Bog Oak Razor Kit from MÜHLE Germany

Bog Oak Razor Kit from MÜHLE Germany

Bog Oak Razor Kit from MÜHLE Germany - I've purchased and been using this wonderful Razor, and shaving brush with Bog Oak handles by MÜHLE Razor company right here in Germany since 2022, and thought it was long overdue for a review.  I had entered the wet shaving community with my first safety razor from Merkur back in 2019, and while this entry level razor certainly did it's job well, I had been eyeing more luxurious options for a while so when the Razor finally gave up the ghost due to an unfortunate drop to my bathroom floor, I started searching for a replacement with a lot more panache.

Bog Oak Razor Kit:

Enter the matching Razor, shaving brush with Bog Oak and shave mug from MÜHLE.  These beautiful shaving tools certainly fit the bill for luxury and have held up beautifully over the past couple of years of if not daily use, at least thrice weekly use remarkably will and show little signs of wear.  I admit that I wasn't sure have these wooden handles would hold up in the moisture rich environment of my bathroom shaving routine, but I needn't have been concerned.  Afterall, this wood has been submerged in a bog for perhaps a thousand years or more, so my whatever rigours I can throw at them can hardly have an effect after only a couple years of use.  

The overall fit, finish and presentation packaging are certainly that of a luxury product and are overall far superior to that of the still very serviceable The Merkur 23C.  the finish of the Bog Oak Wood is superb as is the fine chrome finish of the hardware.  

What is Bog Oak:

Bog Oak Wood is a unique and rare material.  Derived from Oak that has been submerged in the lakes or peat bogs of europe for often over a millennium, this wood has become mineralized (partially fossilized) from the soil in which is sits to form a material that is not quite wood and not yet stone.  Typically dark brown, charcoal grey or black in color, it still shows the beautiful wood grain grown in oak forests thousands of years ago.  quite frankly I find it all a bit of magic, thinking that I'm shaving with a handle made from a tree that could date back to re-roman times.

Currently bog Oak is used for Knife handles, furniture, wooden pen handles, and even musical instruments.

The Brush:

It's notable that the brush is NOT made from genuine bever hair, but honestly, this is in no way any detraction from it performance.  It brings up a great lather and feels very soft against the face.  In fact, I would say that it is indistinguishable from the other genuine bever hair brushes that I have used and has held up remarkably well over a couple of years of consistent use.  

The Mug:

While obviously not being made from Bog Oak, it's traditional shaving mug design is spot-on, this porcelain shaving mug has served my will over the past years and look great doing it.  

finale:

My overall impression after using these first class shaving tools for the pas 2 years is that Muhle is absolutely a premium product and the razor, Brush and mug are worthy of the price and I have taken great joy in using them and expect to for many years to come.

 

Stanley Biggs Pentrich Boots Made by Willian Lennon

 

Stanley Biggs Pentrich Boots Made by Willian Lennon

Stanley Biggs Pentrich Boots made by Willian Lennon - While I really love these boots made by William Lennon & Co. for Stanely Biggs Clothiers (see my initial unboxing and review here), the boots come with triple stacked leather soles and stacked leather heels, but their natural beauty was hidden by very dark brown leather edge dressing, which I'm generally not a big fan of on my casual footwear.  As a result I determined to refinish the edges by the use of 240 grit sandpaper on my tabletop belt sander and a little tanned leather dye then finishing them off with a waxed finish using Dark Tan Parade Gloss carnuba-based shoe wax from Kiwi.  I think that this has really transformed these boots!

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After:

Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket by Upperclass Ltd. UK

 Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket by Upperclass Ltd. UK

Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket by Upperclass Ltd. UK - I have wanted to add a shearling bomber Jacket to my winter outerwear collection for years.  But had been hesitating for a couple of reasons. 

1) In many cases the price of these jackets from well-known makers such as Aero Clothing, etc are typically over a Thousand Euros, which while I'm sure the quality of their shearling jackets is justified, is still a bit hard to swallow.

2) Before I started the Ketovore diet,  I was carrying some extra weight around the middle and I thought that a thick shearling jacket would make me look even more plump.  However, having lost several Kilos, and having kept these off for years now, in 2023, I decided that the time was right to treat myself to this baby.

A Brief History

The origins of the Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket can be traced back to the early 20th century, during World War II. Designed to protect aviators from the harsh conditions of high-altitude flight, the jacket featured a rugged exterior crafted from leather, while its interior boasted plush shearling lining for superior insulation. Its distinctive silhouette, characterized by a cropped length, wide collar, and snug cuffs, quickly became synonymous with wartime aviation.

