Glam Australia

August 14, 2013, 4:03 am

≫ Next: Artist Interview: Fida Al Hussan

Thanks to Glam Australia for highlighting A Poor Man's Millions as one of their "Three Australian menswear blogs to follow now". We're humbled to be chosen alongside such great company as Liam from Front Row Suit & Benjamin from Kolonel Mustard. You can read the full story here: Glam Australia

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Artist Interview: Fida Al Hussan

August 15, 2013, 5:02 am

≫ Next: Gate way to a Fasionable Addiction.

≪ Previous: Glam Australia

"The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls."

- Pablo Picasso

Recently the work of Saudi Arabian artist Fida Al Hussan was brought to my attention by a friend of mine. Why? Well because for some reason Fida painted me. I had to get in contact with her because the painting itself is amazing. What an incredible honour!

Here's a short interview I conducted with Fida via email:

Name: Fida Al Hussan

From: Saudi Arabia

What Inspires you, Fida?
My feelings, colors, fashion and how they are all linked which give us that identity.

How do you know when a piece is finished?
When I feel I am completely satisfied as I step back and see it.

Is there an element you like using best with your art?
Yes, I love the use of inscriptions that tell a story of my culture, using my taste of colors.

Final Question, Why did you choose to paint me?
I was interested in your blog, I liked it so much! This made me work on something different, an angle where I could express myseelf through you...

As I said above I am completely honored by this and I do recommend you check out Fida's art on her Instagram page: @fidaart

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Gate way to a Fasionable Addiction.

August 18, 2013, 4:32 am

≫ Next: Spring Wish List

≪ Previous: Artist Interview: Fida Al Hussan

"It’s a new era in fashion - there are no rules. It’s all about the individual and personal style, wearing high-end, low-end, classic labels, and up-and-coming designers all together."

- Alexander McQueen

When I pulled my suit out of it's bag today, I couldn't help but recall the day I purchased it. I had an idea about what I was after; a charcoal windowpane check.

Sale time at Henry Bucks equates to a store packed full of suits, accessories and people, but in some kind of "meant to be" way, I walked straight up to the rack full of ready to wear suits in my size and there it was, exactly what I wanted. Of course I wanted to have it tailored to my liking and being one of my first suits, I had immense fun in doing so and learnt a lot about the process. To this day I still enjoy wearing it and I know in many years to come I will (just as long as I don't let myself go too much around the mid-section).

So this suit was my first hit - a gateway drug into tailoring. It's an addiction that I'm happy to admit to.

Suit by Hugo Boss (Turkish Made)
Cardigan by Hallensteins
Shirt and Tie (Coming Soon) by Oscar Hunt

Pocket Square by Paolo Alibizzati

Oxford Shoes by Grenson

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Spring Wish List

August 21, 2013, 4:35 am

≫ Next: The Chips Are Down!

≪ Previous: Gate way to a Fasionable Addiction.

These are a few of my wish list items for Spring. The brands I end up with may vary but the construction and styling will be the same.

1. Meermin Suede Tassel Loafer
Yes I already own a suede tassel loafer and yes gladly I'll have another please. Rotating leather shoes keeps them with you for longer and who wants to wear the same shoe day in and out?

2. Boglioli Linen Suit
Even though in Spring it can still be cold, layering under a linen suit can give you that happy medium and with the Melbourne weather it often changes every hour anyway.

3. Tombolini Unstructured Blazer
Just like the linen suit, this is unlined and with no structure, it's a very casual but smart blazer to roll around in. Paired with shorts, chinos, jeans or even a smart trouser, it's a great all rounder for spring and beyond.

4. Bailey Nelson Sunglasses
Even though I do usually wear sunglasses all year round due to Australia's blinding glare, for spring and into summer I like to have green lenses so I'm not completely in the dark but there is just enough light to embrace colourful landscapes and vistas.

5. Hackett Tailored Chino
An absolute must for spring. Comfortable, easy wearing and very versatile I couldn't think of spring without them. Don't just stop at blue; they come in a great range of colours and styles!

