Father's Day Gift Ideas: Grooming Loot Your Dad Would Actually Use

Still need to go Father's Day shopping?  So do I!  However, my dad already knows what he's getting.  Each year I take him to a Yankee game to spend some quality time.  Plus, if I gave him anything on this list, he would just think he was my guinea pig!  Here are my top men's grooming picks that would make great Father's Day gifts. Kiehl's Facial Fuel Sky Flyin’ Foaming Multi-Gel, $19

I swear every man I talk to is obsessed with Kiehl's shaving cream.  They say it's like no other. Well this Father's Day give your day the ultimate two-in-one, the brand's new gel based shaving cream that also acts as a cleanser.  

Birch Box Man, $20

Yes, there's a Birch Box for Men!  Gift your dad with a yearly subscription to Birch Box and he'll receive trial sized grooming and lifestyle products to test and enjoy monthly.

Babyliss Pro Volare X1 by Ferrari, $199

No matter how much he may deserve one, you obviously can't buy your dad a Ferrari for Father's Day, but you can gift him with these cool clippers from Babyliss Pro.  They have a Ferrari inspired motor!    It's three speeds, cordless and comes with six comb attachments and 5 taper setting controls.

Molton Brown Activate His Grooming, $58

The black pepper line of men's grooming loot by Molton Brown is the only scent your dad should be wearing.  It's fresh, yet spicy.  This kit includes masculine products like a hair and body sports wash and a deodorizing body spray.  Great for his gym bag.

How to Talk To Your Man About Skincare, Plus The Best Exfoliators for Him

Every once in a while you need to have "the talk" with your man.  Well, "the talk" I have with Joe is always about skin care!  Time after time, as men's skin care brands send new products for him to try, we have "the talk" about why he should be using necessities like eye cream and exfoliator.  This week, after two years, I conquered the exfoliator quest!  Ladies, it's not "exfoliator" it's "grit."  You know, the gritty stuff that gets rid of the gunk in your pores.  Whatever works!  Here are my top grit picks for your man (Joe approved). Zirh Scrub

A gentle, gel-like formula infused with aloe and concentrated with the most microscopic exfoliating beads to help unclog pores and control oil.  It smells a bit masculine, but ultimately fresh.

Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash

This is great for guys (and girls) with acne prone skin and can be used on the face and body.  With 2% salicylic acid, it helps to unclog pores and prevent acne.  The exfoliating beads are tiny and gentle so they don't irritate sensitive or broken out skin.

A Typical Tuesday Night: Testing Lacoste Colognes, There's One For Every Type of Guy

Earlier this week amongst all of the beauty loot I received to test out, there was a heavy bag full of Lacoste colognes including their latest for Spring, Eau De Lacoste L.12.12. Rouge for Joe and I to become familiar with.  Like a wine tasting, I set up a fragrance sampling on my ottoman and we made a night of testing, discussing cologne and laughing as he's such a trooper.  Obvi I need the man's point of view! Imagine me asking Joe a million and one questions on each of the four fragrances and about cologne in general.  He's so patient, supportive and knowledgeable.  "Why do you like it? What does it remind you of? What does fresh mean?"  You get the hint.  So here are the results, from my point of view and his on the Lacoste collection, inspired by the Polo Shirt, including their newest scent in case you want to gift one to your man.

Eau De Lacoste L.12.12. Rouge

One word: Mysterious

This is the newest addition to the collection and the last one we tested out.  Both of our immediate reaction was, "Wow!"  It wasn't anything like the rest.  It was the special cologne.  "This stands out and is exactly what a guy looks for in a cologne," Joe explained.  "There's something undefinable and unique about it, which is what we look for when we buy cologne."  I agree and was intrigued by the scent, and looked up the notes right away.  Mandarin, ginger, caramom and black pepper are layered over rooibos, organic lavendar and mango grounded by acacia and agar wood.

Eau De Lacoste L.12.12. Blanc

One word: Sweet

"It reminds me of colognes I wore in high school," Joe commented (he's 31).  Top notes include grapefruit, cardamom, rosemary and cedar leaf layered by tuberose, olibanum resinoid and ylang-ylang and grounded with vetiver, suede, cedarwood and georgywood.

