You may not have noticed but I have a thing for shoes. I named my blog after my favourite (worn out and priceless) pair of Berties. Shoes are possibly the best way for a man to inject humour, colour or personality into an outfit without looking too try-hard.

So I have compiled a list of my 11 favourite and coveted shoes (this does not include the many pairs I have already featured in my countdown) that would bring a smile to this little rogue's face on Christmas morning.
(I've even put a couple of black pairs in *gasp*)

1. Aldo Gell boots £55.99 A combination of suede and leather, rugged yet refined.
2. KG Kurt Geiger Micham boots £65.00 I love the double monk placket face.
3. Mark McNairy suede wingtip brogues £310 Mark McNairy makes me happy.
4. Clarks Originals desert boots £79.00 These will become your go-to casual shoe.
5. Bertie Braxton brogues £83.00 I heart Bertie brogues and this red is a bold choice.
6. Feud Viron boots £84.00 This cross between a biker and logger boot is fun and informal.
7. Dr Martens navy boots £54.00 Channelling my 90's kid, I loved Docs back in the day. Navy makes them a bit less obvious than black or oxblood.
8. Office Ask the Missus black neon boots £45.00. Ok so I have often said I don't like black footwear, but the high shine and neon soul on these are awesome. I can live vicariously through my more daring fashion friends.
9. Dune Bladerunner monk shoes £62.00 The mixed material combination will break up a mundane suit.
10. J by Jasper Conran high top brogues £96.00 These will look great with an ankle-skimming turn-up on your jeans or equally smart with a pair of wool trousers.
11. Antoine + Stanley Knox monk shoes £80.00 The double monk is a fresh update when you want to try something different.

(Apparently working 60+ hours is not conducive to sticking to a schedule - sorry for the tardy post!)

Since I started my blog I have found some great businesses who are supportive of the blogging community and have been kind enough to send me products to review. So I thought I'd give them a shout out and thank you for their help!

1. Kirby Allison's Hanger Project. One of my first posts was a feature on this unusual but obvious style essential. They aim to provide high quality hangers to ensure the investments we make in our clothing are properly looked after. In addition to their hanging solutions, they also offer menswear essentials from collar stays to shoe polish
2. Smyth & Browne. Understated masculine style, clean lines and simple designs are what Smyth & Browne is all about. They don't go for gimmicks or trends, they just seek to offer modern alternative to menswear classics. 
3. Be Unrivalled: Art is not just for walls; Be Unrivalled take graphic design and apply it to fashion. This means bold prints and eye-catching typography.
4. Green Man Clothing: This Irish-based company makes limited edition t-shirts with modern, witty and fun prints. Watch out for a full review later
5. La Jewellery: I was lucky enough to win a pair of cufflinks via Chivalrous blog and I've instantly fallen in love with their hand-crafted accessories. I'll have a full feature on my new cufflinks soon!
6. Samuel Windsor: This one-stop shop is packed full of classic menswear pieces from blazers to brogues. They have continually offered support and I'm proud to be able to thank them here.
7. Monsier London: a capsule collection of ties and accessories, their pop-up boutiques are little havens for those in the know.
8. Boohoo Man: The men's extension of boohoo, this new kid on the block is a contender for the best value in trend-led menswear. They are friendly and supportive of bloggers providing lots of information and retweets.
9. Antoine + Stanley: I won a pair of their shoes through Menswear Style. They take traditional footwear styles and update them with materials and unusual colours; just the thing to refresh a boring work wardrobe.
10. Bering watches: I work with Bering in my day job and was proud to be part of the team to bring it into the brand portfolio. I've bought one for me and one for the BF. I love their understated and minimal designs, a timepiece that is timeless.

Due to a scheduling error (also known as an IFU - Ian F**k Up) this post is a day late. Mortified.

So today is supposed to be about ladies dancing, but sorry girls, this one is men only. With Christmas almost upon us, many  retailers, both online and on the high street have already started their sales.
I've rounded up 9 pieces that I think represent value; both in terms of price and the wear you will get from it.

