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APRIL 30 – MAY 05, 2020 BASE LW ORL D.COM
Editorial: All around Us We are all surrounded by many things. Whether we want it or not, the things that are found around us have a deep impact on our lives and on the way we perceive the world. This is why, at Attire Club, we often speak about the complex paradox that is our relation to objects. The paradox consists in the idea that we must be careful what we surround ourselves with: from the clothes we wear to the furniture we use, as these will massively influence our everyday attitude. However, at the same time, as material beings, we must understand that the clothes and accessories we wear, the cars we drive and every other object that we come in contact with does not define us. What counts is who we are and everything else should be just an expression or support for that. Often, people rely on outer things to define that and that is a grand mistake. The things that guide us should be the things we can’t see, the things for which we need artistic expression to understand them. Our values, our histories and so on are where our cores are. Bodies are symbols for souls (some believe that all visible things are in fact symbols) and thus, we must learn how to work with symbols and with connecting the material with the spiritual. As we do this, we must always remember to prioritize and to establish and work with a hierarchical, coherent set of values. It is important to be connected to the world, but to understand that there is more to it than the obvious. This reminds us of a poem by William Blake, The Angel that Presided o’er My Birth: The Angel that presided o’er my birth Said, ‘Little creature, form’d of Joy and Mirth, ‘Go love without the help of any Thing on Earth.’ The Attire Club Team
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InCompanyt AttirehClub Released by FRAQUOH AND FRANCHOMME Chief Executive Officer Dan Dimitriu Creative Director Iosif Trif Write letters to the editor iosif.trif@attireclub.org Visit our website attireclub.org Contact & Advertising office@attireclub.org Address Theresiengasse 50 Top 1 1180 Vienna Austria Telephone 0097 150 12 801 73 Follow us Facebook: facebook.com/attireclub
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“A New Ride” Photo: Attire Club
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Contents Winter 2019 - 2020
Editorial
All around Us
What comes around, goes around. u3 Color Stories Blue The world's most favorite color. u 10 Travel Album A View of the Island of Corfu A legendary place in Greece. u 12 In Their Own Words John-Mikaël Flaux Speedy clocks at full throttle. u 14 Culture Musée d’Orsay One of the world's most amazing cultural spaces. u 18 The Last Christmas of the Decade Thoughts from the Christmas Desk What makes Christmas special? u 19 Culture Monet’s Nymphéas Bleus An aetheral work of art. u 20 Travel The Attire Club Travel Guide to St. Moritz
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A look at the peak of the world. u 22
In Their Own Words Blogger Matthew Zorpas The modern gentleman. u 28 Style Diary Light-Filled Colors Scrapbooking (in) the winter. u 32 Trends Rediscovering the South The Southern Hemisphere takes the spotlight. u 42 Travel Alphabet P for Paris Finally - discover some not-so-known facts about the City of Lights! u 46 Current Obsessions Runway Videos & Stars Binge watching fashion videos. u 50 The Other Side of the Runway Behind the Scenes A photo collection of fabulous runway backstage photos. u 52 Style Guide 6 Ways to Maintain Your Shoes in the Winter A practical guide for longer-lasting boots! u 64 Value Proposition The Alpine Eagle by Chopard A new watch for new times. u 67 Watch Watching The Sternglas Topograph: The Attire Club Review We're checking out the new minimal watch from Germany. u 68
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Fashion and Technology With One Step in the Future: Innovator Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman How fashiontech can change the next decade. u 70 The Estro Edit 6 Things We Like about the Olaaf Watch Straps A great idea from France. u 72 Watch Watching The Barrington Single Winder in Review A balanced product. u 74 The Attire Club Mood Diary Our Moodboard as a Visual Journal Brothers of humanity. u 76 The Style Map Going on the Path of Fashion Brands, ideas, notes. u 83 Cinema Culture The Film Dossier European themes. u 84 AC World The Attire Club 2019 Style Portfolio: Brandmania Who’s obsessed with Attire Club?
QR Code Glossary Discover the Brands Presented in this Issue Use your phone or tablet to discover the people and brands featured in this issue. u 88
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YListen to a song with the cotents!
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The Smart Magazine Attire Club is offering a complete men’s style, fashion and lifestyle experience, centered around the AC website. To discover our universe and over 1000 articles that will offer you the tools to develop your style, as well as fashion inspiration and cultural insights and to interact with us and be part of our community, visit us online.
attireclub.org +See our QR Code Glossary at the end of the magazine
C O LO R
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S TO R I E S
Several surveys have shown that blue is the global leader in terms of being a “favorite color”. However, while blue today is the world’s favorite color, in the past is was not as common as it is today - at least for some. Scholar William Gladstone (who later became Britain’s PM) noticed that in Homer’s Odyssey, the ocean is described as “wine-dark” and other hues, but that the word “blue” is never used. Later studies have shown that some people (for example the members of the Himba tribe in Namibia) can distinguish very easily between different shades of green and have a hard time differentiating between green and a close shade of blue. Interestingly enough, the Himba have several words for green and none for blue. On the other hand, native Russian speakers can tell the difference more easily between different shades of blue, since in Russian there is not one word for blue, but two, depending on the shade. So, does this mean that ancient Greeks did not see blue? No, they probably saw it as we do, but didn’t conceptualize it in the same way. Photos: Attire Club
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T R AV E L
A L B U M
From the Attire Club Travel Archive
A View of the Island of Corfu Corfu or Kerkyra (Greek: Κέρκυρα) is the second-largest of the Ionian Islands. It is strongly connected to the history of Greece, being the setting for many ancient stories, but also an important spot in medieval and modern history. The Greek name Kerkyra is related to two water deities: Poseidon, the god of the sea and Asopos, an important Greek mainland river. According to a story, Poseidon fell in love with the nymph Korkyra, daughter of Asopos and Metope. He abducted the beautiful nymph and brought her to the island, which he named Korkyra, which gradually evolved to Kerkyra. The two later had a child, which they named Phaiax, after whom the inhabitants of the island were called Phaiakes, in Latin Phaeaciani. The name Corfù is an Italian version of the Byzantine Κορυφώ (Koryphō), meaning the “City of the Peaks” and refers to the two peaks of Palaio Frourio. Corfu is known for its many stories and legends and has even sparked academic debate. For example, some scholars claim that Corfu was actually Ithaca from Homer’s Odyssey, but no clear conclusion has been drawn so far. Today, the Venetian architecture of the island, the 15th century Old Fortress and the Esplanade park, as well as the numerous museums, cafés and restaurants draw people from all around the world, who create their own stories and new myths. Photo: Attire Club
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From the Online Edition
Attire Club is the ultimate resource for complete style guides, fashion inspiration and cultural insights that provide you with the tools you need for a continuous style development. Geared towards the sharp modern man, Attire Club offers practical “you can do it, here’s how” articles that will make you not only look better, but also feel better and more confident. With a groundbreaking new concept, AC is the essential online publication that brings out the best in who you are.
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John-Mikaël Flaux
a r t at f u l l t h r o t t l e John-Mikaël Flaux is a French créateur horloger. Orginially from the Northwest of France, he pursued his watchmaking studies for 6 years, two of which at the Edgard Faure school in Morteau, near the Swiss border. Afterwards, he worked for a while for Ulysse Nardin, but soon enough decided to make a big step and launch his own manufacture. He creates mechanic clocks and machines, which impress though their craftsmanship and intricacies. InCompany by Attire Club wanted to learn more about his process, thoughts and views, so we invited him to a talk about his career, his inspiration and more. He accepted our invitation and was very kind in sharing insight into his life and work.
