MEN'S BRACELET TREND TIPS

Popular women’s jewelry brand Kendra Scott has launched Scott Bros., a collection of men’s bracelets. Photo kendrascott.com

In general, I’m not a fan of jewelry for men. Exceptions are a great watch either worn solo or, for the married fellas, with a simply classic wedding ring.

But modern men of all ages are beginning to layer on more pieces, especially bracelets.

Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian - wearing two bracelets on his right wrist and a classic watch on his left wrist - is an example of how men of all ages can elegantly adapt the men’s bracelet trend. Photo: foodnetwork.com.

One of the most successful at this trend is Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian who’s applauded for his sartorial style as much as his expertise as a chef. He’s often photographed wearing multiple bracelets on his right wrist, or on his left wrist paired with one of his stunning timepieces. (In interviews he has mentioned his appreciation of Lange & Söhne watches, which are assembled by hand in Germany and can start at $32,000.)

He immediately came to my mind when I saw that popular women’s jewelry brand Kendra Scott has just launched Scott Bros., a collection of bracelets for men.

The collection offers several styles including the Beck Chain Bracelet in Oxidized Sterling Silver ($198); the Evans 18K Yellow God Vermeil Corded Bracelet in Black Leather ($118) and bracelets made of gemstone beads - agate, jasper, lapis, and tiger’s eye ($78).

For advice on how to wear bracelets with style, I turned to the website and YouTube channel of one of my favorite men’s fashion experts, Brock McGoff of The Modest Man. Here are some of the tips he offers in his videos and articles:

• It’s fine to wear multiple bracelets, but he recommends limiting it to three.

• Chain and leather bracelets can be more formal, although he says to proceed with caution when wearing them to work or in a situation that requires a suit and tie.

• Beaded bracelets look best with casual outfits.

• If you wear a bracelet with a watch, the bracelet should be worn lower than the watch because it’s more loose fitting. Also, be mindful of the bracelet’s material. A leather bracelet won’t scratch a watch, but a beaded or chain bracelet may.

• Beaded bracelets look best in neutral colors (he’s not a fan of multi-colored beads) and the beads should be small, not oversized.

MENTAL HEALTH TIPS FROM MEN

When men focus on their physical and mental health needs it also has a positive impact on their families. It takes strength to tend to your health, so inspiration from others is always helpful.

That’s why some of the male staff at HopeWay, Charlotte’s nonprofit mental health center, shared their healthy habits in a recent edition of HopeWay Matters monthly newsletter.

Here are some ideas for how to invest in your own well-being.

Alan Bozman

“I recently passed the test to become a certified bee keeper, so right now I am spending a chunk of my free time feeding and observing my collection of hives. I also like to hike to waterfalls. The most recent site I visited with my son was Ruby Falls, a 100 foot waterfall in a cave in Tennessee.”
Alan Bozman, PhD, Director of Clinical Services

Andrew Harris

“Self care is extremely important and can often be put on the back burner with all of the responsibilities that life brings. For me, I like to exercise, watch and play sports, play with my son and daughter, and watch true crime shows on TV. I also read every night before bed to help switch my brain off from the stressors of real life.”
Andrew Harris, MS, LPC, Primary Therapist

Michael Hernandez

“Making people happy brings me balance. I want people to be part of a community - to share their experiences and stories of what it means to them to be happy. That's how Capture Happy, my photography business, came about. It allows me do something different and be part of a creative conversation.” Michael Hernandez, Digital Media Contractor

Ross Hicks

“My wife and I are always taking care of the house and maintaining our yard. But, we love to relax in our "man cave"! Some of our favorite games we play include pool or darts.”
Ross Hicks, Facilities Maintenance Manager

Milton Jones

“One thing that really brings me joy is exercise. I work out every morning before work. It gives me stability and keeps me grounded. When exercising, I like to feel good about what I'm wearing. So one other thing I really enjoy is my collection of sneakers. Nike Air Max is a particular favorite of mine.
Milton Jones, MBA, Wellness Clinic Specialist

