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When it comes to men’s pants, chinos are one of the most popular styles around. They’re versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the formality of any occasion.

However, some guys can become confused by chinos. Are they slacks? Are they formal pants? Are they somewhere in between?

As ever, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we will take a look at what chinos are, how to buy them, and some of the different styles that are available. We’ll also cover some tips on how to wear them in different social settings.

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So whether you’re looking for your next pair of go-to pants or just want to learn more about chinos, read on and take note as we cover:

  1. What Are Chino Pants For Men?
  2. What Are Chino Pants For Men Made From?
  3. The History Of Men’s Chino Pants
  4. Cheap Vs. Expensive Chino Pants For Men
  5. Where To Buy Men’s Chino Pants
  6. How To Style Men’s Chino Pants

What Are Chino Pants For Men?

As I mentioned earlier – a lot of guys get confused when talking about chinos. To be honest, most men don’t actually know the definition of chino pants and start making mistakes as a result.

Simply put, chinos are men’s trousers that are lightweight, tapered, and made from cotton or a blend of synthetic and natural fibers. However, to break this down even further, we need to look at the finer details.

What’s the Difference Between Chinos and Khakis?

Difference Between Khakis Chinos jpg

Here’s a question you’ll see on every menswear forum out there — just what’s the difference between khakis and chinos?

Unfortunately, most places try to answer the question by diving into the history of the two words. And while that’s interesting, it doesn’t actually help someone who’s shopping for dress-casual trousers.

So here’s your definitive answer, insofar as there is one. Manufacturers and advertisers have strayed from these boundaries enough that you’ll have to take this with a big old grain of salt, but broadly speaking here are the differences:

  • Khakis are thick, straight-legged, and typically pleated (although plain fronts are available from most brands these days). They have cuffs at the bottom hems.
  • Chinos are lightweight, tapered so that they narrow as they go lower on the leg, and can be either cuffed or uncuffed. They are generally flat-fronted.
  • Both styles are made from cotton twill, and are traditionally dyed somewhere in between a very pale cream color and a dark tan.
difference between men wearing khakis and chinos

Of the two, khakis are more toward the sturdy work-wear end of things, while chinos are lighter and a bit dressier.

Now, are you going to find exceptions to these rules? Of course you are.

Manufacturers have been labeling any old cotton dress trousers as either one of these words, or sometimes as both, for years. It’s entirely possible to find something being sold as “khaki chinos.”

So don’t take any of this as gospel. There’s no real guarantee that chinos from Brand A are going to be lighter and dressier than khakis from Brand B. You’ll have to look at specific types of pants, see what their materials and details look like for yourself.

But in general – khakis, sturdy and utilitarian. Chinos, lighter and a bit dressier. Khakis will look more blocky; chinos more streamlined. Or at least that’s the theory.

What’s The Difference Between Chinos And Dress/Suit Trousers?

difference between chinos and dress suit trousers

The common thread between chinos and dress/suit trousers is that they’re both made from cotton. However, there are some more specific features that you’ll want to look out for if you want to tell the difference between them.

Chinos are often lightweight, tapered towards the ankle, and either cuffed or uncuffed. On the other hand, men’s dress/suit trousers tend to have less of a taper and can be made from a wider variety of materials.

While chinos pants for men are usually made from cotton twill or a blend of synthetic and natural fibers, men’s dress/suit trousers are almost always made from a cotton-wool blend (or sometimes linen).

Finally – men’s chino pants look more casual than dress/suit trousers thanks to their softer, more laid-back appearance.

What’s The Difference Between Chinos And Jeans?

difference between chinos and jeans

Chinos and jeans are different in many ways. For starters, men’s jeans are typically made from heavier denim fabric with more texture and structure than chinos.

Chinos, on the other hand, are usually made from lighter cotton twill or a blend of synthetic and natural fibers. They also tend to have a softer drape than jeans and can be either cuffed or uncuffed.

Jeans often come in darker washes such as navy blue, charcoal gray, olive green, etc., while chinos for men are generally available in lighter earth tones.

