Male Fitness Models, Photographers, Photography

Male Fashion and Portrait Photographer, Austin, Texas: Carlos “Trey” Salazar

Featuredby Andre M.3 Comments on Male Fashion and Portrait Photographer, Austin, Texas: Carlos “Trey” Salazar
Male Fashion and Portrait Photographer, Austin, Texas: Carlos “Trey” Salazar

Contact information and social media channels for Austin, Texas, Photographer Trey

Need portraits for to get a dream project completed? Contact Trey to discuss your project.

Want to support an artist? Buy a print. Check out Trey’s Instagram and website for your favorites.

Follow and subscribe to Trey’s social media channels: website | Instagram | Twitter | buy prints | Discuss your photo project with Trey |

Keep scrolling to see the article below.

Introduction

While doing some social media work for Box Menswear, I was able to discover the work of Austin, Texas, based Photographer Carlos “Trey” Salazar. Trey was one of the photographers at Box Menswear’s 2019 photo shoot in Texas.

  • Carlos Effort
  • Seth Holbrook
  • Carlos Effort

I saw some Trey’s photos from the Box Menswear photo shoot on Instagram, which I liked and wanted a physical print. I emailed him and found out prints were possible. I have bought several prints over time.

Trey provides some information about his inspiration for his business as well as his photography niche.

I try to create unique, colorful images. I want our images to be something you get excited about and love. I am constantly challenging myself and I continue to grow as a photographer and an artist. I often post on Instagram and Vero, all the  projects I am working on, things that I am learning and sometimes, some behind the scene shenanigans. 

Portraiture and Fashion are what I enjoy and love to photograph the most. I specialize and found my niche in male photography, but also LOVE photographing the ladies. When you work with me, always plan on having fun and be prepared to become a friend of mine.

Trey’s website
Model: Seth Holbrook

This blog has had several articles on the models in front of the camera. This blog article will focus on the person behind the camera. I will start with an interview Trey did with Yo Soy podcast.

Yo Soy Podcast with Trey

Alejandro Victoria hosts the Yo Soy podcast, which is also based in Austin, Texas. In 2019, Yo Soy had an interview with Trey.

In the podcast, Alejandro and Trey discussed several topics, including how Trey transitioned from working in retail to entering photography and owning his own business. Trey also discussed how he entered the male portrait photography niche. Also, Trey provides his view on being a Latino within the portrait photography industry.

Trey is open to providing photography advice to people who ask him for it. He noted in the interview that while he provides technical advice, each person has a different eye and will produce different images.

While Trey posts photos of stunning models on his Instagram pages, those models’ business is based on looking fantastic in photos. Those photos attract attention and create business leads. Trey takes photos of all people, focusing on helping the person to look their best.

Need portraits for your project or want to buy a print? Contact Trey for more information.

For people looking to enter photography, Trey encourages people to take a lot of photographs of everything. This is the way to discover what type of photography the person likes.

Alejandro asked Trey if he had any favorite models. Trey responded that he likes working with models that are comfortable in their skin. (Interestingly, Trey himself prefers to take photos rather than being in photos.) Trey named two models as favorites, Keith Laue, and Kevin Mize, though I got the impression that he likes working with all people.

I have provided a summary of the 30-minute interview. I recommend listening to the podcast as you get to learn more about Trey the artist and person creating the images.

My Photo Orders

I saw some photos that Trey posted on his Instagram from the Box Menswear photoshoot with Josh Watson, a model from the United Kingdom, posing with a U.S. flag. So, the photo had a guy from the United States’ former colonial country enjoying his time in the former colony.

Other photos that I have bought: Box Menswear model Alex Parker and another model named Jordan. The photos are more of the models interacting with space. The models have been in the gym or have a physique developed with athletics. Most have sunlight and one is under studio lights.

Why Buy Photo Prints?

With the Internet, there is a lot of photography to enjoy. However, photographs are a form of intellectual property which is owned by someone, usually the photographer. The issue with the Internet is that the photographs are enjoyed without credit being given to the model or the photographer. So, on the blog, I make sure to locate model and photographer names and provide links for each. To the extent possible, I ask if prints are available.

Need portraits for your project or want to buy a print? Contact Trey for more information.

As things have moved to digital and there is more concern with conserving paper and the use of chemicals, prints are less common than when I was growing up (there was not the Internet as it exists today. Photography was based on the use of film and having prints made.)

Also, I want to support the artist making the photos that I enjoy. So, I buy a book or a print to do it.

Trey’s Work

Trevor

Trey has a blog on his website. While it is from 2018, there are some interesting entries there. One blog post was about a New Yorker, Trevor, who is an artist. Trey met Trevor through Instagram. All the photos are great.

Need portraits for your project or want to buy a print? Contact Trey for more information.

Box Menswear

Trey had been taking photos for Box Menswear clothing since 2018. Based on his blog posts, he likes working with the brand. An interesting side note: In the Yo Soy podcast (discussed above), Trey mentioned that Luke Mills, the owner of Box Menswear, had asked him to take photos in Thailand. Trey had declined the invitation.