6. Church Chetwynd Suede Brogue
I can hear people asking "why don't you already own suede brogues?" Unfortunately I can't afford everything at once, but once I save up my pennies, these will make a great addition to my collection. These beautiful oxfords will give my outfits a more casual feel and these with no socks and tailored shorts or chinos will rock my world!

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The Chips Are Down!

August 23, 2013, 5:00 am

≫ Next: Fishing For Style

≪ Previous: Spring Wish List

The smarter you play, the luckier you’ll be.
- Mark Pilarski

When it came to my first classic made to measure suit, I wanted to win big. This was going to be something that I'd keep forever and only pull out for special occasions. I want to feel as soon as this suit goes on, it's time to kick ass!

So I decided to bet it all on Dormeuil. I put my chips on the table - choosing their Amadeus cloth in a rich Navy with a black cross weave so my suit wouldn't be your typical banker midnight Navy. Jackpot!

Shell buttons give the suit a nice contrast, plus a burnt orange lining gives it some wow factor. I still want to have fun and show some personality. These are the type of wardrobe basics I throw large on; the ones we will always need and come back to forever and ever.

Suit by Dormeuil (through Henry Bucks)
Shirt by Oscar Hunt
Tie by Paolo Albizzati
Pocket Square by Henry Bucks
Double Monks by Loake

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Fishing For Style

August 25, 2013, 5:35 am

≫ Next: A Creative Life

≪ Previous: The Chips Are Down!

Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.
- Oscar Wilde

Finding my own style has been a bit of a journey & I feel like I've crossed veritable oceans to find what works for me. I still like to dip my toe in the waters in search for new styles every now & then & luckily, working in the menswear industry means I'm able to try out new looks before I purchase. This, without a doubt helps me when I want to try out different ideas but we should all treat menswear store change rooms as our own (short term) personal wardrobes. If you have an idea in your head, take the time & try it out. You should take advantage of the physical & visual experience of what you dreamt before you make a monetary commitment.

In these pictures I had an idea of a Spring look but I wasn't 100% certain this blazer would suit me, but without trying it out, how would I ever know? I was mainly worried about wearing beige, as I've never worn something this pale as a top layer. After seeing it on and a few photos later, I'm quite happy. Without going through this process, this outfit could have been easily discarded without a second thought but now this will definitely be a look I'll rock this Spring.

Blazer and Pocket Square by Joe Black
Shirt by Trashness
Pants by Ben Sherman
Sunglasses by Bailey Nelson
Loafer by Grenson

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A Creative Life

August 27, 2013, 5:59 am

≫ Next: Flowerless Garden

≪ Previous: Fishing For Style

Several years ago I found myself in Germany - no money, no friends or family. At first I spent a lot of time indoors watching cable television and it was the Fashion channel that really caught my attention. I was fascinated by the endless runway shows and observing how well the clothing fit the models. The drape, cut and fabric choices grabbed me and I was immediately hooked and didn’t want to miss a second of the international menswear collections. My love of fashion has only grown since those early naive days.

After returning home to Melbourne I began to research all of the labels that I had seen on the television. I started talking to tailors and alterations experts; I enrolled in sewing and pattern making courses. Fashion fascinates me and it never ceases to amaze me just how great a well made garment can make you feel when you put it on.

I’m still no expert and will never stop wanting to learn. One day I hope to become a classic men’s tailor, or at least someone who is passionate enough to help keep this industry alive.

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week kicks off this coming weekend and I'm looking forward to seeing what our local designers are offering up this season.

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Flowerless Garden

August 30, 2013, 6:44 am

≫ Next: Can't Stop Stairing

≪ Previous: A Creative Life

In character, in manner, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity

- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

This is by no means the best suit I own. It wasn't expensive, it isn't particularly well constructed, but the experience of getting a suit made whilst holidaying on Phi Phi Island, Thailand, brings back nothing but good memories.

So let's talk about this suit - when the weather warms up, I'm all about simplicity. Open weave (lined) linen is great for dealing with the extremes of both outdoor heat & air conditioning. My taste for ankle exposure on these cropped trousers will make some cringe but I love the proportions while sock-less. And why wear a belt if the pants fit?! A crisp white shirt, vintage loafers and to add a little flair, an unlined solid tie with a little pocket business. This look could be work and minus the tie, it could take you right through any relaxed summer evening.