In terms of when to wear each style – men’s chino pants are considered dress-casual trousers so they’re perfect for smart-casual occasions like brunch or dinner parties. Jeans are a bit more informal and should be worn when the dress code isn’t strict.

What Are Chino Pants For Men Made From?

chinos fabric

I’ve mentioned multiple times now that chino pants for men are made from lighter cotton twill or a blend of synthetic and natural fibers… but what exactly does this mean and how does it affect the wearability of this style of garment?

Cotton twill is a sturdy and durable type of fabric. It’s made from tightly woven threads which makes it resistant to tearing and wear-and-tear. Chinos also tend to have less drape than other men’s trousers due to their cotton twill construction.

As for the blend of synthetic and natural fibers – this is usually used in order to give chinos pants for men an extra bit of stretch or comfort. The synthetic part (typically elastane) works together with the natural cotton to provide a garment that fits close to your body shape but gives you enough freedom of movement when you’re wearing them during everyday activities.

If you’re a fan of slimmer-fit trousers, then buying a pair of chinos with a more stretchy construction is definitely a good idea so that you can get a comfortable and flattering fit.

A Quick History of Chinos

chinos as historical military uniform

Much of the confusion between khakis and chinos can be traced to the origin of the latter style: “chinos” were khakis, of a sort.

Chino cloth was a lightweight twill weave from China (hence the name). The British and French military were both using chino to make their khaki uniform trousers by the latter half of the 19th century.

When American soldiers serving in the Philippines during the Spanish-American war needed uniform trousers, they found it cheaper and quicker to import from China rather than the United States. Their trousers were made simple and tapered, without pleated fronts, to save on cloth costs, resulting in a smooth, simple style.

The same basic style was used for uniform trousers during World War One, and returning soldiers from both wars brought them into civilian settings. University students in particular took to chinos after WWI, and they have been part of the fashion landscape ever since.

So why are they called khakis? Here’s your basic breakdown: khakis originated as a broad category of military trousers, and one specific subset of them evolved into chinos. Buyers have been confused ever since!

Read more about military inspired pieces of men’s clothing here.

Cheap Vs. Expensive Chino Pants For Men

chino pants on rack

So what’s the difference between cheap and expensive chino pants for men?

Good question – after all, with many garments nowadays, more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean higher quality.

However, when it comes to men’s chino pants, there are certain perks to buying a slightly pricier pair. Generally speaking, they tend to be made from higher quality fabrics with more attention paid to the details (such as fit and stitching).

Cheap Vs. Expensive Chino Fabric

Cheaper chino fabrics are usually made from a cotton twill blend with a lower thread count. While you’d still get the same basic look and feel as higher quality fabrics, they tend to be less durable and may not fit as well as more expensive options.

On the other hand, if you have the budget for it – splurging on a pair of men’s chinos that are made from 100% cotton twill or cotton poplin will ensure that you get a garment that is breathable, comfortable, and looks great.

Cheap Vs. Expensive Chino Construction

In terms of construction, cheaper chinos tend to be made with thinner, lighter fabrics and fewer details (such as pleats or belt loops). Meanwhile, higher end men’s chinos usually come with a better fit due to their sturdier construction.

They also often feature additional features such as pocket linings, button-down fastenings, and reinforced seams so that they can last longer and look better.

Cheap Vs. Expensive Chino Production

quality made chinos

While not always the case, it’s common for more expensive chinos to be made more ethically than cheaper garments. This means that they may be produced in factories that pay workers a fair wage, use eco-friendly fabrics, and comply with other ethical production standards.

Not only does that mean your chinos will have a smaller ethical footprint, it also means that they’ll likely be better-made thanks to the better working conditions in which they were produced! After all, a happy worker is a better worker.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to men’s chino pants, there are definitely advantages to purchasing higher quality pieces – but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank! Consider your budget, your lifestyle, and what kind of occasions where you’ll be wearing the chinos before making a purchase. That way you can find the perfect blend of style, comfort, and value for money! Good luck with finding your new favorite pair of chinos!

