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In the new issue of Gay News, 2010

Published in topic:

Lifestyle & Fashion (112)

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Fashion & Beauty - Summer Items

With the summer in mind we give you an overview of a number of products that are easy to use, smell good, will make you look good and are healthy for you as well.

Summer Fruit

The ultimate summer hit of this year will undoubtedly be the açai berry. This miracle berry simply contains everything we need, and in ridiculously high concentrations. Like vitamin B1, B2, B3 and C, phosphor, calcium, fibers and omega 3, 6 and 9.

Masculine Beauty 2010

Lab Series Skincare for Men

The innovative team of Lab Series has outdone itself in developing the ultimate anti-aging product for men and now presents the Max LS Age-Less Face Cream, which triggers skin cells to live longer and even repair damage. The hydrating and non-greasy formula of Max LS Age-Less Face Cream feels nourishing, it’s as if the skin drinks in the anti-aging technology.

Style 2010 Paris

Over 2009, France has seen a four percent decline in clothing sales. With sales totalling thirty billion euros, the French clothing market does remain one of the largest players in Europe. Nevertheless, the French refer to last year as an “Annus Horribilis.” According to Dutch bank ING, high-street sales will not make a full recovery from the global crunch until 2015. But which players will survive?

Style 2010 - Milan

The continuing crisis is changing the fashion experience from a visible sign of style and luxury, to a way to escape the harsh reality. Several designers highlight the positivism of their collections.

To the Italian fashion industry 2009 will go down in history as the worst in the past twenty years. The global financial crisis caused Italian Men’s wear sales to drop with ten percent to 8.3 billion euro.

Fashion Designer Francisco van Benthum: ‘It’s My Drive To Make Beautiful Things’

He’s definitely considered one of the best Dutch designers for men. His clothes look un-Dutch, which is a big compliment. His collections look international and can compete with the best brands from the fashion industry. And although he shows his work in Paris his clothes are for sale in The Netherlands.

Fashion - XTG, Sexy And Comfortable

The fantastic underwear label XTG comes to Holland from sun-drenched Grand Canary. XTG stands for Extreme Game. The Canarian people find XTG sexy, innovative and comfortable. The merchandise is very original with unusual prints which remind us of tattoos, figures from comics and sports’ icons in bright colors. All of outstanding quality, designed by Luis Mentado.

Kiehl’s Supports AIDS Organizations With Profit Hand Cream

For this coming winter we would like to highlight two of Kiehl’s amazing products. The first is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. This moisturizing cream was tested in harsh conditions. Mountaineers of the “Greenland First Ascent” expedition have tested the cream and found their skin perfectly hydrated all through the day, even when temperatures were extremely volatile.

Make-Up For Men

Men will have to get used to the idea that make-up is no longer the exclusive territory of women. Now that piercings, tattoos and body decoration have been adopted as acceptable for men, make-up will inevitably follow suit and gays will as usual be the early adapters...

Masculine Beauty 2009-2010

La Nuit de L’Homme

To make sure the wonderful scent of La Nuit de L’Homme by Yves Saint Laurent will stay with us for a long time, the line has been extended with a range of three products: an all-in-one shower gel, an aftershave balm and a deodorant stick. Products which perfume the body lightly, soothe it and nourish it.

Style 2009-2010 Paris

Recent figures show that the Dutch fashion industry is relatively unaffected by the recession till now. Turnover dropped over the first half year in 2009 with an average of 2.7% in comparison with 2008. While the second half year of 2009 men’s fashion started off well with a plus of 6.3%. The start of a recovery?

Style 2009-2010 Milan

The continuing economical crisis is the cause for some jet-black pages in the history of fashion. Practically every Italian fashion label is reporting losses over 2008. And the forecasts for 2009 also remain negative. As a result of the crisis about 11.5 million jobs have been lost in the textile industry since June 2008. These insecure times have created a fearful consumer, who rather saves than spends.

Beautiful Gay Advertising

Unfortunately we don’t see much commercial advertising specifically aimed at the homosexual community on the Dutch market. The cosmetic industry has no qualms advertising in gay magazines in other countries, so why then do they ignore the Dutch market?

Beauty - Holiday Items

Le Male Gaultier

Jean Paul Gaultier’s fragrance Le Male has been an undisputable hit for fifteen years now. In The Netherlands and Germany it belongs to the best-selling brands of all male perfumes. This summer a special sunny edition is introduced: Le Male Stimulating Summer. Inspired by Gaultier’s pirate collection the fragrance takes you to paradise where exuberant fauna and radiant flora blend together.

Beauty & Fashion - Made in Holland

Recent research shows that Dutch brands are getting more and more popular. In times of recession and insecurity people turn to recognizable local products. Dutch products are popular with the Dutch consumers. Great to support the Dutch economy as well: here are four Dutch products we gladly recommend.

Masculine Beauty 2009

SKIN CARE

Giorgio Armani

As an addition to the assortment Skin Minerals For Men, Armani introduces the Refinishing Fluid, inspired by volcanic power and enriched with minerals for a high quality in skin perfection. A hydrating formula that instantly smooths the skin. Day after day the lines are reduced and skin has a rejuvenated luster. Refinishing Fluid, recommended retail price € 48.35.

Style 2009 Paris

The continuing crisis shows that even things that looked steady and secure, can all of a sudden just topple over. Consumers are insecure and hesitate about spending money on luxurious expensive items. Designer labels will face difficult times because orders will most definitely be smaller than before. Only the best will probably survive...

