If you’re looking to add a little touch of boardroom class to your work-from-home-spare-bedroom-office, look no further than the Journey ALTI LIFT desk mat. Practical and sleek, it’ll elevate your workspace (even if the laundry is drying in the corner).

Journey has a knack for slick-looking gadget accessories, from chargers to Apple ‘Find My’ tracked water bottles that are impossible to lose, which we checked out earlier this year. Its latest product, the ALTI LIFT desk mat, iterates on the earlier excellent ALTI by taking the previous model’s wireless charging dock and literally elevating it.

I’ve been using it non-stop for the past few weeks, and it’s become an essential part of my at home working setup. Here’s why you should consider adding it to yours, too.

Smart solutions

The Journey ALTI LIFT desk mat comes in two parts — a reversible desk mat, and a snap-on magnetic charging station.

That mat part takes up the bulk of the desk real-estate needed for the ALTI LIFT. Essentially a giant mouse mat measuring 73cm x 37cm, it’s finished with PU leather on one side, and felt on the other, letting you take your pick between which surface you want to glide your mouse across.

I’ve found that I use the felt surface during the work day, and then flip it over to the smooth leather-like side when playing games in the evening. Each is joined at one end, but separated across the rest of the surface area, letting you lift them up like a flap to store away notes and papers.

The mat part finishes on one end with a magnetic edge, which connects to the star of the show, the charging station. It snaps onto the side of the mat, and offers two charging spots — one flat for charging items like AirPods, and the other section a fold-away, spinning, pivoting and tilting fast-charging arm for both powering your smartphone and angling its screen towards you so you can easily see it at all times.

Hooking up over USB-C to a power supply, the arm can fast charge at up to 15W, and is compatible with MagSafe-enabled iPhones or any Qi2 compatible smartphone. You’ll get 5W of charging from the stationary charging pad, too, while that charging arm works when folded flat as well, if you want to keep those phone-based distractions pointing away from you.

And, with a magnetic connection on either side of the charging base, you can position it for easy access whether you're left or right handed.

Tidy and smart, it’s great for keeping your desk organised and your gadgets juiced at the same time.

Available now in black or grey-and-beige shades, you can pick up the Journey ALTI LIFT wireless desk mat for £119.99.

• Journey REEVUS water bottle is perfect for gym-going content creators — and impossible to lose

Marc Newson has never been short on iconic objects, but his latest project sees him circling back to one of the ideas that made his name. The Australian designer has teamed up with Belgian watchmaker Ressence for the Type 3 MN, a limited-edition piece that fuses Newson’s signature, ultra-clean industrial design with the brand’s famously futuristic, oil-filled mechanics.

It’s a meeting of minds that feels strangely inevitable. Newson has followed Ressence since its earliest days and saw something familiar in founder Benoît Mintiens’ mission to tear wristwatches down to their functional core. “It’s not easy in the watch world to create something truly new,” Newson says. “But Benoît did.”

Ressence’s whole philosophy hinges on simplifying the act of telling time, stripping away hands, crowns and anything unnecessary. The result is the ROCS system: a set of orbiting discs that glide beneath an oil-filled upper chamber, giving the dial a flat, digital-like clarity.

Newson, who once explored similar territories with the cult Ikepod brand, immediately saw an opportunity to push that logic even further.

The Type 3 MN is the payoff. A 45mm Grade 5 titanium pebble with no lugs, no crown and no hard edges, the case drops straight into the strap in a way anyone familiar with Newson’s Megapode will spot instantly. It weighs just 95 grams, but feels like a design object first, a watch second, a single continuous shape rather than a case with attachments.

Under the glass, the ROCS 3.6 module does its trademark sorcery: hours, minutes, seconds, day, date and even oil temperature spin on four eccentric satellites, always upright, always readable. Because the upper chamber is filled with 4.15mL of silicone oil, the display sits flush against the double-domed sapphire, eliminating reflection entirely. It’s a kinetic sculpture disguised as a dial.

Newson’s palette, celadon green, greys, black and tight bursts of yellow, pulls from decades of his own work, including his 1998 Hemipode design. Mintiens calls it “evolution theory,” suggesting that if Ikepod had kept going, this is where it might have landed. The pair obsessed over refining every surface, every index, every rotation. According to Newson, the project was “a geeky watch thing” in the best possible way.

Power comes from a modified ETA 2824 movement sealed in its own chamber, communicating magnetically with the display above. No mechanical linkage, no compromise, just a bellows system quietly compensating for oil expansion and the caseback acting as the winding and setting interface.

Collaboration watches are everywhere now, but few feel as symbiotic as this. The Type 3 MN isn’t a mash-up or a branding exercise; it’s the point where two strands of modern industrial design finally converge.

The result is a watch that looks like it shouldn’t be possible, and a reminder that both designers are at their best when they’re rethinking the rules rather than following them.