Where To Buy Men’s Chino Pants

You won’t be surprised to hear that most men’s clothing companies produce chino pants. However, for men’s chinos that are really worth their price tag, there are a few retailers you should take note of.

High-End Italian Chinos For Men: Tom Ford

chinos by tom ford

Anyone who’s interested in men’s style knows how stylish (but expensive) Tom Ford’s clothing lines can be.

When it comes to staple menswear pieces, their chinos are no exception. Their chinos come in a range of colors, cuts, and fabrics to suit men of all styles. However, expect to pay a minimum of $700 for a single pair – a price tag that many men would consider completely out of the question!

So what do you get for that higher price tag? What makes Tom Ford chinos better than a mid-range pair from Ralph Lauren?

Well, as with any high-end men’s fashion designer, you’re paying for the craftsmanship and quality of the material. Tom Ford chinos are made from a superior quality cotton twill that is designed to last longer and feel softer than cheaper alternatives.

The stitching on these chinos is impeccable, so you can be sure that your trousers won’t come apart at the seams after just a few wears.

Mid-Range Chinos For Men: Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren chinos

If Tom Ford’s prices aren’t exactly in your budget but you still want a great pair of men’s chinos then take a look at Ralph Lauren.

Ralph Lauren men’s chinos come in a range of styles, cuts, and fabrics – from classic men’s khaki chino pants to slim-fit navy blue chino trousers.

They tend to be made from a heavier-weight cotton twill that is both durable and comfortable but won’t cost you an arm and a leg like Tom Ford does.

Not to mention, many of Ralph Lauren men’s chinos also have pleats that add a touch of sophistication to your look – making them perfect for wearing to the office or out on the town!

Affordable Everyday Chinos For Men: Uniqlo

Uniqlo chinos

Their men’s chino pants come in a variety of colors and styles, as well as fits (including slim fit). The best part? They are incredibly affordable! Uniqlo is the perfect option for men on a budget who still want to look great in their chinos.

The great thing about Uniqlo is their quality-to-cost ratio. Not only are their men’s chino pants incredibly affordable, but they are also made from high-quality cotton twill fabric that is designed to stand up to everyday wear and tear. Plus, many of their chinos have pleats for a more sophisticated look.

How To Style Men’s Chino Pants

As you’ve undoubtedly established by now – chinos are pretty darn versatile! Which is both a positive and a negative depending on how you look at it.

As a positive, it means that chinos can be worn with almost any men’s wardrobe. Whether you’re wearing a casual t-shirt, an Oxford button-down shirt and blazer, or just a simple polo shirt – chinos will look great!

But it can also be overwhelming to figure out how to style them in the best way possible. So here are some tips to help!

How To Wear Chinos With A Blazer

short man wearing chinos with blazer

The key to wearing men’s chino pants with a blazer is making sure that the fit of the chinos isn’t too tight or too loose. If it’s too tight, it will look uncomfortable and if it’s too loose it will look sloppy.

When it comes to color, there are two ways to approach chinos and a blazer. You can either match the color of your chinos and blazer exactly or opt for a complimenting color. If you’re feeling bold, you can even wear patterned chino pants – like checked or plaid pants – with a solid-colored blazer.

Whatever you do, make sure that the fit is just right and your look will be complete!

How To Wear Chinos With An Oxford Shirt

man wearing chinos with blue oxford shirt

The key to wearing men’s chino pants with an Oxford shirt is making sure that the fit of both items is spot-on. The chinos should be slightly tapered and not too tight, while the Oxford shirt should fit snugly around your neck and shoulders without being too baggy or restrictive.

To keep the look casual – skip the tie and unbutton the collar of the Oxford shirt. The great thing about men’s chino pants and Oxford shirts is that they come in a variety of colors – so you have plenty of options to choose from.

When it comes to footwear, office-casual men’s dress shoes (like loafers or brogues) work best. White sneakers can also look good too, just make sure they’re minimal in design and clean!

How To Wear Chinos With A Casual T-Shirt

man wearing chinos with t-shirt

When it comes to men’s chino pants and casual t-shirts, the key is to keep things simple. Chinos should be tapered and slightly fitted (not too tight or loose) and t-shirts should fit snugly without being too baggy or restrictive.