Dan Oliver

“You can often catch me reading a book or magazine, playing guitar, or taking my dog for a long walk. Regular exercise is crucial for me to feel organized and productive, so I try to run, practice yoga, or lift weights most days. On weekends I'm almost certain to be acting as the "funcle" (fun uncle) for my young nieces and nephews.”
Dan Oliver, MA, LPC, Admissions Specialist

SOCIAL: FATHERS OF THE YEAR

This year’s honorees were Randy Gartz, Managing Director of Technology, Recruiting & Consulting at Fairview Search Group; Steve Boland, Managing Director, Head of Consumer Lending at Bank of America; Dwight Gibson, President, Flow Food & Beverage & Industrial at SPX Flow; and Michael Smith, President and CEO of Charlotte Center City Partners.

The 2019 Fathers of the Year surrounded by their families.

Father of the Year Steve Boland, Managing Director, Head of Consumer Lending at Bank of America.

Father of the Year Steve Boland and his wife, Katrice.

Father of the Year Steve Boland with his wife and children.

Father of the Year Randy Gartz, Managing Director of Technology, Recruiting & Consulting at Fairview Search Group.

Father of the Year Randy Gartz surrounded by his family.

Father of the Year Dwight Gibson, President, Flow Food & Beverage & Industrial at SPX Flow.

Dwight Gibson and his wife, Erika.

Father of the Year Dwight Gibson surrounded by his family.

Father of the Year Michael Smith, President and CEO of Charlotte Center City Partners.

Father of the Year Michael Smith and his wife, Kathleen.

Father of the Year Michael Smith with his wife and children.

Christina Bickley with the American Diabetes Association in Charlotte surrounded by the Fathers of the Year.

Master of Ceremonies was WCCB New Rising host Derek James.

The auctioneer was Col. Benjamin Farrell.

Olivia Fortson, Dianne Roth and Pat Higgins.

Father of the Year Michael Smith and his family.

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

The Father of the Year Gala presented by the Father’s Day Council to benefit the American Diabetes Association is one of the most special fundraisers of the year because it honors successful businessmen who are also outstanding fathers, and also shines a spotlight on the most important women in their lives who make it all happen: their wives.

This year’s honorees were Steve Boland, Managing Director, Head of Consumer Lending at Bank of America; Randy Gartz, Managing Director of Technology, Recruiting & Consulting at Fairview Search Group; Dwight Gibson, President, Flow Food & Beverage & Industrial at SPX Flow; and Michael Smith, President and CEO of Charlotte Center City Partners.

Master of Ceremonies was WCCB New Rising host Derek James, a dad himself who also writes a monthly parenting column for Charlotte Parent magazine. Auctioneer was Col. Benjamin Farrell.

The 2019 honorees join an impressive list of past Fathers of the Year including Kieth Cockrell, Vinay Patel, Chad Utermark, Carl Armato, Richard “Stick” Williams, Jesse Cureton, Dee O’Dell, Rob Engel, Carlos Evans, Michael Marsicano, Brett Carter, H.A. (Humpy) Wheeler, Scott Clark, Stoney Sellars, Mike Minter, John Tate, Felix Sabates, Al de Molina, Alvaro Gurdian, Sam Mills and Richard Vinroot.

A HIT PRODUCT FOR MEN

Olay Regenerist is already a hit with women, but now men are increasingly becoming fans of this product that in lab results has proven to turn back the clock on skin after 28 days.

It’s engineered with supercharged formulas packed with amino-peptides for transformative results and younger-looking skin. Plus it plumps with hydration, firms to improve elasticity and helps correct the look of wrinkles - something we all want no matter our gender.

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. $27. olay.com.

BUZZ: MICHAEL MINA'S ONE-OF-A-KIND-GRILL

The one-of-a-kind grill by Chef Michael Mina is available only at Williams Sonoma. $999.95.

