose just the right garments that will then blend together as if they were made with the intention of ending up with each other.

First and foremost

Before you can dive into the world in which getting dressed in the morning takes five minutes with the result of an impeccable outfit every single time, you have to first learn some of the basic rules. The first rule is one regarding the color palette.

In order to avoid clashing garments stick to a neutral palette consisting of various shades of grey and beige, then the inevitable black, as well as white, navy and at times maroon, burnt orange and shaded spruce – after all, the last three are Pantone’s colors of the season and given their neutral warmth they are sure to fit right in. With the exception of a subtle plaid print and evergreen stripes, leave other prints behind as they can stir trouble in the matching department.

The second rule concerns the cut. Always pick timeless non-trendy cuts that will always be in style and never purchase anything you haven’t tried on because one of the key elements of minimalism is the perfect fit. No matter how gorgeous a piece looks, if it doesn’t fit like a glove, leave it behind. Finally, allow only high-quality garments made from sustainable (therefore durable) materials to enter your wardrobe. You’re building a long-lasting wardrobe arsenal and so quality is crucial if you want your clothes to stand the test of time.

Starting over

Once you’ve picked up on these simple rules, it’s time to start building your wardrobe. For girls, this journey starts with dresses as they are the simplest yet most powerful tool one can pull out of a closet. A gorgeous black dress with a touch of drama in the form of subtle lace details that follows your shape is an impeccable choice.

For men, the journey starts with no other than a great tailored suit. Black would be the obvious choice, but truly any color from the ‘prescribed’ color palette will do as long as the cut is classic and timeless. Speaking of suits, both men and women should own at least one but preferably more than one blazer. In order for you to remain fashionable, one of them can be tailored and the other oversized. The second will be a perfect autumn outerwear for those casual low-key days, and it can even feature the plaid print.

Now, we move on to tops. Both men and women should own a classic white shirt. Your closet will be grateful as this is one of those chameleonic garments that go wonderfully with both casual and dressy outfits. You can pair it with the blazer or a gorgeous sweater. A snug light beige wool sweater goes amazingly well with a white shirt, especially if you throw in a pleated midi skirt in black or even maroon. For guys, both black and grey will do the trick, and if a pop of color is what you’re looking for, then shaded spruce is definitely your pick.

As autumn is all about chic layering skills, don’t forget to stock up on basics. By that, we mean simple T-shirts in all the mentioned shades. Never underestimate the power of a simple tee as it’s the perfect foundation for any casual chic look. Black and white striped cashmere sweaters are a definite must for both.

 As for jeans, the same rule applies to both ladies and gentleman. Your first priority is the perfect fit so make sure you scout the perfect jeans for your body type. Steer clear of embroidery, patches and ripped jeans – the goal is a lasting not fading novelty. Always go for dark instead of washed jeans – it’s very difficult to look polished in washed jeans. Now, this next garment is for boys only – simple grey sweats as there are very few things sexier than a man sporting this casual piece.

Bring on the fall

Fall would not be complete without a few fine outerwear garments to complete the look. While both boys and gals can take the same classic route with the utmost sophisticated camel trench coat, if for guys this is a tad too dressy, a classic leather jacket makes for a super-fine alternative. Every girl should own a black biker jacket – the ultimate fashion chameleon, because even minimalist gals deserve a bit of edginess.

Carefully curated footwear

One of the fall’s staples for every girl are black and camel ankle boots. Simple black patent leather loafers should also be on your list, along with nude pumps and simple white sneakers (something along the lines of Adidas Superstar. Boys should stick to classic suede shoes, white sneakers as well, and for a bit of edge, black army boots or the best Adidas Yeezy Boost deals.

Minimal all the way

Nothing more than a great timepiece and eyewear is necessary or desired when it comes to men’s accessories. For girls, this universe is a tad larger, but make sure to keep your jewelry subtle (silver and gold only). Finally, a woman’s best friend – the bag. Don’t experiment with these, keep them solid, well-made and with no excessive details.

