5 Tips to Instantly Improve Your Look

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com 

Everybody has crazy daily schedule to a certain extend. Dressing well on a daily basis may seems like a rather resource-consuming task and that is why many men would take it for granted.

In a nutshell, it's the details that affects the overall look of a man. I personally follow 5 tricks on a daily basis, and I think one can improve his look simply by following them as well. It may not give you a dramatic effect, but it helps enhancing your presentability, and somehow makes you appear more reliable indirectly as people can notice the little advantage from these simple effort .

1. Style Your Hair

Yes, your hair may be short, or you may have an ordinary hair cut that doesn't really require any further styling after getting out of the shower. In fact, styling hair doesn't necessarily mean to give a new "shape" to your hair (e.g. mohawk) but to make sure your hair goes in the right direction, not greasy and not wet. Even the infamous "bed-head" style requires certain level of styling.

The truth is, people know whether you style your hair or not, although unsaid.

2. Smell

Smell is one of the elements that make up a person's first impression. You may not be the best-dressed person in a group, but a good scent always leave a positive and long lasting image in anyone that you met. People prefer men who smell good, rather than just looking good. It's science.


3. Shave Them Off

Not all men can grow full stubble. Some men grow in a very sporadic and patchy pattern, and it won't look any better even if you've trimmed them down to a few millimeters, as they'll make you appear sloppy and less polished. The best way is to shave them off completely.

4. No Over-sized

This is a proven tip: no over-sized clothes! (Unless it's a jumper, or you're embracing the oversize trend.)

Sometimes we compromise the sizing because of sales, and sometimes we receive clothes as gifts from our loved ones but they're a size too big and we don't want to waste them. This normally happens to T-shirts, formal shirts and trousers.

So this tip lies heavily in making choices: avoid wearing anything that's too big / too long for you. If the pieces you have currently are mostly over-sized, try wearing those that fits you better, and it's time to start planning for a shopping mission.

Over-sized works better for women, but not for men in most cases because menswear is more about the fit and size.

5. Oil-control film

Having a shiny face is like owning a Ferrari with a horrible paint work.

If you have an oily face (e.g. like me) you'll know it's not an easy job maintaining an oil free face while running around, from places to places. However, it's not impossible. The easiest way to maintain a fresh face is by using oil-control film. It definitely works better than using tissue papers. It is one of my must-have daily grooming items.

Keep a package of oil-control film with you and clean your face whenever it's necessary.

---

Hope these tips will be useful to you.

Image 1 2 3 4 5 6

Regards,

Max Law

Menswear Fashion Blogger

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!
Max Law is also Nuffnang's Blogger of the month for September 2013!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |

How To Choose The Best Type Of Massage

by Marcela De Vivo

Wondering what type of massage to get? Regardless of whether you are a massage newbie or a bodywork connoisseur, picking a massage from the increasingly lengthy menu of spa services can be daunting. From de-stressing to increasing flexibility, many spas offer a plethora of massage options with a variety of benefits to address any issue you wish.

Here’s a list of situations in which you would seek out the healing touch of bodywork and the type of massage that can help alleviate your specific condition:

If you’re feeling tense, then you should try a Swedish Massage:

The most recognizable and popular types of bodywork, Swedish massage is what most think of when discussing “massage.” Using long, gentle strokes, with medium to moderate pressure, and circular, kneading motions, Swedish massage can improve circulation and reduce stress-related tension. Some studies that this type of massage has a mild healing effect related to certain chronic stress-related illnesses. 

If you have sore muscles or are recovering from an injury, then you should try Deep-Tissue Massage:

Deep tissue massage uses much more pressure than the traditional Swedish massage, and targets the deep layers of muscle and muscle attachments. Ideal for tight or sore muscles, as a result of repetitive use injury, poor posture or recovery from an injury, deep tissue massage can feel slightly painful as the masseuse breaks down adhesions to relieve pain and restore movement.