James Beard award-winning chef, restaurant owner and cookbook author Michael Mina’s new one-of-a-kind grill created exclusively for Williams Sonoma was born out of his passion for cooking and tailgating.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard picnic or tailgating at your favorite sporting event, this grill will have you cooking with style on the go. It disassembles into two pieces for easy portability; functions as a roaster, coal oven and smoking box; includes a warming oven and baking compartment; and has a generous cast iron cooking surface.

He also created a line of burger seasonings and sauces just for Williams Sonoma: Classic Burger Seasoning, French Onion Burger Seasoning, Chili Cheese Burger Seasoning, Buffalo Burger Seasoning, Porcini Truffle Burger Seasoning, Secret Sauce, Caramelized Onions, San Marzano Tomato Spread and Summer Fruit Relish.

Chef Michael Mina is also head of Mina Group, which manages more than 30 restaurant concepts around the globe including Bourbon Pub in Santa Clara, California.

The San Francisco-based chef (at his tailgates he’s rooting for the 49ers), has these tips for the perfect burger, which he shared on the Williams Sonoma blog.

How to make the perfect patty: “A 75-25 meat-to-fat ratio is ideal; I like to make a blend of brisket, chuck and short rib. If you can, buy dry-aged meat; dry aging gives burgers a distinct flavor. One pet peeve of mine is when burger meat gets worked too much. Burgers need to be packed—a large ring mold is best to help form their shape—but they should not be mixed.”

How to tell when it’s done: “A meat thermometer is always the safest and smartest way to cook patties perfectly.”

The best bun: “The bun is essential; it must be able to hold up to the juiciness of the burger. In my opinion, hamburger buns must always be brushed with butter, then toasted. Sesame seeds on top are always great as well.”

BUZZ: MAN UP CHARLOTTE CONFERENCE

Featured speakers at the ManUp conference on June 2 are Carolina Panther Thomas Davis; Miles McPherson of The Rock Church; Panthers Broadcaster Eugene Robinson; Urban Impact's Ed Glover; and Bryce Johnson of UNPACKIN' It Ministries. 

Join Urban Impact, in partnership with Forest Hill Church, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, and The Park Church for an encouraging day of worship, prayer, dynamic breakout sessions and powerful messages during the first ManUp Charlotte: Maximize Your Impact conference on June 2 at Forest Hill Church.

Recommended for ages 15 and up, it's inspired by a widely known report that ranked Charlotte dead last in upward economic mobility out of the 50 largest U.S. cities. The study showed that family structure is one of the highest predictors of economic mobility - and 35% of Charlotte households with children are single parent households.  

The conference's organizers believe the best way to make a positive change in the upward mobility crisis is by engaging fatherlessness through showing men the great need for them to lead, love and serve their families.

Featured speakers are Carolina Panther Thomas Davis; Miles McPherson of The Rock Church; Panthers Broadcaster Eugene Robinson; Urban Impact's Ed Glover; and Bryce Johnson of UNPACKIN' It Ministries. 

The conference is June 2 at Forest Hill Church, SouthPark campus, 7224 Park Road. Check-in and a complimentary breakfast is at 7:30 a.m.; the conference begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 3:30 pm. The cost is $49 (includes breakfast and lunch). To register, click here.

GROOMING: TOP BOBBI BROWN PRODUCTS FOR MEN

Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Tonic is one of the brand's most popular products for men. 

In 1991 when makeup artist Bobbi Brown launched her namesake cosmetics company, she probably had no idea that one day men would also be fans of the brand's skincare line.

Justin Pittman, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics' Account Coordinator for the Carolinas, explains this growing trend among men: 

Justin Pittman, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics' Account Coordinator for the Carolinas

"Everyone, whether they're a man or a woman, needs to make sure they're taking care of their skin properly," Justin says. "Men really like the quality of the products and the packaging. Everything has very clean lines and most of it is in clear containers with a black cap - it doesn't look very feminine."