• From remote worker to 'roadman': the rise, fall and reluctant defence of sweatpants

Star Wars fans, it’s time to up your accessory game. Ray-Ban has just launched a limited-edition collection of collectable sunglasses inspired by the galaxy far, far away. The new Ray-Ban | Star Wars range merges the brand’s iconic eyewear with legendary characters and the saga’s eternal light-versus-dark theme.

There are four special-edition shades in total, each channelling a different corner of the Star Wars universe. The classic Wayfarer and Balorama silhouettes are reimagined with details inspired by Master Yoda and Darth Vader, while the new Mega Wayfarer and Mega Balorama models take cues from the Rebel Alliance and Kylo Ren.

Fans will notice subtle nods to the saga in temple engravings, character insignias, and inscriptions such as “May the Force be with you” or “Embrace the dark side.” Even the packaging follows the theme, with collectable boxes inspired by the light and dark sides of the Force.

The Master Yoda Wayfarer comes in transparent sage green with tone-on-tone lenses, stamped with the Jedi Order insignia and the classic Jedi blessing. The Darth Vader Balorama takes a darker turn, with a black wraparound frame, mirrored lenses and the Galactic Empire insignia on the temples.

For those on the light side of the rebellion, the Rebel Alliance Mega Wayfarer features transparent light brown frames and matching lenses, embossed with the iconic starbird and the phrase “May the Force be with you.” Meanwhile, Kylo Ren’s Mega Balorama brings a commanding presence to the collection, with transparent black frames, silver-red mirrored lenses and the First Order insignia.

Prices range from £202 for the Master Yoda Wayfarer to £277 for the Kylo Ren Mega Balorama, and the collection is available in selected Ray-Ban stores, partner stores, and online.

Whether your allegiance is to the Republic, to democracy, or you're more into the dark side, this drop has covered.

• Target Darts and Star Wars join forces for an out-of-this-world collection

If you're into watches, or even if you're just flirting with the idea of being “a watch guy”, you might want to mark the 1st of October in your calendar. That’s when Benjamin James Watches, the brand that’s quietly becoming a favourite among collectors, drops three stunning additions to its Limited Production Scarifour line.

After selling out its Ice Blue Mother of Pearl model earlier this year (a very pretty thing, capped at just 100 pieces a year), Benjamin James is keeping the pressure on with three new stone dials: Lapis Lazuli, Green Jade, and Burnt Orange Agate. Each is limited to 100 pieces per year. And with natural materials being used, no two dials are ever the same.

“It just made sense,” says founder Benjamin Adams, speaking to ShortList. “Stone dials were huge in the late '70s and early '80s, and since the Scarifour pulls a lot of its design language from that era, this felt like a natural evolution.”

And he’s not wrong. With its lean, vintage-inspired proportions, 31mm wide, 40mm lug-to-lug, and a frankly ridiculous 8.3mm thick, the Scarifour doesn’t chase the oversized watch trend. Instead, it does its own thing: small, slim, elegant, mechanical. Like a suit cut to perfection, it just fits and is certainly right up our street.

Under the hood is a Swiss-made Sellita SW210-1b, a manual-wind movement that helps keep the case impressively thin while adding a bit of vintage ritual. The outside is Sapphire glass, a 316L stainless steel case, and crisp finishing with polished chamfers that wouldn't look out of place on a watch twice the price, with these limited edition wonders coming in at a relatively reasonable £948.

Burnt Orange Agate is bold but refined

While the Lapis and Jade options might seem like the obvious choices for a collector-friendly stone dial, it’s the Burnt Orange Agate that’s got Adams hooked.

“I've actually been wearing that one the most,” he says. “It’s the boldest of the three, but with the natural texture and the way it plays with the light, it still feels really refined. Loud but elegant.”

You get the feeling that’s kind of the brand’s whole ethos. Benjamin James isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel; it’s just designing watches that get it. Proper proportions, good materials, and just enough retro DNA to make you feel like you're wearing a design classic.

A brand for collectors… but not just for collectors.

Adams knows he’s building a brand in a tricky space, one where hardcore watch nerds demand technical specs and history, while newcomers just want something beautiful that feels right on the wrist.

“We're trying to strike a balance,” he says. “We’re not pricing the watches low for the sake of it, but we do want them to be accessible. If someone’s new to the world of mechanical watches and finds themselves drawn to our designs, I want them to feel like they can be part of it.”

That inclusivity is baked into the Limited Production concept itself; instead of one-and-done limited editions, the brand is capping each colour at 100 pieces per year. It’s rare, it’s desirable, but it’s also ongoing. So if you missed out in 2025, you’ve got a shot in 2026.