Suit by Phi Phi Tailor

Shirt by Pugnacious George

Tie & Pocket Square by Paolo Albizzati

Loafers by Gucci (Vintage)

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Can't Stop Stairing

September 1, 2013, 7:28 am

≫ Next: Orlebar Brown

≪ Previous: Flowerless Garden

" I just wanted you to see my suit. Seersucker. Sears made it. You're looking at the sucker that bought it." ~ Unknown Comedian

I really don't see many around Melbourne and although this Blazer isn't Seersucker, a lot of people assume it is, because of its iconic blue and white stripe pattern. But just like Seersucker, this pure Italian Cotton Blazer is great for Spring/Summer being light weight and unlined. I love throwing it on with a pair of tailored chinos or shorts. Sometimes I'll take it to another level and dress it up with some smart trousers, keeping in mind this is going to be the "statement" piece, so keeping it simple in the pattern department.

Blazer by Del Mare 1911
Shirt & Tie by Oscar Hunt
Chinos by MJ Bale
Pocket Square by Asos
Brogues by Church's Footwear

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Orlebar Brown

September 4, 2013, 6:53 pm

≫ Next: MSFW 13 Menswear Mix Up

≪ Previous: Can't Stop Stairing

I was recently invited by mens resort & swimwear label Orlebar Brown to be a guest blogger for their new 'Insider's Guide' series. APMM was honoured to be one of only two Australian blogs to take part in this London label's new city guide series & I hope you all agree with my recommendations.

You can find the full article on the Orlebar Brown website.

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MSFW 13 Menswear Mix Up

September 8, 2013, 5:42 am

≫ Next: Tale of the true Artisan's

≪ Previous: Orlebar Brown

Menswear hasn't received too much attention during Melbourne Spring Fashion Week in the past but this year, we saw the inaugural MR MSFW Event take place, putting the focus back on all things masculine. The Designer and Emerging runways also saw a series of looks for men, with the student parades especially showcasing the avant garde.

The MR Event program saw the likes of Oscar Hunt & Don Bagnato showcasing classic tailoring and construction. A workshop hosted by Luc Weismen from men's style blog D'Marge brought together Julian Lichtenstein (Oscar Hunt), Doen St Mor (Mor Cosmetics/Aquila) and Christian Kimber (Christian Kimber Footwear) to discuss style, tips, tailoring and trends for men.

The designer parades featured menswear from local designers including Autonomy, Jack London, Calibre & Saxony. These labels seem more focused on a younger, fashion focussed man, which may not be my thing, but are a great little niche in the market for those beginning to explore the world of menswear & the basics of tailoring.

In years to come, I really hope to see more people and brands involved. Let's continue to see the menswear scene in Melbourne grow and hopefully one day we may even equal womenswear on the runways.

MSFW MR Panel Discussion

The panel discuss footwear (model in Grenson)

Dom Bagnato - MSFW MR Runway

Jack London - MSFW MR Runway

Autonomy - MSFW MR Runway

menswear from the student runways

Arthur Galan - Designer Runway 3

Dom Bagnato - Designer Runway 1

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Tale of the true Artisan's

September 12, 2013, 3:08 am

≫ Next: Grassing Around

≪ Previous: MSFW 13 Menswear Mix Up

I love documentaries, especially when it's on a subject I have a great passion for, like true bespoke tailoring.

It was hard to find a great deal on the subject, but the past year or so has seen the release of Kid Dandy Production's release O'Mast (Master) - a documentary about bespoke tailors from Naples, as well as I Colori Di Antonio (Colours of Antonio). The later focuses on Antonio Liverano from the Liverano & Liverano Bespoke Tailoring House, who collaborates with The Armoury to showcase Antonio's exceptional life. This documentary covers every aspect of Antonio's business, from his international team of young tailors to his different clients throughout Asia. The Liverano Tailoring House has definitely evolved outside the box, but has managed to keep its traditions well cemented.