Style 2009 - Milan

The fashion world is also affected by the worldwide economic downturn. Last January fashion labels Valentino and Marni cancelled the expensive catwalk presentations for their men’s collections 2009/2010. Last year the Valentino Fashion Group was taken over for 2.6 billion euros but was appraised recently for only 1.27 billion as a result of the crisis. Consumers are pessimistic about the future and therefore much more careful when it comes to spending on fashion.

Fashion - Diesel & Punto Blanco

Diesel Mowie

Diesel’s empire is constantly growing: after clothing, accessories and perfume, the label now also boasts motor helmets. Last October Diesel launched the “Mowie Helmet” at a trade fair in Cologne. This unisex helmet was produced by AGV and designed by the Diesel Creative Team; it’s available in XS to XL.

Fashion

Organic Underwear

The Danish fashion label Mads Norgaard-Copenhagen introduces their first line of underwear, made of 100% organic cotton. Without lycra, only cotton. Fabricated in one of the oldest underwear factories in Denmark. The collection consists of two models: boxer shorts with narrow legs and the familiar brief, both in black as well as in white. Additionally there are temporary models every season with political texts on the waistband. The white boxer says “Free Tibet” and the black one proclaims “Obama for President.”

Style 2008-2009 - Paris

Research in forty-eight countries has shown that Gucci is the most popular luxury label in the world. Followed by Chanel, Calvin Klein and Louis Vuitton. If money wasn’t an issue, one out of five consumers worldwide would opt for Gucci as their preferred label. Funny enough 43% of the Dutch (the highest score) wouldn’t buy luxury products, even if they had the money for it, and only seven percent of all the men, regards themselves as a “big spender” when it comes to fashion.

Masculine Beauty 2008-2009

Kiehl’s Since 1851

Men are often the best and most loyal customers when it comes to beauty products. Kiehl’s (the highly recommended New York pharmacist) has been developing specialized men’s skin products since 1950. Now it’s introducing Facial Fuel Anti Wrinkle Cream, a protective cream especially developed for men. Not greasy, moisturizing and revitalizing.

Fashion - Style 2008-2009 - Milaan

The panicky atmosphere in the United States, caused by the financial crisis and the high commodity prices has also had its effect on the Dutch consumer’s sentiment. More consumers are less confident about the future, so they spend less as well. The economy grew with 3.5% over 2007, but this year it will have gone down to 2.1%, and over 2009 it will have gone down even further to 1.6%. Especially next year we will feel the effects in Holland. Big purchases are put off and luxury products go down, especially when it comes to fashion.

Fashion - Style 2008-2009 - Milaan

Yves Saint Laurent (August 1, 1936 – June 1, 2008)

“The gods are bored and have called her to be with them,” Yves Saint Laurent once said about the death of his heroine Maria Callas. Even in his own lifetime he had become a living legend. An absolute genius who wrote the most beautiful pages of the French fashion history. Beauty made him happy. He was someone who was convinced that beauty was an essential luxury for both men and women. To him: “The most beautiful things a woman can wear, are the arms of the man she loves. I’m only here for the ones who haven’t found that happiness yet...”

Fashion - Swimwear

Speedo

Speedo’s spring/summer collection 2008 will illuminate you, as light, in all its facets, was the inspiration for the new designs. Whether you’re in or out of the water, you ought to look as good as you feel. Speedo identified two different qualities of light to express this: Laser Light and Radiant Light. The first one aims at the energy focus of professional swimmers.

Fashion - 100% Denim

Wrangler

Wrangler got its inspiration for the Spring/Summer collection from a unique and exciting history: its own start in 1904. The company is going back to basic with key words: real craftsmanship, robust clothes, functional and simple in design. Completely new cuts for men are introduced; new techniques make them completely modern, with emphasis on traditional accents.

Skin Care - Masculine Beauty 2008

Nivea for Men Extreme Comfort

Nivea for Men worked for over two years on the development of Extreme Comfort to perfect the formula. A sophisticated combination of micro technology and natural ingredients makes for an ultra smooth shave without irritating the skin. The Extreme Comfort Shaving Gel prepares the skin and prevents abrasion. It softens the skin tissue so the razor slides super fast over the chin.

Fashion - Style 2008 - Parijs

The frivolity which is often associated with the fashion industry is a sharp contrast to reality. Millions of dollars are involved in this creative business. With designers who are used to create multinationals from labels. In the fifteen-minute shows the label must show what it stands for. The outrageously expensive catwalk shows are the showpiece for the label. And can be ruthlessly cut down. The collections have to convince hardened journalists and give the label prestige.

Fashion - Style 2008 - Milaan

Fashion, luxury and men... they seem to get closer and closer together. It’s a fact that men’s fashion has grown explosively in size over the past couple of years. “The male consumer has so much to choose from nowadays that he’s willing to pay much more for quality. He prefers large Italians labels,” states Raffaello Napoleone (head of the Pitti Uomo men’s fair in Florence).

Fashion

Diesel Fuel For Life

Diesel likes to break with conventions and decided to introduce their life elixir Fuel for Life in a “Pocket Jewel” edition. Fuel for Life is the fragrance Diesel introduced last fall. A mysterious elixir that smells very sexy and energetic. Very masculine with a hint of aniseed and dry wood. Now this fluid is also available hidden inside a piece of jewelry.

Fashion - Marc O’Polo and Timberland

Marc O’Polo, European Urban Casual

The Swedish fashion label Marc O’Polo’s style is best described as European Urban Casual. Over the years Marc O’Polo has developed a distinct style and fashion has never been a shallow thing to them, which can be expressed by their core values: natural, simplicity, quality and innovation. When polyester was the most favored fabric Marc O’Polo insisted on using cotton and linen only.

