S+F - My blogger mail 

Behind this innovative and somewhat quirky brand lies a male grooming product range with a clear message. These solutions are simple, straightforward and take the confusion out of body and skincare shopping. In an overwhelming market that bombards us with countless claims and grooming ranges that do little other than confuse most people, S+F have provided clarity. I find this approach to skincare so very refreshing! The mock-chemical symbols give the brand an uncomplicated, pure vibe which is supported by their bold, natural core ingredients. The signiture scent carried across all products is refined, masculine and fresh.

Sh + Cd

With so many options on the shelf,  choosing a shampoo and conditioner can be a bit of a hassle. Black quinoa and shea butter leave your hair perfectly cleansed and pollutant free without dehydrating. Keravis™ protein complex penetrates the cuticle where it will  fortify, nourish and defend your hair... while helping it grow healthier from the roots! This is just what you need from every day haircare. Use the conditioner after shampooing to boost shine and protection. 

There you go, all the hard work is done for you. - Shampoo - £7,  Conditioner - £7

Bw 

This product left my skin feeling invigorated and squeaky clean, what more could you want from a body wash? Brazilian papaya nourishes and conditions while Vitamin E gives antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. 

Does exactly what it says on the bottle - Body Wash - £7

Fs

Face scrubs are a tricky one. Too abrasive and they can do more harm than good, too gentle and they won't properly exfoliate. The size of the 'beads' or particles is also very important, they need to be small enough to remove dirt and dead skin from the pores. The microbeads in this scrub do just that. Prickly pear extract (Chronodyn™) tones, firms and increases cellular energy metabolism, giving life to your complexion. 

This may sound complicated, which is why all you have to do is whack it on and see the results! - Face Scrub - £8

Hy 

This non-greasy hydrator combines the Vitamin E benefits of the body wash, with the prickly pear cell-energising effects of the scrub. This and its light fragrance will make your skin irresistible! 

The result? Skin that is soft, protected, toned and top notch Hydrator - £10

Sw 

Finally, I am delighted to introduce you to the ultimate gym bag accompaniment! The 4-in-1 solution is a hair, body and face wash with the additional function of a shaving gel! Natural Guar Gum prevents your skin from drying out while giving lubrication for a close and sleek shave. This product is perfect for sports lovers and travellers alike. 

Anything that means one less bottle on the shelf is great in my eyes. - Sports Wash - £9

Wb

When packing holidays and weekends away this wash bag has been ideal. It has plenty of room for your S+F products as well as other toiletry essentials. 

Wash Bag - £15

... Or you could kit yourself out with the Full Works set which contains all of the S+F 'essential' items in the bag! It's also perfect as a gift.  Full Works - £40 (I think that this is AMAZING value) 

I hope you enjoyed this review. I am so pleased to have collaborated with such a unique brand, that aims to take the stress out of your grooming regime by doing the hard work for you! 

THE ALL NEW ZEOS QU3  SKINCARE RANGE

I love reviewing new, innovative skincare for men. This is so that I can test the best possible products for my own use and for recommending to you guys. I always get a little excited when I receive blogger mail, but nowhere near as excited as I got when I saw who this parcel was from!

Last year I trailed the ZEOS for men warm waxing kit and saw fantastic results. When I heard that this exciting new brand were bringing out a complete skincare range, I was over the moon! Naturally, I had pretty high expectations which they certainly lived up to.

The award winning QU3 range is designed with the modern-day man in mind. The stress of your morning commute and the pollutants that you expose yourself to on a daily basis take their toll on your skin. We all love our urban lifestyles, but do you know the damage it does to your skin? Luckily, ZEOS have tackled this issue face on with their remarkable new range.

The Science:

All of the products in the QU3 range contain the revolutionary ingredient Resistem™. Developed from stem cell technology (derived from a species that actively resists environmental stresses), Resistem™ utilises the protective and defensive properties of this natural phenomenon. By incorporating this substance into their formulations, ZEOS have created skincare that has the ability to eliminate toxins, promote energy production and maintain the skins ability to regenerate. In other words...  

The QU3 range: 
1) Protects from every day pollutants   
2) Gives your complexion a burst of life 
3) Serves for anti ageing!

In addition to this, the range is packed with vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant and collagen stimulator) and vitamin B5 which binds and retains water within the dermis. This gives lasting hydration at a cellular level. B5 not only hydrates, but improves elasticity and softness. 

I was super excited to be one of THE first to receive this exciting set of samples! After 6 months of using the range every day, here's how I got on (in true marcoallamoda fashion). 