By Sophia Smith

How To Look Your Best On National Men's Grooming Day

As grooming habits have become too complicated and we all want to look our best as Fashion Week comes by, we celebrate today National Men's Grooming Day by sharing our top essentials to look your best on any day, ladies too!

via GoaSkincare

Clarisonic Alpha Fit - One of the most advance tools you can have in your cabinet comes from the Clarisonic family. Patented sonic technology cleanses away oil, sweat and grime for healthier feeling, more energized skin — whether you’re ready for a smoother, closer shave or a beard that looks and feel its best. The device features two simple settings to energize men’s skin, those who are clean shaven and those or are bearded or needing a power clean for a more comfortable beard or for more cleansing power post-workout

A Perfect Shave - For the guys who are looking to simplify their grooming routine, Gillette’s AllPurpose Styler is the answer. This 3-in-1 tool is ideal for trimming evenly, shaving closely and edging accurately, making it as easy as possible to create the perfect look.

Electric Shaver Review from Groom & Style

The All Purpose Styler simplifies grooming routines with three easy steps: Trim, Shave, and Edge where you turn your razor blade around to use the built in precision trimmer to create crisp and defined lines

For fuller and thicker hair we can't go without Truefitt & Hill Thickening Shampoo: Using milk and wheat protein that strengthen hair and add body. The proteins not only make the hair appear thicker, but also add loft to the hair follicle, helping hair to appear fuller. Fragranced with a mild citrus and melon scent, you'll be smelling fresh, but not too feminine. We recommend using this about 2 to 3 times a week.

Sage Goldnik

“Facial masques are something I’ve really been getting into lately. I spend a lot of time on airplanes which are super dehydrating, and I bounce between cities with vastly different climates. When I’m in a city that’s humid or I’m out skateboarding a lot, I use Kiehl’s Age Defender Cleanser and leave it on for 10 minutes once a week. It turns into a dry masque that exfoliates when you rinse it off. I’ve also just discovered Odacité’s Synergie[4] Immediate Skin Perfecting Beauty Masque, which is a powder that comes with a brush for application and a whisk for blending it to a liquid consistency. You can add a bunch of different ingredients to it, like milk or sugar or lemon juice, to activate the powder for your specific skin issues. When my skin is dry from traveling, I’ll add some coconut oil”

— Instagram Star, Sage Goldnik

What to wash with - Goa Purifying Facial Wash - The face cleanser is excellent for oilier skin types, and a fast absorption time leads to no residue. 

Dark Phyto-Matter and a high concentration of organic antioxidants power GOA's Purifying Face Cleanser to greatly reduce the look of acne, pore size, and fine expression lines, while detoxifying the surface of the skin.

The all purpose vitamin - Men's & Women's Multi + Fish Oil: The first dual delivery system to provide the ideal intake of multivitamins and fish oil in one capsule. Packed with Biotin, known to help skin, hair, and nail production, ORB is the perfect vitamin to take as part of your daily grooming routine. Don’t ignore your health while focusing on your looks!

Never look tired again with Brickell Restoring Eye Cream, even after a couple drinks and little sleep, this will brighten and rejuvenate tired, dull eyes. This eye balm smoothes wrinkles around the eyes by strengthening the surrounding skin, while reducing puffiness (bags) and dark circles. Using deep moisturizers and protein peptides restore the skin structure, while caffeine reduces dark circles and puffiness. These ingredients have been shown to increase blood circulation and reduce dark circles.

To top our grooming routine we end with Sulwhasoo's Skin Reinforcing Emulsion, using Jeongyangdan and sea buckthorn extract, the benefits strengthen the skin's barrier to protect from external factors, city pollution. For the man who likes something woodsy, this emulsion has notes of pine, aloeswood, and white sandalwood.  

How To Celebrate Bastille Day Without Leaving Home

The fourteenth of July marks Bastille Day, the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy. Although you may not want to go out for a French dinner, we've conducted the best way to celebrate in the comforts of your own loft. Check out this guide to celebrating like the French person you want to be, at least for a day.

The New Whispering Angel

Coming from the Whispering Angel family, Rock Angel is transparent pale in color and has delicate red berry aromas on the nose. On the palate, it has floral notes with a touch of spice; complemented by a long, dry finish. With greater intensity and more richness than Whispering Angel, Rock Angel is a food-driven wine that will pair well with a variety of hor d’oeuvres and entrees.

