#i wish i could wear oxfords/brogues

[teddylacroix]

And another for Ace Day featuring just my beloved ♥ Happy International Asexuality Day!!

Jon & Martin version for JonMartin Week Day 4: Ace Day

[thelionofnaples]

layer  one :    the  outside .

name :    Napoleon Solo eye  color :     Blue with a brown heterochromatic section hair  style   /   color :      Black, wavy 2B, tapered and scissor cut, always carefully styled back in a typical 1960′s gentleman’s style. height :     6′0  clothing  style :     Suits, and lots of them. Well tailored, bespoke suits cut in either an American or English style, in a variety of muted colors and patterns, of which he favors blue and a chalk-stripe flannel pattern. He also has a thing for three piece suits because, should he want to remove his suit jacket, he still looks smart. He favors oxfords to brogues in terms of a dress shoe, and the only shoes he owns that are not dress shoes are a black pair of trainers he wears when he’s sneaking about, which he hides in the back of his closet when he’s done, because they are unseemly and do not match the rest of his wardrobe. Solo’s idea of dressing down is dropping the suit jacket and tie, maybe adding a knit pullover if he’s cold. That’s about it. Even his pajamas are Brooks Brothers or another luxury brand, with a button down top. best  physical  feature :    In actuality probably his ass, but Solo would insist it was his smile.

layer  two :    the  inside .

their  fears :    Being trapped,  losing the few people he trusts, electrocution/electricity (even being zapped). their  guilty  pleasure :     Good scotch and beautiful people. Food, especially rich food he knows he shouldn’t be eating if he wants to keep his figure. Attention, and heaps of it, and being able to chose when and how he receives it. their  biggest  pet  peeve :     People underestimating him, being condescended to.   their  ambitions  for  the  future :    To make a clean break from the CIA, and to still be in Illya and Gaby’s lives. A big house in a big city, surrounded by artwork, to use as home-base while he travels.

layer  three :    thoughts .

their  first  thoughts  waking  up :   I should move the coffee machine to the bedroom.  what  they  think  about  most :     Who’s trying to stab him in the back and how-- how to keep himself safe. what  they  think  about  before  bed :    What outfit he’ll wear the next day, all his social interactions that day and how they went, how he can improve them, how he can tailor his reactions. they  think  their  best  quality  is :     His social adaptability. 

layer  four :    what’s  better ?

single  or  group  dates ?     single. to  be  loved  or  respected ?     Can’t be loved without being respected. beauty  or  brains ?  Beauty. dogs  or  cats ?   He’s a cat person who wishes cats acted like dogs.

layer  five :    do  they …

lie ?   Half-truths are a way of life for him. believe  in  themselves ?     Uniformly and completely. He knows where his weaknesses are. believe  in  love ?     In concept. want  someone ?  Let’s not talk about it.

layer  six :    have  they  ever …

been  on  stage ?     Do you think a man like Solo could stay away from a spotlight?  done  drugs ?   Besides tobacco, no. changed  who  they  were  to  fit  in ?     Every day.

layer  seven :    favorites .

favorite  color :     Grey-blue. favorite  animal :     Sea otters. favorite  movie :     Sunset Boulevard  favorite  game :   Other people’s emotions Poker.

layer  eight :    age .

day  their  next  birthday  will  be :     March 9th, 2019. how  old  they  will  be :    90. 32. 

layer  nine :    finish  the  sentence .

they  love …     beauty. they  feel …      isolated. they  hide …     his emotions. they  miss …     no one. they  wish …     he was less vulnerable than he is.

tagged  by : @purrpetrator  tagging :    @chopshopchic @redxwolf @thundaddy @thenewfist @infamouscabalbrothers

[liraystylesuk]

The Definitive Guide To Men Gym Wears

Priding itself on earning gear than can hold up versus the toughest of coaching periods and competitions, this brand keeps up on the most up-to-date engineering so you’re capable to drive your restrictions with clothing that will sustain. Overlook me with that "extensive Rewards bundle" bullshit. The only perk I treatment about is the liberty to pull up on the Business office thoroughly equipped to flex about my (drastically) extra skilled colleagues. I'm a peacock, baby. You bought to allow me to fly! Not everyone wishes a complete-duration pair of pants for doing exercises, specially in warmer weather conditions. These four-rth Men’s yoga pants come to concerning the mid-shin for a good relaxed search. They are type fitting without having staying restricted that is perfect for yoga and a number of other athletics. People who Believe this model just tends to make Gals’s yoga equipment—or only yoga equipment usually—are missing out on the treasure. As you wear one among Lululemon’s signature t-shirts or tanks for the work out, there’s no turning back again. Men's design and style is focused on timeless style and design rather than fashionable seasonal fashions. This encompasses not only styling, but will also things to consider like elements, building, and pedigree. Brown goes with just about any fit shade (save for black), could be conveniently dressed up or down, and is suitable for almost any event. Having said that, you'll almost certainly want a person set of black shoes with your rotation, and Oxfords are a strong choice for these due to their official styling. Fashioned on the occupied streets of London Because the transform of the final century, dress shirts by T.M. Lewin and the brand itself are renowned for high quality material, price for money and service. What all these men (as well as their stylists) have in widespread is really a persistently singular tackle particular style, and exactly what the lesser-recognized names absence in marquee existence they more than make up for in important drip. is one of my favorites mainly because its Tremendous snug, but also a fitted t-shirt. It’s stretchy, so it hugs Your entire body good, and when it feels far too tight, it is possible to extend it out somewhat in advance of putting it on, and it'll in good shape excellent.” By clicking the submit button you subscribe to our newsletter and admit you have got examine and comprehended the prAna Close icon spring outfits men Two crossed strains that kind an 'X'. It indicates a means to close an interaction, or dismiss a notification. Black Friday Regardless for those who’re on the lookout for all set to use, manufactured to measure or bespoke, in this information you'll discover many options in good shape for virtually any male who wishes to dress with an upscale presentation.