1. Bellfield Velvet Jacket at ASOS £65.00 £45.00 Snap this up for NYE. Velvet exudes Great Gatsby glamour and this is a bit of luxury to see in 2014
2. Topman orange mini beanie £8.00 £4.00 Orange is the new black. A pop of colour will brighten up a dark winter outfit.
3. Boohoo drop stitch crew neck jumper £12.00 £3.00 For 3 quid, you're a much if you don't buy this. It's a touch of 90's grunge, team with skinnys and you're sorted for the weekend.
4. River Island dark was denim shirt £28.00 £15.00 Everyone needs a denim shirt. Wear it casual with chinos or play with a dress-down Friday and wear with a tie.
5. ASOS burgundy derby shoe £60.00 £42.00 Because your shoes don't always have to be black or brown.
6. Topman short sleeve white shirt £22.00 £10.00 Mix it up a little and go formal with a short sleeve shirt. The hidden placket is just asking for a bow tie.
7. ASOS Premium Slim Jeans £30.00 £24.00 Dark denim - just buy them.
8. River Island navy double breasted pea coat £85.00 £45.00 The pea coat is a men's fashion classic and this will be something to save for next winter (and a few after that).
9. H&M burgundy trousers £14.99 £8.00 I've had these trousers in about 5 colours - I love the slight stretch and slim fit. They work as jeans or trousers so you can wear them pretty much anywhere.

Every man needs a basic kit and I've pulled some suitably masculine bits & pieces that will see him through any of life's toughest challenges.

1. Uniqlo black v-neck merino sweater. This is a wardrobe staple that works with trousers & jeans. This & the Converse are my only concession into wearing black!
2. Gap 1969 skinny jeans £29.99. Dark denim always looks smarter and can carry you from day to a night out with a change of your shirt. Avoid gimmicky washes, pockets and finishes. 
3. Monsieur London Olderfleet tie  £63.00. A simple smart tie is a true investment, This knitted silk tie can be worn to work or a wedding.
4. Converse All Star Hi Tops £47.99: In my opinion, the only casual footwear option. These little beauts are your weekend wardrobe essentials.
5. Calvin Klein boxer trunks £28.80: No y-fronts or baggy boxers. Simple, no silly pattern and for the love of god throw them away after a year.
6. Burton grey 3 piece suit £134.00. I'm going back to the 3 piece. Every man needs a suit in his wardrobe and this affordable suit is a great starting point. Grey is more versatile than black and the 3 pieces can be broken up; wear the waistcoat and jacket with jeans.
7. H&M plain white t-shirt £3.99. It doesn't have to be designer to look great. A fitted, bright white t shirt is a style classic. Just make sure it stays white!
8. Victorinox jelly Swiss card £12.59. Every guy like a gadget. This little kit fits into your pocket and is packed with essentials like scissors, screw driver & blade!

Ok, so I'm bending the rules slightly. This won't only be about snoods but it's a much better pun!

Snoods have seen a massive resurgence in popularity in the past few years; their ease of wear with no fussy knots or loose ends makes them a super stocking filler idea for men.

I have an addiction to scarves and our spare room (and attic) has boxes devoted to them; woolly, woven, chunky, fine... you name the occasion, I have a scarf for it.

High on my current covet list is a blanket scarf. Not a pashmina or a poncho; but somewhere in between. Heavier than a cotton Afghan scarf but more wearable than the knitted throw from the sofa. Louis Vuitton have one but I do not have anywhere near the budget for such a thing. My search continues!

Louis Vuitton blanket scarves (left & right) Lenny Kravitz (centre) may be wearing an actual blanket...

1. Samuel Windsor Lambswool scarf £25.00 (2 for £40.00): Heritage inspired tartan in lambswool makes a great gift for the outdoorsman.
2. H&M Tube scarf £7.99: Chunky and casual, this will look awesome under a biker or bomber jacket. 
3. Jaegar oval weave scarf £60.00 (was £85.00) A smart addition when paired with an over coat, this could be your weapon of choice when leaving the office this winter!
4. Zara fringed scarf £22.99 Think urban nomad with the soft green and ethnic style
5. Uniqlo cashmere scarf £29.90. Cashmere for under £30.00? Buy it. BUY IT NOW!
6. Harris tweed loop scarf £55.00 I love the use of tweed in a scarf. When a fabric like this is used in an usual way it's always more interesting.
7. Next burgundy Fairisle scarf £16.00 Team with a chunky cardigan or shawl-neck sweater for some apres-ski casual style.

Now as indulgent as my 12 Days of Christmas is, I can't ignore the fact that I need to do some gift shopping myself. Burton have set a challenge called #GiftsForGeezers, choose the perfect present for the men in your life. I've adapted it slightly to fall into my little series so here are my 6 Gifts for Geezers!