Eau De Lacoste L.12.12. Vert

One word: Fresh

This was Joe's favorite of the quad, my second favorite.  "It's outdoorsy, which to me is manly."  Notes include Italian bergamot, verbena, grapefruit, melon, layered by lavender, thyme, fig, birch leaf, iris and grounded with bamboo wood, amber, sandal wood, teak and white cedar.

Eau De Lacoste L.12.12. Bleu

One word: Sexy

A bit spicy, this one left an impression.  Compared to the rest in the main collection was the most intriguing.  Notes include pink grapefruit, fruits, clary sage, orangeflower, sued and cedarwood.

You can find information on all of the fragrances and purchase them on Lacoste.com.

If Your Boyfriend's Turning Into A Silver Fox, Take Note

It's clear that men naturally age better than women, but what do you all think of guys with grey hair?  I think post college it's completely acceptable and super sexy to see a man with a few greys, but before that it's kind of awkward and I knew a guy who was 100% grey all through college.  Yes, ladies, it can happen very early.  Until now, I've never thought about how the men react to turning grey.  Turns out, they're just like us with less options. If your BF is turning into a silver fox, take note as he may not be as comfortable with it as you'd think. Check out this article in GQ where an editor tried to dye his greys only to find it gave him 'off medical-marijuana-grade levels of extreme paranoia' constantly wondering if people thought it looked fake. If I had a grey I would never know it since I've been dying my hair since I was 16.  Joe has a few, (which I think are sexy), but is still blessed with a full head of black hair.

There's a product called Touch of Grey, which is a hair dye for men that let's some grey come through so it looks natural that I made my dad try once (yes, he acted as a guinea pig).  He liked the results as it did what it promised and didn't take much time so he used it for special occasions. In the end, he's just not that high maintenance and since he's in his 50's having a full head of grey hair doesn't bother him.

George Clooney, who's perhaps one of the sexiest men alive with grey hair once was quoted in the Daily Mirror saying, "I'm old. I’m comfortable with getting older because it’s better than the other option, which is being dead." He's had greys since he was 33, so I imagine he became more comfortable with it as he got older.  Then again, what would Mr. Clooney ever have to be insecure about?

Yes, being older with grey hair is one thing, but if your guys is starting to turn grey just know he may not be as comfortable with it as you'd think.  Would you be?

Mark Sanchez and I Discuss Grooming, Girls and Guilty Pleasures Over Dinner

Last night, my men's grooming guru (and hot bf), Joe, and I attended a private dinner with Mark Sanchez at Nobu 57 to celebrate the launch of Degree Men Adrenaline Series with Motion Sense Technology.  It was a super intimate setting, Mark brought his brother (who's also his agent) and the food was never ending!  Literally, we had about eight courses.  I had special vegetarian meals and when beef came around Mark would hide it from me!  The hottie Jets Quarter Back and I had some one on-one-time after our meal and I got the scoop on his playlist, dating style and why he cut off those beautiful curls. What's on your workout playlist?

I definitely have some '80's on there, but it depends on who I'm working out with.  If I'm with guys on the team it's Kanye, Jay Z, Lil' Wayne and stuff like that, but if it's me by myself I have the whole '80's gamut.  I just listen to Pandora.

You had gorgeous, curly hair.  Why did you decide to cut it off?

I don't know.  I think it looks more professional.  Not saying that long hair isn't professional, but being clean cut and shaven is a part of my position and my role.  It's also low maintance.  I don't use gel or anything, just a pomade.

Would you consider yourself low maintenance when it comes to grooming?

I'm not too flashy.  If I have extra time I don't want to waste it on my hair.

How did you manage your curls?

I wore a hat.  I didn't wash it everyday, because I heard you weren't supposed to do that.

What do you do to prepare for a date?

Shave.  I shave before anything important.  If I don't shave before a game my dad gets upset.  I want to look clean cut.  I also brush my teeth.  That's about it.

Would you wear a scent?

I like Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbanna.  I like one spray and then I walk through it.  I don't want to smell like an entire truck of cologne just crashed across the street.

What do you look for in a woman?

My mom has to like her.  Someone who's comfortable and understands the kind of lifestyle I have.  Even though we may be in an intimate moment or on a date that someone may want to come up and talk to me about a play.  Someone who understands.