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ohn-Mikaël did not discover the art of making watches and clocks at an early age, but he remembers being extremely fascinated with all mechanical devices he saw around him. “I was always drawn to mechanical things”, he recalls, “and I would ask my parents to allow me to open up objects around the house to let me see how they work”. His passion for “seeing how things work” turned towards the world of watches when, in his midteens, he visited a watch museum. This was a turning point - or, better said, the starting point of John’s career, who would soon enough find himself as a student of watchmaking. He spent 6 years learning the ins and outs of making clocks and watches, 4 in Rennes and 2 in Morteau.
time, Ulysse Nardin was a developing manufacture and John was given a lot of freedom. “I worked almost as an independent watchmaker” he explains, “and this gave me a taste of what being on your own would be”. Slowly, as Ulysse Nardin became part of the French Kering Group and things changed in several directions, John-Mikaël decided that this was not his place anymore and decided to establish his own label. “I wanted to create 100% for myself ” John explains. “Things at Ulysse Nardin were now decided by the Group… they wanted to establish themselves to be similar to Rolex, where they focus on mass markets, and this did not work for me. Ultimately, I have an artist’s mentality and I wanted to work by myself, with my thoughts”.
While he was in school, he would blog about the projects would work on. These drew the attention of Ulysse Nardin and John-Mikaël was offered a job there. At the
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nd so, John-Mikaël returned to France and built his workshop there. He believes that great watchmaking can be made outside of Switzer-
The Guêpe (Wasp)
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The SuperCat which John-Mikaël created for Ulysse Nardin
land too and, through his decision to make Besançon his new home, he wanted to do his part in the rise of the new French watchmaking scene.
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eing on his own, John-Mikaël turned to his first passion - mechanics and set aside classic watches in exchange for complex clocks and mechanical devices based on watch mechanisms. His impressive pieces, such as the Car Clock inspired many others to do similar things and the recent Time Fury P18 also made waves among connoisseurs. His creations have very often as a theme of inspiration the world of classic cars and, more broadly speaking, the world of intricate interactions and fine movements - as his Duel goes to show, a piece depicting a fight between two mechanical fencers. John likes mechanics so much, that he even drives a vintage Beetle, which is more fun for him than a new car would be.
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ach of his creations starts with an emotion and it probably safe to say that determination and drive are some of the major things he feels, as his creations focus on fast cars and fighters - his Wasp falls in this category as well. At the moment, John-Mikaël is working hard not only on his creations, but also on becoming a member of the Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants (AHCI). Currently, he is a candidate for a full member-
Being an independent watchmaker may not be the easiest thing in the world, but it allows someone like John-Mikaël to express himself freely and to take control over both the creative process and the technical aspect of his creations. “There are many people who are collectors of unique pieces and thus are looking to buy something that is deeply personal and that has a story” he says. This intimate atmosphere between creator and buyer is what John’s philosophy is all about. For him, being restrained is one of the worst things and this is what motivates him to continue to push hard in order to be able to create only what he wants to connect with buyers who connect with his pieces. His clients are mostly European - Swiss, English or Monegasques, but
The Duel
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ship and he is making sure to take all the steps needed to become a full member. Being part of the AHCI would mean a lot to John-Mikaël, as this association is a symbol for the highest standards in horologerie, many of the biggest names in watchmaking being connected to it. “Being part of the AHCI is not just extremely prestigious, but it is also a recognition by the watchmaking world and by my peers.” John-Mikaël explains. The time he spent so far as a candidate has also opened many doors for him, as he was able to connect with amazing people, make friends and have professional exchanges of great value, especially with the older members of the organization who provide him with insight and inspiration.
Photo: Attire Club
he recently also sent a piece to Saudi Arabia. Given that his creations are rather atypical, most of the people who discover John-Mikaël do so through magazines, through the Internet or by word of mouth.
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ight now, he is working on a new project - it’s still in the secret phase, which will be unveiled at Baselworld in 2020. The new, later date for the show fits well with John-Mikaël, who can work more on his new creation.
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o the outside world, it may seem that being an independent watchmaker is an easy job, where skill and expertise are all that matters, but in fact, there is a lot more that goes into it. Over the last years, John-Mikaël has had to learn how to navigate the industry and the world of watchmaking, not only within his life, but also in connection to the world at large. Outside certain communities, he has discovered that many people don’t really know much about what he and others do, but that there is a great interest for it once people find out more. John-Mikaël believes that by establishing great connections, both professionally and personally and through perseverance and hard work, a new generation watchmakers can carry the torch that was so far carried so gracefully by the masters of the field.
Check out John-Mikaël’s website at john-mikael-flaux.com
The Time Fury P18 Features S 256 components S 11 rubies S 8 days of autonomy S Swiss lever escapement S Time setting with the back wheels S Possibility to let the car drive on table (13.2 mm/h) S Aluminum body S Laquered color (hand made) S Silver radiator grill S Rubber tires S Only 10 models edition S Price: 14.900 EUR (without VAT/taxes) attireclub.org |
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Museums and Galleries
Le Musée d’Orsay The Musée d’Orsay in Paris is one of the world’s richest and most captivating museums. Its permanent collection is the home of an array of exciting works of art of early modern and impressionist artists. Here, you can see the works of masters such as Matisse, Monet, Van Gogh and Rodin. The building of the museum is situated on the Left Bank of the Seine. In the past, the building was the Gare d’Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station which was built built between 1898 and 1900. It was opened right in time for the World Exhibition. It functioned as a railway station with a buildin hotel only until 1939. The reason why it could no longer be used for that purpose was because the tracks were too short for the new, more modern trains. After that year, it had several purposes. For example, during World War II, it served as a mailing center and it was even used as a movie set. Orson Wells’ The Trial starring Anthony Perkins was in fact shot here. Later, it was discussed that the building would be demolished to make room for a new hotel, but it was saved and repurposed. The museum opened its doors in December 1986. Apparently, it took 6 months to install the 2000 or so paintings, 600 sculptures and other works.When he inaugurated the museum, President François Mitterrand talked about remembering the old railway station as it was in his childhood. Photo: Attire Club 18 | InCompanytAttirehClub
The Last Christmas of the Decade
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his December saw the last Christmas of the second decade of the millenium. Once again, people brought trees in their homes and towns - a symbol of order due to its conic pyramid shape. The ribbons that flow from top to bottom represent the lines that keep the meaning flowing, similar to a procession or a road. Between the branches of the Christmas tree, we find ourselves placing lights and ornaments that come in different shapes and sizes. These are precious things that mimic our goals, values and world view. In other words, all the mysteries of life are manifested in a Christmas tree. The small lights are a symbol for the small essences in which reality lays itself out to us and the star or angel at the top indicate that the light from above shines in order to show us the world.
José-Claude Frappa (French, 1854-1904), Christmas Delivery
Under the tree, at the bottom of the pyramid are the gifts - these are wrapped and, traditionally, their content depends on whether you’ve been bad or good. You may get sapphires, but you may also get a piece of coal. The spear shape of the tree as a whole reminds us of the windows of Gothic cathedrals, which allowed the viewer to only look one way and that is upwards to the top. The symbolism is of Christmas acts like an anchor in reality. It is a reminder of the cycles of life, as Christmas comes at a time when the wheel of time turns upside down as the darkness starts to make room for light again. The color red, which is strongly associated with Christmas, is also a symbol of the stages of the year, as it comes in reference to the blood that was shed on Good Friday, working as a reminder of the birth death - rebirth cycle. Christmas marks new beginnings: this is why we get new things: to reap the fruits of what we’ve done and, even if these aren’t good, we still celebrate the holiday with new clothes and new things, as an engagement to do things better than we did in the past.
Viggo Johansen (Danish, 1851–1935), Silent Night 1891
And so, as the light starts to emerge, the New Year comes - an opportunity to start anew and to make better decisions and to celebrate life in all its forms.