I've chosen gifts for 5 fellows (and something for myself of course)

1. Charcoal quilted gilet £30.00: For my dad; the outdoorsman. He is a retiree and is bored in the house. This quilted bodywarmer over a sweater will keep him warm when he's out and about (and out from under my mum's feet)
2. Tan formal brogues £48.00: For Caelan the BF. He constantly needs new shoes for work and as a recent inductee to the world of brogues, these are a great alternative to the usual black. 
3. Navy shawl neck jumper £25.00: For my brother in law David. He's a big tall guy and the shawl collar will balance out his shoulders, plus it makes an interesting change to a crew neck or v neck for winter.
4. Montague Burton 3 piece herringbone suit £259.00: For me: I have an enduring love for 3 piece suits and this heritage piece is amazing. I don't often have the occasion to wear a suit, but I could easily break it and wear the waistcoat and jacket with jeans.
5. Dark wash relaxed jeans £25.00: For my mate Michael. He's big into weight training and has said he finds it difficult to find jeans. These relaxed fit jeans will have room in the leg and seat and still look smart. (BTW, these are in 2 for £45 - bargain!)
6. Fairisle Onesie £25.00: For my nephew Luke. Perpetually locked in his bed room, this onesie will keep him warm during his marathon Medal of Honour campaigns.

Gold is the colour of luxury and wealth. At times gaudy and over-used, gold in the right place can be both sophisticated or whimsical. A subtle hint in a formal occasion can show off your sartorial savvy or throwing a bit of gold into a casual outfit (correctly) can be an fun & witty statement.

Day four of my 12 Days of Christmas bring yet another tenuous pun and a selection of gift ideas if you are stumped for what to buy the man/men in your life.

I am an avid stationery collector and can kill an hour in Paperchase or Muji marvelling at pens and notepads. I constantly have a notepad and diary on the go in my day job. A journal, even a blog, is a great way of decanting all your cluttering thoughts, either for yourself or for sharing. So inspired by that (and my perpetual New Year's resolution to write more) I've made a little selection of stationery and ephemera. While we all rely on our phones and computers to keep us organised, there is really nothing as satisfying as ticking off a task completed in your diary!

• Livescribe 3 Smartpen. This handy piece of tech records and converts your scribbles into text when you use it with the app or even jotting on a pad. If you're like me and forget what half your notes are referring to, being able to sort and search them afterwards makes a lot of sense. 
• Muji a5 monthly/weekly diary. I love Muji, I have even travelled to Dublin just to visit the store in the past. This neat little diary is a great size and the red cover is bold without being garish and it also makes it easier to find in the bottom of your bag.
• Parker urban matte black rollerball. What is cooler than black? Matte black so this sleek little pen is a sophisticated addition to your pocket. Just don't lend it to anyone.
• Moleskine oxide green notebook. Moleskine are the notebooks every other note book wants to be. The BF bought me an a5 book and I've yet to start it (I think I'm too afraid of ruining it with my messy handwriting). Available in a variety of sizes, they make a perfect travel journal with their little pocket in the back cover.

Continuing my Christmas countdown and in keeping (well, trying to) with the 12 Days of Christmas rhyme, I move on to day 3. I couldn't find anything hen related so it's on to the French scents instead!



Us menfolk are apparently quite difficult to buy for but a new scent is always a good idea. I wrote about my favourite go-to scents in a post a while back but thought I would update it for the festive season.

1. Chanel Pour Monsieur. Why should women get all the luxury with No.5? Chanel Pour Monsieur is a spicy yet fresh combination which should get him through the rest of winter.
2. Jean Paul Gautier Le Male. The iconic bottle aside, this light scent is a great all-rounder; wear it to work and leave the heavier scents for the nights out.
3. Givenchy Gentlemen Only. Since I got this in the summer it is slowly edging my previous scent of choice Marc Jacobs Bang further and further to the back of the cabinet. It's woody and warm and lingers without being over powering.

Stags and antlers have gone from natural history and men's club to fashion staple in the last few years. Interiors, apparel, tattoos; you name it, it's probably had a stag printed on it.

I'm not the biggest fan of Christmas. I'll admit it. Years of retail has jaded me to the magic of the season. The ruthless, mercenary (and downright nasty) attitude of some/many people who maraude the high streets in the pretence of spreading joy, searching for the perfect present.