What's your guiltiest pleasure?

Broadway.  I don't think it's a guilty pleasure, but I love going to shows.  I once presented for Memphis at the Tonys when they won for "Best Musical."  That was big.  I love Broadway and this is the best time to see a show.  I've seen almost everything, but there's a couple that I still want to go see.

As you can tell from the interview, Mark was fun and I was really impressed by his level of professionalism.  He even signed footballs and mini helmets for all of us (best gift bag ever!). He's definintely a ladies man though!  He made it a point to place napkins on every woman's lap as she got up and sat down.  No one minded!

Joe's putting the new deodorant/antipersperant to the test.  The new technology releases extra protection when the body is in motion to prevent sweating before it starts.  As you know, he's the type of guy that likes fresh scents, so out of the five options, his favorite is Extreme.  We'll keep you posted on the sweat diaries!  (Hopefully they're non-existent!)

From Personal Care to Peacocking, 2 New Don'ts for Your Man

There's something happening in men's grooming that's not attractive – major peacocking. What started off as the modern man wanting to look presentable to be able to compete in the workplace by upgrading their skincare regimen has spiraled out of control (Brotox is even pushing it, does it really need the name?).  Marketers have noticed the spike in skincare sales and are now trying what seems like everything they can to hop on board.  Hence, the latest trends in men's grooming and fashion that make me want to hurl. Alpha Nail

Slogan: Designed by men.  Worn by warriors.

The polish in a pen comes in five matte and five metallic manly shades.  Described as "durable," the brand encourages fighters, muscians and club goers to to apply to their fingers or toes for added swagger.  Swagger?  Really?  Or should it be for an added touch of "you're really corny!"

Brosiery

Slogan: like hosiery for men

Apparently, Italian hosiery designer, Emilio Cavallini, is now selling mantyhose.  He claims he noticed a trend in men wearing pantyhose for design and warmth about three years ago and started catering to them.  Great idea Cavallini... really...

Best Actor Winner, Jean Dujardin's Groomer Dishes on Oscar Night

A year ago, I (like most) didn't even know who French Actor, Jean Dujardin was, until he starred in The Artist and became an Oscar nominee for 'Best Actor' along with American hotties, George Clooney and Brad Pitt.  Well, after Dujardin took home the title last night I called up his groomer, Louise Moon to get the scoop on how she prepped Hollywood's new star for the battle of the sexy, but the dish went on and I found out so much more.

"Being a groomer you have to be supportive of the actors, but not in their face," Moon states.  "When I got him [Dujardin] ready for the Oscars he was exhausted so I had to be really low key, shut the door and make him relaxed.  Sometimes he’s very talkative, but not this time."

Moon met Dujardin at 1pm to prep his skin and style his hair.  No one else was around – no stylist, assistant or manicurist.  "He's a very simple man and trusts me to do what needs to be done to make him look refreshed," she commented.  She found him exhausted.  He's been traveling and on a whirlwind of press tours and awards shows in the US and Europe so his skin was her main concern.

It was dry from climate changes so after moisturizing, she used Talika’s Eye Therapy Patches, helped to minimize dark circles and puffiness around his eyes and then the Talika Skin Retouch Eye Contour Wand (available Spring) beneath both eyes.

Since he has fine hair, she thickened it up by applying Leonor Greyl Mousse au Lotus Volumatrice (I'm a huge fan of this, too) just to the roots and then blowdrying.  "He likes his hair to look alive, but not not perfect so I like to give it a bit of texture by layering products without having it look like they're layered," states Moon.  She then uses a small dollop of  Leonor Greyl Huile de Palme, which is a gloss to give it a bit of sheen for the red carpet lighting.

I spoke with Moon this morning around 10:30 and it turns out she just left Dujardin.  "I've been with him since 8am," she says.  "I'm just as exhausted as he is now!"  He had a series of interviews this morning and Moon was on call.  A day in the life of a celebrity groomer.

And you have to check out this video Leonor Greyl made... no words.