As for color choice – you can go with a classic white t-shirt and navy chinos. Nothing says timeless and stylish like this classic men’s look! However, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous – try pairing chinos with a brightly-colored t-shirt or one with a fun graphic or pattern.

When it comes to footwear – anything goes! From sneakers to boat shoes and loafers – they will all work nicely with men’s chino. Just make sure that your footwear is clean and suit the formality of the occasion you’re attending!

FAQs: Chino Pants For Men

What's the difference between chinos and khakis?

While they’re often confused, khakis are generally a color, and khaki pants are a style of casual, cotton trousers. Chinos refer to a style of lightweight, often colored or patterned trousers.

How should chinos fit?

Chinos should fit comfortably around your waist without a belt. They should be slim around the thighs, not too tight, and taper slightly towards the ankle.

Can chinos be worn in all seasons?

Absolutely! Chinos are great year-round. You can choose lighter colors and fabrics for spring and summer, and thicker, darker chinos for fall and winter.

Are chinos suitable for business casual attire?

Yes, they are perfect for business casual. Pair them with a crisp button-up shirt and a blazer or smart sweater for a professional look.

Can I wear a belt with chinos?

Yes, a belt can add a nice touch to chinos, especially if you’re tucking in your shirt. Choose a belt that complements the color of your shoes.

Can I wear chinos to a wedding?

For a casual wedding, definitely. Pair them with a dress shirt and a sport coat to elevate your look.

Is it okay to roll up the hem of chinos?

Yes, cuffing the hem can give a more casual, relaxed look, especially in warmer weather or with casual footwear.

Can chinos be altered easily?

Yes, they can be tailored for a perfect fit just like any other trousers. It’s especially common to adjust the length.

How do I choose the right color of chinos?

Consider your existing wardrobe and choose colors that will complement it. Neutral colors like beige, navy, and grey are versatile and easy to match.

Can I wear chinos with a tuxedo jacket?

It’s not traditional, but for a modern, eclectic look, you can pair slim-fit chinos with a tuxedo jacket for creative semi-formal events.

Are chinos appropriate for a job interview?

For most business casual interviews, yes. Pair them with a smart shirt and maybe a blazer, depending on the company culture.

Should chinos be ironed?

Yes, to maintain a crisp look, especially for dressier occasions, it’s a good idea to iron your chinos.

Can I wear patterned chinos?

Absolutely! Just balance them with a solid-colored shirt to avoid clashing patterns.

The post Chino Pants For Men – The Ultimate Buying Guide appeared first on Real Men Real Style.

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By: Antonio Centeno
Title: Chino Pants For Men – The Ultimate Buying Guide
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/chinos-buying-guide/
Published Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:22:44 +0000

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Best Men’s Fragrance Gift Sets For Christmas 2023

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If you’re stuck for a gift to buy a loved one, you can’t go wrong with a fragrance gift set. Whether you play it safe with their signature scent or opt for something a bit more left field, a cologne or eau de toilette/parfum gift set is a winner every time.

Naturally, there are thousands out there to choose from, and the bundles vary. Some sets come with a 100ml bottle and a smaller travel option, whereas others feature a full grooming kit, complete with deodorant, soap and shower gel as well as a bottle of perfume.

For fragrance lovers, sets are often more exciting than a single bottle. They allow you to try out a smaller-sized cologne at a discount, while ‘fragrance wardrobe’ sets come with multiple different smells in small, travel-friendly sizes. These offer an insight into a brand’s full fragrance roster, enabling the recipient to pick and choose before committing to a more expensive full-size bottle.

So, whether you’re scrambling for a last-minute gift, or simply want to treat yourself to something new, these are the best (smelling) fragrance gift sets for men this year.

Laboratory Perfumes

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Designed to evoke the coconut-infused scent of the gorse flower found in Provence, this Laboratory set is perfect for those after a light, summery fragrance.

It comes with a 100ml eau de toilette, a candle, skin cream and a bar of soap, all blended with the spicy citrus hit of the brand’s best-selling scent.