But I'm trying to change!

It's been over 2 years since I was on the front line. I previously managed Argento on Royal Avenue Belfast and hell hath no fury like a Fandora who can't get the charm she wants. Don't get me wrong, the fun and banter of people who embrace the spirit of Christmas is contagious, but often the silver lining is lost in the cloud of long hours, cold starts and rude customers. Yes, we choose to work in retail, but that does not diminish the fact that we're entitled to enjoy the build up to Christmas too.

So I made a decision. (Well, the fact we bought a house in January and booked a massive holiday for next year were deciding factors.) I'm taking on a part-time job for Christmas. Working in e-commerce at Christmas is challenging and busy, but it lacks the same hustle and bustle of a shop floor. I was also keen to get back to working in clothing (jewellery is fun, but fashion is fashion) so I'm picking up a few hours in USC Victoria Square for a little extra Crimbo cash and I honestly can't wait! I've worked in both high-end and high-street fashion, but the fast paced atmosphere of USC will be refreshing. Hopefully my sales skills aren't too rusty; I'm looking forward to helping style the folks of Belfast.

Victoria Square's gargantuan tree

Victoria Square's glass ceiling makes the lights even more impressive

Cold & bright - this is winter to me.

Ann Street, Belfast In contrast to Christmas, winter is probably my favourite season.

The view over Sirocco Quays, Belfast The dark and cold of winter is tempered with lights

A while back I posted a feature on an up & coming menswear brand based in Dublin, Smyth & Browne. After my post the guys were good enough to send me a polo shirt so I thought it only right to do a little write up on my newest wardrobe addition.

(First things first, the BF is working so excuse the selfies but I couldn't wait to get the pictures up)

A classic black polo is something every guy should own. It's a simple but smart option when you don't want to wear a shirt. As I've said before, I normally don't wear black, but I can see where this little number will come in handy, on its own or layered and worn with chinos or jeans.

Made from classic pique cotton, natural fibres are your skin's best friend; it lets your skin breathe and reduces sweat.

Smyth & Brown SHRT 31 £55.86 Head to toe in black. Never thought I'd see the day...

I've been wearing a hat all day. That's my excuse for the state of my hair and I'm sticking to it!

I'm wearing a small, the sizing is a slim but comfortable fit with a shorter sleeve and body length. Many polos, such as Ralph Lauren, are cut longer and are designed to be worn tucked in. Smyth & Browne's is a perfect fit untucked, reflecting the brand's casual ethos.

I got to chatting to Ruth via our blogs and my "real" job during the summer and finally met up when she attended the Argento autumn catalogue photoshoot.  

The weather is steadily turning more and more grim these days so I start to reach to the back of the wardrobe for the trusty old jumpers.

Ok, so October has been a blog bust.  I've managed 3 posts so far and after almost a fortnight since my last post; I'm only getting to writing again. This was not my intention.

Autumn is my favourite season so I should not be stuck for ideas on what to right about, but through a combination of missed opportunities, work crap and general meh-ness, I've failed miserably.

I'm sure all writers experience this; when they stare at a blank screen waiting for their fingers to kick into action, when they have an idea on the tip of their brain but the words turn to glue and it won't shake loose.

I'm not trying to make excuses, but I don't want my blog to be something that I just throw posts onto for the sake of it, to keep to a schedule or just fill spaces. I wanted to write about things I've liked and this month, I just haven't had that much to say.

It got to me as a little crisis of confidence thinking that if I've only posted twice and nobody has noticed, maybe I shouldn't bother coming back. But I have to remind myself that the whole point of my blog was a space to express myself and if someone shares my passion then it's even better.

So, I've turned over that fallen leaf (seriously, someone go brush them up) and I'm making up for lost time. I've been fortunate enough to be approached by some great companies and had guest spots on some amazing blogs so it's time I returned the favour.

Watch this space blogosphere!

Gorgeous bright Autumn morning - let's get inspired!

Buy a bow tie. Just do it. Have some fun.

Gratuitous beaver shot

Official Li'l Sebastian Tee $26.00

H&M mustard cardigan £14.99

Zara Narrow Knitted Tie £22.99

Topman Peace Corps Harrington Jacket £30.00

Samuel Windsor tattersall shirt £15.00