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[margiehasson]

What To Wear To A Funeral- Funeral Etiquette

Have you ever arrived at an event under or overdressed? Tell us what did it feel like? Was it awkward? Was it embarrassing? Did you regret wearing that outfit? Of course you did!

So in order to avoid such “awkward moments” in future,it is advisable to always plan your outfit and dress according to the occasion. You must know that following dress codes for an event or occasion is important.

And it is paramount, when attending a funeral. If this is your first time and there is no one to guide you or by any chance you’re confused about the clothes to wear,then this one’s a must read.Today, we’ll tell you,”What To Wear To A Funeral And What You Should Avoid Wearing“

A funeral being a somber and respectful occasion asks for subdued tones, classic styles and understated designs. Anything that’s too flashy, ostentatious or loud should be avoided at all costs. You must remember that your primary focus is consoling the deceased’s family. So you must act with tact, sensitivity, dignity and show your support during their difficult time. It is important to dress up like a gentlemen who is not here to look amazing or grab attention or distract the purpose of the day.

So What Should Men Wear To A Funeral?

Funeral Suits

When attending a funeral, you must wear something that you’d wear to a job interview, business meeting or church. When its comes to men’s funeral attire, a conservative Black Suit is a smart choice. If not black, you can also opt for neutral colors like brown,navy,charcoal or muted tones of maroon.You can choose a single or double breasted suit. It should be clean,pressed and a well-fitted one. Avoid patterns,checks or stripes!

 Dress Shirt and Dress Pants

If you don’t have a suit, you have another option too. A formal attire i.e dress shirt and dress pant would also be appropriate to wear to a funeral.

Talking about the dress shirt, white is the traditional choice. While an old white shirt turns to fade and might look sloppy so make sure you wear a white shirt that is new,clean and pressed. A short sleeved,buttoned down white shirt with subtle patterns will be appropriate.In case you do not wish to wear white, you could opt for black,brown or other darker tones.

Pair your dress pants with dress shirts.The pants or slacks must be black or any other neutral color.

Funeral Shoes

Black oxfords or brogues are appropriate. You should avoid wearing anything that’s too stylish like monk straps or anything too casual like the slippers or sneakers.Make sure your shoes are in a good condition.

Accessories

Wear a tie that is simple. No loud colors or print. A neutral color like black or brown would be a better option.

Avoid wearing too many accessories, especially the flashy ones.A simple watch or your wedding band would be appropriate to wear to a funeral.

You can wear sunglasses but choose something that’s pretty simple. Avoid wearing bold colors or oversized glasses or anything that’s going to call for attention. I would personally suggest to avoid wearing sunglasses and wear only if it seems necessary.

In the end, all we are going to say is keep it simple and sophisticated. Go well groomed, wear a decent suit or something that’s a bit formal and avoid anything that’s going to steal attention for all the wrong reasons.

Honestly, nobody is really going to be bothered about what you wear and how you look. But it is your responsibility to be mindful of what you wear. Keep in mind that wearing a suit isn’t really important but wearing something simple,subtle and presentable is! Don’t forget your intention to attend a funeral is to support the family in their difficult times and express grief so dress accordingly.

The post What To Wear To A Funeral- Funeral Etiquette appeared first on Best Fashion Blog For Men - TheUnstitchd.com.

What To Wear To A Funeral- Funeral Etiquette published first on https://lenacharms.tumblr.com/

[deepfriedtwinkie]

Kingsman: A Trainee’s Mission (Pt. I)

PREQUEL FIC, this section ~2kw—THIS WILL BE MULTIPART; please like and most importantly REBLOG if you enjoy, babes <3

note: ignores TGC’s two-second mention of Harry having been in the army. I already had my own ideas about his backstory way before that, so whoops, I accidentally disregarded canon, imagine that

.

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“Fall in.”

They’re the words he’s been waiting for. Hands behind his back, Harry steps into line with the fifteen other proposals. A subtle glance over his shoulder takes stock of them. Some look to have come to life from the brochures of Oxford, Cambridge, Leeds. Others look prepared for a rock-&-roll concert on a quad somewhere. He wonders which will be his future colleague.

The old man who gave the order, ruddy and silver-white haired, sporting elbow-patched tweed, comes two paces forward. He adjusts his black-rimmed glasses, folding his arms over his burdened clipboard.

“Gentlemen. My name is Arthur,” he begins. “I welcome you to the interview process; very likely the most extreme interview process in the world. Have no doubt of that.” Pausing, he lightly clears his throat. “Now, ordinarily, as per the Kingsman tradition, these trials are overseen by our resident Merlin.”

Merlin the Wizard, Harry thinks. Tech wizard. The agents’ handler. His smile is hard to repress.

