Known for their iconic designs and elaborate parties, these cool Miami hotels offer visitors an experience like no other. Pack up the flip flops and head to your pool, listen to hottest DJ’s in town spin while you lounge and drink. Hit the endless strip of clubs for all night parties, only to find your favorite celebrity in VIP next you.When you’re finished, brunch at one of the hundreds of high end restaurants throughout the city. Need some quiet time? Head to Mid-Beach to avoid the crowds and indulge in the local Latin culture. Regardless, check in to one of these cool Miami hotels on your next trip to this slice of paradise.

Dream South Beach Hotel

Put your green foot forward and keep the partying going at the eco-friendly Dream South Beach Hotel on your next trip to Miami. This luxe hotel rests in the heart of South Beach, meaning you’re steps away from the biggest parties in town. Hit up dinners at high end restaurants and finish the night off at Story, Miami’s top dance club to drink and meet guys or girls. During the day, hang by the pool at HIGHBAR, a 70’s glam rooftop lounge attached this cool hotel in Miami. When you’re not relaxing in your luxury suite, kick it by the beach where hot women from around the globe go to party and play. Perfect for millennials or Gen Z.VIEW OR BOOK

Vagabond Hotel

On the list of cool Miami hotels lies the Vagabond Hotel, the true definition of boutique luxury. Tastefully inspired by the retro glam era, the Vagabond takes you back a few decades without sacrificing sophistication. When pulling up, you may feel like you accidentally landed yourself at a cheap motel in the desert. But throw on your browline shades and get ready to be blown away by the fusion of modern chic with a laid-back,1950’s style. Party at the same pool lounge as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, where they picked up girls and drank the night away. Just like you’ll be doing when you stay at the Vagabond Hotel in Miami.VIEW OR BOOK

Edition Hotel Miami

Experience the urban resort of Miami Beach known as… Edition. Simple, yet elegant in design, Edition showcases over 294 luxury accommodations for those who prefer the finer things in life. Choose between captivating suites, secluded bungalows or a trendy Penthouse, all within a few feet from the beach. After you’re settled in, experience the exquisite tastes of Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten at his restaurant, located right on site. Take in the view of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean at your choice between two outdoor pool/bars. This cool hotel in Miami offers an exclusive entertainment area, where guests can bowl, ice skate or party at the nightclub.VIEW OR BOOK

SoHo Beach House

After undergoing a $100 million dollar expansion, SoHo beach house has easily become one of the best luxury hotels in Miami. Located in Mid-Beach, this luxury hotel offers sanctuary from the crowds without sacrificing the best part of being in Miami… beautiful beaches. The beach house brings together the best of Miami’s cultural influences with a little taste of London to your stay. Embark on your rustic journey to the Tiki Bar for a secluded dining experience. Or head to the Club Bar for a traditional forties Cuban feel. Either way, the SoHo beach house brings cultural luxury to their guests with a side of serenity in the active city of Miami.VIEW OR BOOK

EAST, Miami

EAST, Miami offers a fresh outlook on how guests engage in the hotel experience. Being one of the cool Miami hotels, EAST provides keyless entry, paperless check-in/check-out and an app. Yes, an app for your phone to help navigate through the energetic city of Miami. This app keep guests up to date on local art exhibits, fashion events, travel tips and variety of other activities going on during your stay. Experience serenity through architecture with geometric designs and crystal healing infusions throughout the property. Balance your aura and join the harmonic energy of EAST, Miami next time you’re in town.VIEW OR BOOK

Hotel Victor South Beach

Arriving at Hotel Victor gives you the feeling of 1980’s, vice city Miami. With it’s pink lights and traditional design, Hotel Victor is the true expression of art deco. Making a name for themselves as one of the cool hotels in Miami. Step off the streets and into the luxury of South Beach with designer Yabu Pushelberg in their newly developed “beach house” guest rooms. Incorporating natural materials and neutral tones, the soft interior design remains welcoming regardless of the tier room you stay in. Nestled on Ocean Drive, guests can tan on the beach, chill by the pool or explore the elaborate city of Miami and all it has to offer.VIEW OR BOOK

SLS South Beach

The SLS is one of the hottest hotels to party at in South Beach. Reviewed as “a sexy hell”, you’ll be sure to find the best looking woman dancing, partying and getting sweaty on this infamous rooftop. Reach for the sky while Miami’s best DJ’s spin for #OneEpicHyde party on top of the tallest art deco building in Miami. Ready to hit the clubs? SLS provides a luxury BMW car service to drop you and your friends off at any location within a 3 mile radius. When the party stops, dine in with Chef Jose Andres at Bazaar for brunch or one of the many cultural flavors found at the SLS in South Beach.VIEW OR BOOK

1 Hotel South Beach

Embrace the natural environment of 1 Hotel South Beach by retreating to this exclusive getaway on your next trip to Miami. Where expansive ocean views can be enjoyed from the comfort of your room and your environmental footprint will be recognized. As you lay in bed, relax in knowing your body is recharging atop 1’s custom hemp mattresses, covered in organic cotton sheets. Enjoy the presence of reclaimed wood finishes and natural tones. Taste the farm-to-table dishes at one of the seven luxury dining areas. For an eco-friendly and cool hotel in Miami, 1 Hotel South Beach is the place for all modern day hippies alike.VIEW OR BOOK