This type of massage usually is used to relieve some particular ailment, rather than for relaxation. It is believed that toxins are released during deep tissue massage, which can bring on flu-like symptoms and some soreness the next day.

If you aren’t afraid of a little pain for a lot of gain, then you should try Thai Massage:

Thai massage is sometimes called “the lazy man’s yoga.” Unlike other forms of massage, you do not lay passively as your therapist kneads and strokes your body. In Thai massage, the masseuse works your body through a series of stretches, sometimes utilizing elbows and knees to push you deeper into a stretch.

While Thai massage is often considered painful and not necessarily relaxing during the session, the results are worth the “work out.” Not only will you feel more vigor, but it helps improve flexibility (over time) and range of motion. It can also help improve posture.

If you’re feeling stressed, then you should try Aromatherapy Massage:

Aromatherapy is a noted, effective stress-buster. Combined with massage, aromatherapy can reduce stress as well as tension throughout the body, and improve your overall mood.

Different scents have different healing qualities—some can help rejuvenate, others relax, and yet others to help balance. To relieve stress, cardamom, chamomile and lavender have been particularly helpful with people experiencing anxiety and stress.

Once you’ve chosen what scent you want, the oil is either slowly released throughout the room, or applied (with a base oil) to pressure points on your body through massage.

If you don’t like being touched, then try Reiki Massage:

A Japanese technique developed for stress reduction and relaxation, Reiki is a bodywork treatment that does not require extensive contact between the masseuse and the person receiving the treatment. Reiki uses energy and visualization to assist in the healing therapy.

The masseuse will place their hands on or over key points in the body, and channel their energy (via meditative state and visualization) into the client. Reiki balances the energy in problem areas, taking into account the body, aura and emotional state, to improve overall well-being. This treatment modality has been found to help reduce pain that stems from a physical ailment or a psychosomatic concern.

Whereas once there were only one or two massage options on the spa menu, these days, you can find practices from around the world at any New York, LA, or Miami Spa—or at your local massage practice. Refer to this list before the next time you visit your favorite spa, to find the treatment that best suits you.

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer, yoga enthusiast and mother of three. In addition to meditating and practising yoga each day, she personally enjoys Reiki massage as another way to relieve stress and tension. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter for more health-related tips. 





"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook |  Twitter | Instagram |

Getting the Most Out Of A Music Festival

by Marcela De Vivo

Photo courtesy of blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com

01. Before The Festival 

So, you've snagged the tickets, taken the time off work and dreamed about your mini-vacation to the upcoming music festival for months... but are you completely prepared for the weekend that lies ahead? 

Below are a few tips that will help you avoid any mishaps before, during and after your stay at the festival:

Brush Up On Music 

Photo courtesy of independent.co.uk

Even if you’re an audiophile, chances are you don’t know every artist on the lineup of the festival you’re attending. Google a list of the lineup and plug in artists one by one to sample the music you haven’t heard before. This will help you discover bands that you may have otherwise missed by not researching them beforehand. 

There’s also the option of finding pre-made playlists or channels; many major music sites will offer music streams or download samples of the line-up in preparation for the big festivals. For example, check out this channel put together for the upcoming 2013 Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. 

Prepare Your Outfits 

Photo courtesy of seventeen.com

Festivals are a great excuse to throw together a cool weekend wardrobe. Here are a few quick tips if you have no idea where to start: 

• Depending on the season, pack shorts or long pants - if you’re camping for two or more days, try and pack light by re-using your bottoms with multiple different tops.
  
  Quick tip: If you’re attending a music festival in the desert, the temperature during the day may be significantly different than at night. Pack extra layers like sweatshirts for night time and consider snagging a locker if you don’t want to carry a lot of extra baggage. 

• Add your own personal flair - a lot of guys and girls like to wear cool sunglasses, jewelry like floral headbands or belly chains and band t-shirts showing off their favorite artists. 