Skin Care - Masculine Beauty 2007

L’Oréal Men Expert

After having hired many actresses to promote their products, now the cosmetic industry has turned to men. L’Oréal Paris has contracted actor Matthew Fox as the new face of the Men Expert product line, worldwide. According to L’Oréal the leading character from the successful tv-series “Lost” is the perfect ambassador for Men Expert.

Fashion - Style 2007-2008: Paris

Fashion labels turn more and more into multinational companies and the transfers of designers remind us of those of top soccer players. Just like in the sporting world the best performers are bought by competing clubs or simply fired from their position. There’s no room for inflated egos. A well-known name (like Tom Ford for example) is no guarantee for a permanent position with a fashion label (like Gucci). The fashion world can be tough and merciless.

Fashion - Style 2007-2008 - Milan

The Italian fashion world plunged into mourning by the sudden death of the 62-year-old designer Gianfranco Ferré. He died from a stroke on the 17th of June. The designer had two strokes before but managed to recover. Ferré started off as an architect but turned to fashion in the seventies, which gave him the nickname: “L’architetto Ferré.”.” In 1978 he started the label Gianfranco Ferré and he was also artistic director with Christian Dior from 1989 till 1997.

Fashion - Eyewear & Aquawear

Eyewear By Dryberg/Kern

Divine inspiration connects Dryberg/Kern’s eyewear collection with their Spring/Summer jewelry for 2007 (Gay News 185, January 2007). The sunglasses are glamorous and fashionable. The man is not forgotten: Dryberg/Kern introduces “Eyewear for Him.” A collection of fashionable sunwear with masculine designs and innovative fit.

Fashion : Jewellery - Swatch - Bodyshirt

Buddha To Buddha, Handmade And Strong

In India “Buddha to Buddha” stands for an extended and impressive conversation between two people. Such a conversation must have taken place with the founder of this jewellery manufacturer, Batul Loomans. And the name of his line of jewellery was found. It all began when in 1997 he made a sketch of a design for a bracelet while sunbathing on the beach of Goa in India. It had to be a strong and solid bracelet.

Beauty - Trois Parfums

Jean Paul Gaultier Fleur du Male

Gaultier released a classic with his first perfume for men in 1995: “Le Male.” It’s been one of the best selling fragrances for years already. The bottle is very recognizable with the shape of a male torso. The same bottle is used in white for his latest scent: Fleur du Male. Gaultier transforms the venomous poem by Charles de Baudelaire, “Fleurs du mal” (Flowers of Evil) into a sensitive and masculine “Fleur du Male.”

Fashion - Butch And Masculine In Chasin’ Denim

Chasin’ Denim is a fast growing top label in jeans. It distinguishes itself by a recognizable line of fashionable denim and related products such as T-shirts, sweaters, jackets and jeans. The label is best described with words like masculine, butch and fashionable. Chasin’ Denim’s new campaign is exactly that: butch and masculine. Outfits which show what the modern man should look like. The designers drew inspiration from the typical uniform look for their spring/summer collection.

Fetish Fashion - ‘Leather should wrap the body of a handsome guy’

“The screaming queens are crazy about heavy and macho leather jackets and impossibly high boots. When you look at them you think he’s a young submarine commander, but if you’d hand him a gun he’d start to whimper and would probably drop it on his toes. Real men... I don’t think so.” Gerard Reve wrote this on the 29th of January 1974 to a lover, referring to a young Dutch writer who had visited him.

Beauty - Lancôme Loves Men

Nothing will be more effective in the battle against so-called love handles than a solid number of sit-ups every week. So that’s exactly the training program Biotherm packed in with their bottle of Abdosculpt. Biotherm Homme’s first body gel has a double impact: weight reduction as well as firming the skin. It stimulates the breaking down of fat and tightens the skin. Active ingredients and special acids stimulate the natural peeling of the skin so that caffeine and other substances which help you lose weight can do their work.

Fashion - Style 2007 - Paris

“Menswear is thriving under a new generation of designers like Raf Simons and Hedi Slimane at Dior Homme. Men in general are much more interested in fashion than they were ten years ago. There is suddenly a new impertinence in menswear that did not previously exist,” says Didier Grumbach, head of French fashion’s governing body. That men’s fashion is booming is apparent from the many fashion labels which are bringing out complete men’s collections.

Fashion - Style 2007 - Milaan

The fashion industry has gone through some difficult times but fortunately peace and growth have returned. It’s going very well again and sales are on the increase. Mario Boselli (President of the Camera Della Moda Italiana) confirms: “After five bad years we seem to have come to a turning point. At the end of 2005 we saw an improvement and we are optimistic about the near future. The foreign markets especially (USA and Japan) have shown a recovery for the textile industry.” For 2006 the Camera Della Moda Italiana expects an increase of three percent in sales, compared to 2005. Which would be good for 64 million euros.

Fashion - The Men’s Skirt... Five Years Later

Exactly five years ago Gay News published its first article on the men’s skirt. It was one of the most popular fashion articles, so the topic apparently appeals to a lot of readers. In contrast to five years ago there’s now a lot of info on this unusual piece of clothing to be found on internet too. There are quite a few forums of male skirt wearers sharing their opinions and experiences. It seems that for a lot of straight men the skirt is mainly popular at home. It’s about time they came out of the closet.