That doesn't mean men are flocking to Bobbi Brown cosmetic counters in department stores -  they're still shy about buying the products in person. "I hear many of our female customers say their husbands won't come (to the Bobbi Brown cosmetics counter), but they'll take their wives' Bobbi Brown eye cream and moisturizer and then get upset when it starts to run out." 

Justin says his main advice to men is to hydrate. "If all you're doing now is washing your face and shaving, just adding a moisturizer makes a huge difference."

Here's Justin's list of the top eight Bobbi Brown products men use the most, and why they're popular.

1. Lathering Tube Soap ($34). "Men want a squeaky clean feeling after they wash their face."

2. Hydrating Face Tonic ($34). "It's alcohol-free so there's no burning or stinging and it helps remove any oil or residue left on the skin after cleansing."

3. Extra Repair Serum ($114). "It's so important for men to use a serum also because it's made to penetrate the skin much deeper than a moisturizer." 

4. Extra Repair Moisturizing Balm SPF 25 ($98). "Guys don't want anything that feels sticky or heavy. They should be using at least an SPF 15, but higher is better, especially if they're outside a lot. This is great for men with dry skin who want sun protection. If you have sunroof, don't forget to apply this to exposed parts of your head."

5. Extra Eye Repair Cream ($74). "Everyone needs an eye cream. This is a moisturizer and a treatment product that melts into the skin, feels great, brightens and helps with fine lines. Just rub it between your fingers to warm it up and pat it around the eye area." 

6. Buffing Grains For Face ($46). "Everyone, even men who shave, should exfoliate their face once or twice a week. Add the grains to the cleanser and it turns it into an exfoliator that makes the shave smoother, and it helps with eliminating ingrown hairs and razor burn."

7. Lip Balm SPF 15 ($23). "Instead of having to apply a cheaper drugstore lip balm constantly, this one doesn't feel heavy and and it works all day. It also comes in a stick formula if you prefer to apply it directly to your lips."

8. Hydrating Face Cream ($60). "Guys don't want anything that feels sticky or heavy. This is a lightweight cream with vitamin enriched water to help hydrate and condition the skin." 

FASHION: EXPERT ADVICE FROM JON SIMON

Men's fashion expert Jon Simon of Paul Simon Co. 

Second-generation clothier Jon Simon of Paul Simon Co. at the Village at South Park is a men's fashion expert. He has a hand in shaping the style of some of Charlotte's best-dressed men of all ages, but here he shares his advice for men 50 and up in a Q&A with The O Report.

What are some of the fashion problems men in their 50, 60, 70s and up are facing? And what are the clothing solutions you recommend?

"The business environment has become much more casual, and senior leaders are having a hard time visually distinguishing themselves. Knit shirts and khakis look good on a younger toned guy, but do not always flatter an older physique. Men this age don’t have the same body they had when they were in their 20s and now they have to turn to clothes to continue to look young and vibrant. The pace of men’s fashion is now moving more quickly than it used to and men in a leadership position need to keep in step. My suggestion is to make your clothes a priority each year. Keep up with what your needs are. Ask your significant other if they will share some of the yearly clothing budget. Find a professional to help you that you trust and are comfortable with."

What are some of the new trends that can help men in that age group update their look?

"I still believe that a sport coat is a difference maker. The shoulders and silhouette of a jacket show superiority, confidence, and give a sense of personal presence. Fabrics with stretch that started in women’s wear have invaded better men’s fashion. It has been helpful having fabrics with stretch coincide with the trimmer fits of today. This has allowed men 50 and up to adopt some trendier looks while retaining a comfortable feel."

What are the key quality wardrobe pieces that men should have by that age?

"A tuxedo for special occasions, life cycle events and galas. Two suits that are current in fit and design. A navy blazer without brass buttons. A nice piece of outerwear for wearing with nice clothes to work or going out in the evening that is in addition to their technical North Face type outerwear. Some ties that are a current width. Two good pairs of jeans, one for hanging out with the kids or grandkids on the weekend and one that is dressier for going out in the evening. And at least one sport coat that is seasonal in fabric and color."