Mondrian South Beach Miami

Step out the Uber and into the whimsical world of Marcel Wonders at the Mondrian in South Beach Miami. Welcomed by the “floating staircase”, you’re faced with the feeling that your stay will be unlike any other luxury hotel experience. From their iconic swimming pool to a labyrinth trail offering exclusive lounge areas, the Mondrian has all the essentials for a chill Miami day. Spend your time outside with bottle service by the pool, or jet skiing in the beautiful Biscayne Bay. Got plans for the weekend? Stay in for the epic poolside parties on Saturdays and Sundays hosted by the best DJ’s of Miami, right in your own backyard.VIEW OR BOOK

EPIC Hotel

Are you ready for a #EPICHotel experience? If you decide to stay at EPIC in Downtown Miami, you may end up trending in their hashtag. Their luxe boutique design begins in the grand lobby and radiates throughout the rooftop pools. Where guests can experience panoramic views of the city in this pet-friendly and cool hotel in Miami. Spend your time relaxing in secluded cabanas, lounging by the pool and dining at fancy restaurants.. For the ultimate luxe experience, arrive by yacht, dock in your own private marina and enjoy Miami by sea.VIEW OR BOOK

Nautilus

Revel in a revival of the 50’s when you check-in at Nautilus. Originally crafted by architect Morris Lapidus, this cool hotel in Miami boasts a comfy, luxury beach house design. Enter the oceanfront property by the “stairway to nowhere”, an iconic feature where guests are guided from arrival to lobby, with a sunken bar area for the eclectic finish. This boutique space boasts a 1,890 square foot, saltwater pool and a lush backyard where guests can relax and dine in luxe. Eat beneath the setting sun at the Driftwood Room, where southern France meets the local ingredients of Miami for an explosion of flavor.VIEW OR BOOK

W South Beach

Bring the party home to your oceanfront VIP suite at the W South Beach, Miami. The W has a reputation for providing the best accommodations and style to their hotel experiences, their South Beach location is no different. Take in the scenery on your own private balcony, or shoot hoops on the rooftop basketball courts. After working up a sweat head to WET, where the best looking people party in luxury amongst the lounges and cabanas. When you get tired of the party, walk out to the beach and crash for a bit. Only to wake up and start the Miami party cycle all over again.VIEW OR BOOK

Eden Roc Miami Beach

Get a two for one experience when you stay at the Eden Roc Resort in Miami Beach. Partnered with Nobu Hotel, these luxe accommodations bring together an elegant balance of modern architecture with Japanese influences. The retro chic design of Eden Roc boasts a classic, yet fancy vibe for all guests to enjoy. For foodies, the close locality of the world-famous Nobu Restaurant is a win-win situation. Located in near Mid-Beach, guests can get away from the crowds and explore the tranquil side of a Miami beach.VIEW OR BOOK

The Confidante

Last, but not least, on the list for cool hotels in Miami goes to The Confidante. Part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, The Confidante promotes retro luxe at an affordable price. The art deco building is complemented by colorful, 50’s style interior design and offers guests the local beach house feel. Unwind between outdoor pools, beach or rooftop spa with serene gardens for ultimate relaxation. The Confidante hosts female DJ’s in their event space, putting them on the map for the best Miami hotel for entertainment.VIEW OR BOOK

The post Cool Miami Hotels 2023 appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Beautifully crafted shoes are a staple item of every man’s wardrobe. Made to exude one’s personality with the right outfit, it’s good practice to keep a collection of shoes for every occasion on your calendar, so you need to make sure you regularly visit the best men’s shoe stores in Sydney.

124 Shoes

Shop RG14 (Ground Level), The Galeries, 500 George Street, Sydney, 2000

Upon entering 124 Shoes, you’ll immediately be hit by the strong European vibes this darkly lit store exudes. What makes 124 Shoes unique is that every pair of men’s shoes stocked are sourced from second and third-generation Italian shoemakers, each with over 40 years of experience behind them. The store is basically every shoe lovers dream with a vast selection of lace shoes, boots, sneakers and loafers to select from to ensure you’ll leave with a cheeky Italian-hoofed smile.

Double Monk

The Strand Arcade, Shop 129-131, Level/2 412-414 George St, Sydney, 2000

While the Sydney outpost of Double Monk can’t lay claim to being the company’s first in Australia, it is still an incredible place to pick up a pair of men’s shoes. Although it might be a little intimidating going there at first (they have more than 60 pairs of leather and suede shoes to choose from), their friendly sales team are always present to guide you through all the intricacies of speciality footwear. Double Monk is an excellent option to consider for any man looking for a more polished and refined look, as the store also stocks pocket squares and knitted ties that specifically complement the shoes.

Kazuna

55-57 Underwood Rd, Homebush, 2140

If you’re after exacting craftsmanship with zero compromises on quality, Kazuna is one place to definitely hit up. As one of Sydney’s only stores offering Japanese-made shoes, the finished result is an investment worth being proud of. Kazuna manufactures their shoes using the Goodyear Welt method which ensures that every pair is repairable and their soles are replaceable.