“However. Circumstances being as they are, may our dear friend rest in peace, I will be testing the lot of you myself.”

In the back row, there’s the faintest snort, and fainter muttering; Harry picks up something to the effect of how this ought to be cake, then. Arthur’s caught it as well. He levels a halfheartedly-scathing gaze, but moves along.

“If you’ve taken notice of your company, which I hope to God will never again need be asked of you, you will have counted sixteen applicants in this room. On this rare occasion, we are seeking to fill two positions. The very same incident that claimed the life of our Merlin has also laid to rest our dearly missed Agent Galahad.” The old man studies them, his eyes demanding postures of stone. “If any of you are perturbed by the possibility of someday greeting the same fate, this moment will be your final chance to leave.”

Harry waits, still as a pond. Nobody moves.

One brusque nod from Arthur. “Good. In that case, I look forward to finding out which two of you, and only two of you, will become the newest members of Kingsman. I wish a great deal of luck to you all.”

Hardly necessary, Harry thinks.

“Now then.” Arthur’s pen points out the perimeter of the room in a slow circle, and the candidates’ eyes follow. Against the walls are bunks beds, four to the left, four to the right, a metre or so between each. “In a moment, you will go and find your name on an index card attached to one of these bunks. These designate your assigned sleeping arrangements. On your cot, you will find one of these.” He points his pen at the nearest lower bunk, sporting a lump of thick canvas. “Can anyone identify this item?”

Ten or so hands go up. Arthur lights on the nebbish thing to Harry’s immediate right, already sweating through his ill-fitting sport coat.

“It’s a sleeping bag, sir?”

Snickers blossom around the error. You twit, it’s a body bag.

“It’s a body bag,” says Arthur. “Lyle, isn’t it?”

Lyle gives a quivering nod, Adam’s apple plunging. Arthur makes a note. Well he’ll be gone by the week-end.

“At your station, you will write your name on the bag provided. You will also write the names of any and all next-of-kin. This represents your acknowledgement of the extraordinary risk you are about to face, as well as your very binding agreement to our incredibly strict confidentiality policy. It is your contract. Should you break this contract at any time, I regret to say, and hope you understand, that the names on your bag will henceforth, and without fail, become its inhabitants.” Like the army, then. I’ve read about this. “Have I made myself clear?”

Fifteen heads bob. The outlier is at the far end of Harry’s row. He’s a slight thing with a close haircut, wearing a coat of blue and green tartan plaid. From the look of him, he can’t possibly be out of secondary school. His arm is raised.

So is Arthur’s eyebrow. “Yes?”

“Isn’t that an army technique, sir?” The question comes in a Scot’s brogue.

“Beg pardon?”

“The army. God save the Queen.” Even with his eyes forward again, Harry can hear repressed amusement in the words, albeit not repressed very hard. “Is it not typical for army recruits to be given the same exercise as a scare tactic?”

A look passes Arthur’s face that suggests how very much done he is with all of them. The young man goes without an answer, not that he seemed to be too seriously curious in the first place. Arthur pokes the bridge of his glasses, turning away.

“Fall out.”

Harry waits until he’s gone, then sets himself upon the nearest bunks with the famished eyes of a wild man.

His name isn’t on the first frame, so he moves left. It isn’t on the second, third, fourth, or fifth, either. It’s on the sixth. Only his card is there; his bunkmate’s has already been removed, leaving behind a bent thumbtack.

“Hope you don’t mind I had my heart set on the top bunk,” comes the brogue.

Harry looks up, only to retrace his visual steps as the young man above him hops back to solid ground. A grin comes over him—Yes, this will do fine, I’m sure this will be interesting—and he proffers his hand. His fellow recruit accepts, and he shakes enthusiastically.

“Harry Hart.”

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

The silence that follows outlasts the handshake. Harry blinks. He chalks the missed cue up to possible excitement or nerves, at least until his companion turns away with an amicable nod, retrieving his body bag like nothing else is happening.

“Aren’t you going to tell me your name?” Harry asks.

The thought must be genuinely foreign to the lad, going by the way his brow serpentines. “Why would I do that?”

Why on earth would you ask a thing like that? “I…well, I told you mine.”

“Yes, and I appreciated that. It’s very pretty. I like alliteration.”

Harry follows him around the other side of the bunks as he goes about searching for a pen, utterly bewildered to be having this conversation. “So you aren’t going to tell me yours? That doesn’t seem very fair. How should I know what I’m meant to call you?”

“When you think about it, do you really have to call me anything at all?” He pulls the cap off a felt marker. “I’ll know it’s me you’re talking to if you’re looking at me. It’s a basic measure of respect, eye contact. Very valuable in many situations.”

“Oh, come now, don’t be ridiculous.” Harry’s tone is still brightly convivial, which he’s rather proud of, considering he’s rapidly approaching a state of active frustration. “Just tell me your name.”

“All right, fine,” the other one exhales. “You can call me Merlin, if you like.”

Merlin. “Merlin.”

“Yes.”

It’s too preposterous to abide. “But you don’t know that you’ll get the position! You’re no more Merlin at this point than anyone else in this room.”

The young man flips a shoulder, looking blasé. “It’s only a matter of time. And it’s not like the last one’s still using it. He’s dead, what does he care? Seems up for grabs to me.”