David Beckham's H&M Super Bowl Underwear Ad

Here it is ladies!  It's David Beckham's Super Bowl ad that we've all been waiting for.  The new H&M body wear Spokes Model is looking fine as hell!  I had to watch this on full screen, twice to appreciate every tattoo and crevice (even his forehead lines are sexy.)!  Don't wait until Sunday, check it out after the jump!

The Golden Globes: Battle of the Sexy

It's awards season!  My favorite time of the year!  I can't wait to watch The Golden Globes this Sunday to kick it all off and hope you'll be joining me as I tweet the red carpet live!  The most interesting thing about the Globes this year is that every hot man (by man I mean the real men of Hollywood) is nominated.  All of them!  But there's a catch, they're all competing against each other. Are you ready for this?  If you only watch one award being announced all night let it be this one,"Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture." The nominees are... George Clooney in The Descendants, Leonardo DiCaprio in J. Edgar, Michael Fassbender in Shame, Ryan Gosling in The Ides Of March and Brad Pitt in Moneyball.

I'm anxious to see who wins and am having a hard time trying to figure out who I'd choose considering I didn't see all of the movies.  Ryan Gosling is definitely a heart throb, but I have a weak spot for George Clooney if this is a sexy contest.  Brad Pitt on the other hand... I have mixed feelings.  Sometimes I think he's over rated and others I think he's become incredibly hot since he's been Angelinaized.  Leonardo DiCaprio hasn't been not my cup of tea since the Titanic days, but he is an excellent actor.  Michael Fassbender has red hair.  Enough said.

Man of the Moment: Alex

I'm excited to introduce the first "Man of the Moment" for 2012, Alex, a 22 year old musician from Berkeley, California.  Check out what he stashes in his medicine cabinet and which celeb he lusts after and his band Radical Something.  If you have someone you'd like to nominate to be a "Man of the Moment" this year, nominate him through the contact form above. Requirements: over 18, sexy and successful. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Old Spice Deodorant, Floss, Lubriderm Lotion, Advil, Yves St. Laurent Cologne, and a bunch of extra floss sticks and toothbrushes!

What product can’t you live without and why?

Cetaphil Daily Facial Wash

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I shower 1-2 times a day, and I am pretty much a neat freak. I keep my hair short so not too many worries there, and while i HATE shaving, I do it every morning. Other than that i can say I am an avid tooth-brusher and face-washer.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

"I don't care if he showers all the time--He wears sweatpants and hoodies every single day. Who does that?"

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

1. Pick out a nice little Vans-inspired outfit

2. Make sure I brush, floss, and use mouthwash. Then pop in my favorite bubblemint gum.

3. Make sure i bring my wallet, and throw a bottle of wine in the trunk just in case!

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

I would probably grab actress Emma Watson (from Harry Potter) for a night. She took my breath away as a young buck, and she is pretty damn beautiful. I'd most likely take her out to dinner, then bar hop around and see if she's as magical in person as she is in the theaters.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman? 

If I think my mom would like her.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Leonardo DiCaprio is the man. I will watch anything that he is in--ANYTHING. Chick flick, drama, shitty movie, you name it.

Hottest Male Celeb Hair Styles of 2011 & How to Get Him to Rock One

Let's be honest, you can totally fall in lust with a guy because of his hair and 2011 has been filled with sexy A-list coifs.  I picked out the top six (Yes, six, I wanted to do five, but couldn't leave out one of these crops.) male cuts and styles and spoke with Celebrity Stylist for Paul Mitchell, Diana Schmidtke to find out how you can help your man can accomplish the look that makes your heart race. Most women would bring a photo of a celeb to their stylist to demonstrate the look they're trying to accomplish and Schmidtke recommends men do the same. However, knowing Joe and most men, they would never bring a photo to their barber.  Could you imagine?  That's where you come in.

Use this a guide and help him style sans the embarrassment.  Schmidtke warns, "It’s important to note that a lot of cuts and styles are dependent on hair type so help him work with his stylist to get a variation of the look if your his type isn’t ideal."

Chace Crawford's medium length, shaggy cut works best with wavy or straight textures.  His front fringe is longer so he can sweep it over his eye creating a sexy, messy look. Mesmerizing!  Key product: A high-shine pomade for separation.