They boast over forty different shoe designs with over forty different leathers to choose from and forty-eight sizes (including width) which means every shoe made is a true one-of-a-kind that will only fit you.

Josephs Sydney

Shop 5, The Strand Arcade, 412-414 George St, Sydney, 2000

Having been in the business for more than 30 years, Josephs certainly knows a thing or two about men’s shoes. It’s simply one of those stores you can rely on for good traditional footwear that never goes out of style. Josephs stocks many leather pieces from the likes of Church’s, Loake, Car Shoe Company and they even have their own in-house line of speciality pieces. Their staff are knowledgeable with every aspect of the shoe from its construction to the fit, meaning each pair you take home is guaranteed to last

Andrew McDonald

L2/412-414 George St, Sydney, 2000

Andrew McDonald is a store for men who appreciate handcrafted shoes that are unique in style and sustainably made. The founder himself is a master of derby style boots and shoes, even offering customers a made-to-order service if you’re really looking for something special and timeless. If you’re ever curious about the creative process that goes into the shoemaking process, the store also hosts several shoemaking workshops that happen throughout the year. 

Sneakerboy

388 George St, Sydney, 2000

Luxury sneaker store Sneakerboy provides customers with a unique customer experience and even more unique kicks. Instead of buying off the rack like every other store, Sneakerboy is a store that only showcases the sneakers they stock. The store on George Street is home to many coveted, limited edition, and special collaboration pieces from brands including Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Raf Simons and Alexander McQueen. The way it works is by heading into the store to physically see the shoes. Once you’ve decided on a style, the staff help you make the purchase online with in-store iPads before the shoes are delivered to you.

Aquila

Store 3022, 3rd flr Westfield Sydney, Cnr Market and Pitt Streets, 2000

Aquila is a store that can do no wrong. Although they have expanded into other realms of menswear, their heart and soul still remains strong in their diverse range of quality men’s shoes on offer. Aquila is a good solution for those who don’t want to spend a fortune, and their selection is large enough that you’ll find the perfect pair of shoes whether it be for work or play. However, due to their lower price point, you’ll need to put in a little more extra love and care into maintaining the shoe. They have several locations throughout Sydney along with an online store.

Florsheim

Shop RG8/9 The Galeries, 500 George St, Sydney 2000

Hailing all the way from Chicago in 1892, Florsheim has today flourished into a fully-fledged shoe store spanning the globe. What they offer today is still consistent with the morals that have stood for over a hundred years: Men’s shoes with a combination of style, comfort and high-quality workmanship. As such, Florsheim stocks everything from high-quality Italian made dress shoes and loafers right down to the more affordable stuff.

Read Next

• The Best Winter Boots Brands
• Best Chelsea Boots For Men
• Best Shoe Repair Shops & Cobblers In Sydney

The post 8 Best Men’s Shoe Stores In Sydney 2023 appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

If you’re a bit of a goldilocks when it comes to your hair – not too short, not too long, but in between – then you’ll be pleased to know there is plenty of inspiration when it comes to medium length hair for men.

In fact, medium hair has been adopted by many of Hollywood’s elite, including Chris Hemsworth, Jared Leto, Bradley Cooper and even Leonardo Di Caprio.

But what exactly constitutes medium length hair? Many grooming experts define it as being anywhere between two to four inches long, roughly shoulder length. If it goes past your collarbone, then you’re stepping into long hair territory.

With medium length hair, whether you’re rocking it long on top and sharp on the sides, or leaving it tousled and fuss-free, you’re open to more hairstyling options that can be part shaved, straight, wavy and of course, with as little or as much product in your hair as you like.

Men’s Medium Hairstyles: Tips & Tricks

Just because you aren’t rocking an elaborate mohawk or mullet, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be spending time styling and maintaining the quality of your mid-length hair. With these easy tips and tricks, you can take your hair from drab to dapper.

1. Start with clean, towel-dried hair.
2. Using a blow dryer, begin directing your hair upwards until fully dry.
3. Use a brush to take down any unwanted volume on the top or sides of your hair.
4. If you have wavy hair, work in a matte paste or cream.
5. If you have straight hair, try a higher-shine wax. Or, for a wet look, comb through some leave-in conditioner from the root to the tip when hair is still damp.

Expert Tip: International Stylist, Kevin Murphy

1. The current look for medium hair is basically short hair that has been slightly grown-out, just over the ears. Whatever you do, don’t over-style it, you want the hair to have a natural texture and matte finish.
2. The great thing about medium length hair is that its so versatile and with the right products, you can have a new look every day.
3. Many men don’t wash their hair properly, but if you’re going to let your hair grow out, using a good shampoo and conditioner is vital to keep it looking great.
4. The cut is really important. Make sure you ask your hairdresser for a square shape because if the cut is too round it will look feminine.

Medium Length Hairstyles FAQ

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The post Best Medium Length Hairstyles For Men 2023 appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Chinos are man’s most practical and versatile trouser. The casual bottom – like the denim jean – is a style staple. But not all chinos are created equal. With so many types and colours on offer – from both cheap and luxury brands, finding the perfect pair (or two) is tough. But all that is about to get simpler.