The marker squeaks across the cardstock on the body bag. Harry attempts to read over his bunkmate’s shoulder, but the stubborn little shit’s concealing it from him. “You’re certainly quite confident, aren’t you?”

“Well, I don’t like to brag.”

“Please, now, come on, I insist you give me something to call you other than Merlin. What if one of us gets a position and the other doesn’t? I’d like to think we may be friends by the end of this; how will I keep in touch with you?”

Would-Be Merlin chuckles to himself, not unkindly replying, “If one of us gets a position and the other doesn’t, something tells me there won’t be any keeping in touch. Matter of fact, the loser may be unlikely to remember any of this. Have you seen those amnesia darts yet?”

��Oh yes, they’re brilliant.” Briefly he feels the thrill of this afternoon again. Hundreds of gadgets, dozens of all manner of vehicles, all hidden below the earth while regular people go about their lives, walking dogs, pushing prams, shopping at Tesco… He shakes his head. “That’s not the point.”

“All right, all right. You can call me…M.”

M.

“M. M, as in, M from the James Bond films?”

“Yes. M as in M from the James Bond films.” He caps the marker, holding it out. “If you wanna use this, I’m all through with it.”

Harry takes it, but makes no move toward his bag. He stares at M-Not-Merlin for a few moments, standing there as unmoved as he is, squared off with him. Unblinking. Assured. Something calmly challenging in it, almost. And his body bag over his arm with the card on front obscured conveniently to the underside.

The conclusion’s a slap in the skull he should’ve picked up minutes ago. “You really can’t stand your name whatsoever, can you?”

“No. No I can’t.”

His grin returns for having won the prize. He walks around him. “If it’s all that traumatic of an embarrassment for you, why not go by something else?” His palm braces the index card for writing on. “Or have it changed entirely, for that matter. I’m sure it couldn’t be very complicated.”

“Oh, couldn’t it, then?”

“Ah. So you’ve thought of that.”

“More than once, believe you me. It’d kill my auntie.” The lad’s climbing back up the ladder now, the frame creaking after him. “Raised me from a boy, that woman did. Christ knows why she loves the hideous thing, but it’s a family name.” He parks himself at the foot of his cot, legs swaying just slightly. “So I’m a bit stuck with it, y’see.”

“Yes, I do.”

Tilting his head, Harry admires the careful scrawl of his mothers’ names. Contrary to frightening him, he almost wishes he could cut out this patch and frame it, along with perhaps mailing them a copy. Imagine how a thing like this would look next to my nursery school handprints.

“Well then.” He, too, smoothly folds his bag, cheerful as he looks up. “I suppose M is as good as anything. Lovely to meet you, M.”

“Much appreciated. And likewise.”

Harry extends the marker. “You can have this back now. Thank you very kindly.”

“Oh, no skin off mine.” M points to bunk seven. “It’s his.”

Perspiring Lyle is flitting around the bunk adjacent, upending his toiletry kit, quite plainly frantic. It’s difficult to contain a laugh as Harry taps the poor sod on the shoulder with a “Pardon me,” then slips the marker into his clammy hand. “Take this one. All finished.”

The relief from the poor thing just about rattles the woodwork. “Oh—oh good, thank you. Thanks very much.”

“Not at all. Happy to help,” M contributes.

Good God, it’s a toss-up who’s the cheekier shit between the two of us. “Come on.” It’s time to get out of here before their neighbor wonders what’s funny. “Let’s go and find out where to hand these in, shall we?”

M hops down again with a grunt. “Every time I sit down.”

The body bags go in a heap on a table in the corner. Once there, Harry watches with some mild degree of amazement as M begins to separate them, unasked, glancing only fleetingly at each card, sorting out a new pile by alphabet.

He makes a mental note to get to know M better in the coming days. Already, it seems the wisest investment in the room.

.

pt. II | pt. III | pt. IV | pt. V | pt. VI  | pt. VII  | pt. VIII  | pt. IX

[the-desolated-quill]

Kingsman: The Secret Service - Movie blog

(SPOILER WARNING: The following is an in-depth critical analysis. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, you may want to before reading this review)

I must confess I’m not overly familiar with Matthew Vaughn’s work. The only other film I’ve seen of his is X-Men: First Class, which I didn’t like very much although it had its moments. Also I’ve never been a big fan of the spy genre. Too gimmicky for my taste what with the silly gadgets and ludicrous plots (and the James Bond reboot series’ attempts to modernise it and make it ultra serious a la Christopher Nolan I think just makes it even more stupid than intended. Yes. Batman is more plausible than James Bond. Who’d have thought it?). So when Kingsman: The Secret Service first came out in 2015, I wasn’t expecting much. Very rarely does a movie take me by surprise nowadays, but Kingsman certainly did. I LOVE this movie. I love this movie more than I would, say, a child of my own. And now I’m going to gush about how amazingly good it is.

I think the main appeal of Kingsman for me is its tongue in cheek self awareness. Right from the start it basically tells the audience that it knows how silly and over the top it all is, but invites us to come along for the ride anyway and promises a fun time, and that’s exactly what we end up getting. It’s ridiculous and cartoony, and Vaughn doesn’t shy away from that. He embraces the madness fully and lets his imagination run wild.