• Pack comfy shoes - if it’s hot out you may decide to simple wear your comfiest pair of flip flops or even go barefoot. If it’s a bit on the chilly side, any shoe that is going to give your foot all-day support is best. The worst thing at a music festival is being uncomfortable running around and/or standing for prolonged periods of time while you listen to your favorite bands. 

Create a Personal Set-List 

Photo courtesy of 977music.com

The schedule of which artists will be playing and at what times is posted a few days before most music festivals. Decide who you want to see and create a schedule to ensure you won’t miss anyone because of not doing the research beforehand. Coachella, the annual music festival in Indio, California even has an app so everything can be done seamlessly on your phone --and be handily waiting in your pocket throughout the weekend. 

02. During The Festival 

Photo courtesy of flightfox.com

• Wear Sunscreen 

This goes for anybody, during any season that is spending more than 2-3 hours in the sun. Even if it is overcast outside, you will get sunburnt --especially if you are fair skinned. 

Getting sunburnt, especially on the first day of the festival will really put a hamper on your overall experience. If you’re mostly covered up in colder weather, don’t forget to put sunscreen on your cheeks and nose. 

• Stay Hydrated

This is especially important for people who are going to be out in the sun during their festival. Drink at least 4 bottles of water throughout the day, more if you are drinking a lot of alcohol --which tends to dehydrate people. 

A lot of people end up spending hours in the first-aid tent because they think they are immune to dehydration. Dehydration is serious and is the cause of people passing or blacking out. 

• Be Flexible 

Unfortunately, you may not be able to see every band you planned on. It may rain on you in 90 degree weather and ruin your outfit. Somebody may spill a drink on your white shirt or ruin your shoes by stepping on them having set foot in the mud. 

Whatever the case, it’s best to relax and go with the flow. Things are bound to go wrong a few times when surrounded by thousands of strangers and hundred and bands. If you expect these things to happen and take them with a grain of salt, you’ll definitely have more fun. 

03. After The Festival 

Share Your Experience 

Post photos of yourself on your Facebook and links to the best bands you saw during your stay, that way other people can explore their music as well, especially if they aren't an especially well-known band. 

Make sure you’re prepared to attend the music festival you've got tickets for to ensure the best experience possible. Simple things like wearing sunscreen and deciding which bands  you are going to watch can make a world of difference that weekend.

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer from Los Angeles. She writes on everything from marketing to health & wellness, but as an avid music fan and concert-goer, she loves the chance to cover music. 



"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Meditating for Better Skin

by Marcela De Vivo

Meditation is practiced worldwide as an excellent way to reduce stress and improve mental and physical health. Did you know, however, that meditation can also help improve your appearance?

When practiced properly and consistently, meditation is one of the few natural ways to improve the quality and tone of your skin, and even combat any number of skin ailments, ranging from acne to rosacea to premature wrinkling.

How stress affects your skin

The body responds to duress by releasing cortisol, a stress hormone. Cortisol, while necessary in small quantities to help you deal with “fight or flight” situations, is not meant to be sustained at high levels for prolonged periods of time. Continued production of cortisol can result in a variety of negative health issues including fat gain around the visceral organs, blood sugar imbalance, decreased bone density, higher blood pressure and of course, skin problems. 

Cortisol can result in an increase in oil production, which can lead to acne and acne-related problems.

Additionally, when cortisol is released by the body, sugar levels in our bloodstream go up. Increased blood sugar promotes glycation in our skin, which damages collagen. Damage to collagen can lead to more lines and wrinkles.

As soon as cortisol is released by the body, sugar levels in the blood increase. We know that sugar spikes are especially bad for diabetics, but increased blood sugar also promotes a process called glycation in our skin which damages the collagen. Collagen is what makes your skin both firm and pliable. The breakdown of collagen leads to fine lines and eventually wrinkles.