For the next big trip, Box Menswear brought the photo shoot to Trey’s state–Texas. I noticed that some of the photo backgrounds for the 2019 photo shoot were the same as some of the photos on Trey’s Box Menswear blog (spring 2018 commercial shoot with Keith Laue and a selection of Box Menswear editorial photos with several different models).

(I have blog posts on some of the models in this post: Josh Riquelme, Josh Watson, and Kyle Hynick.)

  • Josh Riquelme
Josh Watson | related blog post

Carlos Effort

Need portraits for your project or want to buy a print? Contact Trey for more information.

After the Box Menswear photo shoot in Texas, one of the models there, Carlos Effort, returned to do another photo session with Trey. Carlos’ photos show a stunning combination of physical fitness and handsomeness.

  • Carlos Effort by Trey
  • Carlos Effort by Trey

Calvin

Another photo set was with a model named Calvin. Calvin has several talents: art, dance, and baking.

Conclusion

The models are seen in many photos and advertisements, the photographers also responsible for the image are not seen yet are an important part of the field. I heard about Trey’s work while seeing the numerous photos related to the huge Box Menswear photo shoot.

Also, I was happy to find the Yo Soy podcast in which I was able to find out more about Trey’s background and approach to photography.

I look forward to enjoying more photographic art from Trey.

Please write your questions or comments about photography or male modeling industry in the comment section.

Male Fitness Models, mens physique board shorts

Mens Physique Board Shorts: An Inspired, Dedicated Gym Trainer Prepares for Competition

by Andre M.2 Comments on Mens Physique Board Shorts: An Inspired, Dedicated Gym Trainer Prepares for Competition
Mens Physique Board Shorts: An Inspired, Dedicated Gym Trainer Prepares for Competition

Introduction

You have been a dedicated weight trainer, and you have developed a good nutrition plan that works with your body. You are seeing results and want to take things to the next level. You have also determined that you have what it takes to compete with the other athletes that will show up.

How will you choose the best board short that will present your best image to the contest judges? How to develop a smooth, confident posing style for the stage? This article will help you find the answers you need to ace your first contest.

Mens Physique Board Shorts Rules

The IFBB created the Mens Physique Division on November 11, 2012.

There are numerous federations to consider. I have listed the rules for mens physique stage shorts for a few federations.

FederationMens Physique Board Shorts Rules (as of August 23, 2020)
IFBB1. Competitors will wear an opaque, loose-fitting board shorts which are clean and decent. The colour and fabric of the shorts will be left to the competitor’s discretion.   Shorts may have geometric patterns and motives, but no inscriptions and cambered ornamentation. The shorts will cover the whole upper leg, down the upper point of the knee (patella). The use of padding anywhere in the trunks is prohibited.  
2. No tight, lycra style shorts are allowed.  
3. Personal sponsors logos are not permitted on the shorts; however a manufacturer’s logo such is accepted.
NPCContestants will be asked to walk in board shorts (shorts must be just above the knee in length and can be one inch below the belly button, no spandex and no logos are permitted on the board shorts however a manufacturer’s logo such as Nike symbol or Billabongs are acceptable.)
UKBFFThe attire for all rounds is board shorts, which must conform to the following criteria:
1. Material and colour can be of the athlete’s personal choice.
2. No tight, lycra style shorts are allowed.
3. Board shorts should not cover the knees.
4. Personal Sponsors logos are not permitted on the board shorts. However a manufacturer’s logo such as Nike, Adidas or Billabong are accepted.
CPAPosing Shorts: Contestants will be asked to walk in board shorts .  Shorts must be just above the knee in length and can be one inch below the belly button.   No spandex and no logos are permitted on the board shorts however a manufacturer’s logo such as Nike symbol or Billabongs are acceptable.  
OCBBoard shorts (loose shorts that come down to around the knee) are worn for both parts.   Shorts can be of any color and pattern.

Based on the rules of the various federations noted above, the expectation for competition board shorts is essentially the same. The IFBB does not allow cambered ornamentation.

In practice, mens physique contest athletes wear the shorts at the hips rather than one inch below the belly button. In addition, some of the board shorts have some spandex material (Darc Sport, Bro Activewear, Mens Physique Board Shorts, and Alphalete).

Why Board Shorts?

I could not find the reason why the IFBB chose the board shorts for mens physique. I guess that the board shorts were widely available.

The Board Shorts

Board shorts was created for surfing, but the style and fabric of the shorts have evolved. For more about the board shorts, you can read a blog post on the Old Bull Shorts webpage.

The board short does not come with a liner and fits on the hips.

Board shorts come from big brands (Quiksilver, Hurley, Billabong) that come from surfing. You need wide legs to make it easy to move on the surfboard. However, mens physique competitors are focused on physique display on a stationary stage. Some brands have made alterations to the board short focused on that competition goal (for example, coloring, tapered leg).

Mens Physique Board Shorts Style

According to a YouTuber, Hart’s Physique Channel, some of the mens physique board shorts are tapered to show the outline of well-trained thighs. This is a recent development as board shorts are made for surfing and thus have a wider leg opening.