Visually the movie is a work of art. It’s bright, colourful, stylistic and simply gorgeous to look at, with loads of fantastic set-pieces. The tailor shop, the mansion, Valentine’s secret base, I could go on. There are also loads of great action scenes such as the skydiving sequence, the epic fight scene in the church and the final sequence where everyone’s heads blow up in a technicolour extravaganza. A few people at the time criticised the amount of violence in the movie, but I felt most of the criticism was unfounded. It’s not as if the movie is so disgusting that you can’t watch it. I mean Quentin Tarantino has done far worse than this. And the violence actually serves the comedy at points, like when Harry Hart beats up all those guys in the pub and then sits down and calmly drinks his pint of Guinness as though nothing had happened.

As well as all that, it also helps that the writing is extremely sharp with a great plot and memorable characters. The standout is of course Colin Firth as Harry Hart. Who’d have thought the guy from Bridget Jones’ Diary could be a credible action star? I really like his surrogate father/son relationship with Eggsy, as well as his matching of wits with Valentine. While we’re never told the full story as to where Harry comes from, we’re given just enough to paint a tantalising picture of him. Like Valentine, Harry has a fondness for the old spy movies, but he always gravitated toward the villains, saying he wished to be a colourful megalomaniac back when he was a kid. This is interesting because it informs us as to how his character operates. The typical goal of a villain/antagonist when you boil it down to its very essence is to disrupt the status quo. While Harry is working for the side of good, this is basically what he’s doing. Recognising that the Kingsman have become a bunch of elitist, upper class snobs, he seeks to recruit from the working class in the hopes of changing Kingsman for the better. He disagrees most strongly with the idea that a gentleman can only come from a certain social status or income bracket, rather it all comes down to a person’s character. This is supported by his two mottos. ‘Oxfords, not brogues’ and ‘manners maketh man.’ ‘Oxfords, not brogues’ refers to the types of shoes a Kingsman should wear, but it could also signify Harry’s views regarding the Kingsman. He dislikes brogues because of the embroidery, and that could be why he dislikes the current Kingsman, seeing their wealth and class as unnecessary embroidery that a gentleman spy does not need. ‘Manners maketh man’ of course refers to Harry’s view of what makes a gentleman. Being a gentleman is not hereditary and it can’t be bought. It comes from how a person thinks, acts and behaves.

I also absolutely adore Taron Egerton as Eggsy. Normally when Hollywood tries to do ‘British chav’, they often fail miserably, but this is the rare exception. I know people exactly like Eggsy and while it’s all slightly over the top for the purposes of comedy, the film captures the essence of British working class life beautifully. Eggsy is basically the underdog/thief with a heart of gold. He’s given the chance to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a Kingsman, and he takes it. But what I love about him is that he never allows Kingsman to change who he is as a person. There’s no dramatic transformation or anything like that. Yes he wears the bespoke suit and glasses, but underneath he’s still the same old Eggsy. Despite the jeers and taunts from those around him, Eggsy never changes who he is. He’s still rough around the edges and he still swears like a sailor. He undergoes a character arc, sure. Initially brash and impulsive, he learns from Harry how to exercise discipline and self control, but he’s still the working class everyman at the end, proving Harry’s point that a gentleman comes from a person’s moral character rather than their social status. He’s also extremely empathetic, never losing sight of what’s at stake. Unlike the other Kingsman, like Arthur and Lancelot (played by Sir Michael Caine and Jack Davenport respectively) who have let their social privilege and power and influence get in the way of the common good, Eggsy ultimately cares very deeply for the people around him and the ones who will be affected by Valentine’s schemes.

Which brings us to the villain, Richmond Valentine, played wonderfully by Samuel L Jackson. The main themes of Kingsman are social elitism and class privilege, as well as the classic proverb that all power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. We see Valentine conspire with celebrities, politicians, businessmen and, as it later transpires, the Kingsmen themselves to cull the population in a desperate attempt to reduce our carbon footprint in order to stop climate change. It illustrates the hypocrisy of the privileged and the elite, albeit in an extreme way. The ones that are meant to represent us, guide us, and protect us are the ones that are prepared to sacrifice us for the so called greater good. Arthur’s betrayal in particular was especially shocking because it just goes to show that the high social status he so arrogantly insists is required to become a Kingsman has caused him to lose his moral compass. The working class Eggsy is an infinitely better gentleman than the privileged Arthur.

Now Valentine, judging by his behaviour, dress sense and penchant for McDonalds Happy Meals, seems to originally come from a similar working class background to Eggsy, becoming rich and successful through his intellect. He mirrors the same journey that a lot of politicians and businessmen originating from working class backgrounds go through. Initially achieving a higher status in order to change things for the better only to then lose touch with their roots and becoming part of the very establishment they were fighting against in the first place. Valentine has become one of the social elite. Organising essentially a mass genocide, he arrogantly declares that the only people worth saving are those on his social level. But at the same time, he’s not one of these one note, muhahahaha villains. The best kinds of villains are those who don’t see themselves as the villains, and Valentine falls into that category. In his scene with Harry, he says he wanted to be a spy as a kid, which speaks to his character and motivations. He sees himself as the hero. The man who is going to save the world. He rationalises what he’s doing by saying he’s not technically killing anybody. His SIM cards merely allow everyone to kill each other. Eggsy, on some level, recognises this. Don’t get me wrong. It’s still horrible what Valentine is doing and Eggsy doesn’t hesitate to kill him, but in their final scene (which mirrors the final scene between Harry and Valentine before Valentine kills him), Eggsy refuses to resort to a spy movie cliche and thus cementing Valentine as the villain, instead echoing Valentine’s line that ‘this isn’t that kind of movie.’ Eggsy recognises that, in his own twisted way, Valentine was trying to do something good and so allows him to die with dignity. That’s a level of complexity and nuance you don’t often see in spy movies.