Buy now at Laboratory Perfumes

Aqua di Parma

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Colonia is Aqua di Parma’s classic scent and one that every man will love. Easy to wear every day, it’s fresh and fruity, with Sicilian citrus combining with lavender and woody vetiver and patchouli.

Presented in a winter-themed box, this set comes with an eau de cologne as well as a matching shower gel and deodorant spray.

Buy now at Cult Beauty

Jo Malone

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Jo Malone might be better known for its women’s range, but the men’s edit is just as good. Coming in a handy travel bag, this set is made up of the brand’s Silver Birch & Lavender cologne, as well as an exfoliating shower gel, a woody hand wash and a grapefruit body and hand lotion.

Buy now at Jo Malone

Ralph Lauren

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Any seasoned traveller will appreciate this Ralph Lauren twin set, which comes with both a large 100ml bottle as well as a wash bag-friendly 40ml of Polo Blue.

A clean, classic scent with notes of melon, basil and musk, Polo Blue is an easy daily wearer that works year-round.

Buy now at Ralph Lauren

Penhaligon’s

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First established in London in 1870, Penhaligon’s is one of the UK’s oldest perfumers and even holds a Royal Warrant by appointment to King Charles, back when he was The Prince of Wales.

Offering a range of scents, this set gives a great idea of what the house is all about, with 5ml bottles of Blenheim Bouquet, Endymion Concentré, Halfeti, Juniper Sling and Quercus.

Buy now at Penhaligon’s

Tom Ford

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Tom Ford’s Ombré Leather fragrance is one of the brand’s best-loved and most evocative scents.

Deep and dark with notes of black leather, patchouli, vetiver and jasmine, this set features Ombré Leather in both a 100ml eau de parfum and an all-over body spray, making it perfect for lovers of this Tom Ford classic.

Buy now at Tom Ford

Maison Francis Kurkdjian

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For indecisive noses, or those who want an expansive introduction into the world of Maison Francis Kurkdjian, the Fragrance Wardrobe Discovery Collection is an excellent choice.

It boasts a total of eight different fragrances, ranging from the sweet vanilla and amber of Grand Soir to the dark, woody notes of Baccarat Rouge 540.

Buy now at John Lewis

Chanel

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With Timothee Chalamet as its new ambassador, Bleu de Chanel is making something of a comeback. The French house’s signature male fragrance, it’s a refreshing, aromatic scent with sandalwood and cedar, alongside a series of subtle citrus notes.

This set features a 50ml eau de parfum, as well as an after-shave lotion and lip balm.

Buy now at John Lewis

Barbour

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Barbour’s outerwear is one of the UK’s greatest style exports, but the British company’s grooming range has long been a winner, too.

This gift set comes with the brand’s signature scent in both eau de parfum and shower gel form. It’s warm and woody, with notes of cedar, vetiver and amber, and a subtle citrus finish.

Buy now at The Fragrance Shop

Montblanc

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Montblanc doesn’t apply its signature star emblem to anything that isn’t of the highest quality, whether it’s pens, watches or, indeed, its ever-popular fragrances.

The brand’s Explorer scent combines bergamot with vetiver and patchouli and can be found in this set featuring a bottle of eau de parfum and an all-over shower gel.

Buy now at John Lewis

Dior

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Dior’s Sauvage is one of the more instantly recognisable fragrances out there, thanks in part to its bold advertising but also its fresh, powerful scent. Made up of a combination of ambroxan, musky wood and bergamot, it takes on a slightly sweet, fruity yet peppery smell as the day goes on.

It’s available here in an eau de parfum as well as a 10ml travel spray, which can be filled up using the larger 100ml bottle.

Buy now at Dior

Geo. F. Trumper

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For fans of deep, musky notes of sandalwood, this Geo. F. Trumper set will be well received. It makes use of the historic Mayfair and St James perfumer’s aptly-named Sandalwood scent, and comes with a cologne, shower gel, shampoo, shaving cream and deodorant, ensuring recipients get the full, head-to-toe experience.

