Staying in shape this winter

It's only just nearing the end of October, and winter's certainly on the way. But just because it's winter doesn't mean that the exercise routine has to go on hold. Despite the typical winter stereotype of warm fires, roasting chestnuts and plates heaped high with food, there's never been a better time to get in shape and show off. Whether you're an outdoors-y type who prefers wrapping up to go cycling and jogging, or maybe you prefer a nice warm gym to work out in - winter is a perfect time to get that body you want. We've got some great new accessories built for the active approach while still keeping you warm in all climates, and have searched all over to the must-haves to keep fit and trim this winter.

Wigwam 'Gun Metal' Grey Excel Socks, £18 at Pure Luxuries

Soft Touch Pure Cotton Drawstring Fleece Joggers, £25 at M&S

Antler Large 'Zee' Black And Red Multi-Purpose Holdall, £48.50 at Pure Luxuries

Ultra Fit® Crew Neck Stretch Sports Vest, £19.50 at M&S

It's just a small selection I've listed above - there's loads more on both sites ideal for the active man this winter. And don't go thinking you've got to cut out all those Christmas specials - with a regular exercise plan, you'll still be able to fit in some of those indulgent foods without feeling bad abut it afterwards. You've got to enjoy your exercise - once it becomes a chore, it's all to easy to make excuses to put it off - so why not enjoy your exercise routine in style (and comfort) this winter!

-Ben

Weekend plans and the latest in Swedish innovation

So, it's the end of another week, with the promise of the weekend ahead. Here at Pure Luxuries, we've got everything on our schedule from films and takeaways to concerts and gigs between us.

It's been a good week - we've just finished a marathon upload for Sandqvist, the latest brand out of Sweden. Their practical designs are a refreshing change, built from quality leather for the active modern lifestyle - the sort of design you won't mind taking with you to a gig or on an evening out. We're particularly impressed by the Tablet PC case, especially the Apple crowd in the office.

Sandqvist Blue Canvas 'Pascal' Tablet PC Case, £36 at Pure Luxuries

Sandqvist Brown Leather 'Veiron' Card Wallet, £50 at Pure Luxuries

Sandqvist Navy Blue Canvas 'Jack' Messenger Bag, £138 at Pure Luxuries

Let us know what you think, and what you've got planned for the weekend ahead.

See you all Monday,

-Ben

American designer Wigwam tackles the modern adventure

It's getting colder outside, but we're all impressed here with the latest brand we're stocking, Wigwam. Their socks are designed for the active lifestyle, made to encourage you to push yourself to the limit. Ranging from light sports socks to thicker woolen designs, American designer Wigwam's socks offer a design for all events and lifestyles. We're particularly impressed by the olive merino wool 'comfort hiker' socks for trekking in the Lake District, and the black terrain trax pro socks - so who's for the gym after work?

Charcoal Black Terrain Trax Po Socks, £22 at Pure Luxuries

Olive Merino Wool 'Comfort Hiker' Socks, £22 at Pure Luxuries

-Ben

Why men's fashion is favouring knitwear this autumn

The summer's almost over, the autumn's rolling in - and once again it's that inevitable time to rethink the wardrobe. Making a comeback this year in the fashion eye for men is knitwear. If the mere mention of the word 'knitwear' brings back uncomfortable memories of home-made Christmas sweaters or luridly bright golf outfits, think again. Knitwear today is increasingly popular with designers and stores, creating a smart and stylish impact that's just the thing for the transition between summer and autumn. Of course, wearing it properly can be tricky - but with the right combination, knitwear is a must this autumn.

With the weather being so unpredictable, it's never too early to start thinking about accessories for those colder months, and a superb selection of wool and cashmere scarves from established designer Johnstons offer a design for all lifestyles.

Johnstons Mid Grey Cashmere Scarf, £82 at Pure Luxuries

John Lewis have a superb collection of cardigans and pullovers, ranging from designer names to their own brand and all tailored for a handsome and contemporary feel. Here at Pure Luxuries we particularly like the Gant cable shawl cardigan in brown:

Gant Cable Shawl Cardigan, Brown, £120 from John Lewis

Or, if you're looking for something to complete that smart look for the office or a night out, then Pantone's latest collaboration with Sonia Spencer is a must. Combining Pantone's iconic colours with a smart chic silk knitwear design, these modern collab ties are sure to impress. Why not twin one with a plain collared shirt, cardigan and jeans for a handsome look.

Pantone & Sonia Spencer Marina Blue Knitted Silk Tie, £55 at Pure Luxuries

From Fair Isle knits to plain designs, knitwear is back and looking set to stay this winter. We're looking forward to our new knitted scarves here at Pure Luxuries, keep an eye open for more designers and brands being uploaded in the coming weeks.

-Ben

Looking back at our favourites from London Fashion Week

After a roller-coaster of new styles and looks from today's top designers, London Fashion Week is over. We've seen a great range of designs and accessories - in particular, we loved the emphasis on the classic paisley look being twinned with suit jackets and clutch bags. Check out some of the new designs from Topman for a classic and stylish look that is sure to impress.

We've just received some handsome silk paisley scarves and pocket squares from Simon Carter and Peckham Rye, an excellent addition to any discerning man's wardrobe and sure to impress all year round:

 Blue Paisley Silk Scarf from Peckham Rye, £75.00 at Pure Luxuries

Blue Silk Paisley Pocket Square from Simon Carter, £20.00 at Pure Luxuries

Let me know what you enjoyed most about LFW, and what you expect to see in the coming months!

-Ben

Music the way it's meant to be

I've always loved music. Wherever I go, my battered but reliable MP3 player is one of the few things I always take. From listening to my MP3's on the bus on the way to work, to listening to the radio at work, and pumping it out through the speakers at home, music's an integral part of my day. And let's be honest, there's no way to listen except in the highest sound quality possible.

WeSC's new designs combine style with a superb sound quality. Their headphones are proudly used by celebs including Axwell from Swedish House Mafia and Kaskade, who was recently voted 'America's Best DJ 2011', so you're in good company.

Whether you're a fan of the contemporary look such as this collaborative design with the Berrics, or prefer more classic designs such as the retro 'Maraca' style, WeSC's range has you covered. High quality music pumping through a stylish set of headphones designed to insulate the sound from the outer world - perfect. They've also got a handsome range of clothing you can see in their own online store.

-Ben