THE FANTASTIC FOUR

FACE WASH - LOOKING AFTER THE MONEY MAKER 

For me there is no better way to kick start your morning regime than with a fresh face. This face wash not only brings  incomparable cleansing, but invigorating menthol gives a sensation that wakes you up and brings life to your skin. Equally, using this product to freshen up at the end of your day will wash away any impurities that may lead to a breakout. Hydrating ingredients ensure that your skin stays quenched, which is vital in the battle against ageing. This product is supplemented with vitamin E which enhances your natural collagen production. Teamed up with Resistem™ and Vitamin B5, this wash is a force to be reckoned with. - Can't fault this face wash! Use morning and night for infallibly clear skin. 
(£7.95 - ZEOS®)

THE HAIR AND BODY SHOWER GEL -  START YOUR DAY RIGHT 

For me, there has always been a stigma attached to these 2-in-1 hair and body washes. The last thing I want is to strip away at my hair with products that are too harsh. Drying out the hair is always a risk with these types of washes. Luckily ZEOS have got it right with this hair and body gel! The same way vitamin B5 keeps the skin hydrated, it binds and withholds water within the hair follicles. Meanwhile vitamin E helps to build on the collagen that makes up and strengthens our hair. This product leaves your whole body feeling fresh and energised. - Impeccably clean hair and skin from head to toe. (£4.95 - ZEOS®)

FACE SCRUB - I DON'T WANT NO SCRUB, UNLESS IT'S FROM ZEOS 

Exfoliation is one of the most important parts of your skincare program. We need to remove dead skin and unclog the pores to prevent blackheads. The trouble is that this can be abrasive and take its toll. ZEOS combats this by incorporating nourishing shea butter into their product. This moisturises while the natural coconut husk works to scrub away dirt and oil. Thus leaving smooth skin and clear pores, which appear reduced in size after each use.

My tips: 1) Use this scrub when you're in a hot shower, the steam will open up your pores and the coconut husk can really excavate any blackheads and dirt. 2) Use as a shave prep. This scrub will remove any dead skin, preventing cuts and nicks, while shea butter will pre-hydrate your skin reducing irritation. 

All-in-all, very good scrub. (£7.95 - ZEOS®)

FACE AND BODY MOISTURISER - HEAD TO TOE HYDRATION

Again, I am always sceptical when trying these types of 2-in-1 products. Initially I felt that a moisturiser which can be used on the body may be too greasy and heavy for use on the face. Surely a compromise has to be made somewhere? Well... they shut me up again. This moisturiser is so very light, non-greasy and fast absorbing! It literally melts into the skin within a few seconds of being applied. Shea butter+ provides optimum hydration and the added vitamins make your skin look healthy and full of life. It works as well on the face as it does on the rest of your body and has a sophisticated masculine scent. Better still, it's one less bottle on the shelf! - I love this moisturiser.  (£8.95 - ZEOS®)

ZEOS have hit the nail on the head with their QU3 range. It is remarkable how the underlying science behind these products is teamed up with formulations that are both effective and great value for money. No wonder that they bagged themselves the 2015 best skincare range award (Male Grooming Review). As an animal scientist, it means a lot to me that none of these products are tested on animals. All of the products in the QU3 range don't use animal derivatives and so are also suitable for vegans. This range is ideal for travelling as the bottles are compact and the 2-in-1 products are great for de-bulking your toiletry bag.

Give it a go! - Marco 

The New Revolution 

After countless attempts at hair removal which often resulted in an unsatisfactory finish, I had almost given up hope. Instant gel strips and removal creams seemed like an easy way forward, but when they didn't live up to their expectations I was always left disappointed. Then I discovered ZEOS! 

I was kindly sent this awesome warm waxing kit,  I have to say, I was astounded with the outcome! The great thing about it was the the sheer simplicity. Even a waxing novice like myself managed to achieve flawless hair removal. I would have expected results like this after trip to a salon, but never from a kit that you can use at home.

We guys all know that there is a certain taboo about male waxing. Research carried out by ZEOS shows that lots of guys are after that smooth look. When the market is dominated by products targeted at women, it's obvious that prejudice would arise! However, this gap in the market has now been filled to the max! ZEOS is a growing force to be reckoned with and it's specifically formulated for male skin.

What's in the box? 

When I opened up the box, suddenly I realised what all the fuss was about. You get a complete collection of everything you need for the perfect wax. 