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Anne Anderson (Scottish, 1874-1930), Christmas Morning
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The Art Shelf
Monet’s Nymphéas Bleus Claude Monet was extremely passionate about his garden and his water lilies and painted an entire series of beautiful images depicting these flowers. He actually grew white water lilies in the water garden he arranged in his property at Giverny in 1893. His garden became his only source of inspiration from the 1910s until his passing in 1926. He is quoted to having said: “I have come back to things that are impossible to do: water with weeds waving in the depths. Apart from painting and gardening, I am good for nothing. My greatest masterpiece is my garden.” The square shape of this particular work compliments the shapeless surface which has no details standing out - the focus is placed on the infinite, pattern-like, limitless feeling that close-up of the pond conferred. The viewer only sees a part of the pond, not the horizon above or the ground on which he is standing. Through its flowing colors and wavy lines, it seems that the painting captures a moment as it unfolds in time, thus proposing a view of an infinite universe. A close look at the canvas allows us to see just how free the brushstrokes were, with no apparent attachment to the physical, despite its clear representation. The painter managed to create a figurative painting that is soft, ethereal and contemplative, in many ways conveying the vibe of a religious experience. Photo: Attire Club 20 | InCompanytAttirehClub
From AC’s Social Media
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AttirehClub TRAVEL GUIDE w
ST. MORITZ
Sankt Moritz is not a luxury resort in the beautiful Engadin valley of Switzerland, but the luxury resort of the world. For about 160 years, it has been an amazing place where people gather to experience the finest hotels, restaurants and winter sports anywhere - not to mention the amazing shops and events that take place here. Discover the Attire Club Travel Guide to St. Moritz! Photos: Attire Club
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A Sparkling History istorians have found traces of humans in the region dating back to the Bronze Age. However, the place took its name after Saint Maurice, an early Christian from Egypt who was the leader of the legendary Roman Theban Legion in the 3rd century. Later, many pilgrims used to travel to Saint Mauritius to the church of the springs, where they drank from the blessed, bubbling waters of the Mauritius springs hoping to be healed from illness. In 1519, the Medici pope, Leo X, promised full absolution to anyone making a pilgrimage to the church of the springs. In 1535, the famous alchemist, physician and astrologer Paracelsus spent some time here.
Winter evening in St. Moritz
It was only in the 19th century that St. Moritz became a sensation. The modern resort was founded by Caspar Badrutt, who was almost singlehandedly responsible for the origin of several modern winter sporting activities.
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The RhB train at the entrance in St. Moritz
The coat of arms of the town
Downtown shopping
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The Peak of the World Since then, St. Moritz has become not only synonymous with all things high-end luxury, but also with great fun and events. In 1928 and 1948 it hosted the Winter Olympics and over the years it was also host to over 20 FIBT World Championships, three FIS Alpine World Ski Championships and over 40 Engadin Ski marathons since 1969. It has also been the host of numerous golf, polo and cricket tournaments and the venue for many Sailing and Windsurfing World Championships. Since the early 1980s, it is promoted as Top of the World. The tourist office of the town registered the tagline as a trademark in 1987. Speaking of being on the top of the world, in 2011 it was also the host of the unofficial, invitation-only Bilderberg Group conference.
Through his efforts, St. Moritz became the first modern winter sports resort. The story says that at the end of one season, Caspar challenged some of his English regulars to a bet. The deal was that he would offer them free lodging if they found the place inhospitable and uninteresting during a winter stay. However, if he was able to provide them with a great experience, the guests would have to talk up the experience among their acquaintances for the entirety of the next year. These men were all connected among the aristocracy, not just of Britain, but of other European countries as well. And so, because Badrutt managed to convince them of the exquisiteness of the resort, Sankt Moritz became known as the place to be during the winter.
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A Dreamy Train Ride Even though St. Moritz has a secluded location in the heart of the Grisons Alps, it is very accessible and well-connected with the world. There are many ways one can get there. While many people arrive in the resort by car, some arrive on private planes or helicopters, as there is a private airport nearby. Tourists often arrive here by train. The Bernina Express, also known as the Glacier Express travels along a UNESCO World Heritage railway line. The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) takes passengers to the Engadin from the Swiss town of Chur or from the Italian city of Tirano via the Bernina Pass with many stops along the way. The trip is absolutely staggering, with spiral tunnels and breathtaking viaducts - it is for sure one of the most impressive trains ride in the world. Some of these red trains even have a part of the ceiling being transparent, allowing for a better contemplation of the giant mountains, as the trains makes its way deep through the spiraling valleys through the Alps. Eat Well, Sleep Tight, Chill Out Sankt Moritz is the home of 5 5-star hotels. This is quite the rarity in the world and stands as proof of the resort’s elegant vibe. The most known places where you can stay are Badrutt’s Palace, the Carlton, the Kulm Hotel and the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains. The Bären hotel
The Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
and the Crystal are also popular destinations. When it comes to eating, the hotels usually have some rather amazing restaurants, but you can also find other places to eat, whether it is a full lunch or just a snack. Michelin Star restaurants such as Ecco, Da Vittorio or IGNIV are just some of the popular names. If you want to treat yourself to a coffee or a piece of amazing cake, you can make a short visit at the Hanselmann café, View over the which offers some lavish culinary delights, including frozen lake their famous the caramel-rich, walnut-studded EngaThe Segantini dine nut tart. Museum
Shopping in Style They say you can generally tell who lives in a town by the shops you see on the streets. Well, if that’s true, then some really fancy people come to Sankt Moritz. Walking down the streets, you can all the bigs represented: Hermès, Dolce & Gabbana, Bally, Chopard, Billionaire and more. Not to mention that there is an array of impressive luxury stores that offer lesser-known, exclusive products - at matching prices, of course. Clothes are not the only things you can buy in St. Moritz though. For example, you can also get the newest Maserati if you walk on the Via Maistra. Elite Culture From a cultural perspective, there is a lot you can experience as well. In the past, many famous names have stopped by here, from Thomas Mann to Herman Hesse and even Friedrich Nietzsche stopped here. In 1883, he wrote to an acquaintance “Well, my dear old friend, I am once more in the Upper Engadin. This is my third visit to the place and once again I feel that my proper refuge and home is here and nowhere else”. Nietzsche also felt that he could be “almost” happy in the Engadin, and, after his return from his third trip to St. Moritz, he wrote his fundamental world, Thus Spoke Zarathustra. When it comes to modern art, in 2017 the Neue Zürcher Zeitung wrote that St. Moritz “is gaining increasing attention as a hotspot on the international art scene”. And, indeed, it is quite impressive how much art one can find in such a small town: from galleries and museums to the stunning architecture of the buildings, one really can feel immersed in art upon arriving in St. Moritz. Authentic Leisure When you want to take a breath and do something to break from the everyday, St. Moritz has a lot to offer: from its state-of-the-art casino (at 1850 meters above sea level, the Casino St. Moritz is the highest casino in Europe) to a series of spas and health centers and, of course, the skiing slopes which are always in bloom during the winter. Those who want to get the drawing
The Chesa Futura (House of the Future in Romansch)
The Reformed Church
The Carlton
book fantasy can even book a carriage ride drawn by horses. Many hotels are also open during the summer, when it is quieter than during the winter. Those who want to walk around the lake or take calming trips in the nearby forests and enjoy the greenness of the Alps will find a lot to do in the summer here as well. A Change of Mind The deep religious roots of St. Moritz are also visible in the churches you will come across when visiting the town. These complete the overall atmosphere of the resort and allow one to contemplate, pray and think. And, who knows, maybe Leo X was right and a trip to St. Moritz can wash one’s wrongdoings away. If not in full, it is most likely to make one feel fresh or (completely) changed. attireclub.org |
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Vibrating Art
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Blogger
Matthew Zorpas
Matthew Zorpas is a menswear blogger and creative consultant. He has worked with brands like Hugo Boss, Massimo Dutti, Bentley and is a global ambassador for Breitling. Originally from Cyprus, he moved to London to study and there, he launched his own platform, The Gentleman Blogger. The blog became a success and Matthew became soon enough an online sensation - even Esquire nominated him as one of the best-dressed men in the UK. We wanted to find out more about Matthew, his work and his views and he accepted our invitation to talk about clothes, travel and the way his life changed after entering his 30s.