Originating from Château d'Esclans, a prestigious estate and winery in Provence, France producing some of the finest and top-selling rosé wines in the world. Château d’Esclans celebrates its 10th anniversary vintage of its flagship Whispering Angel under the leadership of Sacha Lichine, who has elevated these wines to the premium, prestigious level he envisioned for Provence rosé. 

Patte From Dean & Deluca

Exclusively at Dean & Delcua, Dufour Gourmet by Chef Aurélien Dufour is proud to present the finest handmade pâtés, sausages and specialty meats that will delight all food lovers’ taste buds. Each product is handcrafted with care by Chef Aurélien using traditional French techniques and the highest quality of meats. 

Our pick to try is the Duck & Fig Pâté. A modern combination of sweet and savory coarsely ground duck pâté perfectly balanced with dry Turkish figs and caramelized shallots in red wine.  Ingredients: pork meat, duck meat, shallots, Turkish dry figs, salt, ground pepper, nutmeg, sugar, brandy, cream, eggs.

Dean & Deluca, 560 Broadway, New York, NY, 10012

Cheese From Murrays

Who doesn;t love a cheese plate? While there are so many selections Murray's offers a complete French cheese selection for you to pick up, without being mistaken for another country like last year.

Murray's Cheese, 254 Bleeker St

Ladurée Macaroons

There's nothing quite as enticing as these crispy, yet chewy, French pastries. Hopefully you already waited in the infamous Ladurée line to pick up a box for your friends, otherwise you may want to postpone your holiday festivities. Atleast with the Summer heat François Payard offers a macaron ice cream sandwich to keep you cool, go ahead and grab one (or five).

The 2017 Father's Day Gift Guide For Modern Dads

Father's Day only comes once a year, but dads should look good or feel good all year long. Give him a style of bar gift that'll do him justice

Cooper & Thief Red Blend, is a bold red blend wine aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart soft, velvety tannins and a subtle heat, resulting a rich, flavorful wine with a long, lingering finish. The novel find is packaged in a non-traditional bottle and boasts hallmark whiskey tasting notes unlike any other wine. It's sure to impress whiskey-savvy dads up for a little adventure this Father's Day

Tani USA SilkCut Mens Luxury Lounge Pants, Whether Dad wears them around the house or as pajamas, our SilkCut men's luxury lounge pants are sure to the most comfortable men's pajama pants he'll ever own.  

Riedel’s Veritas Beer Glass, they are machine-blown ultra-fine crystal and are incredibly lightweight. The set of beer glasses is $69 for a set of 2 and can be purchased at RiedelUSA.net.

Mobot – These foam roller water bottles are a perfect way for Dad to recover after a workout while staying hydrated. Engineered for athletes this can endure the most rigorous rolling Dad can throw at it.

Koh Gen Do, whether your dad cross-fits, builds roofs or stays home, he needs a basic, (but effective) skincare routine that’s more than a soap bar. Have Dad covered this Father’s Day with a Japanese skincare set featuring Oriental Plants Facial Wash the All In One Refresh This ultra-gentle facial wash whips into a foamy lather to deeply remove dirt and grime, while replenishing the skin with 32 Asian botanicals, such as calming lavender, conditioning soybean and anti-aging jujube. For a dad who works in an air-conditioned office, the Moisture Gel instantly replenishes the skin with 3 types of hyaluronates and protects skin from environmental stresses

With all purchases over $50 on BeautyKind, there’s a GWP (gift with purchase), the Lab Series Ab Rescue Body Sculpting Gel which tightens, firms, and smoothes the appearance of the mid-section with Caffeine, Creatine, and Soya Protein while also creating a cooling, toning sensation. Also, every day at BeautyKind, 5% of your total purchase will be donated to the charity of your choice. Dad’s favorite cologne and a bonus gift all while giving back? That’s a major win right there! 

Frescobol Carioca’s, Jardim Botanico collection, is inspired by Rio’s playful culture and easy going attitudes, and the various gardens across the city. The collection captures the carefree light spirit of the summer season and long weekends with tailored silhouettes and eye-catching graphics mirroring a mosaic and flower petals.