Mens Physique Board Shorts Brands

Narcizo

Narcizo is a brand based in Hungary. The brand’s goal, as described on its website, is to create stage (board) shorts that suit the goals of physique competition. The sizing of the brand’s board shorts is 28, 30, 32, and 34. The offers two styles—unicolor and patterned. The price of unicolor shorts is 69 euros. For the patterned shorts, the price is 89 euros.

Mens Physique Show Shorts

The Mens Physique Show Shorts brand is based in the United Kingdom. According to its website, the focus of the brand’s board shorts is to have the right fit and colors (the brand used a horizontal stripe pattern) to make the result of the contestant’s hard work—his physique—stand out to the judges.

The sizing of the brand’s board shorts is 28, 30, 32, and 34. The price (on the day of the post) is 39.99 Great Britain pounds.

BroActiveWear

BroActiveWear is a brand based in the United States. The brand states that it creates distinctive styles in its clothing. The sizing of the brand’s board shorts is small (28-30), medium (30-32), and large (32-34). The price of the brand’s board shorts is 100 U.S. dollars.

Pro bodybuilder and YouTuber Jason Lowe modeling BroActiveWear’s Atlanta Falcons board shorts.
Alphalete

Alphalete is a brand owned by Christian Guzman, and the brand based in the United States. The brand started its board shorts offering (Titan) on September 12, 2020. The sizing of the brand’s board shorts has the widest range of waist sizes (28-40). The price of the brand’s board shorts is 55 U.S. dollars.

Mens Physique Posing

The purpose of the Mens Physique Division was to showcase less muscular yet aesthetic physiques. What that has meant is the development of the upper-body muscles, especially abs, and a v-taper–slim waist and wide shoulders. As a result, the low waist of the board shorts helps to display the athlete’s contest conditioning of the abdomen. A muscle group on the sides of the torso, the external obliques, also becomes prominent with training and at lower body-fat levels (the so-called v-line) and emphasizes a v-tapered look.

Posing in Mens Physique Compared with Bodybuilding

In bodybuilding, several poses display the muscularity of various muscle groups. For example, the double-biceps pose.

In mens physique, the total physique is assessed. The IFBB rules that the judges will ask the competitors to make four quarter turns (IFBB rules (2019), mens physique, article 5, paragraph 4).

Author’s note: See related information in a blog post about a Canadian mens physique competitor, Kyle Hynick, which discusses in part the distinction between mens physique and bodybuilding.

Ryan Terry coaches Elton Pinto Mota in mens physique stage posing.

(Both Ryan and Elton are now professionals in mens physique.)

Conclusion

There are many steps in the journey toward your first competition. Participation is the best teacher. You will learn how you handle pressure while maintaining focus to achieve the goals that you want. I hope that this article just a couple of topics—board shorts and posing—helps you with your contest preparation path.

Any successes and teachable moments that you learned during contest preparation, contest, and post-contest, please share them by email or in the comments section.

Male Fitness Models, mens leisure wear, Photography

Men’s Lounge Shorts: Review of Garcon Francais Pajama Shorts with Pockets

by Andre M.Leave a Comment on Men’s Lounge Shorts: Review of Garcon Francais Pajama Shorts with Pockets
Men’s Lounge Shorts: Review of Garcon Francais Pajama Shorts with Pockets

Introduction: Lounge Shorts and Finding Garcon Francais

With the challenges of the year 2020, guys are looking for comfortable clothing to wear while working from home as well as to relax and run their errands. One item that has proven to be popular are shorts in the lounge category. These shorts are alternatively called pajama shorts. However, those with pockets and with the proper design can be worn outside of the house.

French Brand Garcon Francais and Killian Belliard, Fitness Influencer

While researching another blog topic, I found the lounge shorts by Garcon Francais, a brand that has its clothing made completely in France. However, the brand does sell to people outside of France (the website has versions in English and Spanish also currency is available in Great Britain pounds and U.S. dollars).

I knew of Garcon Francais brand from Instagram from Killian Belliard, a model and fitness influencer. Garcon Francais posted some photographs of Killian in Garcon Francais lounge shorts on the brand’s Instagram profile. (Photographer: Pascalpprl.)

Garcon Francais social media: Website | Instagram |

The Piyama (or Lounge) Short

At the Garcon Francais website, the brand places the lounge short in its men’s homewear category. Garcon Francais has a price point that is toward the high end (49.17 Euros or approximately 57.87 US dollars). According to the product description, the lounge shorts are designed for a guy to feel comfortable to relax in during the evenings. The fabric composition is 93 percent cotton and 7 percent Elastane. The short colors available are red, dark blue, and grey. (The waistband is in a contrasting color.)

My favorite color is blue, but I also like to boldness of what I call fire-engine red. While the price was toward the high end, I liked the pockets, the tapered fit of the legs, as well as the overall refined yet casual appearance of the shorts.