Cortisol acts to dehydrate the skin by decreasing your skin’s production of hyaluronic acid, a natural moisturizer for the skin. And it compromises the skin’s barrier, which allows hydration to evaporate instead of staying in the skin.

Another byproduct of stress that works negatively on the skin is adrenaline, which decreases blood flow to your skin and leads to a pale, wan complexion.

Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Better skin through meditation

Research has shown that meditation is a powerful stress-reliever. When you meditate, you slow your heart rate and produce less cortisol even as your immune functions improve. While difficult to adjust to initially, a consistent practitioner of meditation reaps myriad mental and physical benefits, including reduced stress responses and improved immunity to stress.

Reduction in stress naturally leads to reduction of stress hormones like cortisol, which allows your skin to continue to regenerate normally .

People have found that after consistent meditation, they see fewer lines and wrinkles, improvement in acne, fewer dark circles or bags under the eyes (due in part to improved quality of sleep that comes with meditation), and a healthy glow.

Note: For maximum benefits to your skin, do not shower immediately after meditation. Some studies have suggested that chemicals produced during meditation can be beneficial to the skin. Showering would not only wash off those beneficial chemicals, but also produce a shock to the nervous system, increasing the stress response which is the opposite of the intended goal. If you must shower post-meditation, try to wait at least half an hour to an hour. Ideally, avoid any kind of water exposure or submersion post-meditation.

Other health benefits of meditation

Reduction in stress levels and improved skin quality are not the only benefits experienced by practitioners. Most people report increased energy, better quality sleep, improved personal awareness and mindfulness, improved response to stress, healthier circulation, and a stronger immune system.

While meditation can help your skin, remember that you must support your efforts to de-stress and improve your overall health to maintain the progress you see. Pay attention to the kind of food you are eating; make sure you drink plenty of water. By taking a complete approach to your health and incorporating meditation, your skin is sure to glow.

Photo source: 1

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer in the Los Angeles area. Her writing has covered everything from marketing, technology and health. She currently maintains a beauty blog. 



"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Do I Really Need It or I Just Want It Badly?

by Anwarul Amirah Bt Zulkifli

Whenever we pass the toys or candies aisle, we would probably see a kid throwing a tantrum because they want something from the shelf. May it be a new cool toy being constantly advertised on tv or just a colorful-eye-catching-wrapped candy.  Don’t deny it. We were once that kid once upon a time and hey- may still be like that deep in our conscience. How is that, you may ask? Well.. Just like our child-self, we have a blurry and vague concept of what we want and need.

We justify the things we purchase as something we dying-ly need. Like that new-in-fashion tops or shoes. We’ll say things like, “I REALLY need this” when in actual fact, we have tons of clothes in our closet. Or another scenario, suddenly feeling this relenting guilt after buying something. Does that sound familiar?

What we need to do first when we face this ‘wants vs needs’ situation is ask ourselves, ‘Is it something I need?’ or ‘Is it something I would like to have?’. When you have that answered, further ask yourself, ‘What is the purpose of it?’, ‘Is it really necessary?’ and ‘Can I afford it?’. For instance, you need your own transport to commute to work. You have a choice of a fuel sufficient car with a low monthly commitment and another smokin’ hot car which probably will hurt your wallet. What you need would be the first choice and what you want would be the latter. This goes for almost everything. 

Always jot down the pros and cons of each choice. Measure what is the best option, then, wallah!, there’s your answer! Although, I’m not saying that wanting to have what you want is a crime. But it won’t hurt to be more alert of what you purchase and for what reasons. Not only that, save a few bucks for those rainy days you may encounter some time down the road. I do advise you to reward yourself by getting something you want once a month or so for being such a good spender.

Image source: 1

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

The 4 Types of Fragrance

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com

When I bought my first fragrance, it was almost like a gambling – I simply picked a few with really nice bottle design, followed by a few times of sniffing, and that's it. The whole process only took about 15 minutes.