Robert Pattinson has a longer cut that gets tight in the back.  While he doesn't need much product, he does use a blow-dryer and round brush every once in a while for some added bounce.  No matter how much this hair cut makes you swoon, unless your man loves spending time in the bathroom getting ready, it's probably not for him.

Justin Bieber has longer layers in the front that gradually evolve into uniform layers that spike towards the back.  Key product: A paste to add texture and help separate the pieces in the front like Redken Mint Shape Forming Paste.

Ryan Reynolds has the most classic cut of all.  A bit spikey, tight at the nape and clean with longer layers at the top to give the appearance of movement.  Key product: a matte paste to add texture like AXE Hold & Touch.

George Clooney asks for a sheer, over-comb, short crop cut.  I'm not sure if it's the cut or the salt and pepper hair that gets me, but it's working.  I'm also a huge fan of the groomed scruff.  Key product: a moisturizing paste that makes hair appear thicker like Paul Mitchell Mitch Construction Paste.

Matthew McConaughey has long layers with naturally wavy hair.  The layers make the waves work well.  It's the hair even us girls wish we had!  Key product: a gel without sticky hold like Paul Mitchell Mitch Steady Grip.

Man of the Moment: Sian-Pierre

Hey Ladies!  Meet Sian-Pierre, a New Yorker who's the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of SwaggerNewYork.com and a reporter for ACT.MTV.COM.  I love what his mom taught him about cologne and think it's a rule everyone should live by.  Read on to find out about his grooming habits and more. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Not too much, really. I like to keep grooming pretty simple. I’ve got some Kiehl’s Facial Fuel, Evolution Man Wash and Buff, and a silly Justin Bieber singing toothbrush I received as a birthday gift recently. Yes, I use it.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Well, my hair’s kinda crazy curly, if you can’t tell. Once I was gifted this “Daily Hydrator” by Frederick Benjamin that keeps the frizz at bay without leaving my hair feeling crunchy. It’s kinda a daily must have for the curly set.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I think most guys would think of ‘grooming habits’ as more of a ‘routine.’ Like, I wake up, wash my face, brush my teeth, put lotion and deodorant on. Then add the daily hydrator. In that order. Always.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Quick and easy.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Always make sure that if I do put on cologne, it isn’t overdone. My mom always told me that cologne should whisper and not shout. Then, remember to put on a little deodorant…and always floss.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why? More importantly, what would you do?

One celebrity…that’s so difficult! Maybe Adele? I’ve seen her in concert, and during the breaks she was funnier and more honest than any celeb I’ve interviewed, or simply met outright. Plus she can sing, so duh, I’d ask for a personal concert.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Teeth. Beautiful, pearly white teeth. And recently, I love gaps! (Hello, Lindsey Wixom!)

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Someone who is ambitious, quick, determined and has a personal sense of style. I think confidence is key to any woman’s sexiness, and can immediately tell how in touch a woman is with herself by how she dresses.

Man of the Moment: Justin

Ladies, I'm bring you a man all the way from China!  That's right, "Man of the Moment" just went global.  Meet Justin, a Language Learning Director who currently resides in Shanghai.  I have to thank my friend Amber of BeautyBloggingJunkie for nominating him, because like her blog, he's entertaining yet informative.  Read on – his date prep rant won't disappoint! What’s in your medicine cabinet?

My supplies are suffering at the moment due to the China relocation, but I have been a big fan of Kiehl’s shaving products, especially their camphor infused brushless shaving cream.  Their Eye Alert was a staple for me back when I worked the restaurant circuit in Boston and got few quality sleeping hours.  I’m into after-shave balms with SPF because who isn’t wearing sunscreen these days, maybe guys in Seattle, but the rest of us should.  Razors are strictly Gillette’s current Fusion Pro Glide.  My stock of Aveda’s Pure Performance grooming clay is tapped out until I can hit the Shanghai department store, so I’m surviving on American Crew’s Fiber.  St. Ives Apricot Scrub is a fantastic product.  I’m a light sleeper, so I definitely dig Valerian root or melatonin before bed in lieu of a third glass of wine.  Trader Joe’s chewable melatonin is great.  Nobody wants to look tired.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Clean your apartment and I’m not talking folding your clothes and throwing them on the bed.  I mean get down and dirty.  Call me a fan of foreshadowing, but there’s nothing I hate more than getting all the way through the front door to see a disaster.  I don’t care how good she looks in the dress, if her place is a mess that speaks volumes.  Secondly, read something, listen to something, have some fresh content in your mind so that you can hold a conversation for more than five minutes.  If you go as far as David Sedaris and prepare topics on index cards I will laugh at first and then probably congratulate you.  I can’t bear people who rely on spontaneity as their only conversational tool.  Lastly, scout your spots.  Have your preferences and favorites on hand.  I’m no fan of aimless wandering unless I’m in some Parisian fantasy novel and it’s 1928.  I like plans, with people who know the territory.  I like people who know the good menu items, who know an interesting street in their old neighborhood, and who even know some bartender out there that will save a couple seats for us after a film.  Plans and preparation.  Simple.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