Buy now at Fortnum & Mason

The post Best Men’s Fragrance Gift Sets For Christmas 2023 appeared first on Ape to Gentleman.

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By: Charlie Thomas
Title: Best Men’s Fragrance Gift Sets For Christmas 2023
Sourced From: www.apetogentleman.com/best-mens-fragrance-gift-sets/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-mens-fragrance-gift-sets
Published Date: Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:16:42 +0000

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The Complete Guide to Growing a Beard at Every Age

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Beards are not just a trend; they’re a journey. A journey that evolves with you as you age. The process of growing a beard is a fascinating blend of genetics, hormonal changes, lifestyle and personal grooming habits. Each age brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. In this comprehensive beard growing guide, we’ll explain what to expect and explore how to grow and maintain a healthy beard at any age, backed by scientific insights and grooming expertise.

Before we dive into age specifics, it is important to understand the fundamental drivers of beard growth. Some of these we can control, others we cannot.

Genetics and Beard Growth

Genetics determine the number of hair follicles a person has, including those for beard hair. The density and distribution of hair follicles are largely determined by genetic factors inherited from your parents. These factors influence not only the number of follicles but also their responsiveness to hormones like testosterone, which affects beard growth and density. Thus, the ability to grow a thick or full beard is significantly influenced by one’s genetic makeup.

Hormones and Beard Growth

Testosterone, along with its derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT), plays a pivotal role in beard growth. These hormones are responsible for kickstarting the beard growth process during puberty and maintaining it throughout life. Testosterone stimulates the hair follicles, transforming the soft, fine vellus hair into the coarser, darker terminal hair that forms the beard.

DHT, in particular, is critical for initiating and maintaining facial hair growth. However, the sensitivity of hair follicles to these hormones varies among individuals, explaining why some men grow thicker beards than others. It’s a complex interplay between genetics, hormone levels, and the body’s response to these hormones that ultimately determines the characteristics of your beard. This is why some guys with “low” testosterone can still grow amazingly thick and full beards and some men with “high” testosterone struggle.

Diet, Exercise, and Their Impact on Beard Growth

A balanced diet rich in vitamins (like Biotin, Vitamins A, C, E), minerals (such as Zinc and Iron), and protein plays a crucial role in promoting healthy hair growth, including your beard. Foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, lean meats, and dairy products are excellent for supporting hair health.

Regular exercise boosts overall health and improves blood circulation, which can positively affect hair growth by delivering more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. Additionally, weight training can increase your testosterone levels which positively impact beard growth.

Conversely, certain factors can negatively impact beard growth. Poor nutrition, stress, lack of sleep, and smoking can all inhibit beard growth. A high stress lifestyle can particularly take a toll, as stress hormones like cortisol can adversely affect testosterone levels and, consequently, beard growth. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle are key to promoting not just a healthy beard, but overall well-being.

Now that we have the fundamentals, let’s dive into the age specifics!

Beard Growth in Teens and Early 20s

It seems like there is always one guy in high school with a full beard that would make any man envious. Just like that one 7’ tall guy at school, this is not the norm! So if you are in high school and struggling to grow your face fur, there is not need to worry. Your beard is just getting started. This ramp up stage typically lasts until your early 20s.

During these years, genetics play a pivotal role in determining how your beard will develop. You might notice patchy areas or uneven growth, which is entirely normal. The key during this phase is patience.

Your body is still adjusting to the changes brought on by puberty, including fluctuating hormone levels. To support your beard’s development, focus on a healthy lifestyle. A diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can boost hair growth. And while a healthy lifestyle promotes better hair growth, it won’t override genetic factors.

Proper skin care is crucial. Gentle cleansing and moisturizing can provide a healthy foundation for hair growth. Avoid over-trimming or using harsh products that could damage your developing beard.

At this stage you likely won’t need a beard oil but should definitely be using a beard friendly moisturizer like HYDRATE that supports healthy skin and beard growth without clogging your pores…you’ve got enough acne to worry about.

It is also important to use a pH balanced cleanser like CLEANSE that properly cleans your face without over-drying which can lead to a vicious cycle of excess oil production and breakouts.