I completely had no idea what I actually bought back then. To me, fragrance means... fragrance. "It makes you smell nice, and they all smell almost the same!"

As I've become a little bit more knowledgeable right now (I'm at my fourth bottle,) I'd like to share with you a very important step in deciding on a fragrance, which is getting to know the types of fragrances.

There are mainly 4 types of fragrances, and they are categorized based on the level of concentration of fragrance oil.

Perfume Extract / Parfum

Perfume or Extract is fragrance with the highest level of concentration. A perfume generally contains 20% to 40% of fragrance oil. As it contains higher level of oil, it is the longest lasting and smells the strongest.

Pure fragrance oil is expensive and that explains why parfum is the most expensive among all fragrance types.

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

With concentration level between 10% to 30%, Eau de Parfum is second to Extract, both in terms of price and longevity. Eau de Parfum is denoted by the abbreviation EDP on the bottle.

Tom Ford Noir Men EDP

Eau de Toilette (EDT)

EDT has a concentration level between 5% to 20%, and it's longevity and intensity is naturally lower than that of an EDP.

Bang by Marc Jacobs EDT

Versace Men EDT. This is what I'm wearing.

Eau de Cologne (EDC)

Eau de Cologne is sometimes similar to EDT, but in general, it's concentration level is below EDT at 2% to 5%. EDC is the mildest of all and thus it doesn't last all day. However, EDC and EDT are more popular in men's fragrances.

Tommy Hilfiger Men EDC

Hugo Boss Baldessarini Men's EDC

The reason why there are many types of fragrance is because different fragrance serves different purpose. Typically, a person should wear lighter scent during daytime or when the weather is warm, and stronger scent in the evening or when the weather is cold.

Hope you'll find this post useful :)

Image source: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8



Regards,
Max Law
Menswear Fashion Blogger

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!



"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

How to Deal with "Fat" Wallet

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com

Do you have a "fat" wallet? Have you ever had trouble to sit comfortably while keeping your wallet in your back pocket?

A big, fat wallet might be a sign of prosperity, but when it's getting too big even for your pocket, it's a sign to call for some house-keeping. You may have already used to sitting with a lump on your butt cheek, but scientifically this lump can cause you back pain, namely the hip-pocket syndrome.

Personally I always avoid sitting with a fat wallet for the sake of my debit and credit cards. I actually cracked my ATM card once. :P #TrueStory

Here's a guide on how to reduce the size of your wallet:

Audit Your Wallet Regularly

Wallet vs iPhone

Wallet requires some spring cleaning once in a while. Technically, it's not difficult to check and clean your wallet, but making it a habit is a different story. Try to check your wallet once a week to remove unnecessary things and I think that's the "diet plan" your wallet needs.

File Your Receipts

I know, because I kept all my credit cards receipts in my wallet too :) If you still can find a receipt dated last few months, you probably need to start working on your personal filing system. Besides, some receipts fade really fast so it's it's best to file them before it's too late.

Remove Coins

Coins not only bloat your wallet, they also damage your wallet.

Only Keep Frequently Use Cards

Remove the less popular cards from your wallet. You don't always need all the cards, especially membership cards.

Remove Pictures

Well, you can always keep your photos in your smartphone.

Choose The Right Wallet

Always go for slimmer wallet design with less compartment or layers. Go for wallets that are minimal in design in order to reduce the bulk. For example, try to avoid zippers, 3-fold-design and thick leather or fabric.

Hope this post is helpful to you. :)

Regards,

Max Law

Menswear Fashion Blogger

Image 1, 2, 3, 4

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | NuffnangX | Twitter | Instagram

Men, Make-up & Concealer

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com

Photo source

Please don’t squirm after reading the title of this post. :)

Men cosmetics is becoming a commodity nowadays. If you’re not working in the showbiz or the fashion industry, the idea of men wearing make-up in daily life might still be very alien to you. For Malaysian men, it might be even more so.

“Should men wear make-up?”. Well, that’s a subjective question.