“I admire people who have created something that is their own”
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atthew Zorpas can be described as the ultimate “influencer” - almost everything around him is a based on collaboration or a project: from the coffee he drinks to the clothes he wears and, newly to the alcohol he consumes, he has managed to establish a strong universe around his brand, which is all about being a modern gentleman.
we can see from more and more brands”. For Matthew, London has had a great influence on his style and we can see this mix of high tradition and modern openness in his outfits. “I try to refresh a very safe image by relaxing it a bit. Also, my travels heavily influence my style choices.” For example, Brazil has taught him to loosening up his shirts and adding more colors in his closet.
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he core of Matthew’s brand is of course the fashion. Since he’s been around the blogosphere for almost a decade now, Matthew has seen changes take place in the fashion industry and in the ways people dress, but also in his own style. Matthew was one of the people who started blogging at the time when the menswear industry was booming and more and more men were beginning to look after the way they looked and carried themselves. For Matthew, the main change has consisted in the way he sees things: if 8 years ago he was more concerned about the way he looked and if all his clothes were prim and proper, now he is also focused (if not more)
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on his experiences - the way he travels, the way he eats and other such details are now very important to him. Purely stylewise, the major thing he saw change in the way he dresses was a relaxation of his style - not focusing so much on creating classic looks, but updating them and bringing a twist to his outfits. “Fashion had its sportswear moment” he recalls, “but now I think we’re going back to tailoring as
Photos: Felipe Pagani (including cover), Pat Domingo, Gleeson Paulino
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esides the aesthetic aspect, Matthew also notices a change in the way business is done in fashion - nowadays, he notices many influencers rise to the top only to disappear overnight. The very role and definition of what he does is also something which he is seeing evolve. “We were called bloggers, now we are called influencers… I think the industry is still struggling to understand or define us and what exactly we do.” Over the course of the years, Matthew worked on building his own
type of gentleman, which was not an easy job, given that this term is so heavily loaded with a lot of meaning and heritage. For him, a modern gentleman is someone who “takes the main DNA of a gentleman who cares about others and is gentle towards people and is careful about the way in which he carries himself, but is also someone who has a clear political view and cares about the environment and the world.” For him, a gentleman is also someone who can not only survive and succeed in a challenging context. He draws his inspiration about how to act and how to be mostly from the people in his life whom he is looking up to - from his immediate family back in Cyprus to the friends he made in Britain during his studies. “I admire people who have made it as entrepreneurs, who have succeeded ethically and who think about how they will overcome the challenges that will appear as they move forward. I admire people who have created something that is their own” he says.
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hen it comes to his visual inspirations in regards to clothes and accessories, it’s hard for Matthew to decide on one brand or
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another, since everything changes so rapidly in the fashion industry these days. “It has all become so seasonal. If I tell you I like Bottega Veneta today, by the time the story is published, they may have decided to change their creative direction completely.” Matthew also notices that we live in a moment where many brands decide to erase their history and start fresh. However, he has his go-tos: “I get my shirts from Brooks Brothers, I’ll get a watch from Breitling, and I get my suits from Hackett or Hardy Amies” he explains. “I don’t follow many brands that are very trend-focused” the blogger adds.
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ver the last few years, Matthew has noticed that, both in his style and his attitude something has changed. Now, he is 33 and says that “after 30 it’s been a bit of a challenge - turning 30 has been a huge turning point. When you turn 30, your priorities change, things make more sense, your relationships and why you have certain experiences makes sense and you become more stable.” Matthew recalls that when he was in his 20s, he often fell and started something new, but now, he is more focused on using what has happened in order to move forward - maybe a sign of maturity? “I’m trying to figure out how to be secure in the next stage… especially in a world that is completely collapsing around us” he explains. Even though for many people living in Britain Brexit is a taboo subject, Matthew is open about his views
and claims that he feel that Brexit was a “big mistake for the UK” and that it is something that is very harmful. He sees the world as going from crisis to crisis: “We’ve seen an economic crisis, now we’re seeing a political crisis and we’ll have to face an environmental crisis” he says. Thus, he claims that he sees the world as being further and further from progress and development and that we are going through really challenging times. At the time of our chat, Britain was preparing for their general election, which, as everything in Britain these days was something that was causing much controversy and debate. In the end, conservatives had a huge win, but, as we’ve now become accustomed, the discussion over Brexit still remains open.
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ight now, Matthew is also connecting more and more with his Cypriot roots and says that he visits his native country once a year. “I felt Cyprus was too small for my dreams and that was in my 20s, so I wouldn’t visit my family that often. But now, in my 30s, I’m seeing it as the source of who I am and the reason why I have all this drive - in a way, the things I didn’t have back in Cyprus motivated me to do so much. I’m trying to transform these ‘negative aspects’ as something positive.”
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hen it comes to his ”Current Obsessions” as we always like to say at Attire Club, Matthew is focused on two things: one, to buy only one thing each week and two, to eliminate plastic from his life. Matthew is someone from which people can take not only a lesson in style - that is a clear thing - but also a lesson about making sure that your clothes are not the only thing you focus on, but that everything around you is an expression of who you want to be - of your ambitions. The way we act and the things we do should all fall in line with ourselves and Matthew seems to be doing a pretty good job at that. You can go to TheGentlemanBlogger.com and watch Matthew’s new documentary “Make/Believe”. The film, signed by Konstantinos Menelaou is a portrait of Zorpas that tackles issues such as love, success, curated reality, privacy and digital living. It also discusses subjects such as the “reality of the unreality of social media” - a very hot topic today.
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D I A RY
LI GH
Watch by Nordgreen
TFILLED CO LORS attireclub.org |
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Shoe by Arama (now discontinued)
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Your Style Is Worth Your While
AttireClub.org
T R E N D S
Rediscovering the
South
Photos: Attire Club A few years ago, we started writing at AttireClub.org about how over the next few years, the Southern Hemisphere will start to grow more and more as a trend. The political situation of the world, which has as its core ten-
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sions between the cultures of the Northern Hemisphere and a movement of people from the South to the North will make it so that we will see more and more aesthetics coming from the African or South American countries. These aesthetics also fulfil a need for color, movement and dynamism, which has been quite lost over the last years in Western fashion. We will see most likely a lot of traditional costumes and aesthetic as a source of inspiration, but in time these may become more abstract.
Tradition and ethnicity have been on trend for the last few seasons, even though more often than not the focus is not placed on the content and meaning of traditions, but rather only on the outside aspects.
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Colorful prints and patterns are gaining terrain these days as many stylists are using them more and more. Classic patterns will now be mixed and matched with African and Latino patterns.
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T R AV E L
A L PH A B E T
P for Paris
Paris is a city that is connected to so much history and so much culture that it is pointless to even begin to describe it briefly. Paris is‌ Paris. This is why, for our Paris feature, we have decided to unravel some lesser-known facts about the City of Lights‌
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Photos: Attire Club (except for old images)
The coat of arms of Paris
THE ORIGINAL NAME of Paris was Lutetia - this was back when it was a Roman city. THE EIFFEL TOWER was supposed to be only a temporary installation, meant to stand for 20 years after being built for the 1889 World Fair. YOU NEED TO CLIMB 1,665 STEPS to reach the top of the Eiffel Tower, that is, of course, unless you take the elevator.
the popular drink was the result of Hemingway’s request for a drink that didn’t smell like alcohol, so he was offered vodka mixed with tomato juice. THE FIRST PHOTO OF A PERSON was taken on the Boulevard du Temple in Paris by Louis Daguerre in 1838.
of the tower had mysteriously been cut overnight, which prevented him to climb the capital’s emblem.
THE OLDEST HOUSE in Paris is located at 51, rue de Montmorency in the 3rd arrondissement. It was built in 1407. THE OLDEST BRIDGE in Par- Taking pictures in the first part of the is is the Pont Neuf, standing since 19th century took several minutes, which means that the boy had to stand 1604. for the duration of the shoot.
SOME OF THE MOST FAMOUS fashion brands, like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Lacroix, Lancôme, Givenchy and Christian Louboutin originated in Paris. PARIS IS THE ONLY CITY in which haute couture shows are presented.