Function Meets Fashion

While initially intended for practical purposes, the Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket soon caught the attention of civilians, transitioning from the battlefield to the streets. Its rugged yet sophisticated aesthetic resonated with individuals seeking both warmth and style, solidifying its status as a fashion icon. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the jacket experienced various iterations, each reflecting the evolving tastes and trends of the times.

Enduring Appeal

What sets the Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket apart from fleeting fashion fads is its timeless appeal. Unlike trendy garments that fade into obscurity, this jacket boasts a versatility and longevity that transcends seasons and generations. Whether paired with denim for a casual weekend look or draped over a dress for a touch of rugged elegance, it effortlessly elevates any ensemble with its understated yet distinctive charm.

Modern Interpretations

In recent years, designers have reimagined the Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket, infusing it with contemporary elements while staying true to its heritage. From sleek leather versions with minimalist detailing to oversized iterations for a streetwear-inspired aesthetic, there is a wide array of options to suit every taste and preference. Despite these modern updates, the essence of the B3 Bomber Jacket remains unchanged, reminding us of its enduring allure.

Embrace Timeless Style

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of fashion, it's comforting to know that some pieces remain steadfast amidst the flux. The Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket is not just a garment; it's a symbol of resilience, heritage, and timeless style. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or captivated by its rugged charm, embracing this classic piece is an ode to enduring sophistication in an ever-evolving world. So, why not add a touch of timeless elegance to your wardrobe with the iconic Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket?

Ralph Lauren Rugby Shirts

Ralph Lauren Rugby Shirts: 

Ralph Lauren Rugby Shirts are fall season staples, however, they work wonders to a a pop of sporty collegiate style color throughout the year.  these come in handy, especially in Spring and fall when there is often a chill in the air here in Bavaria and work great as an extra layer.  Essentially, I employ them as a sportier substitute for a merino v-neck sweater, often under a tweed sport coat as temps drop.

Of course, I have featured Rugby Shirts on this blog before from such Heritage brands as Kent & Curwen, and while I still love their offerings, they have recently withdrawn from the market, so in my opinion, Ralph Lauren rugby shirts stand alone for the best designs.  Featured here are a few that I have recently added to my collection.

A brief History:

In the world of style, few brands carry the same weight of tradition and sophistication as Ralph Lauren. Since its inception in 1967, the Ralph Lauren Polo has been synonymous with timeless American style, effortlessly blending classic aesthetics with contemporary trends. Among its myriad offerings, one particular garment stands out for its enduring popularity and unmistakable charm: the Ralph Lauren Rugby shirt.

Introduced in the 1970s as part of Ralph Lauren's broader exploration of collegiate and sporting attire, the Rugby shirt quickly became a staple in the brand's repertoire. Inspired by the rugged elegance of traditional rugby uniforms, these shirts exude a sense of casual refinement that effortlessly transitions from the playing field to everyday life.

At the heart of the Ralph Lauren Rugby shirt's appeal is its impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail. Crafted from premium materials such as cotton jersey or piqué cotton, each shirt is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality. From the iconic embroidered pony logo to the distinctive striped patterns and contrasting collars, every element of design is meticulously curated to exude sophistication and style.

One of the defining characteristics of Ralph Lauren Rugby shirts is their versatility. Whether paired with tailored trousers for a polished yet relaxed look or worn with jeans for a casual outing, these shirts effortlessly elevate any ensemble. Their timeless appeal transcends fleeting trends, making them a perennial favorite among fashion enthusiasts of all ages.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Ralph Lauren Rugby shirts also carry a sense of heritage and authenticity. Rooted in the rich tradition of collegiate sports and Ivy League culture, these shirts evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of gentlemen's leisurely pursuits. Wearing a Ralph Lauren Rugby shirt is not just about making a fashion statement; it's about embracing a lifestyle steeped in elegance and refinement.

Moreover, the enduring popularity of Ralph Lauren Rugby shirts can be attributed to their ability to evolve with the times while staying true to their roots. While the basic silhouette remains unchanged, the brand continually updates its offerings with new colors, patterns, and design details to cater to evolving tastes and preferences. This seamless blend of tradition and innovation ensures that Ralph Lauren Rugby shirts remain relevant and desirable season after season. As a result a collector's market for all things RL has sprung up on eBay and Etsy, etc. for vintage garments so this is a great place to look if you want to find some of their older more unique designs or if, like me, you love a bargain. Since these are such hardwearing, durable garments, there are often hundreds of these offering in all sizes often dating back to the 1980s and 1990s

Ralph Lauren Rugby shirts are more than just garments; they are symbols of timeless elegance and sophistication, which have become a staple of the traditional men's wardrobe. From their impeccable craftsmanship to their versatile styling options, these shirts embody the essence of the Ralph Lauren brand. Whether worn on the rugby field or the city streets, they exude an aura of effortless chic that is as relevant today as it was decades ago.