What are your thoughts about untucked shirts?

"Untucked is comfortable, but is not flattering on all body types. There is a time and place for the look. Not all shirts are designed to be worn untucked. A professional can help you determine if the untucked look is right for you or not."

Who are the best-dressed male celebrities, from both the present and the past, that older men can look up to as style role models?

"Michael Douglas, George Clooney, Robert Redford, Tom Brady, Van Jones, Jeremy Piven and Ed Bradley."

How can men dress casually without being sloppy?

"You must have clothes that you feel comfortable and confident in. Get rid of the baggy look. Everything has a more tailored fit today. Make sure you have the right accessories. For example, wearing an old belt with a new outfit will ruin the entire look."

Trask Chukka Boots come in a variety of colors and materials including leather and suede. 

What are some of your favorite new pieces for Fall/Winter that would be a great addition to the 50 and up man's wardrobe?

A quilted vest from the Italian brand Waterville. 

"Trask Chuka Boots. An updated cardigan knit. An unconstructed soft coat. Five-pocket non-denim pants from Brax. New denim washes from 34 Heritage. A quilted vest from Waterville or Corneliani."

Five-pocket non-denim pants from Brax. 

BUZZ: HOT BOOK

Chip Gaines is known to millions of fans as one-half of the power couple with power tools behind HGTV's hit show Fixer Upper. In his hot-off-the-press new book, Capital Gaines: Smart Things I Learned Doing Stupid Stuff, the affabable Texan (by way of New Mexico) discusses not only the ups and downs of being a serial entrepreneur, but lessons he learned from his father. "He (showed) me how to be a man and how to be a father," says Gaines in an excerpt from the book published in Parade magazine. "He taught me the importance and value in investing in one's family above all else." 

PARTIES: FATHERS OF THE YEAR

The American Diabetes Association's 2017 Fathers of the Year: Kieth Cockrell of Bank of America, Chad Utermark of Nucor and Vinay Patel of SREE Hotels. ALL PHOTOS BY DANIEL COSTON

Since 2001, the annual Father of the Year Awards gala has been a bright spot on Charlotte's social calendar. Presented by the Father's Day Council, the fundraiser for the American Diabetes Association honors top businessmen who are also outstanding fathers. Honorees over the past 16 years include Brett Carter, Jesse Cureton, Al de Molina, Rob Engel, Carlos Evans, Alvaro Gurdian, Michael Marsicano, Felix Sabates and Richard Vinroot.

Dashing dads: The honorees make their entrance in style. 

This year's honorees were Kieth Cockrell of Bank of America; Vinay Patel of SREE Hotels; and Chad Utermark of Nucor. They were celebrated during a reception, dinner and awards ceremony at the Westin attended by their families, friends, business associates and supporters of the American Diabetes Association. The Master of Ceremonies for the black tie optional evening was WBTV anchor Jamie Boll.

Kieth Cockrell with one of the most important women in his life, his beloved former teacher and mentor Juanita Cooke. 

Vinay Patel surrounded by his family. 

Chad Utermark accepts his award. 

Dianne Roth, Jamie Boll and Pat Higgins. 

The event was also a toast to Dianne Roth, director of development for the American Diabetes Association Central Carolinas, who retired a few weeks after the fundraiser following 21 years with the nonprofit. She spearheaded the successful event over the years and in the process won the admiration and friendship of many Charlotte's most prominent businessmen and their families.

Dianne Roth with her honorary Father of the Year Award. 

She was surprised by a wonderful tribute given by our Father’s Day Council and the past honorees. Co-chair Pat Phillips presented her with an honorary Father of the Year Award and made the announcement that $25,000 for the American Diabetes Association was raised in honor.

"Being a part of this prestigious group is the greatest professional honor I could have ever imagined, and I am truly touched," said Dianne. "It’s been a privilege to have worked for such an important organization these past 21 years, and most of all to have had the opportunity to get to know so many wonderful business leaders, fathers, and their families in the process. Many have become good friends. I am so blessed to have been in a position to meet wonderful, caring people while at the same time working to support the American Diabetes Association." 