If this is a trick question and I’m supposed to choose someone from Esquire’s “Women We Love” column, I’m not falling for it.  Celebrities are people with influence and I’d rather spend a night with people who could change my way of thinking, improve my station, or connect me with something extraordinary.  This is not a beautiful people question, is it?  I’d like to have dinner with Bill Maher or Craig Ferguson and whatever interesting ladies they’re willing to bring along.  At least the conversation will be rowdy.

Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie?  Why?

Jolie’s got content written all over her.  She’s a working mom with political and humanitarian interests along with a husband who also has his hands in some great projects.  Acting, whatever, it’s just her trade.   I’ve said my piece on this.  They’re both very attractive women, but Aniston’s got nothing on tiger mom and her at-home United Nations of a family.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Whole Foods or any abundance of fresh produce and cooking materials gives me a buzz.  Be it a specialty cheese/chocolate shop or a farmer’s market selling basil plants and honey.  I will stop dead in my tracks for ingredients, knives, or a sweet gas range in a shop window.

3 Grooming Commandments from Hollywood's Leading Male Primper

While Hollywood's leading ladies have a whole glam squad on hand for any red carpet event, the men are known for their long term monogamous relationships with their groomers.  Last week I had the chance to grab a cup of tea with the one trusted groomer to all of the funny guys, Cheri Keating.  I'm talking men like Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill... and oh yea, she also primps one of Hollywood's finest, Robert Pattison.  She gave me the three top grooming commandments your boyfriend should follow to make sure his image is always on point.

1. He Shall Have Matte Skin

"Whether men are on camera or not, no man wants their skin to look dewey," Keating remarked.  She uses Lab Series Oil Control Daily Hydrator on Jonah Hill and some of her other clients before touching up their makeup for films.  "I like it because there's no break through shine."  While some men act like they don't care about skincare, if you introduce your man to a mattifying moisturizer and compliment his lack of shine, he'll thank you (and continue using it).

2. He Shall Maintain His Sprouting Hairs

The best way to prolong a haircut is to help him do at-home shape ups.  "His image can really be bumped up by simply removing the hair around his neck," Keating said.  Is your man 30 or older?  Be on the lookout! Keating wouldn't tell me which clients she does this for (to spare them embarrassment), but he has to start ridding random ear, nose and brow hairs.  You don't have to remove them, but you may have to kindly point them out.  It's all about maintenance.

3. He Shall Shop Sophisticatedly (and Tailor)

Even the funny guys mature.  Seth Rogen started his career wearing baggy jeans and a t-shirt on the red carpet and landing summer time comedys and since he's tightened his image and his suits, he's being cast in fall indie dramas.  Of course, this change is about his total image, but his clothing alone gives off a different message.  "Every man should own well cut T's and perfect fitting pair of jeans," Keating commented.  I agree.  Any man can wear a suit, but a well tailored suit gives off the message of sophistication.

Man of the Moment: Matt

Ladies, allow me to introduce you to Matt, an advertising creative from Williamsburg, Brooklyn who also edits a website called theimpersonals that I now find myself reading daily. Chances are if you're a fan of BeautySweetSpot, you'll enjoy it too.  Until reading Matt's responses, I never really knew why men used cologne.  Read on to find out... What’s in your medicine cabinet? 