Jan Jansen, In His Shoes

Jan Jansen has been in the business for 45 years and his name will ring a bell with many people. The fact he turned 65 at the same time, offered an ideal opportunity to honor Holland’s most celebrated shoe designer. The Art and Theatre foundation and Christie’s jointly organize a unique auction at Christie’s Amsterdam on the 14th of February. “Jan Jansen, In His Shoes” will be the first shoe auction in Holland and the collection of the designer is just outstanding.

Fashion - Lee's Denim Fashion

The jeans label Lee presents two lines for this fall and winter 2006/2007: the Lee X-line and the Lee Spirit collection. You’ll discover a fusion of punk and ska influences in the X-line, manufactured of delicate and tight denim and available in varying styles. All styles have an innovative contemporary finish and cuts that challenge traditional ideas of denim. The punk and ska influences are found in the brashly styled graphic details in black and lavender hues.

Fashion - Style 2006-2007 - Paris

The increasing number of designers and companies focusing on men’s wear make this branch into a booming business. As in the cosmetic industry the fashion world is going through fierce competition to win over the hearts of the male consumer. Gay, straight, metro or übersexual... every type of man is part of a desirable target group, or so it seems for many a fashion label. Creative Director Jose Levy claims the Ungaro man is like “a tiger.”

Style 2006-2007 - Milan

Pure luxury leaks through the Milan men’s collections like sweet honey. Perfectly cut suits and coats that will last for several seasons easily. A man can nowadays spend quite some money on his clothes. And to cater to this apparent fact Giorgio Armani launches his “made to measure” label specifically aimed at men. Handmade clothes indeed, bordering on couture. So here’s the introduction of the artistic branch of fashion for men. Gianfranco Ferré even opened his show of luxury clothes for men with t-shirts saying: “Men’s Couture.” “I am convinced that we have to use style as a way of expression nowadays,” says Ferré, who dedicated the show to himself, because he’s an “elegant man”.

Fashion - Raid Gauloises For Sporty Globetrotters

Raid Gauloises’ new collection for Spring and Summer 2006 is inspired by nature. It shows in the soft, vaguely ethnic cuts as well as in the earthy and airy colors. The essence of the collection lies in the use of natural fibers only. It results in comfortable, washed clothes. Thorough ergonomic research made it possible to design professionally manufactured clothes while replacing technical details by high standard workmanship. Raid Gauloises’ clothes always have a hint of traveling and adventure that suits them perfectly.

Swimwear - Speedo's Olympic Aura

Speedo and swimming are almost synonymous. This swimwear manufacturer exists for over seventy-five years and is a favorite with swimming aces. 83% of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games medalists wore Speedo, just as the twenty-one gold medalists of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. This spring the Australian Speedo offers again top-class swimwear for men. Speedo’s shorts are characterized by a combination of convenience and a clean, fresh and stylized look.

Shopping - Art and Antique Market De Looier Back in Old Hands

De Looier, the large, permanent indoor art and antique market, has been known by many antique collectors for thirty years. On 1st March Hans Becker returned to the helm after being away for twenty years. Hans stopped all those years ago because he wanted to try his hand at something else - and that was Bridge club De Looier. Still, he itched to get back to the market and due to unforeseen circumstances got his chance again to run the business. Wiser from his experiences and naturally moving with the times, there were a few changes in the policy of the market.

Beauty - Skincare

Men have become aware of the fact that they don’t have to be ashamed anymore that they take care of their looks. It is even “not done” anymore to look too nonchalant. Men and their skincare products are getting used to each other. In 2003 Europeans alone spent 27 billion euros on beauty products and it is expected this figure will be 33 billion in 2006. There has been an increase in turnover of men’s beauty products of 40% since 2002. Beauty for men has become big business. The chicken with the golden eggs and every label tries to hatch these.

Beauty - Skincare

Mannen zijn zich ervan bewust geworden dat ze zich niet meer hoeven te schamen om zichzelf te verzorgen. Het is zelfs zo dat het in de huidige maatschappij “not done” is om jezelf te verwaarlozen. Mannen en huidverzorgingsproducten raken steeds meer met elkaar vertrouwd. In 2003 gaven Europeanen alleen al 27 miljard euro uit aan verzorgingsproducten en in 2006 zal dat bedrag stijgen tot ruim 33 miljard euro. Sinds 2002 is er een stijging van veertig procent qua huidverzorgingsproducten voor mannen. Schoonheid voor mannen is big business. Mannen als lucratieve goudhaantjes waar ieder merk wel een graantje van wil meepikken.

Bruuns Bazaar Innovative Fashion For Eternal Nomads

For the one who is not afraid to explore the world and who gets what he wants, there’s Bruuns Bazaar men’s wear. Innovative fashion from Denmark. This label has a large group of fans in the Scandinavian countries. Founded by the brothers Teis and Bjorn Bruun in 1995 and now available in over thirty countries. Bruuns Bazaar combines classic elements in a modern design. Very carefully manufactured. The 2006 Men’s Collection of was drawn from the concepts of the eternal nomad.

Fashion - Style 2006 - Parijs

In the present climate of falling revenues no one – not even top fashion labels - can afford to make a fashion faux pas. Every potential risk must be factored and minimised. No matter the designer, receiving a bad review can jeopardise his position. Such is the story of top designer John Ray. Just three days after the presentation of his 2006-2007 Gucci collection this January, he announced his departure due to “personal reasons.” It’s been suggested, however, that the real reason was the harsh criticism his lack lustre collection received. There’s clearly no room for experimentation anymore. According to Paul Smith it’s important to design what people actually want to buy.