NICOLAS FLAMEL is probably Paris’ most famous supposed alchemist. His 15th century wood house, one of the oldest in Paris, still today at 51, rue de Montmorency in the 3rd arrondissement. There were rumors that Flamel was seen roaming the streets of the city for centuries. IN 1862, CHARLES GARNIER started the building of the famous Opéra de Paris, which would later on be given his name. However, he was faced with a big issue: the buildChamp de Mars
THE GALERIES LAFAYETTE carry over 2000 brands. THE CHAMPS-ÉLYSÉES measures 1910 meters (1.1 miles) in length and is over 70 meters (229.6 feet) wide.
Notre-Dame (photographed before the 2019 fire)
LE PROCOPE is the oldest café in Paris - it has been in operation since 1686.
THE “BLOODY MARY” COCKTAIL originated in Paris at the Ritz Hotel and was created by Ernest Hemingway. The legend says that
THE LUXOR OBELISK in the Place de la Concorde is 23 meter high (75.4 feet) and can be used a sundial, as there are roman numerals in the pavement around it. It is considered the tallest sundial in the world.
YRead this article with a song!
THERE ARE AT LEAST THREE REPLICAS of the Statue of Liberty in Paris. The most famous of them is located on an island on the Seine and looks towards her sister statue in New York.
PARIS HAS THE LARGEST NUMBER of Michelin Star restaurants in the world.
WHEN HITLER visited Paris during the German occupation, he visited the Opera, Montmartre, the Invalides; but when he got to the Eiffel Tower, it turned out the cables of the elevators going to the very top attireclub.org |
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Musée des Arts et Métiers
ing’s foundations were endangered by the swampy ground on which the architect wanted to build. Thus, he decided to build a concrete liner filled with water in order to block infiltrations. And so, there is a 10,000-cubic-meter lake under the building, which is inaccessible to the public and used by scuba divers of the Paris fire brigade for their training. THE LOUVRE has 35,000 works
on display but actually houses about 460,000 pieces. EACH OF THE CITY’S ARRONDISSEMENTS(districts) actually has a name. These are: 1st: Louvre, 2nd: Bourse, 3rd: Temple, 4th: Hôtel-de-Ville (Town Hall), 5th: Panthéon, 6th: Luxembourg, 7th: Palais-Bourbon, 8th: Élysée, 9th: Opéra, 10th: En-
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trepôt. 11th: Popincourt, 12th: Reuilly, 13th: Gobelins, 14th: Observatoire, 15th: Vaugirard, 16th: Passy, 17th: Batignolles-Monceau, 18th: Butte-Montmartre, 19th: Buttes-Chaumont, 20th: Ménilmontant. Nicolas-Jean-Baptiste Raguenet, La joute des mariniers, entre le pont Notre-Dame et le Pont-auChange, (The Joust of the Mariniers between Pont-Notre-Dame and Pont-au-Change, 1756
Current Obsessions RUNWAY VIDEOS & STARS
Top 10 Best Catwalkers Daria Strokous, Frida Gustavsson, Liu Wen… This video is a montage of some of the most amazing models of today. Definitely worth watching… and rewatching!
The world of fashion has brought a lot of beauty to the world and has created many celebrities. Here is a look at a playlist of videos of amazing fashion moments and people, which we’re currently watching.
Make sure to visit the Attire Club YouTube channel at YouTube.com/AttireClub
Back to the 90’s: Supermodel Linda Evangelista Supermodel Linda Evangelista is still one of the most emblematic models of all times: she knew how to pose, how to walk and could make anything look stunning!
EVA HERZIGOVA - RETROSPECTIVE 1993/2004 Czech model Eva Herzigova made a name for herself not just through her fashion photos and expert-level runway, but also as an actress. She is a great source of inspiration for all those who want to achieve her stylish nonchalance.
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Fashion House (1950-1969) Fashion shows may have changed, but their core has remained the same. This vintage British Pathé montage is a great window into how fashion shows looked back in the day before they went mainstream.
Guo Pei | Haute Couture Spring Summer 2018 Full Show Guo Pei is a Chinese designer whose work is truly outstanding. Any Guo Pei collection is worth seeing, but her spring-summer 2018 show was a real tour de force: modern, elegant and couture!
THIERRY MUGLER Fall 1999 2000 Haute Couture Paris If you’re in the mood for some fashion that makes you go “WOW”, this Mugler show is what you need: impeccable cuts, stunning fabrics and not to mention the amazing poses and soft walks.
YCheck out this feature with a song!
Giorgio Armani Pre-Fall 20202021 Fashion Show One of the things we like most about Armani is that all their collections are extremely practical and wearable - they are ‘real’ clothes, but they are never plain and always make the wearer stand out. Now that’s a high achievement in fashion!
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PI C TO R I A L
The Other Side of the Runway
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The backstage of a runway show is a crazy place: staffers are running, models are changing, stylists are pulling accessories and designers are checking every detail… Clothes are everywhere, makeup and hair products are covering tables and everyone is working hard to make the show happen. Last year, during Vienna Fashion Week, we took a series of backstage photos before the Rozbora show. In a FW event such as this, where shows follow each other rapidly, there is a lot to be observed “in between”: from relationships being built to the models wearing clothes from various designers, depending on the show for which they just walked or are preparing to walk. Here are some of the photographs from that day… attireclub.org |
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S T Y L E
G U I D E
6 Ways to
Maintain Your Shoes In the Winter From November to February and for some until later in the year, your shoes can have a hard time. The moisture, the rain, the snow, the salt thrown over the snow – all these things can cause damage to your shoes. However, there are things you can do to protect your shoes and to make sure that they keep their strength, shape and style and that you will be able to rely on them even during the harshest urban weather. This is why we have put together a list of 6 things you can do to make sure your shoes will be in their best shape at the end of the snowy season.
1. Shine your shoes! Before placing your shoes on their shelf, make sure you properly shine and clean them. Also, for leather and suede, you should always use a specialized spray that protects them from moisture. For leather shoes, you can also use beeswax, but this is kind of an extreme option! Beeswax might even change the color of your shoes, so you must only apply it if nothing else works!
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2. Wear galoshes! Modern galoshes are not a pair of shoes you put over your shoes anymore. They are thin, lightweight, comfortable overshoes. Overshoes are the perfect thing to add to your outfit if there is a mild amount of snow, rain or slush. Be advised that overshoes are not meant to be worn on long distances or in very harsh conditions. For those who need to walk around a lot in urban areas or for bad weather conditions, a pair of dress boots is what you should be looking for!
4. Use shoe trees. Shoe trees are very important when it comes to the maintenance of your shoes during the winter. They allow your shoes to contract and dry out in their initial shape. Our tip is to go for less decorated shoe trees, preferably for shoe trees with no decoration. The best shoe trees are unfinished cedar models that feature a split toe and a shaped heel: these models create the best fit between the shoe and tree. Moreover, note that you only need two shoe trees, as your shoes don’t need to stay in them longer than two hours after you removed your shoes from your feet, so basically you can rotate a couple of quality shoe trees. Once the shoes return to their original design, you can remove the trees; they don’t need to stay in the shoes the whole day, but leaving them in your shoes is fine too. 5. Dry your shoes properly! If your shoes get as wet as they can get, fill them with newspaper and let them dry. Make sure that you don’t dry them near a heat source, as direct heat can dry the leather faster than it should. This can create cracks which can make your shoes unwearable. Before your shoes get completely dry, take the newspapers out and put shoe trees in them and let them dry to their natural shape. 6. Use a rubber for suede! If your suede shoes have dirt on them, let it first dry out and then use a suede eraser. Alternatively, you can use a pencil eraser, which you can find at any supermarket or book store. Regardless of the option you go for, make sure that you first try the eraser out on a small part of the shoes, to see how it works and whether it causes your shoes to lose their color. 3. Use lemon to remove salt stains! Salt stains can be a pain, but there are ways in which you can remove them. Take a cloth and dip it into some water. After that, cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice in the cloth. Then, press down on the salt stains until you remove them. You will probably need to rinse the clothes several times and add more lemon as you go along. Once you have removed all the stains, take another cloth, that is dry this time, and press down the boot to dry out all the areas. If your stains are too strong and lemon won’t remove them, you can purchase special products for salt stains from a shoe repair store. Whatever you choose to do, always make sure you start out small to see how it works and then move along to the rest of the shoe. As an alternative to lemon juice, you can also use vinegar to remove the stains from your shoes. After you have removed all the stains from your shoes, let the boots dry and then polish them to make sure they are well protected and shined. If you have any other type of stains, you can use a toothbrush to try to rub them off or use special leather soap, in case your shoes are really messy!