Something else you don’t often see in spy movies are well developed female characters. Spy movies like James Bond are generally regarded as male power fantasies where women are usually little more than discardable sex objects. While Kingsman doesn’t quite distance itself from that (we’ll come to that in a bit), I’m impressed that Vaughn actually put some effort into creating fully realised female characters that aren’t just there to be eye candy. Sofia Boutella plays Valentine’s henchman Gazelle, who essentially fills the supervillain with a gimmick role. While we don’t learn that much about her, I like that she’s never objectified. An acrobatic woman with blades attached to her legs could have been so easily sexualised, but Vaughn is never tempted to do so. When we see her fight, we never think ‘wow she’s hot.’ We’re thinking ‘holy shit, that’s awesome!’ She’s not there to be eye candy. She plays an important role, attacking and intimidating those who threaten her boss, and Boutella’s silent intensity gives the character a lot of authority.

Roxy too is brilliant, played by Sophie Cookson. I like her relationship with Eggsy, both bonding over the fact that their not seen as typical Kingsman material. Eggsy because of his working class background and Roxy because she’s a woman (and possibly gay). She’s resourceful, intelligent, and has her own character arc, having to overcome her fear of heights in order to destroy Valentine’s satellite. I’m especially pleased that she and Eggsy don’t get together at the end. Usually the male and female leads are forced to suck face at least once in these movies, but there’s no chance of that happening here. They’re just good friends and I think it’s important we see more male/female platonic friendships on screen.

It’s not perfect mind. Like I said, most spy movies are typically used as male power fantasies and Kingsman, while exceptionally good and does its best to subvert a lot of the tropes we see in traditional spy movies, doesn’t quite avoid that. While yes Roxy is better developed than most women we see in these types of films, I’m a bit disappointed that she doesn’t get to join the fight at the end, instead being forced to stand around in the snow like a muppet while Eggsy gets to do all the fun, action-y stuff. Considering how Merlin was emphasising the importance of teamwork earlier in the movie, you’d think Eggsy and Roxy fighting hordes of henchmen together would be on the cards, but sadly that’s not the case. Hopefully she’ll be given more to do in the sequel.

And then there’s the ending. Everyone and their mums have had something to say about it. What’s my take on it?

Well here’s the thing. I admit the Swedish princess’ initial line ‘if you save the world, we can do it in the arsehole’ got a massive laugh from me just because of how unexpected it was. It came totally out of the blue and caught me off guard. From what I can tell, nobody seems to have a problem with that bit. It’s the bit that comes after where everyone starts to get uncomfortable, where Eggsy returns to her cell to claim his reward, as it were. Now... I can see what Vaughn is trying to do. The film contains a lot of self referential humour, and this seems to fall into that at first glance. The James Bond films have female characters that are little more than discardable sex objects. Why not have a woman who’s literally only there to have sex with the protagonist and then we can make fun of that fact? I get it. The problem is it feels like Vaughn is trying to have his cake and eat it too. The anal sex gag basically crosses the line between satirising a sexist trope and using a sexist trope. Maybe it would have worked better if, when she says they can do it in the arsehole, Eggsy reacted in a similar way to the audience. Just be utterly shocked by how random and out of place that line is before awkwardly making his excuses and leaving. I don’t know. Just something other than what we ended up getting because what it does is it actually reinforces the sexism that Vaughn was originally intending to take the piss out of in the first place.

It’s such a shame that the film had to end on a sour note because the rest of it is so damn good. It’s an intricately written, cleverly executed film that satirically deconstructs the spy genre in a way that’s both funny and dramatic. I eagerly await the sequel.

[saraphiem-blog]