Comparison with Box Menswear and Nice Laundry

Previously, I have done a blog post on a lounge (bed) short from Box Menswear (no longer available), which did not have pockets and they have a wider fit. Another lounge short that I reviewed was from Nice Laundry. The Nice Laundry shorts are similar in appearance to the Champion men’s gym shorts that were popular when I was in school, except the Nice Laundry shorts have an underwear-like liner, have a shorter inseam, and have a tapered leg.

Decision Made: Buying the Lounge Short

I selected the dark blue shorts, called the “flag short pyjama bottom,” and a pair of the navy boxers (not reviewed here). The sizing in European sizes tends to be a bit smaller than US sizes. So, it was wonderful that Garcon Francais provides a convenient link to its size chart. My size was available as XXL (36-inch waist). The largest size available is XXXL (38-inch waist).

I figured that since the shipping cost to the United States was 20 Euros (approximately 23.60 US dollars), I should have an order big enough to justify the shipping fee.

With my selection in the shopping cart, I paid using a credit card. Everything went smoothly. The package arrived at my house through the U.S. Postal Service about 4 days later. (I wish there was a tracking option available so that I can see where the package is.)

Garcon Francais social media: Website | Instagram |

Packaging

The order arrived in a brown padded envelope. Inside there was a blue paper folder with a red elastic band with the invoice. The clothes were neatly folded inside with a card showing where parts of the clothing were sourced in France and care instructions. I commend the brand for the efficient use of resources in lower use of packaging materials.

Quality

With the price point, I expected very high quality and I was not disappointed. Neat stitching and soft fabric (just as described on the website).

Fit

I like the relatively slim fit of the shorts and the length looks and feels right. I am happy that the sizing information was accurate.

Conclusion

I am very happy with my order. The refined, casual styling and fit ensures that I will be enjoying wearing the shorts for a long time. I likely will return for the red shorts.

I hope that this review has been helpful to you.

If you have found that lounge shorts are a favorite of yours, enter a comment with the brand and style below. If you have a favorite outfit for your leisure time, inform us also in the comments.

E-commerce shops, Male Fitness Models, Men's fashion, mens underwear, Photographers, Photography

Men’s Underwear 2020: Box Menswear Releases Bold New Range

by Andre M.Leave a Comment on Men’s Underwear 2020: Box Menswear Releases Bold New Range
Men’s Underwear 2020: Box Menswear Releases Bold New Range

Introduction

In August 2020, Box Menswear released 4 new underwear styles. One was a new version of the King Fit boxer, the Evo version. Three other styles were more bold selections within the well-searched and competitive men’s lingerie category:

The new range is a departure from the current range of men’s underwear available for sale at Box. Based on the number of people searching for items in the men’s lingerie category, it is a good bet. The available sizes for the new range are XS to XXL.

Box Menswear’s sizing chart

Note: At the time that this post was published, the new items are available for pre-order.

Presenting Matt Luscious and Photographer Paul Jamnicky

In viewing Box Menswear’s Instagram pages, I saw previews of the new range. Photographer Paul Jamnicky and Canadian fitness model Matt Luscious created images, with Matt wearing the new range. Both men posted photos on their respective Instagram pages.

Box Menswear’s New 2020 Additions

King Fit Boxer Briefs, Evo

The King Fit boxer briefs are a popular style at Box. With the new Evo version, there are several changes from the current version. The first is the bigger waistband with larger lettering for the brand. According to the brand description, the Evo is made of cotton fabric.

(The current king fit boxers have a fabric composition of Body: 96 percent bamboo viscose, 4 percent elastane; vent: 88 percent polyamide, 12 percent Spandex.)

Matt Luscious by Photographer Paul Jamnicky in Canada

The Evo features more room in the front as well. The Evo only comes in one color, nude (appears to be a beige color).

Suspender Jock

The suspender jock is a new addition to Box’s jockstraps range. The suspender jock, like the king fit Evo, features a bigger waistband with the larger typeface of the brand. The styling of the jockstrap is different in two ways:

  • The rear of the jockstrap has more straps, the usual two at the rear but bigger and more elastic grip. There are two vertical straps are each side.
  • The front of the jockstrap has a blue fabric panel, with an opening at the top.
Matt Luscious by Photographer Paul Jamnicky

The overall look is strong yet more-revealing. You can see more images (NSFW) on the website.

G-String

The G-string is a more-revealing brief style. The only real fabric covering with the g-string is the front, which is a thin, see-through material. There are thin straps that have the brand name which holds the g-string on the body.

You can see more images (NSFW) on the Box Menswear website.

All Over Lace Boxers

With the lace boxers, the wearer gets fabric coverage like a boxer brief, but the fishnet-style solid fabric is see-through. The styling is similar to the new king fit Evo style discussed above.

Model: Josh Watson

You can see more images (NSFW) on the Box Menswear website.

Conclusion

With the suspender jock, g-string, and lace boxers, Box Menswear has made its entry into the men’s lingerie market. After glancing at the search traffic numbers, the category has high interest and many brands trying to fulfill the wants of the people in this market.

Perhaps, you want to add some variety to your underwear selections. Check out what Box has to offer.