Additional information There is one thing you can year-round to make sure that your shoes remain in shape and that the material is as protected as possible, and that is to use shoehorns. By using these, you won’t bend and stretch your shoes too much, and they will keep their strength and shape for a longer time. Whichever type of shoes you like to wear, should it be boots, wingtips, brogues, etc., we strongly advise you to invest in a good pair of shoes. Cheap shoes might look good at first and the price might be attractive, but it’s all a false bargain. Most cheap shoes are made from rubber, glue or bad leather rejected by serious brands. In the long term, these shoes will go bad faster, they will smell and they will most likely not keep you warm. This is why you should invest in a high-quality pair of shoes and make sure that you take good care of it. If you put some effort into investing in a good pair of shoes and do your best to maintain them, they will last longer than three consecutive bad pairs of shoes, they will feel comfortable even years after you bought them and by maintaining their style, and they will always be a wonderful fashion piece! Photos: Attire Club attireclub.org |
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Seeing Sounds
VALUE PROPOSITION T The Alpine Eagle by Chopard The new Alpine Eagle watch by Chopard is a reinterpretation of the St. Moritz, which was the first watch created by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele in 1980. The St. Moritz marked a very important moment in his career, as it was the piece that helped him become a strong voice in the family company, especially given that the watch turned into a best-seller. The new Alpine Eagle was in a way a repeat of history, as it was created at the insistence of Karl-Friedrich’s son, Karl-Fritz (who had the secret support of his grandfather Karl) to remake the famous watch. The sporty Alpine Eagle features a chronometer-certified movement and is crafted from an exclusive, ultra-resistant light-reflecting metal called Lucent Steel A223. This special steel, which is an aesthetic reference to glaciers was described by the brand as an “alchemist’s quest”, as the material created by Chopard is as complex and precious as gold. It features three main characteristics: firstly, it is comparable to surgical steel, making it dermo-compatible; secondly, it is 50% more resistant to abrasion than conventional steels and has a unique hardness; and thirdly, it has far less impurities than other steels, which allows it to reflect light, its brilliance and brightness being comparable to that of gold. The rock-like texture dial is inspired by an eagle’s iris and its hands are inspired by the bird’s feathers. The steel is a reminder of the glaciers where the eagles fly. Co-president of Chopard Karl-Friedrich Scheufele is also a founding member of the newly-formed Eagle Wings Foundation. They have recently launched a project during which participants were able to see images taken by a camera on an eagle, which was launched from five mythical Alpine peaks across five countries: Zugspitze in Germany, Dachstein in Austria, Marmolada in Italy, Aiguille du Midi in France and Piz Corvatsch in Switzerland. The final point of the race is St. Moritz, chosen to celebrate the Alpine Eagle watch, a timepiece for true conquerors.
Model Johannes Huebl wearing the Alpine Eagle
Piz Roseg by Nomi Baumgartl
Karl, Karl-Friderich and Karl-Fritz Scheufele
St. Moritz Advertising Campaign in the 1980’s
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WATC H
WATC H I N G
The Sternglas Topograph: The Attire Club Review
S
ternglas is a German watch brand that focuses on qualities that are traditionally associated with the German spirit: clarity and precision. In this sense, the brand takes a lot of its inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, which placed a lot of accent on functionality and minimalism and on trying to find a logical combination between the aesthetic and the functional side of any product. Their new Topograph watch is based on this balance between functionality and aesthetics, being of course, in pure Bauhaus spirit on a minimal design. The clear design of the watch allows for a good focus on the details, making it very easy to read. With a 42 mm case, the Topograph is the largest piece to date offered by the Hamburg-based brand. The numbers are marked in a clear sans-serif font in a small size, but they are
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sharply printed and thus highly visible. Moreover, the contrast between the color of the dial and the numbers makes it very legible. Also, to make it a bit more special, the watch features numbers from 1 to 60 on the rehaut, which give the watch a special measuring tool feel – hence its name. The Topograph features a beautiful anti-reflective, domed sapphire crystal glass, designed for a strong anti-scratch resistance and the back is an exhibition back and reveals the automatic movement for those who enjoy getting deep in the mechanics and intricacies of watches. Inside the watch there is a MIYOTA 821A automatic movement, which is designed to be very robust and durable. The movement can also be charged through kinetic energy by simply wearing the watch. This is a really fun thing, as it makes you feel a part of the watch and creates a relationship between the wearer and the watch. In case you don’t wear all the time, you should not worry, as the watch has a 42-hour
power reserve. The watch is also water-resistant and can be down to -50 meters / 164 feet underwater. The case is made from brushed 316L stainless steel and measures 10 mm in height. The brushing on the sides is very fine and offers the watch a timeless feel. The strap is a 20 mm Milanese strap which can be changed in seconds without the use of any extra tools. Having a changeable strap is an advantage to any watch, as you can change the whole vibe of your timepiece easily. This is something that can be achieved especially with a minimal watch like the Sternglas Topograph, given that its minimal design makes it a very versatile piece, being appropriate for almost any place from the office to a dinner party or a fun and dynamic adventure. You can also order some extra straps from the Sternglas website, including some leather straps (all of which are handmade in Germany) in different colors, which can give your watch a whole different attitude. There is also a vintage-style strap, for those who want to take the watch’s historic inspiration to its full extent. And, speaking of efficiency as a brand value, the date can be changed really easily and quickly too. In terms of price, the Topograph is well worth its €329 / $366. It’s a very visible watch, which is great for those who like to be noticed and its features also make it a
great conversation piece. To conclude, it can be said that the Sternglas Topograph is a bold watch with a classic masculine feel and a coherent design language that makes a great companion for many settings. It’s definitely a good addition to anyone’s wardrobe (or collection) and above all, it is a clear style statement. More: sternglas.com Photos: Attire Club attireclub.org |
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FA S H I O N
A N D
T E C H
With One Step in the Future: Innovator
Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman
Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman is an expert in wearable technology design, functional clothes and goods made from smart textiles. After many years of experience as an industrial and fashion designer, as well as a professor and researcher at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, she created the Interwoven Design Group. Her vast experience and knowledge have landed her key positions like Design Director for Nike, Fila or Champion. Moreover, she has founded the Intelligent Materials Applied Research and Innovation (IMARI) Lab at Pratt and she was offered grant funding from Intel, The NYC Media Lab COMBINE, Verizon Connected Futures and NASA. In 2016, she published her book “Smart Textiles for Designers: Inventing the Future of Fabrics”, in which she wrote about the revolution we are starting to see unfold as the human body and everyday objects become connected - with smart fabrics playing a great part in the process. We wanted to find out more about her work and vision and thus invited her to talk to us about wearable tech uses and how these can shape the world.
“I think we are going to see a lot of growth in wearable technology in health and athletics” Wearable products
The Interwoven Design Group, which Rebeccah leads, is primarily focused on wearable technology and smart textiles, but also specializes on functional apparel. Usually, companies hire them to design or create a product that is worn on the body. “The reason why we describe our work as a ‘product worn on the body’ and not as ‘fashion’ is because the things that we design have another primary function - for example, sometimes they help you move or make you able to do things you couldn’t otherwise do.”