The kit consists of: 

 - A self-heating applicator

 - A roll on wax stick

 - An electric dock

 - Soft removal strips 

 - Soothing after-wax wipes 

Here Goes Nothing! 

After reading through the instructions I couldn't believe how simple the method was. You simply place your wax in the applicator, whack it on the the dock, plug it in, then you're off. Once it's reached the correct temperature you roll on, apply a strip and grit your teeth! Kidding aside, I was pleasantly surprised with the painlessness. Waxing is never going to be the most enjoyable sensation but for ME to think it was more than bearable says a lot! Any excess is removed using the enriched after-wax wipes. You are left with smooth, hairless and moisturised skin. 

Over a month later, re-growth was minimal. You don't need to worry about allowing it sprout back before each go, ZEOS works with hair as short as 2mm! I cannot explain how impressed I am with the end result. 

TOP TIPS from the brand:

- Apply in direction of growth and remove in the opposite direction.

- Make sure the wax runs smoothy through the roller

- Apply a little talc prior to application to stop wax adhering to the skin. 

Definitely recommend trying it out! To put the cherry on the cake, It's amazing value for what you get. 

ZEOS for Men Warm Waxing Kit - £29.99

COMPETITION TIME!!! 

You lucky guys are in with a chance of winning your very own waxing kit! 

All you have to do is: 

 1) Follow me on Instagram: marcoallamoda 

 2) Like AND comment on one of my ZEOS posts.

OR 

1) Follow,  Favourite and Retweet a ZEOS post (Twitter @marco_crisci)

OR
1) Like and Share on FB 

You need to be over 18 years old to enter. 

The winner will be DM'd and your kit will be shipped out to you. 

GOOD LUCK! 

'Stylish accessories for the modern-day gentleman, quintessentially superior in design' - Marco Alla Moda

When asked to become a brand ambassador for Crosby and Company, I jumped at the opportunity. This relatively new name to the gentlemen's accessory industry is becoming a trademark, where fine American craftsmanship meets elegant yet masculine apparel. Their mission is to become the most established male accessory brand, they are well on their way. Crosby embarked on this mission by producing luxurious cufflinks, ties, tie bars and pocket squares. This summer they launched a new range which has since taken my wardrobe by storm.

Of course I am talking about their exquisite collection of semi-precious stone bracelets. The range emanates what the brand is all about. As with all of their products, they are handcrafted using the finest materials to the highest standard. When you want to supplement your look with an element of understated sophistication, they provide the perfect means of doing so.

Mr Crosby kindly let me select my favourite piece from his bracelet collection. Being me, I had to go for the all-black one! Here's my logic:

1) As we all know, black goes with absolutely anything.

2) It can be statement in it's self.

3) It's so easy to tone down with the right pairings.

4) It can be super classy or charmingly casual.

5) I could probably go on...

My choice was the Black Onyx and Howlite Macramé Sliding Knot Bracelet.

The bracelet is crafted from pure, black Onyx with a subtlety sculpted Howlite skull. It is finished off with a sterling silver bead embossed with the brand name. Each element complements each other and the whole ensemble is bought together flawlessly. Wether I'm working, on a night out, or even just off for a coffee with friends, It has become a semi-perminent fixture.

The Hidden Power

Black Onyx has for centuries been thought to promote well being. Historical references to the stone state that it helps with releasing past emotions, giving emotional strength and has a balancing effect. 

... If you don't have a large glass of wine at hand to give the same result, this bracelet could be your answer.

THE LOOK

In this instance, I felt that it was important to bring attention to the detail. An off-white T-shirt and black shorts is such an effortless, low-key base to the summer outfit. The shorts mirror the bracelet and immediately draw the eye towards it.

Matching the favourite part of your outfit with something else is a great way to show it off. Doing this, you can take comfort in knowing that it'll look good and that people will notice it! Don't go too crazy though, being too 'matchy-matchy' can have the opposite effect.

Bring Your Style Together

Even the bold, black of my tattoo helps to complement the bracelet here.

- Use body art to enhance what you're wearing!

This does not mean go to the nearest tat parlour and ask for something to match your new top. You got inked because you like the design and/or it means something to you. THEREFORE, it only makes sense to convey this with your clothes too.

Despite my idea to go for a barefoot boho vibe with this post, I have gone for these navy-blue suede loafers. They cut through the monochrome, without being too garish. These provide such a classic look that parallels that of Crosby and Co. accessories. I stand by my decision to make this subtle statement, contrast amongst monochrome is always good.

A little gift to my readers. 