I have more Kiehl's than I know what to do with. Every Christmas, my mother gets the guys in the family massive amounts of Kiehl's product, and there’s not enough time in a year to use it all. So it kind of works like rollover minutes. Lately I’ve been giving some to the homeless guys on my way to work.

My favorite brand of the moment is Black Fleece, which is Thom Brown for Brooks Brothers. It’s the perfect collaboration - tradition meets eccentricity. There’s also this great store/brand called Grahame Fowler - fantastic stuff, all made in England of the highest quality. Any man would do well to visit those establishments, both in the west village. I also score a lot of great vintage stuff from my father who now lives in Florida for the winter, so there’s no need for things like a beautiful navy cashmere (!) coat. I just tailored it and can’t wait for the weather to change so I can strut my stuff.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do? Good cologne. A friend who works in fragrance told me that a good scent can nullify up to 4 stupid things you say on a date. Things like, “you have the nicest earlobes.”  I blast myself with about 4 sprays, which I estimate affords me 16 dumb comments (for the record, this works 63% of the time.)

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do? I’m less interested in celebrities and more interested in that red head who seems to share the L train home with me everyday. She’s been the hopeful recipient of no less than 100 “Missed Connections”. Fingers crossed.

Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie?  Why? My main problem with hypothetical celebrity sex is I always imagine what would really happen. In my case, I would last two minutes max, then would be humiliated and slink off into the night. So I guess my answer is neither.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure? Style wise, suspenders with buttons, and vintage hats. Also, skinny jeans. My family makes fun of me incessantly for them, but I can’t give ‘em up. I think it’s because they remind of the pants I used to wear in football. Or my old wrestling singlet.

Video: Behind the Scenes Fashion Week Prep with Duckie Brown

Before a fashion show designers have a ton of prep work to do, but most of it gets done just a few days before the big event. A week before the Duckie Brown show I went to a model fitting (lucky me!) and followed the designers, Steven Cox and Daniel Silver, every step leading up to their Spring 2011 runway show. Check out the behind the scenes video I did on behalf of Conair after the jump!

Man of the Moment: Ryan

Ladies, meet my new "Man of the Moment," Ryan from Brooklyn, NY. He's a 24 year old musician who's also into drawing, fitness and "reading from time to time" and loves a girl with a full head of curly hair, which I think is awesome.  Read on to find out more... What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Crest toothpaste, whitestrips and the most expensive non-electric toothbrush I can find.  That’s one thing I've always splurged on. Old Spice "Playmaker" deodorant and Burberry cologne (that’s been my staple for a while now, might switch it up soon though).  I've always got some kind of sauce to throw in my hair too but that switches up a lot too.

 What product can’t you live without and why?

That's gotta be the toothbrush.  I’m an avid brusher and always try to have a dope one in the cabinet, can't stand the dollar store style brushes.  We do so much everyday with our mouths, gotta keep it clean.

How would you describe your grooming habits?             

About as good as they can be.  I've always made time to keep up on my grooming, it's definitely a big part of my day to day.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?             

I'm gonna stand by this one... having good hygiene is something that only I have control over, so I always find the time.  Plus, being fresh and clean just makes for a better more confident day.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do? 

All the bathroom stuff: Shower, Brush Teeth, Cologne.  Hands down.  Make sure my debit cards in my wallet (I know it's 2011 but I still like to pay).  Plan something fun... dinner and a movie bores the hell out of me, gotta keep it interesting.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why? More importantly, what would you do? 

It would be easy for me to throw out a crush like Meagan Good and say the obvious... but if I could have one night to hang out with a celebrity it would probably be Kanye West.  I just want to pick his brain and try to absorb some of the passion he has for what he does.  I'm definitely passionate about my craft but someday I want to be as committed, to the things I believe in, as he is.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman? 

Hair.  I love big curly hair.  It can make me look twice at someone I normally might not find attractive just cause they've got a big mess of hair going on.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Physically, it would be legs... gets me every time.  But I love a woman with a big heart, that's the most beautiful thing about a woman for me.  Someone who roots for the underdog, someone who truly cares about other people and put's others needs ahead of her own.