Have an interest in men’s lingerie? If so, leave a comment as to your favorite styles in the comments. If there are styles that are not widely available, but you think should be, let us know of the rare or missing styles in the comment section.

E-commerce shops, Men's fashion, mens underwear

Men’s Underwear 2020: Men and Underwear, the Shop– An Order Review

by Andre M.2 Comments on Men’s Underwear 2020: Men and Underwear, the Shop– An Order Review
Men’s Underwear 2020: Men and Underwear, the Shop– An Order Review

Introduction

While preparing a blog post for Walking Jack’s Bluebird Collection, I decided to order one of the Bluebird Collection to see how it feels in real life.

I placed an order through the store associated with the Men and Underwear blog. I have been a longtime fan of the blog, so I knew the blog had a store associated with it. The blog is based in Greece and sells Walking Jack, a brand also based in Greece.

As Men and Underwear, the shop, is located in Greece, the prices are in euros. I paid through PayPal, which performs the currency exchange.

My order: Walking Jack and Bluebuck

I ordered a Bluebird Collection trunk (23 euros) and two of the trunks in the Fern Print Collection (25 euros). Separately, I had been looking at the brick trunk by Bluebuck (29 euros), a brand based in the United Kingdom. I decided to include it in the order.

Delivery through DHL

For delivery, I chose DHL, a more-expensive delivery option (18 euros). Given the distance between Greece and the United States, I preferred the shorter delivery time, with location tracking. I ordered on July 14 and I received the package through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) on July 18. (DHL delivered to its District of Columbia office and then used the USPS to deliver to my home through Priority Mail.)

The Reveal

My order arrived in a yellow and white DHL plastic envelope, with four packages inside. There was also a small bag of gummy bear candy in the envelope. The Walking Jack underwear was packed inside dark blue envelopes and the Bluebuck came inside a recyclable clear bag.

Walking Jack

The Walking Jack underwear. The Fern Print collection has a fabric composition of 90 percent polyester and 10 percent Elastane. The fabric feels really soft and the stitching is neat. The Fern Print trunk almost has a boxer-brief type fit, which is perfect for me.

The Bluebird collection also has excellent production quality and a soft feel to the fabric. The Bluebird is slightly shorter than the fern print and has a snug fit. The amount of stretch is on point.

I had a concern that the underwear would be smaller than the size shown. With relief, this was not an issue. The size I picked fit well.

Walking Jack underwear is made in Portugal.

Bluebuck

Bluebuck uses recycled polyester in its fabric. The fabric composition is 46 percent cotton, 46 percent polyester—from plastic recovered from the ocean (material by Seaqual), and 8 percent Elastane. The Bluebuck trunks are lightweight, have a nice color and a soft feel. The trunks fit well. The lighter fabric is perfect for hot, summer days.

Like Walking Jack, Bluebuck underwear is made in Portugal.

Conclusion

I have been a reader and fan of Men and Underwear for many years. I had pages saved on my internet browser of underwear that I wanted to try. With trying out Walking Jack, I was able to try out the store associated with the blog and to add in one from my saved list to my order.

I am impressed with the quality of Walking Jack and Bluebuck, and I am happy with my purchase. If you are looking for new brands to try out, I recommend both. Check out my blog post on the Bluebird Collection.

Let me know your favorite brands by email or in the comment section.

E-commerce shops, Men's fashion, Mens Fitness Models, mens underwear, Photographers, Photography

Men’s Underwear 2020: Walking Jack’s Bluebird Collection

by Andre M.1 Comment on Men’s Underwear 2020: Walking Jack’s Bluebird Collection
Men’s Underwear 2020: Walking Jack’s Bluebird Collection

Introduction

Walking Jack is an underwear brand based in Greece. The underwear is designed in Greece and made in Portugal. The brand applies a modern take on classic men’s underwear. The Bluebird is available in the following styles: trunk, brief, and solid brief.

I am a fan of blue and the underwear looks great. I am interested in trying on a pair of the trunk style. (See another post with my personal review.)

Bluebird Collection Photo Campaign

Walking Jack had a photo shoot for its Bluebird Collection. The model was Roger Zacha, a physiotherapy student in the Netherlands. The photographer was Louis C. The photos were taken in Cyprus.

Walking Jack’s Bluebird Collection

Walking Jack’s Bluebird Collection offers an all-blue design, with a fabric composition of 95 percent cotton and 5 percent Elastane. Also, underwear in the Bluebird Collection offers a longer waistband and a lined pouch.

The underwear is suitable for the gym and daily wear, an indication that the underwear can be worn to work and school as well as to a workout (gym or at home).

Size Chart

Walking Jack has a wide variety of sizes from Small (27-29 in or 70-75 cm) to XXL (36-39 in or 91-99 cm).

Shipping

Walking Jack delivers worldwide. I live in the United States. According to Walking Jack’s website, I would be in zone 4. The shipping fee would be 6.50 euros (registered post) for an expected delivery time of 10 to 14 business days or 20 euros for an expected delivery time of 2 to 4 business days. As I use the U.S. dollar, there is an international currency exchange element.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, delivery can be affected. Walking Jack provides a delivery advisory for customers to review.