Leslie and Bruce Schlernitzauer.

Future Fathers of the Year? 

STYLE: HAVE A SEAT

Update your office with a masculine vibe from one of these stylish chairs.

Flynn mid-century chair in blue from the Better Homes & Gardens Collection, $169, Walmart. 

Woodland Imports leather and metal papasan chair in dark brown, $338, Wayfair.

1970s French leather and iron director's chair, $350, Restoration Hardware.

Banded stripe Losange chair handmade in the USA, $998, Anthropologie. 

HEALTH: EAT LIKE TOM BRADY

Tom Brady's new TB12 Performance Meals through the dinner delivery service Purple Carrot include offerings such as Japanese Lamb Fritters with Millet Tabbouleh and Lemon Yogurt

New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady has won multiple Super Bowls. Now he's hoping to compete with meal kit subscription plans including Blue Apron and Hello Fresh with his own brand of dinners through the delivery service Purple Carrot. 

His TB12 Performance Meals are advertised as being able to help athletes and active adults achieve and reach their peak performance. The healthy and organic plant-based dinners are inspired by Brady's notoriously fanatic diet.

The dinners claim to be high in protein, 100 percent plant-based, gluten-free, with limited refined sugars and soy, and free of highly processed ingredients. The average prep and cook time on each dinner is 35 minutes. Each week's offerings are posted online. This week, it's Green Curry with Kaffir Lime and Steamed Vegetables; Japanese Lamb Fritters with Millet Tabbouleh and Lemon Yogurt; and Cauliflower Steaks with Braised Cabbage and Dijon Sauce.  

Yum or yuck? You decide. One thing is clear: Landing a supermodel wife (Brady is married to Brazilian bombshell Gisele) is not guaranteed. Each meal is two servings and comes with step-by-step instructions. To have three of the meals delivered to your door costs $78 per week (which averages out to $13 per serving). 

GROOMING: MANCRAFTED IN CHARLOTTE

Buckskin & Mane's grooming products for men, including the popular Camo Beard Oil, are handcrafted in Charlotte using all-natural ingredients. 

Buckskin & Mane, a line of high-quality, all-natural body and hair care products for men, was founded by three military veterans: Robert Mason, Luke "Buck" Yerrick and Lukas Biebinger. They are so passionate about supporting veterans that it's built into their business model: a portion of sales are donated to the nonprofit Charlotte Bridge Home, which helps Charlotte-area veterans transition home after military service.

“We understand the sacrifices that are made in the military - the time away from family and the impact it has on your body both physically and mentally," says Mason. "We have a tremendous amount of respect and appreciation for those who have served.”

Mason says making premium products that customers love combined with the discipline and teamwork he and his business partners learned in the military have made their business successful. "We wake up early every day and hold each other accountable to complete our tasks and goals," he says.

Buckskin & Mane products are “mancrafted" in Charlotte from naturally derived, organic raw ingredients. Find them at the Sporting Gent (2848 Selwyn Avenue, 704-896-5600); Jeffre Scott Apothecary (607 Providence Road, 704-339-0010); CLT Find inside 7th Street Public Market (224 E. Seventh Street, 704-230-4346); and Coco and the Director inside the lobby of the Marriott City Center uptown, 100 W. Trade Street, 704-353-6003. Or order products online at www.buckskinmane.com. 

Among the line’s most popular products are the Sunflower Seed Hydrating Shave Cream ($19); Aspen Bark Oil-Free Moisturizer ($19); 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash with Fresh Hemp and Omega-3 ($17); and the Camo Beard Oil ($19).  

Sunflower Seed Hydrating Shave Cream ($19)

Aspen Bark Oil-Free Moisturizer ($19)

3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash with Fresh Hemp and Omega-3 ($17)

Camo Beard Oil ($19).