Boxing: The Best New Workout

Tired of trying the same workout and not getting the results you desire, or just have some tension built in? We all know the dreaded feeling of trying to force yourself to workout on your own, spending more time looking at work emails than lifting the bar. New Yorkers are now getting in fighting shape and enjoying the work by becoming part of the newest workout fad - boxing. It's one of the best full body workouts to achieve that much-desired sweat dripping cleansing feeling. A lot of celebs have already figured out the benefits of boxing including: Gigi Hadid, Cara Delevinge, and nearly half a dozen other Victoria's Secret models go to former champion boxer Michael Olajide Jr.. Check out some of the 5 best boxing places in NYC. 

Gotham Gym

With classes and intense one-on-one training, creator, and owner, Rob Piela has been coaching everyone from celebrities to contraction workers for over twenty years. Gigi Hadid, a regular at the gym, credits her one-on-one sessions at the gym for her nearly perfect physique and incredible shape. 

Gotham Gym, 600 Washington Street and 43 Crosby Street New York, NY

Rumble Boxing

Ten Rounds. Two Fists. Zero experience needed, you’ll spend half of the 45 minute class pounding our special tear-drop style, water-filled bags and half of the class at your station doing strength and body-weight conditioning exercises. Rumble is the brain child of Barry's Bootcamp Master Instructor Noah Neiman, where you'll be more than inspired to go after seeing some of his Instagram videos.

Rumble Boxing, 146 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011

ShadowBox

Dimmed lighting and thumping music set the intensity level and mood within the heavy bag studio. In various 45 minute classes this gym works the whole body while perfecting style, technique, and rhythm.

ShadowBox, 28 West 20th Street (5th+6th Ave) New York, New York

Work Train Fight

In 55 minutes you will experience a total WTF workout with intense instructors (who are all personal trainers) in a bootcamp style boxing class. Whether it be weight loss, strength training, boxing/kick boxing, or an injury preventing workout WTF does it all and will leaving you feeling WTF.

Work Train Fight, 636 Broadway (2nd Floor between Bleecker and Houston) and also hosted at Fit Factory at 153 27th Street (2nd Floor-Buzzer #7652 classes only)

Dog Pound

From heavy bag work to basic technique to high intensity shadowboxing this gym offers three different classes including: Underground Boxing Burnout (45 min. with shadowboxing, bag work, high energy music), Ring Work (45 min. with Overthrow's ring, high intensity music), and Sparring (next level skills with partner). 

Dog Pound, 1 Renwick Street, New York, NY 

Dog Pound

Photo via @DogPound

Gotham Gym

Photo via @GothamGym

Shadow Box

Photo via @ShadowBoxNYC

Rumble Boxing

Photo via @Rumble_Boxing

WTF

Photo via @WorkTrainFight

Have Your Fortune Told and Smell Amazing At This Weekends Goop Pop-Up

This week goop lovers alike will be able to immerse themselves in a special pop-up (252 Mott Street (between Prince + Houston)  where they will get tp preview edition 02 Shiso Psychic (by goop), playing off of the scent’s clairvoyant properties.  

goop is growing their fragrance collection with the launch of Edition 02, Shiso, a spring scent of cool air, pale sun, and new life unfurling on the forest floor. This is a scent composed entirely of rare, all-natural elements imbued with the power to entrance, heal, and transform. The olfactory fingerprint of each individual plant, where it was grown and how it grew gives this perfume its character, its mystery, and its beauty. It’s pure, alive – the real thing.

“it has a great, spicy green quality to it. In combination with the other plant essences, it smells amazing, but also channels other powers, like joy, healing, and clairvoyance." says Goop CEO Gwyneth Paltrow

The pop-up will be open to consumers Saturday 4/29 11 am - 8 pm, where they’ll be able to sample the fragrance in person and be able to receive a psychic reading as well. If you're unable to attend no need to worry you can order online for $165 or the scented candle for $72.

Get Fit In Barry's Bootcamp The Supernova Collection

Summer is upon us and you only have a few months to get that Hampton Beach body. As the trainers at Barry's Bootcamp say that a Summer body is built in the winter will give you the Spring as well. 

Barry’s Bootcamp is the original boutique workout favored by Hollywood’s hottest celebs, and the New York elite can be spotted in Barry’s apparel all over the city and overseas with the new Dubai opening. You'll soon start to see them wearing the new Supernova Collection, this collection features pieces with metallic prints that are reflective, perfect for in the studio or for a  late night run.

The exclusive line for both men and women is available at all Barry’s Bootcamp locations as well as online at barrysbootcamp.com.