Conclusion

The Bluebird Collection is a great new addition to Walking Jack’s product lineup. The shade of blue selected for the collection is on point.

If you are looking for something new to add to your wardrobe, consider the Bluebird Collection.

denim jeans, Men's fashion

Slim Fit Jeans: Mott and Bow, a Review

by Andre M.Leave a Comment on Slim Fit Jeans: Mott and Bow, a Review

Please like, share, and comment.

Introduction

I am new to the world of slim jeans. But after having tried on some slim fit jeans from Mott and Bow, I have grown to like the style. In this blog post, I will cover my reviews of the slim fit jeans that I own.

Denim Manufacturers for Mott and Bow Jeans

According to the Mott and Bow website—

We source from some of the most well-respected denim mills in the world – Orta Anadolu in Turkey and Candiani in Italy – and buy their most premium denim. This high quality cotton not only looks better; it also performs better. The pricier denim is robust, keeping its shape and aging well over time; unlike cheaper denim that lacks the ability to bounce back after wear. Our goal is to make all our jeans like the vineyard’s finest bottle, and we don’t cut corners to get there, but we’ve set up our business in a way that allows a fair price.

Orta Anadolu

Orta Anadalu, according to its website, started as a spinning and weaving company In 1953. In 1985, the company transformed into a denim manufacturer.

Denim Production at Orta

Orta Anadolu describes its denim production process at its website. The process starts with raw material (cotton, Tencel/Modal/viscose, polyester/Elastane)). Then these materials go in the spinning process (blowroom, ring spinning machine). Next, the indigo dye is applies (rope dyeing, slasher dyeing). Sizing follows, then weaving, finishing, quality control, and denim service where Orta works with their customers (businesses) to combine designs and fits with washes using Orta’s fabrics. Finally, the fabric is shipped to customers.

Candiani Denim

Candiani Denim, according to its website, is a family-owned business, which started in 1938 in Milan, Italy.

The company describes is sustainability goals at its website.

The blog, Green Matters, describes Candiani’s sustainable denim fabric production process.

Denim Production and the Environment

Denim production has a definite effect on the environment at each stage. A report by the International Solid Waste Association discusses this point in more detail. [upload document]

 Elastane and Denim

The addition of Elastane, a fabric that has some elasticity, to men’s clothing was once controversial, according to an article in the Atlantic Magazine. Elastane or Spandex was associated with female clothing. Men appear to have had concern about clothing showing their body. SAs a result, clothing companies associated Elastane with athletic activity, as gym clothing already had Elastane in it, for example, compression shorts.

When Elastane is combined with cotton, the resulting fabric cannot be recycled. In particular, blended fabrics, accessories (zips, buttons, and stitching threads) prove to be difficult for cotton recyclers, according to an article by Adrian Wilson in the International Fiber Journal.

Yet when it comes to recycling, blended fabrics – as well as accessories, such as zips, buttons and stitching threads – can prove highly problematic, which is why most recycling programs for cotton generally concentrate on pre-consumer waste and those for polyester prefer to recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles rather than post-consumer clothing.

Most denim mills are keen to highlight the use of recycled PET in their ranges, yet these are inevitably in blended fabrics, putting limitations on further recycling in the move towards achieving truly closed-loop manufacturing systems.”

Mott and Bow jeans have some (2 percent) Elastane in them. Mott and Bow’s denim is made to a standard that can help denim recycling process

The Jeans Redesign project of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation states that denim fabric should be 98 percent by weight of natural fibers and no more than 2 percent of plastic-based fibers, according to a Fast Company article.

What is LYCRA/Elastane/Spandex?

According to Sewpoint, Elastane is the generic term (used in Europe) for the synthetic fabric with the trademarked name LYCRA. Another generic name for LYCRA is Spandex. The owner of LYCRA’s trademark is the LYCRA Company.

Elastane is made from polyurethane. The fabric is elastic and can withstand high temperatures.

While Elastane was developed in the United States, most Elastane is made in China.

Review of Slim Fit Jeans

Mott and Bow

As stated earlier, I have bought several pairs of jeans from Mott and Bow. I own the slim fit in the Mercer, Mott and Bow’s summer weight denim, and Stone styles. Initially, I found out about the company with a Facebook ad, which led me to the brand’s website. I signed up for the email list. I bought the Stone in grey first to replace a pair of grey jeans.

Mott and Bow Stone model in grey.

Mott and Bow’s slim fit jeans have a mid-rise and zipper fly. The fit is straight through the hip, slim through the thigh, and has a 15.5 inches (39.4 cm) leg opening.

During the summer time, I received a brand email informing me about the jeans for the summer, the Mercer brand. I tried one in the slim fit, liked how it felt and bought two more pairs.

Mott and Bow’s Website and Social Media

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter |

Mott and Bow Customer Service

I had to contact Mott and Bow’s customer service for one of the Mercer jeans. An olive pair of jeans developed a situation where the zipper came loose from the pants. I emailed the company about the situation in order to exchange the jeans. I was contacted by one of the customer service representatives who asked for a photo of the issue as well as the inside label.