Beard Growth in Mid-20s to 30s

Your mid-20s to 30s are often considered the golden years for beard growth. As a matter of fact, most men don’t hit peak beard growth until their early to mid thirties. This is when testosterone, the hormone primarily responsible for facial hair growth, peaks. You’ll likely notice your beard becoming fuller and more robust.

This is the perfect time to experiment with different beard styles and find what suits you best.

Establish a beard care routine that includes regular washing, exfoliating, and and moisturizing to keep your beard and the underlying skin in top condition. We’ve created a skincare line specifically designed for men with facial hair that takes all the guess work out of your grooming routine. You can learn more about our beard care products here.

Grooming tools like a good quality trimmer, a boar bristle brush, and scissors are essential for maintaining the shape and health of your beard.

Beard Growth in the 40s and 50s

As you enter your 40s and 50s, you might start noticing some changes. Your beard may grow slower, and gray hairs may begin to appear. This is due to a natural decrease in testosterone levels and the aging process affecting your hair follicles.

Adjust your beard care routine to these new changes. If you experience thinning, consider using gentle supplements designed to support hair health.

Embracing the gray can add a distinguished look to your beard. If it is not your vibe, there are beard dyes available. And while there are no pills or supplements proven to reverse the graying process, there have been several scientific breakthroughs that will hopefully lead to products that actually reverse graying.

If you’re not already using a beard oil in addition to your moisturizer, now is the time to add it in. This is because your body will start producing less sebum (oil) which leads to dry, coarser facial hair.


Beard Growth in the 60s and Beyond


In your 60s and beyond, the rate of beard growth might slow down further, and the texture can change, becoming coarser or wirier. This is partly due to decreased sebum production, leading to drier hair, and changes in the hair follicles themselves.

At this stage, comfort and health should be your priority. Opt for softer grooming tools to accommodate more sensitive skin. Keeping your beard and skin hydrated is more important than ever. If you prefer to keep the grays at bay, choose gentle, natural coloring products that are kind to your skin and hair.

Growing a beard is a personal and evolving journey unique to every man. From the first signs of facial hair in your teens to the distinguished look of a mature beard, each phase of growth brings its own challenges and rewards. Embrace each stage, care for your beard with patience and dedication, and enjoy the transformation. Remember, your beard is a reflection of your life’s journey – wear it proudly!

 

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By: Nicholas Karnaze
Title: The Complete Guide to Growing a Beard at Every Age
Sourced From: www.stubbleandstache.com/blogs/blog/the-complete-guide-to-growing-a-beard-at-every-age
Published Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2023 22:09:27 +0000

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Horizontal vs. Vertical Stripes | Fact and Fiction About Striped Clothing

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man in pinstripe suit

Q: I’ve heard in the past that horizontal stripes make someone look wider and vertical stripes make them look taller and thinner. But I keep seeing studies going back and forth whether this is true. Who do I believe?

A: Three decades or so of research on this question have yielded inconsistent results. A more recent study seems to show that this is because the answer is actually more complicated than we all would like.

BACKGROUND:

There’s a famous optical illusion called the Helmholtz Illusion, discovered by a man named Helmholtz in 1867.

stripes
  • Which of these squares looks thinner and taller than the other? Most people would say the left square looks thinner and taller.

But that seems to go against the conventional wisdom that horizontal stripes make a person look fatter/wider. Wouldn’t it be the other way around?

man in polo with horizontal stripes
Horizontal stripes
  • A number of studies have tested this effect and have found conflicting results. Why would fashion work differently than this famous optical illusion?
  • Three Japanese researchers noticed some interesting patterns in the previous research. They all presented pictures of models wearing either horizontal or vertical stripes. However, they weren’t using the same models: some were fat and some were thin. Additionally, they were all shaded differently. And finally, they were presented in various orders.
  • These researchers decided there were multiple factors at play here and published a study testing their hypotheses in the journal i-Perception in 2013.
  • The researchers did a number of studies testing the possibility that three factors were influencing all the previous research on this subject that has been conducted:

Whether the model is slim or fat.

Whether previous judgments of other people influence later judgments of different people.

