Standard Recommendations – Victor & Rolf – Spicebomb Digital Art’ Eau de Toilette (Limited Edition)

Spicebomb Holiday 2015-1Just in time for the holiday season, Viktor&Rolf pixelizes camouflage to embellish the bottle of its iconic men’s cologne Spicebomb. Serious and masculine in tone, this warm and spicy fragrance is suitable for the sophisticated gentleman at the office or off the clock. This digital art limited edition of Spicebomb offers not only a fantastic fragrance, but it also presents to the wearer a uniquely designed bottle in the form of a contemporary pixelated design. This is a fragrance that wins our endorsement.

Gentlemanly Observations

Top Notes: Bergamot, Grapefruit, Elemi, Pink Pepper

Middle Notes: Cinnamon, Saffron, Chili

Base Notes: Leather, Tobacco, Vetiver

  • The introduction of the top notes is resoundingly deep and spicy. The warm scent can definitely be characterized as a heavier fragrance, but it is not too heavy to be deemed as overwhelming.
  • Slowly transitioning into the middle notes, the distinct presence of cinnamon, accompanied with faint hints of vanilla, can be appreciated for an extended period of time.
  • The scent settles nicely with sweet tones of tobacco and leather. However, the fragrance begins to slowly disappear after a few hours. Honestly, I wish the cologne’s finale lasted a bit longer.
  • Given that fact, a gentleman will be tempted to administer a few extra applications in the beginning. I would strongly dissuade a gentleman from taking such extreme measures. Given the relative strength of the top notes, applying too much in the beginning with aspirations of attaining a long-lasting ending will only result in a headache inducing nausea.
  • Therefore, I recommend dispensing 4-5 sprays from your glass replica hand grenade, and reserving its utilization for moments that don’t require an extended performance – a late evening engagement would suffice. Trust, it is a seductive scent, but don’t expect it to last from the early morning to late evening.
  • Spicebomb 3.4 oz $115.00 retail – Available at Nordstrom, Macy’s, Sephora, Von Maur or any fine men’s department store.
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. Item was purchased for personal use. The opinions expressed are completely my own based on my experience.

Review – Wahl – Bump-Free Shaver

Wahl Bump Free ShaverQuery any gentleman practicing the intimate art of shaving; you will soon discover that the fear of unsightly, unwanted razor bumps is a concern that weighs heavily on his mind. The act of wielding a small piece of sharpened steel against ones face deserves undivided attention. Any gentleman is susceptible to razor bumps or skin irritation, but African-America males tend suffer more than others. Given that fact, some men seek refuge in the form of an electric razor.

Perhaps gentler on skin and definitely more cost-effective, an electric razor is certainly a viable option for men with the desire to reduce or eliminate razor bumps, and do so in a manner that doesn’t drain the wallet on a monthly basis. Today, we have the Wahl Bump-Free Rechargeable Shaver up for review. Touted as being designed specifically for the unique needs of African-American men, the shaver is built with hypoallergenic titanium foils, it is designed to reduce irritation and prevent razor bumps. It also features a built-in pop-up trimmer for edging, detailing and neckline touch-ups. Let’s examine how it performs.

Gentlemanly Observations

  • Unassuming and modest in appearance, the Wahl Bump-Free Rechargeable Shaver is equipped with some serious shaving power. I have utilized other electric shavers, and some become very warm to the skin while operating. Some have been slightly unforgiving to my skin with some moderate skin irritation present after shaving. However, the Wahl offering was noticeably smoother and effortless with its shaving capabilities.
  • Now, a gentleman will benefit from a close shave without the annoying skin irritation. However, it should be noted that your shave probably won’t be as close as one would receive using a straight or safety razor. That being said, Wahl does indicate that the longer a gentleman continues to use the Bump-Free Shave, the closer the shave will become.
  • A gentleman will not have to dedicate any extra time to his shaving routine, as the shaver plows through growth quickly and efficiently. No need to apply unnecessary pressure, as the shaver does the job fine by itself.
  • If your beard is relatively thick, I suggest employing a standard pair of clippers to reduce it down before hitting it with the shaver. If you have a little stubble, it would be wise to take advantage of the pop-up trimmer to eliminate some of your growth (recommended for 2-3 days worth) before using the shaver to complete the job.
  • The pop-up trimmer is serviceable, but you might find yourself reaching for a separate pair of trimmers to address detailing.
  • Combined with a lightweight and compact body, the rubber grip assists by providing easy handling and maneuvering. Due to its design, the Bump-Free shaver would make for a great travel companion.
  • The noise level (due to the 10,000 cycles per minute) is what you would expect from an electric razor. The noise may be too much for some men, so ensure you close that bathroom door when mowing through your stubble.
  • Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $59.99
  • Available at Wahl Online Store, Target, CVS Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond

Product Specifications

  • Pop-up trimmer, wide precision blades for quick and easy detailing
  • Hypoallergenic titanium foils
  • Ergonomic, rubber grip
  • Kit includes: Shaver with pop-up trimmer. Beard brush, charger, cleaning brush, foil guard, storage pouch
  • Up to 60 minutes of run time
Gentlemen’s Standard Approved
Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.
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