Hello Sexy! Redken Introduces Loose Ends for Men

When I first found out about Redken's new product for men called Loose Ends, I wasn't exactly sure what type of man would use it until I saw a photo of their model for the campaign and it clicked – that type of man – the guy with Matthew McConaughey hair!  Ladies, if you're dating a guy like that you're clearly dating him for his hair (hey, no judgement here!) so hook him up with this pomade.   “Loose ends is a great product for men with a little length in their hair who want some definition but without weight,” says Jenny Balding, Redken For Men Consultant.

It's a liquid pomade that adds a bit of definition and texture without any sticky or goopy feel, which is key.  Since my boyfriend keeps his hair short, I never thought about what guys with this hair type use, but of course you may need to know!  Just when you thought food was the key to a man's heart, you find out it may be as simple as the right hair goop!

Redken for Men Loose Ends Liquid Pomade, $17.60, is sold at professional salons.

The Good, Bad and Everything in Between: The Men of the Emmys

While everyone including myself has been so focused on the red gown trend and best (and worst) hair and makeup of the Emmys, I've been looking at some of the footage that continues to flood in and can no longer ignore the men who always seem to take the back seat (for obvious reasons). So here are some of my favorite TV personalities and actors who were at the Emmys on Sunday and some commentary on their looks (it's not all that great, but I had to be honest!). Joel McHale

While he's one of my favorite people on Earth (I can't get enough of The Soup), I wasn't a huge fan of his white Michael Bastian jacket choice.  He may think that he can get away with anything – he is Joel McHale – but I don't even think he could pull this off.  Sometimes I think people forget where they're going.  His nicely groomed facial hair on the other hand, that was working for me.

Mario Lopez

Even though he wasn't walking the red carpet as an Emmy nominee, he was in the spotlight hosting for Extra and I thought he was appropriately dressed for the occasion and liked how he paired a navy John Varvatos tux with a black tie. Classy.  Of course Mr. Personality added a touch of flair, Silhouette Sunglasses.

Ian Somerhadler

One word: Sexy!  I'm sure whatever he wore would have worked with that mischevious smile and begging to be touched hair.  The Vampire Diaries star wore and Emporio Armani suit and was my favorite look of the night.

John Krasinski

I have a horrible crush on his character from The Office, so I have to add him to my "Men of the Emmys" round up.  Always caught in Prada offset, I think he appropriately formal (hair gelled and all).  Emily Blunt was definitely his best accessory!

AXE Celebrates National Chocolate Day with Men in the Kitchen

I don't know about you, but one of my guiltiest pleasures is chocolate and if you're anything like me, you're in luck because today is International Chocolate Day!  So go ahead and indulge without the guilt.  In honor of the holiday, one of my favorite men's grooming brands, AXE, conducted a study that found that 82% of women agree that chocolate is a temptation that's hard to resist. In honor, AXE put together a chocolate mousse recipe that your man can make for you inspired by their Dark Temptation Body Spray.  Step one is having him spritz their chocolate body spray and then get in the kitchen.  What's better than a man in the kitchen making chocolate?

Get your man started!  Print out the recipe and comment below telling me your absolute favorite chocolate desert to WIN a set of AXE Dark Temptation Body Spray and Hold & Touch Hair Products for your man.  I'm giving away two sets!

Chocolate mousse ingredients

• 2 ounce(s) of milk chocolate
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup(s) sugar
• 1 pinch(s) salt
• 2 tablespoon(s) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup(s) heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare for the evening with a hot, refreshing shower using Dark Temptation shower gel.
2. Then, head to the kitchen and finely chop the milk chocolate and set aside. In a double boiler, whisk yolks, sugar, and salt until sugar has dissolved and mixture is warm to the touch, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat, and quickly whisk in chopped chocolate until melted and cocoa until smooth (mixture will be thick). Allow mixture to cool.
3. In a medium bowl, whip cream until soft peaks form. Whisk half of whipped cream into room-temperature chocolate mixture. Gently fold in remaining whipped cream with a rubber spatula. Divide mousse among four serving dishes. Chill at least 2 hours and up to 1 day.
4. While the mousse is cooling, apply Dark Temptation bodyspray to keep you smelling and feeling great all night long.
5. Remove mousse from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving and garnish with shaved chocolate.
6. Serve and enjoy a deliciously sinful night with your girlfried.