Fashion - Style 2006 - Milan

In the first eight months of 2005 the fashion industry suffered losses, with turnover dropping approximately 4%. For years there’s been talk of a downturn in the fashion world, and since 1996, turnover has plummeted by almost 55% to 250 million euro in 2004. Luckily, November 2005 figures were up 4% from the same period last year. Even so it’s no understatement that many designers are under great pressure from the the luxury label conglomerate’s money men to pull themselves out of the red as quickly as possible.

Jewelry - D/K MAN by Dyrberg/Kern

D/K MAN is the latest crown jewel of the designer duo Gitte Dyrberg and Henning Kern. After having designed jewelry for women for over twenty years, they finally focus on men. For the first time in the history of Dyrberg/Kern they’ve turned towards the guys with robust and masculine jewelry and cool accessories. D/K MAN shows a new aspect of Dyrberg/Kern: masculine, refined and strong. Whether they are minimalist, modern or cool, you can wear D/K MAN everywhere.

Fashion - Schiesser’s High Quality Underwear

Schiesser mainly wants people to feel good and especially in their underwear. That’s why Schiesser pioneers in high quality men’s underwear. Aimed at the non-conforming man who likes first class comfort and modern styling. Premium quality materials and the latest fashion trends dominate the Autumn/Winter collection. The general fashion trends show a dressed-up image influenced by the “upper-class.”

Lifestyle - Dom Perignon Vintage 1988 by Karl Lagerfeld

You can find Dom Perignon in al the luxurious hotels around the world. At royal courts, trendy bars as well as the sultriest nightclubs. It’s the pedigree amongst champagne labels. Dom Perignon champagne rests for seven years in the cellars of Epernay, as did the cuvee of 1998, which was released in 2005. Those seven years are necessary to fully develop the richness and depth of the champagne. Karl Lagerfeld had the honor to present it to the world...

Fashion - Raid Gauloises

The Raid Gauloises clothes collection exists since 2000. Clothes that appeal to the ultimate adventure, designed by the New York stylists of Utilitaria. They were inspired by the outfits of explorers and anthropologists, that are increasingly technical. Durable clothing that has to perform excellently under wildly varying circumstances. Raid Gauloises stands for refined and authentic clothing.

Style 2005-2006: Paris

The current image in the streets, with faded jeans, sneakers, sport’s jackets and long sleeved t-shirts dominating, is in harsh contract with what’s being shown on the catwalks in Paris. You find nothing of the kind in the collections for 2005-2006. The designers prefer formal wear to casual wear. Solid and functional clothes of good quality. Creativity is put on hold this time. Classic and familiar clothing items which are commercially viable in uncertain times of decreasing spending patterns. The frivolous character of fashion is being replaced by tough money business. Because it’s about selling stuff after all...

Style 2005-2006 Milan

Last January the five day fashion scene of Milan granted us a glimpse through the window of the future. With a view on what we’re going to wear this fall. However, this time the view seems to be locked onto the past. A lot of designers paid attention to good old classics. Groomed and impeccably dressed models dominated the catwalks. This longing for decency must especially appeal to the younger generations because it’s the youth that’s most susceptible to trends. As Armani concludes: “That’s a little difficult concept to elderly men.” Safe and solid outfits as a counterweight to unstable times with faltering customer spending.

Fashion - Schiesser Aqua

It promises to be a seductive and colorful summer with the swimming trunks and briefs of Schiesser. This label turns every man into a perfect beach boy. From a Baywatch lifeguard to an unconventional Caribbean surf dude. Schiesser’s Baywatch theme makes you think back to the eighties. Beach shorts and briefs come in classic colors like red and denim and are real eye catchers because of their use of authentic badges and contrasting seams. The pockets with velcro strip are really handy. Prints are hot this summer, so swimming shorts with flower print are the must-haves this season. The Sunshine Reggae theme presents them in kaki with sand colored flower print.

Shopping - Kenkichi, the new fashion Hotspot of Amsterdam!

Kevin Hiraki, an active young fellow, opened up an original fashion store at the Zeedijk a couple of months ago. Several celebrities have already found the way to this up-and-coming hotspot since. Even the Italians were impressed with the original designs of the clothes and accessories. They are planning to open a new shop in Milan next year. Kenkichi is a fashion store without any well-known label for sale. Entering the shop I was struck by a colorful collection of clothes and accessories. Every piece looks so different that it’s hard to take it all in. But it looks very inviting. The clothes offer a rich combination of color and texture. I encounter combinations of pieces and colors I hadn’t seen anywhere else.

Fashion - Swimwear 2005

Even the smallest pieces of clothing, like swimming costumes, are subject to trends. So this will be the summer of the dangerously low-cut micro mini swimming brief. For years only worn by overweight men with big bellies. Now they’re hot with many designers. Gucci presents tiny briefs with the familiar double G-logo or in a butterfly print with a little belt. In mustard colors and browns. To cover up just a little, there are matching oversized caftans with leather hems. And those can be stuffed into the extra big shoulder bags with the same print as the briefs.

Rainbow Experience 2005: A Disaster Or Not?

The Amsterdam RAI expected at least twenty-five thousand visitors at the Rainbow Experience from 23rd till the 25th of April 2005. The Rainbow Experience wanted to be the exuberant center of the European gay community: a trend setting and innovative target group with usually a lot of money to spend. It was with this attitude that the fair opened its doors. The outcome was clear on the second day already as hardly anyone had been prepared to travel to the RAI. The exuberant center as a silent space. How could this happen?