Whether judgments are so varied between people that the whole thing isn’t very useful.

Vertical Stripes suit
Vertical stripes

EXPERIMENT:

  • 31 undergraduate students (63% female) were recruited for the study.
  • The students were placed in a chair and put their chin in a chin rest that ensured that their eyes were a certain distance from a computer screen.
  • A number of computer images were flashed in the screens depicting people wearing clothing with either horizontal or vertical lines.
    • The size of the images was digitally altered to be either slim or wide.
  • Two figures were shown side-by-side for 1.8 seconds. One had horizontal stripes and the other had vertical stripes. Then, participants were to judge which of the images were fatter and press a key indicating their response.
  • This method was done 20 times with slim figures and 20 times with fat figures, or with the fat figures first and then the slim figures.

RESULTS:

So what do you think – is conventional wisdom true for fashion, or is the Helmholtz Illusion the main driving factor?

  • The conventional wisdom was not found to be true. Horizontal stripes don’t make people look fatter and vertical stripes don’t make people look slimmer and taller.
  • BUT sometimes the stripes didn’t really make a difference at all.

Which factors influenced whether the Helmholtz Illusion held true for the figures?

  • Size of the Model:
  • YES. Slender models look even thinner with horizontal stripes (supporting the Helmholtz Illusion and going against conventional wisdom).
  • But this effect was not as strong for the wide models – for wide models, the type of stripe BY ITSELF actually didn’t have as much of an influence at all.
  • Order of Presentation:
  • YES. Here’s an interesting result. When SLENDER models were shown first to people, and then wide models, the Helmholtz Illusion was strongest of all (Horizontal stripes make people seem taller and slenderer) for both groups. This applied to both fat and slender images. Again, conventional wisdom does not seem to hold.
  • When the wide models were shown first, the type of stripe did NOT seem to matter for anyone.
  • Variance Between Observers:
  • YES. Significantly, the researchers found that, even though there were noticeable results when they compared averages, there was a wide variety of results across all participants.
man in sports jacket with vertical stripes

DISCUSSION:

So how do we interpret the results of this experiment? Here are some important conclusions that can be inferred from the results:

In no case was the conventional wisdom found to be true. Horizontal stripes did not, on the whole, make someone look wider. Vertical stripes, on the whole, did not make a person look taller and slimmer.

In fact, where there was an effect, it supported the opposite conclusion.

Horizontal stripes made slender people look taller and slenderer.

man in sweatshirt with horizontal stripes

On the fatter models, the kinds of stripes made much less difference.

People’s judgments seemed to be more influenced by what models they had previously judged.

For some reason (that the authors did not fully understand) when participants judged a large group of slender people first, the Helmholtz Illusion got very strong.

What does this mean for laypeople?

It means that when we view a person, we are mentally comparing them to people we have already seen.

Here’s the (very strange but scientifically supported) bottom line:

  • If a fat person is going to an event full of thin people, horizontal stripes may actually make them look slimmer and taller.

Why? The researchers weren’t sure.

Finally, there was another big take-away:

There was so much variation between participants in the study that the researchers concluded that stripes may not really, on the whole, make that huge of a difference.

This would explain why all the previous studies since the ‘80s were inconsistent.

This makes it seem like, unless you want to make a calculated, complex decision based on the results in this study, you might make your fashion selections based on other factors instead of whether the stripes are horizontal or vertical.

Whenever science doesn’t seem to go one way or the other, I say trust your own personal judgment.

REFERENCE

Ashida, H., Kuraguchi, K., & Miyoshi, K. (2013). Helmholtz illusion makes you look fit only when you are already fit, but not for everyone. I-Perception, 4, 347-351. Link: https://ipe.sagepub.com/content/4/5/347.short

The post Horizontal vs. Vertical Stripes | Fact and Fiction About Striped Clothing appeared first on Real Men Real Style.

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By: Antonio Centeno
Title: Horizontal vs. Vertical Stripes | Fact and Fiction About Striped Clothing
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/horizontal-vs-vertical-stripes/
Published Date: Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:29:48 +0000

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