After I had sent it, the customer service representative sent a replacement pair of jeans and since the same color was not available, the representative included a free t-shirt, which was a nice gesture.

Conclusion

In writing this post, I was able to learn more about Mott and Bow, a brand that I have bought from. I have been enjoying the jeans I have bought.

Let me know about your experiences with slim fit jeans, with Mott and Bow or another men’s jeans brand through a comment or through an email, info at menswearnews.com.

Actors, Calvin Klein, Male Fitness Models, Marketing, Men's fashion, mens underwear, Personal Trainers, Photography, underwear

Times Square, New York City, and the Influence of Calvin Klein on Underwear Advertising and Social Media Influencers

by Andre M.1 Comment on Times Square, New York City, and the Influence of Calvin Klein on Underwear Advertising and Social Media Influencers
Times Square, New York City, and the Influence of Calvin Klein on Underwear Advertising and Social Media Influencers

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Introduction

Note: This story is based on observations in a pre-pandemic New York City. May we recover from this pandemic experience, so that we will be able to scale back up with deliberate care–over time–to pre-pandemic levels.

One-time fitness model and personal trainer Kyle Hynick posted some photographs from his photoshoot with New York-based Photographer Jade Young seemingly in Times Square in New York City. The backdrop had people there who appeared not to be looking at a dude posing for photographs in his Calvin Klein underwear. The people essentially appeared to be fully engaged in doing tourist things. Initially, I thought that the background of Times Square was a creation of photo editing.

My thought was not correct. A commentator on Kyle’s photos stated that the commenter viewed Kyle’s photoshoot in person. I was immediately intrigued. Of course, physique competitors seek the limelight and can pose their well-trained and dieted physiques on stage in front of an audience. Posing a physique on a public stage is just a matter of scale.

I discovered that another model, Tyson Dayley, a WBFF pro fitness model, also had a photoshoot in Times Square. In his photos and video that he posted on Instagram, however, the people in the background also were taking photos of Tyson. People were sitting close by.

Times Square, Manhattan, New York City. What draws Photographer Jade Young there? Why a male in underwear appears to be an unsurprising sight? I did a quick Internet search on the history of Times Square to find out.

Times Square: from Gritty to Upscale Tourist Destination and Corporate Location

Times Square, a tourist destination and business area, was once home to adult films and gritty culture. There is a blog post on the history and transformation of Times Square at the Times Square District Management Association website.

Times Square and Calvin Klein Underwear

In Photographer Jade Young’s photos in Times Square, at times the models wear Calvin Klein underwear. There is a connection between Calvin Klein underwear and Times Square: the billboard ads for the underwear brand made history there.

In 1982, Calvin Klein had a billboard ad with Olympic athlete Tom Hintnaus in Times Square. The photographer was Bruce Weber. According to a New York Times article, the billboard ad stopped traffic.

Since then, Calvin Klein ads pushed underwear advertising forward, including the next model, Mark Wahlberg. Following Mark Wahlberg, other models became famous after being featured in a Calvin Klein underwear ad. The New York Times published another article about another former Calvin Klein model, Antonio Sabato, Jr.

Also in Times Square, is a guy who has made a lot of money walking around Times Square in cowboy boots and underwear, the “Naked Cowboy“. Freshpair’s National Underwear Day, August 5, had a runway show in Times Square.

Jade Young and Times Square Photoshoots

When the Calvin Klein ads first appeared, high-speed Internet or social media sites did not exist. But that history seems to have had some influence on fitness models and influencers, who often feature underwear or men’s clothing brands in their social media posts.

In addition, there are more underwear brands in the market. Still, Calvin Klein, now part of PVH Corporation, remains a strong market player in underwear.

Jade Young now also takes photoshoots in Times Square with men in underwear in person rather than in a billboard photograph. I think the transition also humanizes the model as you could interact with the model and the photographer and perhaps even get an autograph. Formerly, you only could look up at a huge billboard ad.

Jade Young and Kyle Hynick

View this post on Instagram

Let’s go to Times Square @jadeyphoto

A post shared by Kyle Hynick (@kylehynick) on

Kyle Hynick, featured on this blog, posted several photos from Times Square.

Jade Young and Tyson Dayley

Tyson Dayley, a pro fitness model and fitness influencer, also posted photos and videos taken in Times Square.

Conclusion

When I looked at Jade Young’s photos of models in Times Square, I did not expect that it would lead to a blog post. But the notion of posing in public so openly was an attention grabber. When doing research and finding articles that traced a story, my old journalistic love for a story was reawakened. I could not resist.

How interesting that a Calvin Klein ad pushed the mainstream culture forward as well as developed many new underwear brands. Despite that, Calvin Klein remains a market force.

If you notice any Instagram posts with other fitness models in Times Square, please leave a comment with the link.

Male Fitness Models, Photography, Workouts

Mens Fitness Models: Richard Duchon

by Andre M.Leave a Comment on Mens Fitness Models: Richard Duchon

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Rchard Duchon, a law student and fitness influencer from the Netherlands, takes a selfie with his Apple iPhone at a gym's Smith Machine.
Richard’s leg day at the gym.