Both films are beautifully made and are well worth watching. I rate both an easy 10/10 & a definite must for anyone interested in the subject!

O'MAST from Kid Dandy on Vimeo.

-I COLORI DI ANTONIO- TRAILER 2013 from Kid Dandy on Vimeo.

Both DVDs are available at Exquisite Trimmings.

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Grassing Around

September 15, 2013, 4:02 am

≫ Next: Spring Instagram catch-up

≪ Previous: Tale of the true Artisan's

I ran into a lady from perfumers Penhaligon's recently and something that she said really stuck with me, "When you're away on holiday, it's always best to use a different perfume or cologne to what you usually would use, so when you're not on holiday, you can use it to help you relax and remind you of the holiday you had."

It really makes perfect sense. The other day I was going to an event after work and I didn't want to wear the suit I had worn all day. I wanted to shut off work mode and changing my suit was all it took.

I have fond memories of holidays and beach trips, wearing casual tee's and chinos, maybe some shorts & slip-on loafer or boat shoe when the sun comes out. So on my days off you'll probably find me dressed in holiday mode - needless to say relaxing as best I can.

This philosophy is a good way to help you choose what to wear at different times of the year or on your days off work, but maybe mixing a little casual into your work wardrobe might just make your day a little easier.

T-Shirt by Arayne
Chinos by Hallensteins
Sunglasses by Bailey Nelson
Boat Shoes by Band Of Outsiders

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Spring Instagram catch-up

September 18, 2013, 5:26 am

≫ Next: JOE BLACK GIVEAWAY

≪ Previous: Grassing Around

Now that Spring has hit Melbourne, the city is coming out of hibernation and August & September have been pretty busy so far. Here's a roundup of what I've been up to.

Don't forget you can follow APMMillions on Instagram

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JOE BLACK GIVEAWAY

September 21, 2013, 6:54 am

≫ Next: Shoes, Shine On

≪ Previous: Spring Instagram catch-up

Thanks to menswear label Joe Black, A Poor Man's Millions is giving you the chance to enter into the draw to win a $1000 Spring Racing outfit. Just use the click through using the Banner on the right and sign up to The Black List newsletter to enter. (Mobile users click HERE)

Spring Racing Carnival is around the corner and so is wedding season, so this is the time of year when guys need to up their sartorial game. As you've probably noticed, I'm a regular customer of the label & below you can see my latest choice from Joe Black; The Macky with a subtle Glen Check and Deep Red Windowpane. Pair it with a patterned tie and contrasting pocket square and you're racing.

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Shoes, Shine On

September 24, 2013, 5:25 am

≫ Next: The Socks Are Off!

≪ Previous: JOE BLACK GIVEAWAY

I've had quite a few followers ask me for a post about shoe shining, so here it is:

Now there are many ways of shining shoes and also many products you could use but let's start with the fundamentals of why we shine.

From what I've learnt, shining shoes puts the 'fat' back into the leather to keep it soft and supple and also protects them. Leather is skin, so just like your own, it needs moisture or it will dry and crack. That's where rejuvenation creams come into play. The best ones to use contain natural oils (either from Animal or Seed). As for polishes, these are the water proofing and shield for your shoes. I recommend using a natural bee's wax containing natural turpentine extracted from pine. The point of the turpentine is to cut the heaviness of the bee's wax to give you a nice transparent (glass) finish. Any products containing turpentine made from petroleum smell like paint stripper and will dry out the leather.

As for method, I use a brush to clean the shoe from dirt and then a damp cloth to wipe them down. Next, I prefer to use a bare hand technique with very small amounts of cream/wax to build layers (taught to me by Shoe Shine UK). Using your hands makes sure all the product goes onto the shoe and not soaked into the cloth or brush and the heat from your hands helps get it into the pores.

When I'm happy with the layers, I use pantihose for buffing, as it again creates enough heat to seal the wax and evens it out. This method may not work for everyone, but I encourage everyone to try a few techniques to find out what works for you. There are also plenty of Youtube tutorials that might help you get started.

I hope this helps and please don't hesitate to ask me any questions!