As a big thank you, you lucky guys get 40% off ALL products at Crosby and Co.  All you have to do is enter the discount code: 'MARCOALLAMODA' when you checkout!

Wether you want to treat yourself, have a special occasion to attend or need a stylish gift, Crosby has  something for you (website). If you like the bracelet from this post, pick up your very own: Crosby and Co. - £118.70 *subject to exchange rates.

As an official brand ambassador, I welcome any product enquiries or general questions through the contact form at the bottom of my site.  

Thank you for reading! I hope that you enjoyed this post, I always appreciate your feedback.

Coming soon... A brand that's changing the standard of male grooming.

- Marco ;)

'MAN'S BEST FRIEND'

Looking after my skin is one of THE most important aspects of my daily routine. A clear, healthy complexion is essential to any modern-day man. As I have touched on previously, we guys have very different skin to women, it's thicker and can even be more oily. I am always looking for skincare that delivers without causing dryness or sensitivity. Bulldog have got it just right with their fantastic range of (british made) products formulated especially for the male dermis. 

BULLDOG BLOGGER-MAIL

The kind PR team at Bulldog sent me this awesome selection of products for review. I have been using them for the last week or so and I am thrilled with the results! All of these formulations follow the same key principle. Each is packed with 8 essential oils and highly effective natural ingredients. This makes them easy on the skin, but does not compromise on effectiveness. The products have a wonderful masculine scent, you can thank the Bergamot, Juniper and Citrus oils for that. There are no synthetic fragrances or colours and all products are free from parabens, so there's no need to worry about irritation. Bulldog products are never tested on or derived from animals (which is important to me as an animal scientist).  It's astounding how great skincare can come in such a simple and pure form. 

THE ROUTINE

I have been basing my grooming regimen around the Bulldog face wash, scrub, moisturiser and shave gel. These products are pH balanced to the slight acidity of our skin. They perfectly complement each other and impressed me with their all round performance. 

Original Shave Gel

Wether I was shaping my beard or going for a complete clean shave, this gel proved to be the best of its kind that I have EVER used! From the moment you apply it, you can feel the exotic Jojoba extract softening and nourishing your skin. You then experience an exhilarating, fresh sensation as you receive a burst of menthol. The gel transforms into a thick, creamy layer over the beard area providing the perfect surface for your razor. The end result is perfectly shaven, moisturised and invigorated skin.  I have never experienced a closer shave. (£3.50 - 175ml)

Original Face Wash

What do I look for in a face wash? The answer is simple. Something that superbly cleanses and refreshes the face, without drying out my skin. That is exactly what you get with this wash. Green tea extract energises your skin while a combination of active ingredients removes dirt and pollutants. This cleanser is free from sodium laureth sulphate, which combined with the blend of essential oils, prevents dehydration. What better way to prepare your skin for the busy day ahead, and, wash away those impurities each evening. (£4.50 - 150ml)

Original Face Scrub

Exfoliating is one of the most important steps of a grooming routine. Removing dead skin cells and debris is an important step in keeping your complexion clear. Oil accumulating in your pores can lead to blackhead breakouts, so you really need to keep on top if it. I have been using this scrub a few times a week and it has left my skin looking polished and unblemished. Oat kernels and ground olive seed give an all-natural means of exfoliation that is gentle on the skins delicate surface.  Shea butter ensures that this scrub enriches as it removes dirt from the pores, which I've noticed look significantly reduced after each use. (£5 - 125ml)

Original Moisturiser

The final step of your skincare schedule should always be a good moisturiser. You don't want it to be too greasy, but you still need it to provide maximum hydration. Lack of hydration can promote excessive oil secretion, which is not what you want.  This formula is non-greasy and is quickly absorbed. It leaves my skin feeling perfectly hydrated. Green tea gives life to a dull complexion, while algae and vitamin E provide natural support for healthy looking skin. I have seen noticeably improved condition with just a small amount applied twice a day. (£6 - 100ml)

THE DOGS B*******!

I could not urge you enough to give these products a go, they are so effective! When all of the above can be picked up for under £20, you've got nothing to lose! I have definitely been converted to Bulldog skincare and I am sure that you will love these creations just as much as I do. 

Thank you for reading, 

LETS GO TO THE RACES

For those of you who are not familiar with The Oaks, the prestigious horse race takes place in my hometown of Epsom, Surrey. Every June, thousands of people flock to the Epsom Downs to participate in one of the most fashionable events in the racing calendar, ladies day. Most of you will've heard of the Epsom Derby? This is probably the most famous horse race in the world and takes place on the day following The Oaks. However, ladies day is traditionally the time to showcase fashion, glamour and style. 