Fashion - Marc O’Polo

While the world seems to be in a rather pessimistic mood Marc O’Polo presents a collection that exudes a remarkable positive energy. Happy clothing with a high “feel good” character. Or, as the French would say: joie de vivre. Basic colors such as white, dark blue and beige are lightened by summery hues like sunny yellow, lime and evening red. Complemented by a rainbow of pastel colors. Marc O’Polo stands for an unconventional and innovating style, especially through his casual wear for men.

Fashion - Style 2005: Paris

The long-lasting divisions between gay and straight are fading more and more. Groomed men with an interest in fashion are becoming more and more important to many fashion labels. Maybe that’s the reason why more and more fashion designers such as Christian Lacroix, Givenchy and Emanuel Ungaro introduce their own men’s collections next to their lady’s wear. The English way of life has settled with all her facets in the Parisian fashion world. It’s an inspiration for many a designer. Men dressed up as seductive Latino pirates with John Galliano, or as university fret boys. Nonchalance with a touch of bohemian sex appeal. Welcome to the shows of men’s collections of June last year.

Fashion - Style 2005 - Milan

Color was the main weapon during the presentation of the men's collections in Milan last June. Colors aimed to make the consumers happy again. To lure men into buying clothes. With a repeated decrease of 3.5% in Italian men's fashion, the “Made in Italy” label seems to have lost some of its luster...

Fasion - Madrid, A Genuine Fashion Heaven

London - Paris - New York... Madrid! A metropolis that can not be omitted from this list. Madrid has several neighborhoods with each their own image and characteristics. All easily reached through its extended subway system. Spain’s capital is the soil for many Spanish designers and labels. An overview...

Fashion - M.A.C.

This Canadian cosmetics coompany profiles itself as a universal make-up brand for both men and women. For everyone who thinks they need it. The products are not specifically aimed at men or women. Total freedom! Make-up Art Cosmetics is for all sexes, all ages & all mixes. Welcome to the world of M.A.C...

Fashion - Steel Icon styled by Maik de Boer

“Your name isn’t on the guest list’, the nicely dressed reception guy told me. I already had treaded over the red carpet with my invitation in my hand. By e-mail, I had made clear that I would like to be at the presentation. Fortunately I could just pass through. Inside it turns out I’m one of the first of the invited. Shortly afterwards, and completely unexpected, Dutch fashion designer Frans Molenaar comes to sit next to me on the small pink couch. He’s accompanied by another designer, Paul Schulten.

Fashion Report - Punto Blanco

Punto Blanco stands for comfort and temptation. Sublime Spanish underwear fashion produced in delicate materials which make it feel alluring. Because of the variety in ranges there are different briefs or boxer shorts available, suiting every single occasion or moment. For winter 2004-2005 the choice ranges from Future Range to City Range... wide choices for every personality.

Style 2004-2005 Paris

The market for luxurious fashion commodities is still growing. Fashion might not be one of the bare necessities of life. However, it’s used to define an identity, something people more and more feel the need for. Besides, the richer people become, the more they spend on luxurious goods. The most important growth market appears to be in Asia nowadays. During the opening of the Louis Vuitton Flagship store in Tokyo, the biggest in the world, there was a sale record broken to the tune of one million dollars, in only one day! Even Christian Dior has booked remarkable sales in Asia and America. Apparently not all the luxurious branches are susceptible to economical depression.

Fashion Report - Style ‘04-‘05 Milan

The Italian fashion industry reported again a relapse of more than 5% over the summer of 2003. The loss over the winter months 2003-2004 is expected to be even more dramatic. Over the year 2003 Gucci reported a nett profit drop of 23%. Also Tom Ford saw his salary declining with 36% in 2003. Over the year 2003 Ford made a base salary of 2.65 million euros, which was 3.95 million a year earlier. “However, the worst is in the past,” according to Giorgio Armani.

Fashion Report - Arena

Both the professional and the recreational swimmer need to go to Arena for their swimming costumes. Since 1975 this brand is specialized in swimming wear. Through the years Arena has hold on to the principle to introduce new and revolutionary fabrics on a regular basis. Like the Arena Stretch 150 and the just introduced Powerskin and Waternity. Powerskin is a woven fabric which has an extremely smooth surface.

Kuyichi Jeans

Kuyichi is the name of the Peruvian god of the rainbow. The legend tells us this god of the Taquile Indians once got angry and took all the colors from them away. By weaving beautiful blankets, the Indians regained the colors of the rainbow.

Gay Games Battle Heats Up

The battle has well and truly begun for the hearts, minds - and wallets - of gay sportsmen and women worldwide. The Federation of Gay Games announced in early March that Gay Games VII will be held in Chicago from 15th July 2006, just two weeks before the "other" Games, to be held in Montreal.

Funny and Exciting Postcards by Sven de Rennes

Call me old-fashioned, but personally I think a hand written letter or postcard is much more intimate to send or to receive - especially when the postman turns out to be a hunk - as electronic mail. I recently visited my favourite gay bookshop to keep my postcard collection up to the mark. In there I found a new range of pretty sketched postcards made by Sven de Rennes.

Gays in Macho Occupations

Aloys, Miele Salesman: “Braces of a bra are causing the most faults!”

Not all gays are occupied as hair dresser, nurse, flight attendant or model. Also in the typical men’s world you’ll meet gays, who will tell their story in this new column.

Style 2004: Milan

In June 2003, presentations of the 2004 men’s summer collection took place in Milan. As opposed to Paris, which determines the current changes of fashion, Milan is better known for its commercial status in the world of fashion. Clothing with the desirable label: “Made in Italy”. And all the famous fashion gurus made an appearance. Jil Sander is back home safe again. On the other hand Tom Ford decided to turn his back on Gucci and the house of Versace is still in turmoil...