Why Men Make-up?

“Make-up” means applying substance onto one’s face in order to enhance or to alter one’s appearance. In a generation where physical look is important and physical attractiveness is highly valued, it’s natural that men are putting more and more effort into maintaining themselves.

From my experience of browsing resumes and searching for interview candidates, I can honestly tell you that everybody always prefers the “shinier” looking ones, albeit the rest of the candidates display the same qualification & skills. #TrueStory

In reality, not many men gets 8 hours of sleep everyday. Unless you’re genetically gifted, you can’t run away from under eye dark cycles, puffy eyes, acne and dull skin.

But, how does one still look great with all the crazy schedule and timeline? (Yes, now think of male celebrities). And it’s true that we really expect you to look fresh and all during the job interview. :)

Men’s cosmetics were invented to address this new need of men. Technically speaking, they “fix” the imperfection of reality.

Before and after. Photo source

Male celebrities or actors are supposed to look perfect on-screen. So for normal guys, the question remains: how far would you go?

How Far is Too Far?

The common cosmetics for men to enhance their look includes foundation, concealer, bronzer and eyebrow fillers.

As a working adult man who’s not a make-up artist, I think a concealer is generally considered acceptable. It is very useful, and it’s that little trick that you can do to appear more lively and awake within a few minutes.

Well if you think even applying concealer is threatening your manhood, let me tell you what somebody once taught me: real men don’t need other people to tell them they’re men. :P #Quote

The Concealer for Men

The ultimate goal of concealer is to conceal your zits, dark eye circles, redness and sometimes acne scars.

You’re not going to apply concealer all over the face, and you just need a concealer that can do the job, so any brand of concealer is sufficient. You can even ask your girlfriend to choose and buy for you.

Here’s a useful guide about choosing the right concealer and how to use it:

So, are you ready to get your concealer? Haha!

Hope this post is helpful. Good luck :)

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips! 
Max Law is also Nuffnang's Blogger of the month for September 2013!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | NuffnangX | Twitter | Instagram

How to Tell Real Leather from Fake Leather

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com

If you're not a fan of leather goods, most of the time you can't tell the difference between a real and a fake leather.

In general, fake leather (or synthetic, artificial, human-made leather) is made of plastic compound and its identity is naturally reflected in the price tag.

You may have already known this:

         

                    Genuine Leather is never cheap.

However, there are times when a premium priced leather good may appear dubious.

For example, a new or a relatively unknown label that claims to use genuine leather in their bags. A "Made in Italy" or a "Genuine Leather" tag inside the bag can't really guarantee their statement.

Before you seek for the advice of experts, here are a few quick tips you can try:

• Real Leather Doesn't Smell Like Plastic

Real leather is made of real animal skin. It should smell like a skin, and it never smell like a plastic, even when it's still a new bag.

• Real Leather Looks Like Skin

Scrutinize the leather and if you see uneven pattern on the leather, it's most likely a real leather. Real skin is not perfect.

Real skin has pores, and the texture varies on different spot of the fabric, just like your skin.

A fake leather will look "too perfect" in comparison. You should be able to notice almost identical pattern and texture across the surface.

Faux vs Genuine Leather. Which is which?

• Real Leather Feels Like Skin

Touch and feel the leather with your hands. The smoothness should be very pleasant, as if you're touching a skin.

Related to the previous point, the texture on the leather should feel natural, not "bumpy".

• Real Leather Wrinkles

Try to flex or pinch the leather. Real leather should wrinkle according to your pressure, while fake leather will stay the same. Fake leather is similar to Botox-injected faces: they won't wrinkle naturally when they smile.

Wrinkles appear when pressed = Genuine Leather

No wrinkle = Faux Leather

So now, let's do a test:

By looking at the texture, can you tell if this leather below is genuine or faux? Let me know your answer at the comment below and do tell me why.