What’s A Chino?

Chinos can be defined as the combination of a smart trouser made from a more casual, cotton twill. Making their march from mid-century military ware and the days of Steve McQueen, the chinos’ rugged strength is even stronger today. But it’s crafted in slightly different cuts and versatile fabrics, ideal for conquering the urban streets or a precious dress-code party.

Meanwhile, the khaki colour has changed beyond the war zone too, realigning the classic pant with expectations of contemporary men’s fashion. That said, let’s learn how to wear the chino this season.

Chino Fit & Styling

How to fit and style your chinos depends on the occasion and a good understanding of your personal style.

More formal occasions require mid-weight cotton with a structure that resembles a suit or separates trouser. Aim for a pair that sit nicely on the hip (no bunching) with the same rise and length in the leg as a trouser, and one with tapering at the ankle. Another way to achieve cinched-look is by rolling the cuff – 1.5 to 2 inches turned-up from the bottom is best.

A big trend this season is a slightly wider leg, with the chino being rolled at the ankle to create a tapering at the bottom. It’s a Fifties groove that can’t go wrong.

Colour Your World

Though khaki is the original chino hue, venturing into colour for your next pair is the best idea for the upcoming spring.

Soothing shades – from rose and lilac grey to peach and light red – are easy to wear and are big colours for men this season, pushed on by fashion week in June. The lightness and brightness counteract over-the-top navy blazer formalities and channels a bobo aesthetic with a collared shirt or jacket and silk scarf.

That said, nothing says ‘classic’ like neutral; navy and grey chinos for both formal and casual events and on-trend marsala or dark red. Otherwise, try something more earthen such as forest green, rocky charcoal or taupe sand so a night-time pant.

What To Wear With Your Chinos

Chinos & A T-Shirt

The most classic look – not to mention the easiest to achieve – is the chinos and t-shirt combination. Choose any colour chino and match with a black, white, navy or even striped t-shirt. Pair the look with white sneakers and you have an effortless, summer-ready look.

Chinos & A Shirt

If you need to look a touch dressier then we recommend a casual shirt to wear with your chinos. A linen button-down or classic chambray shirt will complement your chinos perfectly. Patterns and stripes are welcome, but be sure not to go overboard with colour. Match blues with other shades of blues to keep things on point.

Chinos & A Blazer

If you’re in a hurry and need to go out, then the chinos, t-shirt and blazer is a winning combination. Blue chinos and a black blazer is popular, khaki chinos and a blue (or black) blazer works too too. Stick to basic coloured t-shirts, otherwise, a casual shirt will also work nicely. This is a perfect smart-casual approved look.

Chinos & Bomber Jacket

As the temperature drops then you’ll need a jacket. We recommend the very casual bomber jacket to compliment your chinos. Wear either a light knit underneath or keep it casual with a t-shirt.

Chinos & A Coat

Lastly, if it’s wet then go for a trench coat with your chinos. It’s still very smart and will keep the rain and cold away. Underneath you’ll want some light knitwear and layers to ensure you stay warm. Footwear is best kept to anything warm.

What Shoes To Wear With Chinos

It’s important to know your footwear when it comes to chinos, luckily for you, most shoes match well with these types of pants. Our go-to choice would be a clean white leather sneaker or maybe a canvas Converse All-Star. Leather, chukka or suede boots will work well. Try a brown boot with light khaki chinos or black boots with black chinos. Dress shoes (ideally, polished) are a little more difficult but ensure your chino length is not too long and a brown leather brogue or loafer (no socks) will work perfectly.

RELATED: A Guide To Correct Trousers Length

Know Your Chino Types

Style is determined largely by your personal taste and chosen life path. From chain retailers to the luxury moguls, the chino’s quality and appearance are largely dictated by their maker. Knowing who you are and what you need will influence the brands you shop with.

Fast Fashion Chinos

Fast-fashion chinos come from your run of the mill high-street brands. Their fast-fashion price tag means they’re better suited to more casual occasions – emphasised by the (usually commonplace) stitching on the leg, hem and pockets. The cotton quality tends to be lower too, giving them a lighter feel and a more worn-in look. With this in mind, they are very much ‘casual’ pants, paired best with equally casual pieces like a tee or polo and sneakers or boat shoes – no socks of course.

Workwear Chinos

These chinos are made from thicker, more durable fabrics and fit differently compared to their cheaper counterpart. The best comparison is the denim jean. Recognised for their more relaxed fit, the worker chinos create a rougher, ‘vintage Americana’ aesthetic. Textured, sturdy garments roll best with the worker chino – think a Chambray shirt, denim jacket, flannel plaid or this season’s shirt jacket or ‘shacket’. Hiker boots base out the heritage lumberjack or Steve McQueen-in-the-workshop looks.

The wide-leg style fits well for gym junkie bodies too or men with naturally larger thighs. But beware, the ruggedness of the worker chino makes them off-limits for preppy polos, and a clumsy companion for a button-shirt and blazer.