Smoking or Non-Smoking

Clothes say something about who you are or who you would like to be. But how is it supposed to be? With the holiday seasons coming up, the problems around the right way of clothing yourself are also rising up. What’s allowed and what’s not? Because not everybody knows exactly how it’s supposed to be, there is something called ‘etiquette’. Dress codes, which when followed, won’t be recognised by everybody, accept the ‘happy few’. They’re the ones who know how it is supposed to be. Here’s a hand guide for those party people who like to dress ‘Sunday best’ for the occasion.

Tout Beau Tout Propre

For the times they are a’changing. Aftershaves, balms, creams, facewashes, face masks, and so on.... Modern man isn’t afraid any longer to be ogled as a lust object. And Gaultier is lending him a helping hand with his latest beauty and cosmetics line Tout Beau Tout Propre

Fashion Report Style '03-'04

S.A.R.S., the war in Iraq and the failing trust of consumers in the economy. The fashion industry, especially mens fashion, has also suffered a bitter blow. Sales in mens fashion have dropped sharply. There's too much emphasis on basics.The male consumer finds the offer in the shops too conservative for his trendy taste.

Flowershop for keeps

Many a song of praise has been raised for that unique charming quarter in Amsterdam, the Jordaan. And also many a book has been writ celebrating the close bonds of friendship and family in what originally once was a working-class district. That the heart of the Jordanese, with his pink net curtains and table lamps with tacky trimmings, has always been in the right place is a well-known fact. Over the last decades the Jordaan has changed into a trendy quarter of international appeal. Rumour has it that Brad Pitt and girlfriend Jennifer Aniston have bought themselves a pied-à-terre here and also Madonna has her eye on one. Such developments often mean death to former solidarity, but not so in the Jordaan.

T(eigetje) & W(oelrat)

Teigetje and Woelrat. Two young men devoting themselves heart and soul to the creation of high quality clothing. With their collection they leave an indelible imprint on Dutch fashion. In their very own way they use linen, wool and suede to transform the wardrobe of men and boys. Also attracting the eye of the national press, who showed up in droves at their latest April show. Of course your roving Gay News reporter used his first row seat to scrutinize proceedings with watchful eye ....

Fashion Report - !00% Skin

For all of us our skin is our survival suit. This microscopic cell system is the body’s largest organ. It protects us and keeps our innards in place. It turns us into sensual beings. In collections nowadays clothing to cover the skin seems more and more unimportant. The main focus is on the skin itself ... the naked body. Emphasis seems to be more on the amount of skin one is showing. Lots of exhibitionism is shamelessly allowed this summer. A revealing survey with the naked facts ...

Eyewear 2003

Location: Docklands in Amsterdam
Date: February 15
Temp. outside: -10 C.
Temp. inside: tropical

Painting from the heart

In contemporary society everything is about marketing and large scale enterprise. Success equals money and media coverage. Superficial monster productions bring crowds screaming to their feet. And each and everyone is trying to scrounge those 15 minutes of fame. Who doesn’t adhere to these superficial priciples isn’t taken serious. In the arts it’s all about visiblity at whatever cost. Visibility in the eyes of the popular media or the heavily funded incrowd. But he who follows the siren’s song of his own heart, far away from the maddening crowd and its hysteria, faces hard times ahead. So our roving Gay News reporter, always in search of the odd man out, decided it was high time to pay a visit to Adriaan van der Harst in his studio in Scheveningen.

Punto Blanco

Underwear left behind it’s secretive underwear image long ago and now clearly reflects the personality and taste of its wearer. Attractive underwear makes you feel comfortable and attractive yourself. It’s the first thing we put on and the last to come off in those specially exciting moments. Underwear, now to be seen. And felt!

Style 2003

Stability

Under the threat of war, the stock market rocking on its foundation, rising mistrust of the economy. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...”. And the fashion industry feels the hot breath of “the epoch of incredulity” in its neck. For many consumers the purchase of luxuries is one of their last priorities. The fashion industry saw its sales figures plummet with some 25% and the juwelry business with some 30%. Gucci saw its profits go down with 55%. Only Versace sold 6% more, though Donatella Versace is the first to admit that these are tough times indeed.

“I’ve always been kind of rebellious”

Though official statistics may have it Amsterdam isn’t the hot gay paradise it once was before, for many the city still works its powerful charm, not in the least because of its small-scale. Also Canadian Mike Conway thinks so, whose weak spot for this city since some time itches to go live there. Gay News had an intimate talk with this born raconteur.

Ibiza, la Isla Blanca

On Ibiza life flows effortlessly from summer into winter and the island turns out to be the ideal getaway to escape from the winter around the cold North Sea. In the off-season you can fly for a mere ¤ 223,70 to Eivissa, as it’s is called in native tongue. The price includes airport tax, the Barcelona connection is smooth and departure times are scheduled in the afternoons. Where else will you find so many plus-points all rolled in one?

In memoriam Herb Ritts

Photographer Herb Ritts died on December 26 of the consequen-ces of pneumonia. Ritts didn’t come to this earth camera in hand, but was born in 1952 as the son of a highly succesful furniture designer and manufacturer.

'I’ve always been an outsider’
Hans Becker and his many careers

Last year saw the publication of Buon Natale in Antona, written by Hans Becker. On the backcover the author is described as “a colourful Amsterdam enterpreneur” and how true that is. For some twenty years Becker was running the indoors antique market De Looier and later was at the helm of the bridge club of the same name.

