Step one: Basement Salon, 2nd level Rockwell Power Plant Mall (tel no. 898-2222)
11 a.m.
"I’ve had this hairstyle for a couple of years and I sort of like it actually," Jayvee intimates knowing full well it’s about to be lopped off by one of Basement’s finest Stephan Wilczynski. "With Jayvee’s type of hair you can only go from short to long. There are absolutely no in-betweens. I’ll be working on his texture and how his hair falls, these elements will decide on the design of his hair," Stephan avers.
The look: A cut that is cropped on the sides and back, the crown is slightly thinned but the face framing pieces are kept intact since Jayvee has a high forehead. Stephan then added more texture by highlighting his hair with four different tones. As a final confidence booster Jayvee jumped in the tanning bed for a 15-minute bake session. After all nothing like a tan to massage the ego!
Jayvee: "My head feels lighter and my hair seems healthier,"he says seeming to forget that a few minutes ago he was dreading the thought of cutting his hair off. Although he worried that the tan was perhaps not noticeable (it usually takes two or three sessions for most to obtain dramatic results) I assured him that he had that sunny glow. On the three hours he spent in the salon, he concurs, "Definitely worth it!"
Verdict: Good can always be better.
Look 1: Mod squad
The easiest way to modify a look is to add on an interesting piece. In this case Tyler’s olive canvas motorcycle jacket paired with a wheat turtleneck top, trim cream pants and cream driving shoes create a picture of modern ease. When working with many pieces it helps if each part has a tapered and clean cut so as to not clutter the look. In Jayvee’s case who has been wearing trainers more devoutly than any Heaven’s Gate loon, the rubber soled driving shoe with the butter soft leather upper makes a great alternative. Note to all: Please don’t wear with socks!
Look 2: Urban cowboy
There’s no denying the return of the cowboy. If one sees Mickey Rourke in Spun donning full yee-haw regalia, one will see how not to pull the look off unless of course you are Mickey Rourke (who looks cool in it actually). For mortals, the cowboy-lite look can be achieved with a western cut shirt, tapered pants in hardy fabrics like cords, canvas or denim and pointed booties. For braver souls try tying a kerchief around your neck (nice for evenings) or a cool belt with a happening buckle. How the west is won in the real world is to keep one or two cowboy elements (chewing hay is not counted) and to get a grip.
Look 3: Dapper don post-postmodern
Gone are the days of tuxedoed Cassanovas, today an effective uniform of seduction comes in a more ascetic version. Riddled with good taste and stealth wealth, there is no impugning the powers of a classic tapered shirt and straight pants. Even fuller bodies find a trimming effect in these cuts, a good way to see if it works is to run around the belly bulge. Some men find that hiding their more portly selves in loose clothing effective when in actuality it works again them. Trim clean lines create a seamless sihouette which will help hide bulges. For Jayvee, who has a rather trim physique, the cut is especially flattering if not essential.
This look is great for a 24/7 guy, as it’s quiet enough to wear to work and stylish enough for martinis with the missus. Just spritz a post-6 p.m. fragrance and pop a breath mint.
Step two: Tyler, Glorrieta 4
3:30 p.m.
"I wear simple things just because I feel they are practical. I’m ready for something more exciting and fun but I don’t know where to start," he confesses. Enter Tyler, the mecca of the stylish and practical, two words Jayvee so desperately wants to merge in his wardrobe.
Step three: Essenses and Rustan’s Makati cosmetics department
5 p.m.
Jayvee has extremely dry skin, which occasionally breaks out in times of stress and fatigue. He washes with bar soap (typical) and moisturizes (interesting). His main concerns are time, ease of use and of course that it should have moisturizing properties.
Medicine cabinet:
Clarins for Men shampoo: Good ones don’t dry out the hair. There is a difference.
Clarins for men hydrating balm: Dry skin need not soak in greasy solutions. This lightweight balm does the job without the stickiness. Plus it’s loaded with anti-oxidants.
Clarins for Men Anti-perspirant: A great basic
Clinique Scruffing lotion 1 1/2 for dry skin: You can take it with you to the car for a quick and refreshing cleanup.
King of Shaves unmentholated shave gel: Menthol can dry out skin. This gel formula allows you to see where you are shaving and guards you from nicks and cuts.
Clinique travel kit: A great way to look great around the world.
Matis self-tanning cream: Slap some on before sleeping and wake up a better man.
King of Shaves shaving oil: Used under the gel, it gives added moisture.
Verdict: Just hold the eyeliner.