Smart / High-End Chinos

Smart is the chinos’ forte. But it takes some skill to get it right. Not to be confused for trousers, smart chinos – unlike their casual confreres – come clean and sharp with all details (stitching, buttons or zips) hidden for a more streamline and professional look. Constructed from quality cotton in a mid-weight weave, the smart style traditionally features a higher pant rise too – worn on the waist just as you would a pair of tailored trousers. Because of their neatness, you can wear the versatile chinos with casual shirts, long sleeve polos and crew neck jumper for a smart-casual look. Or try a dress shirt, sports coats, tie and formal shoes for something ultra chic.

This type is more expensive so stick to neutral shades to ensure the pair will last you a lifetime. And white is a very dapper, Pitt Uomo-inspired colour for the warmer seasons. Key brands include Incotex, Polo Ralph Lauren, J.Crew and A.P.C.

Final Word

When tackling chinos, try a few different styles and then invest in your preferred type – buying two or three in different colours (and even the same brand if you strike gold).

Read Next

• Coolest Clothing Brands For Men
• The Ultimate Casual Dress Code Guide For Men

The post How To Wear Chinos For Every Occassion appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

The booty call. The one-night stand. The friend with benefits. Recreational sex. Ex sex. Cereal sex. Casual sex comes in all shapes, flavours, sizes and positions. The world is a carnal carnival, and you have the golden ticket to ride all of the hottest rides.So go ahead and take that pony for a spin. Get soaked on the log flume. You have an unlimited day pass – make the most of it before closing time.Be warned though. Your day at Dick’s Fun Park comes with dire warnings. Too many turns on the roller coaster and you might get sick. Informal fornication is a tricky maze to navigate, one that’s seen a many strapping men get hopelessly lost.You will not be that man. You will learn how to be a stand up guy during a one night stand. You’ll master the art of having no-strings sex without getting tied up.DMARGE spoke to Melbourne dating coach Chris Manak and Dr. Nikki Goldstein, sexologist, relationship expert and host of the podcast Sex & Life to find out the do’s and do nots of casual sex.

Casual Sex Do’s

Choose Your Target Wisely

Successful no-strings-attached sex starts long before the clothes are on the floor. It begins at the bar (or the bookstore, or Bumble, or wherever you like to work your magic). Choosing a faulty f*ck-buddy dooms the liaison from day one.Like casual sex itself, the wrong partner comes in many guises. An ex is almost always messy. A close friend or someone you work with carries major risks. A person with feelings for you will be easy to get into bed, but hard to get out of it.Someone with a psycho side (even if it’s hot to you at first) is a bomb waiting to go off. Exercising caution before you do the horizontal hokey pokey can save you worlds of pain down the line.

Establish Basic Ground Rules

You’ve found a willing participant for your experiment in casual shagging – congratulations! If only one sesh between the sheets is in the cards, you’re free to proceed. But if you’re hoping for an ongoing arrangement, your next step is to set the terms.Establish mutually agreed upon ground rules about things like protection protocol, how often you’ll see each other, what kind of activities you’ll engage in (both in bed and out), whether your assignations are a secret, and what happens if feelings change.“A lot of guys will bring it up too late,” says Chris Manak, one of Melbourne’s best dating coaches.“They’ll date a girl for a few months and then they’ll drop the, ‘I don’t know if I really want a relationship…’ line. Then the girl will almost always leave out of principle.”“Bring it up early and in a positive sense. If I’m getting a girl’s number, I’ll be joking about it by saying something like ‘Calm down, I’m not a boyfriend type but you’re cool so we’ll hang out.'”The clearer everyone is on where they stand and what they want, the less chance there is for your rendezvous to take a wrong turn or be a total time-waster.

Be A Straight Shooter

Your mother was right when she said honesty is the best policy (though we’re guessing she wasn’t talking about getting raunchy with a rando from Tinder). Be upfront with your partners about the nature of your tryst.Sure, you might lose some along the way, but you’ll gain points for good behaviour and far fewer stalkers seeking revenge. Remember that being a straight shooter isn’t just about what you say – sometimes it’s about what you don’t say. Don’t lie, don’t use language that could be misconstrued, don’t make promises you don’t intend to keep.

Be Aware Of Your Behaviour

Words are only a piece of the puzzle. There’s also a labyrinth of unspoken stuff you have to stay on top of. Your behaviour should back up what you say and ensure your intentions are clear.Don’t lead a hookup on by: knocking boots on multiple nights in a week, agreeing to meet their family, spending holidays together, communicating too often or in an overly personal way, engaging in romantic activities or talk, or getting too affectionate and cuddly. Basically, don’t do anything that could be construed as boyfriendy.

Keep The Warm & Fuzzies In Check

It’s easy to focus on your partner’s (hopefully non-existent) emotions and forget your own, but it’s your job to check your feelings at the door and make sure they stay there. Remind yourself occasionally that this amazing person who is down to get down without strings is not your soulmate.The sex – even if it’s mind-blowing – is just sex. Attachment is for e-mails. If you do find feelings unexpectedly rearing their complicating heads, refer back to rule number three. Be honest about it and reconsider or restructure the arrangement. Failure to do so is unfair to your f-buddy and likely to end unpleasantly for you.