[Click to enlarge]

Ending this post with an informative video on how genuine leathers are made. The tedious process explains why genuine leather is much more expensive than faux:

Hope you find this post helpful.

Source: Image 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

How Often Should You Wash Your Jeans?

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com

So be honest: When was the last time you washed your favorite jeans?

Some people wash it after each wear. Some people wash it every few weeks. And some people, wash it once or twice a year.

Here's a piece of advice: Only wash your jeans when it starts to smell.

"Isn't that not very hygienic?" You might ask.

Given the nature of denim fabric, most dirts will "drop off" your jeans by itself. Bacteria are not that likely to live on denim, but when it does, it will smell – that will be your signal. 

A research even proved a jeans worn for 15 months is no dirtier than a jeans worn for 13 days. So, you don't really have to wash it as frequent as your other clothes.

Washing gives character to your jeans, but over-washing makes your jeans fade and fray faster. Your jeans will end up looking too washed out and pale.

Here's a new jeans:

New Jeans. Before any wash.

And here's the jeans after 2 years:

That is how a 2-year-old jeans should look like after frequent wear and disciplined washing. If your jeans looks waaaay beaten up, you might have washed your jeans too frequently.

This is not good:

I used to wash my jeans after every wear (which is bad), but now I'll just stick to once after 3 to 4 wears, which will normally be every 2 months (I don't really wear jeans that often nowadays).

Hope my post is helpful to you. :)

Source: Image 1, 2, 3, 4

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

| room8five @ Facebook | NuffnangX | Twitter | 

Shopping Tips: Why You Should Spend More Sometimes

by Max Law from MaxMayo.com

Photo source: Très Bien Shop

A few years ago when I was still new to the working world, I did a major shopping spree to prepare myself for my first real job. One of the plan was to get a few decent dress shirts. As a freshman, my instinct naturally let price tag triumphed over quality and my preferences.

My mindset was very simple: If you pay lesser for each piece, you can buy a lot more!

So there was a Brand X dress shirt at RM80, and then a Brand Y at RM 130. Obviously, I took Brand X, thinking that I've made a wise decision even thought I wanted Y, and I actually could afford it.

So barely after 4 months, reality called and my Brand X shirt started to looked very washed out, fabric's pilling, and honestly I didn't feel comfortable in it cause it wasn't that breathable. Thinking that it was normal, I bought the same shirt from Brand X again, which later also lasted around 4 months.

Eventually I bought Brand Y. And guess what? It lasted a year, plus better comfort.

Come to think of it: I actually spent more with Brand X even though it was the cheaper option in the first place.

Does this sound familiar to you?

I've been through many times of the same situations but on different things, before I finally made up my mind to only spend on items that I fall head over heels. If I can't afford it now, I'll just wait until I can afford it later.

That saved me some money in the long run, and it also brings unexpected benefits:

You'll be Happier

Getting the thing you really like is different from settling for an alternative. You'd naturally be happier if you got what you desired. Knowing my favourite shirt fits well and look good, I'd also appear more confident and at ease.

Re-evaluate Your Need

When you decided to save money for your dreamed item, you actually give yourself some time to think about your decision again. "Should I buy it? Do I need it? Is there something else that I should spend on first?" It might help you save your money and make a wiser decision.

Create Less Waste

Sometimes when you settle for less, you might end up leaving the items unused. For example, the Brand X shirt mentioned. I might have just leave it in my closet after wearing it 2 times and buy new shirts from other brands that are more comfortable and similar to Brand Y. It will take up space in my closet and eventually I'll run out of idea where to store them when new shirts come in.

My experience tells me that I'm more likely to wear what I actually like more often.

This useful idea helped me to understand how the other fashion bloggers can afford more clothes (not all fashion bloggers have silver-spoon). It also can apply to almost anything from purchasing car to buying a new house. It's all about buying the right things.

It's shopping season now and I hope this will help you.

All the best!

Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/room8five.page

Twitter: @room8five