Together Gentleman Issue 14

Hot stuff – New from Aqua di Parma, Colonia Sandano is a reinterpretation of the Italian fashion and lifestyle company’s first-ever fragrance, Colonia, which was created in 1916…

Masculine in the extreme, it marries the fresh citrus notes of the OG with rich, creamy, balsamic-y Indian sandalwood, for an effect that’s a little bit zesty and a little bit woody. In India, the sandalwood tree is considered to be a protective plant with a perfume that has the power to ward off evil spirits, which bodes well for an auspicious occasion such as this. But why would you really want to wear it? Because she’ll think you smell sexy as hell, available at WORLD.

 Stay classy – With its flagship store in the heart of London’s Mayfair, venerable British brand Drake’s is one of the most respected menswear makers in the world. Among other things, the label does a damn fine pocket square, which is otherwise known as a simple, sophisticated way to add personality and colour to your wedding get-up. Already stockists of Drake’s handmade ties, Crane Brothers is now importing the Large Spot Pochette for distinguished gents who know what’s up. Crafted from cotton and silk, it’d look great on you on the big day; make a fine thank-you for your groomsmen, dad or father in-law; and totally work for summer polo and racing as well.

Accessorise all areas – He may have variously had us wondering where is the love and where’d you get yo’ body from, but these days musician Will.i.am’s got us asking how we can get our hands on his new eyewear range. The answer is Specsavers, and grooms should go there ASAP to peruse the exclusive selection of super-cool styles. Riffing off his personal collection of vintage eyewear while adding a futuristic beat, the 17 looks includes 14 optical options and three pairs of prescription shades. Old mate Will says, “If I’m going to take the time to make sure my shoes, coat and hat look good together, I’m always going to complete the outfit with a great pair of glasses” – an approach we think hits exactly the right note.

 Copy that – Although the jaunty use of the word ‘ciao’ as a greeting remains ill-advised for anyone who’re not actually Italian, imitating the nation’s good taste in tailoring is another matter, and now you can do just that at Barkers. Premium Italian suiting is newly available in selected stores and as part of the made-to-measure service in Auckland’s High Street and Wellington’s Lambton Quay – a top option for grooms seeking a one-of-a-kind look. It’s all thanks to the brand’s collaboration with world-class, family-run fabric mill Lanificio Cerruti, established in 1881. They sure know their fabric, and Barkers definitely knows suiting – really, it’s a match made in heaven. Exclusive to Barkers, the European cloth will be introduced season by season according to trends and popular demand.

 Hell for leather – You might want to step on it to get your hands on this piece of pared-back perfection. The ideal weekender for your stag do or carry-on for your honeymoon, it’s one of several recent additions to Working Style’s range of leatherware, sitting alongside briefcases, backpacks, wallets, passport holders and whatnot in chocolate, black, blue, forest green and grey. Minimal detailing is the hallmark of this collection, which is stacked with items that are durable yet supple, lined with quality fabric and will only get better with age. Rolled handles for your comfort, a detachable shoulder strap, internal pockets and nickel-plated hardware are just some of the features that make this little guy worth putting pedal to the metal for.

 In bin – Got zero chill? Change your attitude with Napoleon Goods’ upgrade of a picnic and party essential. Available in lemon and white, this bad boy is as lightweight as its daggy old cousins but features sweet stainless steel handles and latches that really step up its game. Not only does it look fly, it’s also a sweet size that fits 18 standard bottles, so you won’t need a hand to lift it, but will be able to carry everything you need for drinks on the lawn, a day on the boat or a night around a bonfire. Plus, it’ll help you keep your cool for 12 whole hours. Available at Paper Plane

Words by Philippa Prentice | Illustrations by Anieszka Banks