Be A Proper Gentleman

Casual status is not an excuse to be a dick. Your fling – even if it’s a one-night-only show – deserves to feel respected and safe, and to have just as good a time as you.Honour any rules that have been established and don’t cross any boundaries that have been discussed. Don’t kick her out of your place at the crack of dawn. Don’t sneak out a window at her place in the middle of the night.Share the love (and by love, we mean orgasms). Be magnificent, but not a bastard.

Play It Safe

Hookups are hot and heavy, spur-of-the-moment explosions of lust and libido. And yes, part of the appeal of casual sex is its lack of obligations. But as any man who survived grade school sex ed (hint: all of you) knows, health matters.Be upfront about whether you’re both sleeping with other people. Have a chat about the last time you each got tested. Find out if she’s on birth control. And regardless of the answers to all of those questions, wrap it up. Every time.

Know When To End It Like A Man

Even the best casual sex doesn’t last forever. The spark eventually fades, or the situation explodes in your face, or you fall in love and suddenly things aren’t so casual anymore. Sex is unpredictable, and that’s part of why it’s so much fun.Accept that a hookup is, by definition, transient. It’s destined to end from the moment it starts. Learn to recognise the signs that the time has arrived, and when it does, let go with grace and your dignity intact. Then return to rule one and start again.Chris Manak agrees and says that you’re the one who needs to bring it to an end if you’re the one initiating the open relationship status.“There’s no real way to go about it. The only issue with that is a lot of girls are subconsciously attracted to emotionally unavailable men.”“Some girls don’t know what they’re attracted to. As soon as a guy says, ‘No, I’m ready to settle down now,’ girls say see you later because they could be missing the chase.”On the other side of the coin, men need to stop being “pussies” when it’s the women who are holding down the open relationship status.“You need to tell them, ‘Look, I love you; this is not providing me what I want. Let’s do this properly or I’m leaving'”.

Casual Sex Don’ts

Being too keen

According to Nikki, when you’re actually hooking up, “one of the most common mistakes a guy can make is they can get a little bit too enthusiastic.” But wait, isn’t enthusiasm a good thing? Well, yes: you don’t want to lay back like a limp sack of potatoes. But being too full on is a turn off.

“We have different sexual response cycles; guys are ready to go a lot quicker than women and if they’re really enthusiastic it can be perceived as a little bit too much.”

Assuming you have to take the lead

With society finally cracking down on bad dating behaviour, Nikki said, “it can be a scary time” for everyone, “because we’re not all sure what is expected of us.” What does this mean for men? During a hook up; “Check in, in a gentleman like way.”

“It doesn’t have to be over the top, but it could actually be really seductive like, ‘Just wanted to check in, are you ok with everything?’ while you’re stroking your hand across her face. Something like that could even add to the experience becuase she’s like, ‘wow this guy is so sweet and so caring’ so it’s not neccessarily a bad thing to be doing anyway.”

Playing ‘the game’

With the casual fling side of things, game playing is perhaps the worst walked tightrope in modern dating. Play too much and you will frustrate your date, don’t play at all and you will be perceived as boring. The one constant, however, is easy to remember, and that is to always be respectful.As Nikki told us, “There are people who think because you have a casual fling you don’t have to be respectful, but even though you might not want a relationship with this person, showing signs of disrespect will make that situation end prematurely.”

Being a selfish lover…

“It might be not replying to text messages for a while, not calling her (or calling her at 2am when something like that hasn’t been established),” but all those situations can disqualify you as selfish in 2019. Many people these days are up for “casual fun” Nikki told us, “but they still want be respected and they still deserve to be respected.”

“If you can’t give them those basic things, we’re living in an app society with a hookup culture, so they will dismiss you and find somebody they can have a friend with benefits situation with.”

Ignoring the obvious

Another common error many men tend to make both in relationships and even more so with their casual partners is “not addressing the big pink elephant in the room.” As Nikki told us, “maybe someone’s developed emotions or something happens sexually (or someone’s jealous because they found out you are hooking up with someone they know), but I feel like it’s better to address that stuff and have a bit of a laugh about it, and just be like, ‘Well that’s bloody awkward isn’t it?'”

“Not talking about stuff sometimes sees other emotions manifest.”

Assuming it’s always going to be a ‘no feelings’ zone

According to Nikki, “If you want your casual fun to be enjoyable for everybody [and last as long as possible],” then you’ve got to leave the whole “it’s not a relationship so I don’t have to talk about these things” mindset where it belongs: back in 2018.

Not taking a hint

“If you do make the first move and it is rejected, we are no longer living in the age of ‘If at first you don’t succeed then you try again,'” Nikki told us.

“It used to be, ‘if a girl rejects me I’ll ween her down, she’ll get to know me.’ That’s no longer the case.”

Now go forth and fornicate with courtesy.RELATED: A Gentleman’s Guide To Bathroom Sex

The post Unspoken Rules To Have Successful Casual Sex appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Anyone who really understands what they’re doing in the gym will know that form and technique is far more important than the amount of weight you lift. If your body is in the wrong position when attempting a lift, and the weight is too heavy, you’re looking at a one-way trip to injury town.