As the name suggests, this is an occasion where ladies dress to impress. You'll see red soled stilettos, amazing dresses and spectacular fascinators. In recent years, the event has equally become a day for men show off their most sleek and current looks. For guys, The Oaks is a day to get suited up, put on your favourite shades and look your absolute best. Luckily for me, I live on Epsom Downs! (Hence why the pictures were taken in my porch before heading over to the grand stand).

WINE IS THE NEW BLACK

For this years races, I was besuited in one of my favourites, the Ronson wine dinner suit by Skopes. This ensemble is one that perfectly fits this occasion. I wanted to avoid something black, as it is summer after all, but the fact that my plans would run into the night meant that I wanted to avoid pale, wishy-washy pastels. I adore the deep purple colour of this suit, it's something unusual but still sleek and subtle. The black satin trims finish it off perfectly. If like me, you live to turn heads and cause outfit envy, this is the two piece for you.  

The problem with the ambitious colour choice of this suit is finding a shirt and tie that not only goes, but brings out its elegance. I have achieved this by keeping it plain, simple and sharp. I've gone with my Lambretta retro mod shirt (in grey pinstripe) with a black Skopes skinny tie. (Similar)

The suit is a statement in itself, this pairing does not take away from that. The grey cuts through the deep purple which creates contrast that brings out the vivid colour. The simplistic black tie brings it all back together by mirroring the satin trim of the jacket. This combination can only be described as perfection.

THE DASHING DETAILS

The suit says it all. For this reason, any additions must be understated. For an event like this, understated means being able to exhibit high-end apparel in a low-key manner.   What better way to do this than with my footwear of choice, The Versace Collection city shoes, one of my most beloved possessions (seriously...). These shoes are made of super soft Italian calf leather, making them exceptionally light, comfortable and high quality. When you're on your feet all day, these are a life saver. They take this outfit to a new level of class, giving just what is needed. 

The sunglasses i've chosen here are so very cool, stylish and are bang on trend for SS15. They are of course the Ray Ban green classic G15's. The thick black frame is bold and current, the lens is polarised and has a slight green tinge which I love. You can never go wrong with a pair of Ray Bans! What better way to finish off my look for The Oaks. 

Hope you enjoyed reading, 

 The look that never gets tired. 

Black and tan is one of those combinations that always has its place in my wardrobe. When you want to throw something on that looks good, without having to put in too much thought, this is your answer. It's so easy to pull off and you can mix and match various pieces with the comfort of knowing that they'll always go well together. This look was inspired by the markings of my 3 year old Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Blu. There's something about solid black with accents of tan in an outfit that gives it distinction and poise. You appear that you've put copious amounts of effort into your styling, but you haven't! What more could you want in an everyday ensemble? 

To achieve this outfit, I have gone with my standard River Island black sid-stretch skinny jeans. These are a perfect fit and they're the only black jeans i've known not to fade over time. I've paired them up with one of my favourite tops right now, the Topman 'bobble stitch black T-shirt' (Similar). I always get complemented on this unusual article which is essentially a knitted T with subtle yet brilliant detail in the design. I'm a big fan of rolled up sleeves on practically any short sleeved top, that's just personal preference. They would look equally great rolled down, showing off the contrasting stitch of the seam (which fits to the arm).  

^ TAN IT UP ^ 

When visiting my grandparents in Italy a couple of summers ago, I was having a browse through a boutique on the Amalfi Coast. I stumbled across this Armani Jeans belt, of course I had to buy it there and then! The style is timeless, Armani has been making similar styles for years and continue to do so today (£85 - Armani Jeans). This sort of thing never goes out of fashion and is one of those iconic pieces that you have to own at some point in your time. In this instance, the soft, tan leather is a perfect way to set off the black. I love the design as it is completely seamless making it simplified and understated. The distressed gold detail and trademark delivers a casual charm.  

The tan suede chukka boots i'm wearing give a smart, dressed up finish. The story of how I came across these is no where near as glamorous. I happened to be passing through a Marks and Spencer in Kingston when I spotted these bad boys. I'd always associated M&S shoes as something aimed at the older generation, perhaps something outmoded, practical rather than fashionable? Clearly not. I'd been looking for a pair like these for ages and they were just what I was after. Even better, they're made of outstanding quality Italian leather. £75 (M&S).  

Hope you enjoyed reading! I'll be back in June with something special!