Teigetje and Woelrat

Event: 'Teigetje and Woelrat' show their autumn 2002 collection. Teigetje (Little Tiger/Willem Bruno) and Woelrat (Fidget/Henk van Albeda) figured prominently as protagonists in literary creations by one of Holland's major late XX-th century novelists, Gerard Reve. They now produce unisex knitwear under the name so lovingly bestowed on them by their daddy in letters.

Marcel Joosen... men & art

In the last twenty years male art has made its way into the Dutch museums and galleries. Before the eighties male art in the Netherlands virtually didn't exist, besides a number of thirties' German magazines or fifties' Tom of Finland editions

... and the wife wore the breeches

In fashion there are no taboos any longer. But one piece of clothing hasn’t met with general acceptance yet: the men’s skirt. In dress men and women often swap territories, but are men actually jumping up and down to put on a skirt?

Black Beauty 2001/2002

It is with deep sympathy we announce the rebirth of the colour black. This mysterious colour comes and goes, but this winter has a dramatic come back.

Claude Montana

With his powerful silhouette he inititated more fashion trends than any other designer. He has been imitated worldwide. Not one designer in Paris came close to him when it came to craft. As if his clothes were cut with a surgeon's knife, that flawless

Style Winter 2001

The power of fashion is in her function to show a different face each season. A desire voiced by the consumer. What's in the air is sensed by the great designers and gets transformed into styles of clothing.

Moscow mayor rejects gay pride parade, cal

The Moscow mayor’s office has harshly rebuffed requests for permission to hold a gay pride parade, saying it would force unacceptable norms of behavior on society.

Gay Pride in New York

On November 13th, the members of Heritage of Pride (HOP) choose from an extensive list the theme "What Part of Equal Don't You Understand" for this year's theme for New York's 2001 Lesbian and Gay Pride Week. Today the parade wil march across the city.

Oil wrestling championships

On Sunday the 17th June the Amsterdam Kirkpinar of 2001 will take place at Sportpark Jaap Eden at the Eastside of Amsterdam, known as Watergraafsmeer

A Question Of Style

Plié, jeté, passé, pirouette, French has long since been the international language of dance and Marc Forno is fluent in them both. Fabulous, flamboyant and French to the core, Marc (or Frenchy as his friends and colleagues call him) has enjoyed a long and varied career as a dancer and is now a much sought after choreographer based in Amsterdam where he lives with his long term partner Mark.

Gay Swim Amsterdam in new pool

Recently, after a long and bumpy road, the new Sloterparkbad in Amsterdam opened its doors. For Gay Swim Amsterdam, the largest gay and lesbian waterpolo and swim club, this meant new and better times to swim.

Russian passion for fashion

One of the first things that strikes you when meeting Oleg Ovsiyov, other than those amazing Russian cheekbones, is his all consuming passion for fashion. His stylish home is strewn with magazines like Vogue and l`Uomo and fashion tends to dominate the conversation. Born in the south of Russia in a small, conservative town near the Black Sea, Oleg has called Holland home for a decade, the last five years of which he has spent in Amsterdam designing for Esprit. We met last month to chat about growing up gay behind the iron curtain, the importance of good friends and, of course, fashion.

Hunting for pretty clothes in Amsterdam

Though of course it`s always fat fun to go hunt for pretty clothes in foreign fashion centers, Amsterdam these days offers a wealth of wonderful possibilities.Starting in the bend of the Nieuwendijk with Tip de Bruin. For a long time shopping there just wasn`t done, due to the high Jordaan, meaning common, quality. These days Tip owns three men`s stores next to each other which are really nice. The first one offers your regular Replay, Diesel, Paradise, the second more exclusive labels like Versace, Dolce&Gabana, JPGauthier, Exté, of which they have a beautiful assortment in stock. Be quick when the new collection arrives: the nicest items sell like hot cakes. The third shop still has the slick show-off look of old, offering mainly suits, but I have to admit I bought my nicest (Garage) shirt there.

Gorgeous Giorgio

The list is long and impressive: 54 Giorgio Armani shops, 6 Armani Collezione stores, 129 Emoprio Armani shops, 54 A/X Armani Exchange shops and 4 Armani Jeans stores in 33 countries. In 1981 he introduced his side collection Emporio Armani, younger and more affordable than his main one. My first collection came out in 1975 and before that I worked as a stylist for other fashion houses." No loud, harsh colours or striking prints for Armani, but rather a refined, poetic style breathing a restful softness. Often in non-colours, like beige, grey and earth tones. His nickame so happens to be The King of Beige". I check everything myself, so I`m often at loggerheads with myself. I`m blamed for not trusting anyone."

Style ‘00-`01

According to Mivccia Prada only the classy, sophisticated look could take over the sceptre after minimalism`s extended reign. So forget `basic, casual or sportswear`. A man now is dolled-up and struts rich, well-groomed allurement. Nothing wrong with luxury no more. Passé a couple of seasons ago to flash logos or sport designer`s wear, it`s cool once again to show the world you can afford them.

Be Pink!!

By fusing cool white and passionate red, pink emerged. Pink never has a bad temper and pink certainly isn`t a young upstart anymore.

Fashion Report 2000

A new millennium, a new style, a new man? This summer will welcome the SIS-sy man: Sexy, Innocent, Sturdy. Simple basics and minimalism give way to a more varied, richer palette. Strict rules of apparel replaced by concepts. Combinations to one`s own taste the rule. Bad taste testifying to individuality. Long live the personal touch!

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