One of the easiest ways to prevent injury, yet still complete a solid workout, is to lift lighter weights – which we’ve previously discussed can indeed still allow you to make gains – however, you may also need to work on your mobility.

Mobility can often be confused with flexibility, we’ve covered the difference between the two, here.

One such move that requires you to have good mobility is the overhead shoulder press. The overhead press can be an incredibly effective exercise for adding size and strength to your shoulders but is also one that isn’t as simple as it looks. This is because, if you perform a standing overhead press, for example, it’s not just your shoulders that are involved.

As Coach Mag says, “Your abs, your lower back and the muscles surrounding your shoulder blades are all involved in pressing the weight overhead, and if you progress to a standing version of the exercise your glutes, hamstrings and quads are also enlisted to add stability.”

Essentially, there are plenty of muscles that could be injured if you perform it wrong. Fortunately, Drew McDuffie, strength coach for the Duke University Football team in North Carolina, USA, has some savvy variations of the overhead press you can perform that will offer a pain-free workout.

As Drew says in the caption of his video, which he recently posted to Instagram: “Getting overhead pain-free can be one of the most irritating endeavours due to shoulder mobility issues or b/c how easy it is to compensate through low back extension.” Indeed, it can be all too easy for your back to curve inwards when performing the overhead press, for example, which won’t make you as stable.

We won’t discuss every single exercise variation Drew demonstrates with the Duke Football team here, but essentially, they all serve to improve your shoulder mobility by either removing the weight entirely (such as using TRX bands and just your bodyweight); seeing you have a more solid base from which to push upwards from (such as rolling the barbell against a wall for stability) and strengthening other muscle groups in your body.

You may not feel like a true gym bro performing these variations, instead of just trying to press as much weight as you can over your head, but if you get them nailed down to perfection, you’ll be able to safely lift heavier loads in no time.

• Salt Bae’s Mobility Exercises Will Either Make You Or Break You

The post Stop Shoulder Pain Forever With These Savvy Workout Variations appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Sorry to break it to you Australia, but you’re probably doing red wine wrong. All wrong, in fact.

That’s right: DMARGE recently spoke to sommelier Sean McManus, who is a representative at Real Wines, to better understand why Australians don’t cool red wine so often as is done in countries like Spain.

“As for chilled reds, I imagine you saw a lot of this in Spain due to Grenache being a grape that loves being chilled,” Sean told DMARGE.

“Grenache is a grape that is relatively low in tannin making it smashable when chilled.”

Sean then explained that because Australia is a land of punchy reds – which aren’t really suitable for chilling – we aren’t used to putting red wine in the fridge. We even see it as a bit of a faux pas. But in summer that’s not necessarily the case.

In fact, because of our hot summer temperatures, putting your wine in the fridge the day you drink it (or when you arrive at your host’s house) could be the difference between keeping it at the right temperature and the wrong one.

Sean also told us some red wines lend themselves to being chilled regardless of the weather.

“Australia is known for big tannic reds – Barross Shiraz, Coonawarra Cab, etc. If it has tannin, it is no bueno for being chilled!”

However, Sean adds, “You can find great examples in Southern Rhône (France) of red wines that go well cool. Look towards a region called Tavel. Technically a Rosé but that a more like a light red. Pinot is also great with a little chill.”

“In Australia, look for lightweight grenache from producers out of the Barossa such as Alkina ‘KIN’ Grenache. Biodynamic, wild fermented. It’s the perfect combo of juicy and elegant.”

Mount Ophir Estate winemaker Nick Brown told DMARGE a lot of people are “over the big, juicy, soupy, overripe styles” of wine anyway, and “want to have a few glasses and not fall asleep at the table.”

He said that Australians “are seeking softer, medium wines, particularly red wines,” and industry is now “leaning towards a lighter euro style of winemaking,” in part because a lot of winemakers, due to COVID-19 (as well as technology improving), are now a lot more au fait with technology and can interact with customers online, and are listening to them more than they used to in the past.

Video: TikTok User @legallywined reveals which red wines can be put in the fridge.

Even when it comes to big, heavy reds like Shiraz, which experts agree are supposed to be served at room temperature, in the height of Aussie summer you might even be able to get away with putting them in the fridge, because your room temperature may be quite high.

“They say red wine should be served at room temperature, but that means at room temperature in a dungeon, wine cellar or a cave in France,” Gwyn Olsen, head winemaker at Pepper Tree Wines once told SBS.

RELATED: Our Expert’s Scoop On The Best Australian Wines To Buy Right Now

Olsen told SBS that most room temperatures in the Australian summer are significantly above the ‘room temperature’ instruction for red-wine storage and consumption from Europe.

“Take, for example, the Hunter Valley (NSW), where you can have a summer day of around 40-odd degrees. If you are drinking that wine at room temperature, you are drinking wine at 40°C. Now that’s not enjoyable by any stretch of the imagination.”

This could even rob your precious big red of some of its flavour (not to mention being quite unrefreshing).

There you have it. Yet another excuse for you to avoid white wine and stick to reds this Christmas and New Year… Just make sure you keep them cool.