Job Selection interviews - How you can Dress to thrill

The incredible importance of the job interview is really so that both company as well as oneself get an opportunity to evaluate a good match for both parties. The business has reviewed your own curriculum vitae and has already determined you possess abilities for the task. The interview consequently serves to allow for wider debate and clarification upon almost any points. Culture fit and type of personality play an important factor in any employment process. If you must interview with the recruiters initially (agency or internal) be aware that their thoughts do count. Proper attire is vital for the interview. Possessing all the right current wardrobe items is all well and good, however, if they just don't work well, then they're essentially useless. Stick to basic clothing as opposed to fashion pieces. Particular pieces of your clothing collection can be be extremely accommodating. Significantly more trendy and also fashionable things tend to be difficult to pair along with other clothing garments. Suits must be worn to job interviews. A darkly colored suit with a white colored shirt is best suited. Be sure that your suit fits well and is not causing you pain if too tight, otherwise it'll be annoying for you personally. Some suppliers supply totally free alterations when you buy a formal suit, or you may wish to find a seamstress to adjust a suit you presently own.Should you not possess a suit, then a sports blazer is suitable. Some sort of subtle design or perhaps plain blazer is the most suitable. It is possible to pair it with greyish trousers and also a white-colored or even light blue shirt with deep blue neck tie for optimum effect. Over again, make certain anything and everything fits effectively. A good fitting ensemble will provide you with utmost self-confidence right then and there. There's a distinction between not necessarily feeling comfortable in a suit and attempting to squeeze into the very same suit you wore to your sister's wedding and reception when you were Seventeen. Pick your preferred formal suit inside your current wardrobe. A well-tailored suit is essential. Some sort of single-colour suit is the most suitable, or one having pin-stripes. Knee length skirt suits which aren't far too tightly fitted are best. Pick a classic tie. Stay away from types that can be vivid. Save loud neckties for immediately after the actual employment interview. A white dress shirt or perhaps mild blue shirt that contrasts with the formal suit should really be chosen. Make sure the dress shirt is long-sleeved. Bare arms are regarded as much less proper than forearms covered towards the wrist. Preferably, pick a button down long sleeve dress shirt to partner together with your suit. It is possible to decide to wear patterns provided they aren't too vivid. Bright white is still most desirable when it comes to dress shirts, nevertheless depending on sector it's also possible to choose to wear a blue dress shirt. Stick to vivid white to avoid causing any kind of unfavorable reaction with the job interviewer. Make certain ones own belt and shoe colour match up. Many get upset when considering exactly what color footwear to put on with a navy suit. Cordovan (deep burgundy) is usually the ideal choice, however if you simply just have black or brown, either is going to do providing it is a darkish brown. An excellent rule of thumb is always that the footwear color must be more dark compared to the formal suit. The correct shoe choice is vital depending on the position. WHen it comes to fine leather men's shoes, you should definitely own a pair of double monk strap shoes. You can find out more about men's leather shoes here. For a professional business position, you will require high quality natural leather shoes or boots. Decide on oxfords or brogues intended for formality. Lace-up is more typical. All things being said, you can wear a fine leather penny loafer to good effect in a professional function. Black colored is the go-to colour, although dark brown might possibly be appropriate. Low-heeled shoes are right for a female.Socks ought to be calf-length or over the actual calf. Appropriate hues are black colored, dark grey or deep blue, normally.

Keep accessories humble and uncomplicated. For a skilled professional look, women should remain faithful to simply a tiny amount of make-up and only moderate and uncomplicated jewelry. Clean teeth and steer clear of drink and cigarettes which usually stain the teeth and give bad breath. Shower on the morning of the job interview. Remain faithful to subtle perfume, if at all. A fragrance could potentially cause a hypersensitivity or offend the job interviewer. If uncertain, stay clear of it completely. Hair: It's important for you to have neat and trimmed hair. Always shave before going to a job interview. In case you have a facial beard it's not necessary to trim it, just make sure the face is thoroughly clean and clear. Brush nice hair and check between your pearly whites. For fine measure, have a little proper grooming set in your pocket for almost any last second scenarios. Clean and cut finger nails are essential. Men and women will start making judgments about you based on ones shoes and nails initially. In the event the job position is professional, keep body art covered up. Piercings that are cultural in nature (i.e nose piercings) are usually acceptable, but I would give some thought to taking off. In the employment interview, don't merely concentrate on the employer. Eye contact is key with everybody in the meeting and actively listen to what they're stating so that you don't state the exact same thing. Pay attention to your body language. Always be alert, show open palms and make eye contact. Bear in mind you're also deciding whether or not you would like to work for the company along with the people that you speak to. Both parties are signing a binding agreement. Make certain you ask as numerous important questions as possible to help make a knowledgeable decision so that if they request you back for the following appointment, you can make them aware whether you're planning to pursue or not, and also have the info that you might want. Do not invariably rely upon the headhunter to give you this info. It is actually acceptable to ask those questions through the interview.

[midlifechic]

So we’re kicking off Autumn 2017 with my favourite post of the season – the launch of Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17. It goes live today (31st August) at 10am in the UK and 9pm ET in the US. I think everybody who reads Midlifechic knows that Inès is my ultimate style icon. Other than Helen Mirren, I don’t think there is anyone like her in terms of sassy, insouciant style. She has so much sparkle that every time I see her, I want to be French and live her life – even though I’m perfectly happy with mine.

As ever for me, the amalgamation of classic French chic with Uniqlo’s affordable quality is just about everything I could wish for in one collection… if only they stocked it year round with stores in every UK city. However that is not the case and, as we know, most of the collection will be sold out by Monday so we need to crack on.

I feel very lucky to have been sent a few pieces to show you in advance. The difference that I have noticed about this collection is that the quality is twice as good as it was before – and it was already great. The clothes appear very simple at first but the fabrics, the cut and the attention to detail set it apart from anything else that you can buy at this price point – they are certainly giving brands like Boden a dig in the ribs. So, let me talk you through the pieces I was sent to try.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17 – the dress

First of all the wrap dress which comes in Uniqlo’s drapey, silk touch fabric. I really like the simple wrap style which will flatter more body shapes than last year’s looser cut. It has a collared neckline that is deep enough to be sexy but also secure so that you don’t have to worry about constantly adjusting it.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo silk touch wrap dress; (shoes and bag past season)

The wrap at the front enables you to move easily and yet the silhouette from behind is close to the body and slimming.