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The Socks Are Off!

September 29, 2013, 5:26 am

≫ Next: Joe Black Competition Update

≪ Previous: Shoes, Shine On

Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live.

- Gianni Versace

"This may be a weird question, but are you wearing socks?"

It's one of those questions that I seem to get asked quite a bit, usually followed by either "Isn't it uncomfortable?" or "Don't your feet sweat?"

I think it's a bit of a myth that you have to wear socks. Personally, I find not wearing socks when the weather is warmer is more comfortable and because I'm wearing all leather shoes, they don't smell because they're very breathable. Whilst previously working for a company which also dealt in running shoes, I found that a lot of professional runners wouldn't wear socks either, so don't feel obligated to slip around in invisible socks if you want to achieve a 'sockless' summer look.

In saying that, here's a tip: it's a good idea to wait until your shoes are properly worn in, so as to minimise the possibility of blisters from the inevitable stiff leather of a new shoe.

Jacket by MJ Bale
Polo by Fred Perry
Chinos by Sportscraft
Pocket Square by Henry Bucks
Loafers by Crockett and Jones

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Joe Black Competition Update

October 1, 2013, 5:09 am

≫ Next: Spring B Side

≪ Previous: The Socks Are Off!

Guys, don't forget to enter our current Joe Black competition, where you can go into the draw to win $1000 worth of Joe Black clothing and accessories of your choice (just in time for Spring Racing Carnival)

All you have to do is click through our banner link to enter between now & the 21st of October. This competition is exclusive to A Poor Man's Millions readers & there's no obligation to purchase or do anything other than fill in your contact details!

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Spring B Side

October 7, 2013, 3:39 am

≫ Next: Resorting, to the Beach

≪ Previous: Joe Black Competition Update

It's been another busy month so just for kicks, here's a few shots from over the past few months that didn't get a run. As always, I love to hear what you think.

Feel free to ask any questions, I will always answer!

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Resorting, to the Beach

October 8, 2013, 4:18 am

≫ Next: Shoulder On

≪ Previous: Spring B Side

As Summer gets closer I've started keeping an eye out for some new swim shorts; shorts that won't fall apart, fade or colour run.

Whilst looking online I've come across numerous companies making amazing tailored shorts. When I say tailored, I'm referring to their style with zip flys, button fastenings and side adjusters - a step up from your typical rope waisted beachwear.

Most of you will look at these and your jaws will drop. Yes they are pricey, but this a wish list after all - something you can imagine relaxing in by a resort pool or whilst listening to the waves crash on a beach in Santorini. So here are my swimwear top picks:

1. Robinson Les Bains

A French luxury brand of swimwear for men that not only has a sense of fashion but a sporty life too. Robinson les Bains is for the gentlemen who wants a refined short for the beach as well as in the city.

These caught my eye because I didn't think they were swim shorts, the styling has a very smart casual feel to them. Plus these are Musk Pink, my new wearable colour.

2. Dan Ward

Dan Ward created his first Men's lifestyle resort line In Zurich, Switzerland in 2012 with a vision of sensibility. An intimate understanding of the global luxury market mixed with a love of the sea inspires Dan to produce some very fashionable resort wear.

Everyone needs something a little out there and fun, the colours and patterns in this collection hits the intricate wild side of fashion.

3 & 4.Chucs

With a Caribbean elegance at heart, English brand Chucs was launched in 2011, bringing the luxury savvy and movie star pedigree to resort wear. Chucs has an aim to bring a touch of old world glamour, style and elegance to their collection.

I'm man with a love for traditional everything, so I really couldn't go past the uber classic selection of oldworld swim shorts brought forward in time with modern colour.

5. Orlebar Brown

Launched in March 2007, Orelbar Brown used a more tailored approach to men’s swim shorts. They wanted to create not just a ‘short you can swim in’, but more smart holiday wear – something that can be worn on the beach, by the pool and then smart enough to go and have a drink or lunch.
What can I say other than I own this very pair! The selection is big and the artwork on the edition shorts is fantasic. Being a fan or art, I was drawn to the line work in this Paris back drop. SOLD!

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