• Why Spaniards Will Never Understand Australia’s Obsession With Wellness
• Important Eating Rules You Need To Know Before Visiting Spain

The post Which Red Wines You Should Be Cooling, According To A Sommelier appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

2021 has been a wild, wild year for many reasons – but it’s also been a wild, wild year for hair.

The Spicy Cough’s lockdowns and social distancing measures have meant that for most of us men, trips to the barber have become less and less frequent. So if we’re talking about the standout men’s grooming trends of 2021, the biggest one has been… A lack of grooming, really.

Not that 2021 has been completely devoid of grooming trends, though. COVID has seen buzz cuts make a comeback, as well as the rise of the ‘lockdown beard‘. When it comes to men’s haircuts, longer hair on men has become more socially acceptable, too.

But there’s one haircut that’s defied both a global pandemic and good taste more broadly in 2021: the skullet. A version of the mullet, but with the top either fully shaved or extra short, the skullet has become huge, especially in Australia (where you might know it better as ‘the Dusty’, after the Richmond player).

RELATED: Is ‘The Skullet’ Australia’s Rudest Haircut?

If you told someone. at the start of the year that the meaty heinousness that is theskullet would become the must-have haircut of 2021, they’d probably think you were mad. But actually, this haircut has been on the cards for yonks. Like most cultural touchstones, The Simpsons actually predicted this cut years ago. As if 2021 couldn’t get any weirder…

“Homer At The Bat”, a classic episode from the third season of the long-running cartoon sitcom – which sees Mr Burns create a team of professional baseball players to win a bet – was filled with celebrity cameos from real-life pro baseball players, including Don Mattingly, the New York Yankees’ first baseman from 1982 to 1995.

There’s a joke where Burns repeatedly demands that Mattingly (who famously rocked a filthy mullet in real life) trim his sideburns, even though Mattingly has no sideburns – prompting a confused Mattingly to shave his hair into the prototypical skullet. Considering this episode aired in 1992, this is exceedingly prescient.

RELATED: The ‘Slim Shady’ Cut Just Got A Modern Update. Try It At Your Own Risk

What’s even spookier is how The Simpsons actually predicted Mattingly encountering this exact problem IRL: in 1991, before the episode aired but after it was produced, Mattingly was actually benched for refusing to cut his mullet off, as then-Yankees owner George Steinbrenner had a strict policy requiring his players to maintain well-kept head and facial hair.

Read Next

• Two Weeks With A Man Bun: Everything I Learnt Being A Hipster Cliché
• Barbers Share Their Top Tips For Australian Men Struggling With ‘Home Haircuts’

The post Did The Simpsons Predict The Worst Men’s Haircut Of 2021? appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

The following article was produced in partnership with Bell & Ross.

When Bell & Ross debuted their new BR 05 collection in 2019, it immediately caused a stir among watch aficionados. A stylish new spin on the classic B&R formula – which takes the brand’s iconic square case design, rounds off the sharp corners and mounts the case on a sleek integrated bracelet – the BR 05 has truly been a paradigm shift.

Now, in 2021, Bell & Ross have unveiled two awesome new iterations of the stylish new BR 05, which might just be the best yet. Sleek, different, practical yet luxurious, these two watches are masterpieces of French design and more than deserve a spot on your wrist ASAP.

First up we have the BR 05 GMT. For a brand that’s all about aviation, a GMT complication for the BR 05 just makes sense. An invaluable tool for both pilots and passengers alike, a GMT watch displays the local time in two different time zones – typically your home time zone and the local time zone wherever you’re flying to.

The BR 05 GMT’s core complication is elegantly executed: an arrow-tipped, red-accented second hour hand points to a white and black two-colour flange with 24-hour scale, making it a breeze to keep track of time in two places at once. It’s easy to use but doesn’t detract from the clean overall aesthetic of the BR 05.

We also have the BR 05 Horolum: an eclectic limited-edition variant of the BR 05 with a very unique look. Inspired by the minerality of concrete, the BR 05 Horolum is crafted from bead-blasted steel, with the case, dial and bracelet all featuring this textural spin.

Bead-blasted titanium is commonly used in luxury timepieces but bead-blasted steel is rather unusual. It provides a unique textural and visual quality to the BR 05 Horolum that’s quite unlike any other watch on the market. The contrast between the highly luminous indices and the uniform bead-blasted finish is dramatic and futuristic; making it a real ‘future relic’ of a watch.

Both these stunning BR 05s feature screw-down crowns, sapphire case-backs and a water-resistance rating of 100m – they’re not just wrist candy. They’re also both available either on an integrated bracelet or a sporty rubber strap.

Stainless steel watches with integrated bracelets have never been more popular, and the BR 05 is a particularly handsome example of the genre. Purposeful and slick with the mechanical bona fides to back up its no-nonsense appearance, the BR 05 is emblematic of the renaissance of French watchmaking… And whether you opt for the BR 05 GMT or the BR 05 Horolum, you know you’re choosing a winner.

Discover the Bell & Ross BR 05 GMT and BR 05 Horolum – as well as the rest of the BR 05 collection – at Bell & Ross’ online boutique here.

The post Bell & Ross Release Two Exciting New Tool Watches appeared first on DMARGE Australia.