When she talks to people, Rebeccah places a lot of accent on explaining that this is an emerging area, which will allow for major changes as technologies advance and become more integrated in the everyday. Currently, they are working on a few projects revolving around wearable robotics, but for the long term, Rebeccah sees a lot of possibilities: from complex performative costumes that can be used with artistic purposes to hands-on medical products that improve the life quality of people in need. Rebeccah is one of the people of today who sees the fact that the world of tomorrow will be all about connection. As technologies become more and more subtle and advanced, it is most probable that everything will be connected. More and more people are now talking about the possibilities brought on by the Internet of Things (IoT), on which Rebeccah actually teaches a class at Pratt.
Sensible connection
Despite all the connectivity that is now emerging, Rebeccah is one of the few people who understands very well the human side of using technology and says that, while she does love wearable technology, not everything has to be connected and that technology can work well with humans only when there is a seamless integration between the two. “If I have to use more things that make me log in with a password… I’m going to freeze. I work in technology, but I can’t keep up with handling too many passwords. Sometimes, you have to allow extra
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time in your day to solve password-issues” she explains. “Things need to work well with each other; otherwise it can turn into a nightmare”. According to Rebeccah, one solution to this issue is for the companies who work on these projects to use the same protocols, so that everything can be seamlessly intertwined.
Superhumans or ordinary tech
Back to our roots or dystopia?
Technological advancements usually result in changes of aesthetics. Currently, we are seeing two parallel directions in fashion and clothing, one direction being the ultra-natural and the other being the very futuristic. Visà-vis this issue, Rebeccah says: “I love the idea that it’s human nature to always have a backlash against some-
Directions and uses
In the end, what is very important for Rebeccah is that people understand that there are two main directions wearable technology can have. One, the performative one, where the technology is visible - this is generally used for artistic purposes, such as a series of tutus she created for the Brooklyn ballet, which would light up as the dancers would move; and the second aspect being the informative one, which describes a garment that has first and foremost a practical use. The idea of the jacket that adapts to different weather conditions would be a good example of that.
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Taking a global look at the spread of technology, one can’t help but notice that different people have access or can afford only certain types of technological products. In this sense, as tech becomes more and more advanced, it seems that in the near future, some parts of the world, or even some groups within smaller areas such as cities, will remain behind, while others will turn into superhumans. In regards to this problem, Rebeccah says that this is something about which she thinks a lot. However, the solutions seems rather simple; namely that advanced technology as connected to clothing or the human body should be used only when there is a real need for it. For example, clothes that adapt to changing temperatures can be of great help for those living in climates where temperatures change drastically from one moment to another. “I think we are going to see a lot of growth in wearable technology in health and athletics” Rebeccah explains. “We have a great lack of mobility and that many products can offer people the mobility they don’t have.” Given that wearable technology is also quite expensive; the advent of these new products also has the potential to create a social divide. In regards to this issue, Rebeccah says that it’s definitely something that is already here: “It’s been happening for years in athletics - somebody invents something and you can run faster, a new shoe comes along and you can jump higher - and not everybody has access to the newest innovation.”
thing that is really dystopian.” Thus, she thinks that we will be able to incorporate technology in things that are bespoke in order to preserve the idea of having things that are personal and original. “This way, it wouldn’t be intimidating to people.” Sometimes, however, according to Rebeccah, it can be beneficial to play up wearable technology. For example, if someone is wearing a robotic arm for medical reasons, they might be happier for it to look like something from a Marvel movie than a stiff wax figure arm. “This is also an opportunity to rethink what an arm is or what it can be. The running blade is an example I like: it’s not a leg and it doesn’t look like one.”
At the moment, Rebeccah is working on an exciting new project she can’t share much about, but let’s just say it involves clothes that act like your muscles and thus allow you to lift more - if this doesn’t say “the future is here”, what does?
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The Estro Edit q 6 Things We Like about the Olaaf Watch Straps Olaaf is a new watch strap brand from France, which goes all out by offering its customers innovative and cool straps that compliment their watches and enhance their watch wearing experience. We got the chance to meet Olaaf founders Jeremy and Antoine and to check out their unisex straps. From featuring a special layer that makes them comfortable in heat to being hypoallergenic, the Olaaf watch straps have many characteristics we like. Here they are: They are stylish. Olaaf ’s straps are the only interchangeable wristwatches straps that feature a patented double-point clasp. The design is not just easy to use, but also very stylish and can even double as just a bracelet. On their website, you can customize your own strap by choosing from a variety of options in terms of colors and details. They come in various widths and their colors are soft, but vibrant. They are versatile. While the Olaaf straps have a sporty feel due to the fact that they are made from rubber, they are also quite versatile. The black or dark blue straps are of course neutral (in fashion, neutral colors are those colors that go with any other color), which means that they can be worn not just with any clothes, but they can also be attached to pretty much any watch too. The other options, the teal, the green and the orange straps are more particular and are great for those who want to mix and match them with their watches. For example, if you have a watch that features orange, you can go for the orange strap, or you can opt for the teal one for a complementary color combination, which is based on contrasting colors and is very dynamic and youthful. Moreover, the fact that the straps are interchangeable allows you to switch between them and have a completely different aesthetic. For example, a green strap can give your watch a more military, sporty vibe, while a black is more business-appropriate. They are hypoallergenic. One of the main traits of the Olaaf straps is that they are made from an innovative hypoallergenic medical rubber. This means that they just the right thing for those who can’t wear watches (or bracelets) because of their allergies. They are light and comfortable. The Olaaf watch straps are some of the most comfortable you’ll ever wear (and we don’t throw that kind of appreciation easily). To do this, the founders made them not only from very light but durable rubber, but they also covered them with a soft touch coating that makes them have a “peach skin feel”, which prevents the bracelets from sticking to the wearer’s skin. This is a feature that is particularly great for people who live in very hot climates or who tend to get easily hot, sweaty or simply uncomfortable. They smell great. One of the main particularities of the Olaaf straps is that they have a subtle perfume embedded in them, which adds an extra layer to the whole wearing experience. When you order your strap, you can also order and extra FiiLiT Box that you can use as a regular perfume. This can bring a refined sense of cohesion in your overall style. They are a good deal. Given all the many great traits these straps have, they are quite affordable, at about 55 EUR / 61 USD (for just the strap). To conclude, it can be said that the Olaaf watch straps can make a great addition to any watch wearer’s collection and can also make for great gifts, as they smell good, are comfortable, are hypoallergenic and have a great design. They are available in boutiques across France and Switzerland, but can also be ordered online. Wearing a comfortable watch strap can change your watch wearing experience drastically - comfort is key not just when choosing your clothes, but when picking your accessories as well, which is why investing in a great watch strap is something we advise people to do.
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Photos: From top to bottom: 1, 4, 5: Attire Club 2, 3: Olaaf
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Four Seasons Art
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The Barrington Single Winder in Review
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watch winder is something that many people would not necessarily see as something they need. However, many watch collectors and enthusiasts have a special place on their desk for their watch winders. These come in different shapes and sizes and, of course, in different price. We recently discovered Barrington, a UK brand that offers a collection of different types of watch winders and got to use and check out the Barrington Single Winder ourselves. At a first glance, the Barrington Single Watch Winder is a rather good-looking piece: it is compact and shiny and makes a nice addition to an office or a shelf. Its fine polish makes it look quite precious, but it also needs to be carefully dusted and shined. In theory, a dark box would not make a great addition to a work desk, but its piano-like shine makes it feel warm and rather homely. The simple design makes it go with pretty much any
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type of dÊcor, so it is not likely that it will be a misfit in your office or wherever you may keep it. It measures only 11.5 cm / 4.5 in x 12 cm / 4.7 in x 16 cm / 6.2 in, but it is very stable and strong. It uses a quiet Japanese motor (you won’t even notice it) and works either by two batteries or by a regular electricity supply. It can turn clockwise, counterclockwise or it can alternate be-
tween the two. The price of the winder is of £125 / $161 and they ship worldwide. The main thing that is noticeable when using the watch winder is that it is a rather good, balanced product. Usually, watch winders are either highly expensive products, which is why not many people use them, or they are a rip-off. In this sense, Barrington did manage to create a product that combines a rather good quality and experience with an affordable price. Come to think about it, even a no-name watch winder that is hard to track back is usually a bit more expensive. Moreover, the user experience is also quite good: the winder arrives very safely packed and can be easily installed in no time, which is great for those who are busy or who don’t like having to always learn how to use new products.