Richard’s social media: Instagram | YouTube | website |

Introduction

Richard Duchon, who was born in Austria, moved to the Netherlands when he was younger and still lives there. Richard is a law student as well as a fitness model, fitness YouTuber, and online trainer.

Currently, he is sponsored by the fitness brand, Gymshark.

After the closure of gyms worldwide as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, several fitness YouTubers created at-home workouts. In writing another blog post on these home workouts, I found some of Richard’s videos on YouTube.

In the time before the pandemic, Richard did several gym workouts, which demonstrate his body-part split routine, which I will also cover in this blog post.

Richard’s Social Media

Instagram | YouTube | website |

Featured on Fit Media Channel

Richard was featured on Fit Media Channel on YouTube as “The Body of 2019.”

Since that feature, Richard returned to Fit Media Channel to demonstrate workout exercises for the shoulder.

Gym Workouts

Richard, according to one of his YouTube videos, follows a four-day body-part split workout to suit his goal for a balanced physique.

The two ways of training are full-body training, which is a workout for all muscle groups in every workout. Alternatively, you can do what Richard does, which is to train a muscle group or groups each training day.

Richard’s Workout Split

The workout split is chest and triceps, back and biceps, shoulders and abs, and leg day. Richard takes one day off per week from training.

Chest and Back

Back and Biceps

Shoulders and Abs

Cardio

Legs

At-Home Workouts

Bodyweight Workouts

For an experienced weight trainer like Richard, the pandemic-caused closure gyms could present a problem. But, gym trainers like Richard created bodyweight workouts to continue their training in the interim period.

The exercises are those exercises I remember in physical education classes in schools I attended in the United States. It shows creativity and resilience to be able to think of alternative exercises rather than just giving up and waiting for more-ideal training days after the pandemic has ended.

Also, I like the idea of relying on bodyweight exercises, as it allows absolute beginners who are interested to start their own fitness journey with the equipment they already have—some space in an apartment or house and their own body weight.

In the bodyweight workouts, Richard performs full-body training as well as performing his workout split with bodyweight exercises. Based on his exercise form, Richard has been able to master his bodyweight in these exercises.

Home Workouts with Weights

Richard also made home workouts with weights.

Conclusion

As I went to law school as well, I respect Richard for being able to attend to the heavy demand of law school while also taking time to take care of his physique and train his clients.

Although a gym trainer, he is well-acquainted with bodyweight exercises. I saw the relative ease he had doing the bodyweight workouts, showing that he has been doing them along with gym training.

I wish Richard continued success.

Male Fitness Models, Photography, Workouts

Male Fitness Models: Sam Cushing

by Andre M.Leave a Comment on Male Fitness Models: Sam Cushing
Male Fitness Models: Sam Cushing

Author: Andre M. | Please like, share, and comment. It helps me know what content you, the reader, like.

Introduction—Who is Sam Cushing?

While preparing another post on fitness YouTubers who make at-home workout videos, I found Sam Cushing while doing research for that post. I learned through more research that he has a degree in marketing and operations and that he went to live and work in South America for a couple years. He left a corporate job in New York to start a new path in life.

Sam Cushing is on a hill in California. The Hollywood sign is in the background.
Sam Cushing in California.

Sam started out on social media on Instagram. To engage more with his fans, he started a YouTube channel.

Sam can speak Spanish as well as English.

Sam also can play the piano.

Biographical Information

How old is Sam Cushing? 27 (at the time of this post)

Sam Cushing’s education degree in marketing and operations.

Sam’s background is in corporate marketing. In an interview with Chicago Go Pride, Sam provided this information about his previous career path, “After graduating Cum Laude with a dual degree in Marketing and Operations from the University of Illinois, I went on to explore a career in consulting at PwC in New York; working with some of the biggest retail and consumer brands that exist, on their customer experience and digital strategies.”

What is Sam Cushing’s birthday? April 13 (astrological sign Aries)

What does Sam Cushing do?  He is a digital marketer and fitness trainer.

Sam’s website

Sam has a website, samcushing.co, where you can read more about him.

Sam’s Social Media

Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Spotify

https://www.instagram.com/p/B_3rg9_n9el/

Sam’s Workout Videos

I discovered Sam’s at-home workout videos, made during the time of the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic. Gyms, among other places, were closed for public health reasons. As a result, several fitness YouTubers made at-home follow-along workouts for people in quarantine or following stay-at-home orders. Sam has done some home workout videos; he first published gym workouts on his YouTube channel.

Gym Training Videos

Before the pandemic, Sam made some gym training videos—one for training back and biceps, the other for training legs.

At-Home Workouts

Sam also has posted some home workout videos on his YouTube channel.

Abs

Chest

At-Home Body-weight Workout

Conclusion

While searching for information for a previous blog post, I was able to find out about Sam. Sam has an interesting life story and a great start in his digital marketing and fitness training. It is quite a move to leave North America to live in South America, especially to work and live in a different language and culture.

I look forward to reading stories about his continued success.