It fastens with a self-tie belt but I added this lovely wide leather belt in this season’s oxblood for emphasis. The belt is a great buy – I’ll be wearing it with blazers and coats as well as midi skirts to cinch my waist.

There is plenty of fabric in the wrap so you don’t need to worry about the occasional gust of wind – and it has deep pockets which is something I think most of us love in a dress. Polka dots are going to be strong this season and the dress is available in the small spot that I’m wearing here or a larger spot, as well as a black and white check and plain black.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo silk touch wrap dress, vintage wide belt

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17 – the coat

Moving on to coats – the Inès Chester has always been one of my favourite pieces from the collection. Until now though, the fabric has never quite lived up to the cut – but this season it has changed. It has always had a decent wool content but now it is softer and more felted.

Inès Chester coat

It’s an absolutely timeless coat that will never date. The advantage of the slightly longer length this year is that you can wear it with classic slim fit jeans or trousers as well as knee length dresses. It is available in navy and dark grey.

Inès Chester coat

I’m hoping that this will give you an idea of the detail: note the iconic Inès red stitching on the occasional buttonhole. The quality of the running stitch around the lapels makes me think of Jaeger coats. You can also get a feel for the depth of the pile here.

Even the collar has red on the reverse – a chic little touch for blustery days.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17 – shirting

Shirting next and they have included quite a few favourites in this season’s range including this pintucked blouse which I’ve worn a lot since buying it last year. I have my eye on this soft blue Oxford frill shirt – unfortunately I couldn’t get a sample to show you. That particular shade of blue is key for the coming season and I think it will look great with jeans.

Inès pintucked front blouse, Inès wool blended trousers; ruffle shoes

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17 – trousers

The wool blended trousers are a higher rise than last season which makes them much easier to wear. They have a sharp crease, a lovely felted texture, a chic turn up – and, astoundingly, they are fully lined – for £39.90! They are true to size and such a classic, iconic core wardrobe piece that you’d be mad to miss them.

I wanted to review the jeans but Uniqlo just couldn’t get a sample to me in time. Nobody does dark indigo jeans as well as Uniqlo (they call it navy). I’m really hoping that they will be cut as high as the trousers this season (just below the navel). If they are, I’ll be buying a dark indigo slim ankle length pair.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17 – cashmere

Here I’ve added a simple cashmere jumper. As you can see, the Inès shade of navy is the soft ‘navy peony’ that I was talking about in Friday’s post – much more flattering than dark navy. I sized up to a large on this jumper because cashmere, in my opinion, is always better when it is loose and luxurious.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo cashmere jumper; Inès pintucked front blouse, Inès wool blended trousers; ruffle shoes

I’m hoping that you can see the sweatshirt detailing at the neckline here. I like the fact that it is a loose crew neckline so that it doesn’t shorten your neck and make your face look round as crews often do. (If you’re wondering why I was holding onto my head in these last few photos, it’s because the wind was tunnelling a really strange up-draught).

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo cashmere jumper; Inès pintucked front blouse

And that brings us on to the last piece from me – another new favourite, the cashmere cape. It’s so much nicer than a poncho with its curved hem which is tipped in black. It’s a perfect layering piece for the next few months, I’ll just add extra jumpers underneath it as I go along.

Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo cashmere cape; Inès pintucked front blouse, Inès wool blended trousers; ruffle shoes

Introducing Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo Menswear

I temporarily have a new recruit at Midlifechic! When Uniqlo sent me their press information announcing the launch of their first menswear collection, it immediately struck me that it was the perfect preppy look. Of course it’s great for husbands and partners but for me, right now, its real strength lies in the headache it has solved for Sixth Form wear. So – who better to model it for me than the shiny new Sixth Former?

He was feeling a bit uncertain about what to do so I briefed him – shoulders back, stand tall and smile…

…and he did! So, the genius, in my opinion, is in the unstructured jacket. It is unlined which means that the boy instantly loved it because it doesn’t feel like a school blazer. He can move more freely and when it gets colder, he will be able to wear it as the chic Parisians do, with a Uniqlo ultra light down jacket underneath.

It comes up quite big – I ordered a large because I often find that Uniqlo is sized for a small frame but it will need altering (he has a 42″ chest). It is also available in grey. He is wearing it with Uniqlo slim fit chinos

Inès tweed jacket; denim shirt; slim fit chinos; Brogues

…and a slim fit denim shirt which I think he’ll get away with at school because it doesn’t actually look like denim.

If it hadn’t been for the Inès launch I would never have thought of going to Uniqlo for Sixth Form clothing but it’s much better quality than the other places he would have veered towards. I’m now busy stocking up on a few more pieces.

So, that brings me to the end of the post. I thought I’d leave you with a few outtakes – we tried to do a mother and son shoot but we couldn’t stop laughing so it didn’t work out – as you can see.

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I may not have captured the sophistication of Inès de La Fressange but I hope I’ve managed to convey some of her joy because I love this range of clothing. As I said at the beginning, I just wish there was more of it and that it was around for longer – but then maybe it wouldn’t feel quite so special if it was. And finally thank you to Uniqlo for letting everyone at Midlifechic see it first – I really do feel honoured that you continue to launch your season with me.

Disclosure: Inès de La Fressange at Uniqlo AW17 is a Spotlight Post written on behalf of Uniqlo. However all thoughts, words and pictures are my own.

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