you don’t want to go for something cheap and easily breakable and, if you are a skeptic about it (as many are), you probably don’t want to overspend either. Its compact size and subtle design make it for a nice addition to a desk or shelf, which is likely to go with any taste. It is strong, which means that it won’t break easily and it can be taken on travels. If you are considering buying watch winder for yourself or for someone else, the Barrington Single Winder is a good option to consider. More: barringtonwatchwinders.com Photos: Attire Club
People who like to switch up their watches and are quite busy will find this winder to be of tremendous help. The Barrington Single Winder works with pretty much any watch it has a spring mechanism that allows it to fit to watches of different sizes), which means that you don’t have to worry about that. Moreover, since it is quite a nice and versatile product, it also makes for a nice gift for someone who is a watch enthusiast. In conclusion, the Barrington Single Winder is a winder that finds the middle point between affordability and quality. Ultimately, if you are to buy a watch winder,
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THE ATTIRE CLUB MOOD DIARY Our mood board as a visual journal
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Angel Gabriel, mosaic in the Hagia Sophia, 9th c
Brothers of Humanity All major religions of the world have angels as part of their tradition in one way or another. From subtle references to clearer ones such as in the Gospel of Matthew, angelic creatures are often described as messengers or helpers to people, especially in the case of guardian angels. In this sense, angels can be seen as companions of our consciousness - they pull us aside and draw attention to when we do wrong, but they are also a reminder of the notion that we are, in fact, never alone.
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Saint Matthew and the Angel by Caravaggio, 1602
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St. Matthew and the Angel by Rembrandt, 1661
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The Inspiration of Saint Matthew by Caravaggio, 1602
Vision after the Sermon by Paul Gauguin, 1888
Three Angels and Young Tobias by Filippino Lippi, 1485
The Sistine Madonna (Detail) by Raphael, 1512
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Our Lady of the Assumption with Saints Miniato and Julian (Detail) by Andrea del Castagno, 1450
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The Style Map {A style trip of colors, brands and stories} Photos: Attire Club
Looking dapper with a colorful bow tie designed by Attire Club
Telling time with a vintage Raketa watch
Shopping at Hermès Making a great impression with a Rolex
Z Brand Focus: The Dark Knot Accessories have the ability not just of completing an outfit and making you look polished and put-together, but also of expressing who you are to the world and, why not, to yourself. This is why we recommend having a collection of great go-to accessories. The Dark Knot is a brand known for its cool ties, pocket squares, lapel pins and more! On their website, one can find a series of great items that can make a great addition to any man’s closet. They also make for wonderful gifts! Discover TDK at thedarkknot.com Photos: Attire Club
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1 The Crown Returns
he third season of The Crown was recently released and saw the anticipated change of cast, as the characters in the story now saw themselves at a different age and a different place in their lives and dynamics. It can be said that growing older was one of the main themes of the season - the opening episode can be seen as an indicator of that, its title being “Olding” (a double play on words). However, by the end of the season, it can be argued that it was not just the first
It can be argued that this confusion and apparently unmotivated mood change was a reflection of the vibe of the era, as more and more people were going through changes they couldn’t really explain, as depicted in the “Moondust” episode, in which Prince Philip decides to admit that his numb relation to faith has changed his life in a way that is not exactly positive - affecting his strive for meaning and joy. The story of him becoming friends with the Dean of Windsor, Robin Woods, was a powerful and, above all, modern storyline.
episode, but also the last one that defined the season, as the closing episode was titled “Cri de Coeur”.
Princess Anne. In a season where everyone was quite cold and not really likeable, the sibling pair carried the heavy lift of the entire season. The two characters were very charismatic and relatable and their story arches were the most interesting to watch.
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YRead this article with a song!
As we predicted in our review of the first two seasons, the vibe of the series did change - this time around it was not so much anymore about deeply-rooted people facing a decaying world, but more about the outside events that shaped the characters. And here lies one of the problems with the season, namely that, even if we do get a lot of stories, we don’t receive a lot of answers to the question of “why?” Right from the first episode, we see a Queen different from the one we left off, but don’t really understand the changes that took place within her. Prince Philip becomes rather stern and superficial, compared to his passionate and sometimes humorous self during the first seasons. The Queen Mother also seemed to have a rupture from her “former self ”.
However, the big surprise and the strongest point of the series were the characters that were not much explored during the first two seasons, namely Prince Charles and
This season did have a few strong points, but not as many as the previous ones, but, in all fairness, it often happens that a middle season of a show to simply have the role of building up backstories and charcater developments for the episodes to come. All in all, The Crown is still a great show (even if just for the cinematography, sets and accents), so we’ll keep watching to see what happens next.
2 Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right: Europe, Europe
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uropa Europa is a 1990 drama directed by Agnieszka Holland. The original German title of the film is Hitlerjunge Salomon, lit. Hitler Youth Salomon as it is based on Solomon Perel’s 1989 autobiography Ich war Hitlerjunge Salomon (I Was Hitler Youth Salomon).
The premise of the film is simple, yet shocking and the story is complex and intricate: Solek and his family, who were Jewish, live in Nazi Germany and flee to Poland as the persecution against Jews begins. However, soon enough, they find themselves again in troubled times and circumstances make it so that Solomon arrives in a communist orphanage, where he is taught about the mightiness of Stalin and the Russian regime. However, when the orphanage is ambushed by German forces, in order to escape, he claims to be German (which he was), but does not say that he was also Jewish. He thus becomes a member of the Nazi forces and lives in constant fear of being discovered for who he really was. He even becomes a hero for his group and is sent to Germany to the top Nazi school as an example of the greatness Nazi boys can be, and there, things become even more complicated as he falls in love with a girl who was highly dedicated to the party.
The story presented in the film may be an extraordinary one, but the takeaways of the film are even more powerful. Firstly, the film draws attention to the realities of war - it’s interesting how towards the end of the film, Solomon is told that he can’t even share his story because nobody would believe it. The second, more important takeaway is the lesson that just if something is “bad”, doesn’t imply that what opposes it is “good”. The film came out at a time when many Europeans were breaking from communism and thus was quite relevant for the time, but it can be argued that it is more relevant today than it was in the past. Our world seems to see everything in black and white and, what this production makes clear is that just if something is opposed to an element we consider “evil”, doesn’t automatically make it good. It’s a mind twist for many, but it is something we need to relearn. Europa Europa shows how one can find himself in a climate in which one may escape one hell to simply end up in another. Un f o r t u n a t e l y, we are seeing more and more division in the world of today, not so much between countries, but in each country individually. This film is an essential picture for today’s world: we all need to understand that “evil” does come in many shapes and forms and we should not forget the stories which have shaped the history of Europe and the world. attireclub.org |
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The Attire Club 2019 Style Portfolio: Brandmania
The focus of the 2019 Attire Club Style Portfolio was the idea of the new culture that is emerging and the fresh logomania, which, in most cases these days, is hand-made. It’s the dawning of a new age, but now, most of the newcomers are just in buds. More: attireclub.org 86 | InCompanytAttirehClub
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Discover the websites featured in this issue!
John-MikaĂŤl Flaux u john-mikael-flaux.com Page 17
Chopard u chopard.com Page 67
Yaki Bracelets u yakibracelets.com Pages 26, 45
Sternglas u sternglas.de Page 69
The Gentleman Blogger u thegentlemanblogger.com Page 31
Olaaf u olaaf.fr Page 72
Les Taureaux u lestaureaux.wordpress.com Page 49
Barrington Watch Winders u barringtonwatchwinders.com Page 75
Liev Arts u lievarts.com Pages 26, 66, 73
The Dark Knot u thedarkknot.com Page 83
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Always Addressing Power Dressing
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Il Tagliapanni (The Tailor) by Giovan Battista Moroni, 1565 - 1570
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