The specs you need to know

• Case: 31mm width, 40mm lug-to-lug, 8.3mm thick
• Material: 316L stainless steel
• Crystal: Sapphire (front), K1 mineral (caseback)
• Movement: Sellita SW210-1b hand-wound
• Water Resistance: 50m
• Lume: BGW9 Swiss Super-LumiNova (hands only)
• Price: £948
• Launch: 1st of October, 2025
• Availability: 100 pieces per colour per year from Benjamin James
• Colours: Lapis Lazuli, Green Jade, Burnt Orange Agate

• Rolex's classic Oyster Perpetual Datejust is celebrated in new commemorative official book

As London's menswear brand Wax London gears up for its 10th birthday bash, its AW25 collection, Rewind and Reclaim, is serving up a serious dose of self-reflection. Think of it as a sartorial therapy session, diving deep into the people, places, and wardrobe essentials that got them here. They're honouring the past, but with a cheeky wink and a fresh spin for today's fashion-forward fella. It’s a fitting tribute to a decade of serious threads, good vibes, and the kind of character that just screams Wax London.

Inspired by the spirit of the 1970s, a decade where self-expression reigned supreme and bold aesthetics were basically a birthright, this collection is bringing that beloved era kicking and screaming into contemporary design. It also means you can dress like an extra from Boogie Nights, which is always fun. This season's palette weaves together earthy browns, deep teals, and vivid bursts of red.

Once again, fabrics and prints are stealing the spotlight, like an audition for a big winter fashion blockbuster. There’s winter-ready checks that practically beg for a brisk walk, textures so tactile you'll want to stroke them and more.

We'll be diving into all the highlights in more detail, where we've painstakingly picked out some of our favourite pieces from the collection. Trust us, these will undoubtedly elevate any man’s wardrobe as we bravely enter layering season.

Kurt - Light Khaki Organic Cotton Trousers

The Kurt trousers are a great balance of comfort and style, made from soft, breathable cotton. The light khaki colour gives them a neutral vibe, so they’re easy to pair with pretty much anything in your wardrobe. You can get these in a range of colours, all of which are nice.

The fit is relaxed yet tailored, giving you a sleek silhouette without feeling too restrictive, and they’re slightly cropped so you can show off your shoes without having to worry about rising damp. They’ve got that effortless, laid-back style, but the light khaki colour adds just the right amount of sophistication so you still look like a grown-up.

Wilde - Black Brush Stripe Wool Jumper

The Wilde jumper from Wax London is a cosy, relaxed fit jumper made with a soft blend of wool, mohair, and nylon. It’s got a cool brushed stripe pattern in black, mustard, beige, and grey, giving it a vintage, laid-back aesthetic. Imagine if Dennis the Menace grew up, went to a nice art school and discovered fashion, he’d opt for this.

The ribbed cuffs and hem add a bit of structure, while the double-layer neck offers a bit more of a premium feel. It’s comfy enough to throw on casually, but the wool-mohair mix also gives it a touch of class, so you could layer it with some nice trousers and a coat. If you're into unique but subtle designs, this one's a solid pick for your wardrobe. Easy to dress up or down, and definitely a cosy go-to for colder days.

Alban - Black And Green Floral Textured Jacquard Cardigan

Sticking with warm knits, enjoyable patterns and cosy textures, we have the Alban cardigan. It’s a bold, floral jacquard piece that combines black and green tones in a textured, almost 3D pattern. It’s a button-up cardigan with a bit of a vintage feel, perfect for adding some personality to a casual outfit. The jacquard fabric gives it that rich, detailed texture that stands out without being too loud – it’s careful not to make you look like you’ve robbed your nan's curtains and made some clothes.

The black base makes it easy to pair with different colours, but the green floral design really makes it pop. Whether you wear it casually with jeans or want to add a touch of flair to an evening outfit, this cardigan brings a lot of character without feeling too over the top.

Didcot - Black And Brown Paisley Short-Sleeve Shirt

The Didcot shirt is a staple of Wax at this point, and for good reason; the cut is classic and the designs are always enjoyable, but the AW25 black and brown paisley takes the shirt up another level. The darker tones ensure it won't look out of place on a chilly day, but you’re still prepared for if the temperature spikes for no reason, like it often does in October. The paisley pattern adds a touch of vintage flair without feeling too loud.

Whether you’re heading to something a little casual or a classier affair, this shirt can be dressed up or down depending on your vibe. It’s made from a breathable material, so it keeps you cool while still looking stylish. If you're into retro prints or just want something that makes a statement without being too bold, this is a solid pick.

Mason - Red Canvas Work Jacket

The Mason jacket, a bold and fun statement piece crafted from rugged red canvas. Its eye-catching hue and workwear-inspired vibe make it a truly unique addition to your wardrobe, much like the Park jacket below. While its vibrant personality might not be for everyone, those who embrace its distinctive charm will find it a versatile piece.

The durable canvas offers both toughness and comfort, while its functional design and pockets add a touch of utilitarian cool. Whether you're hitting the streets or tackling a weekend project, the Mason jacket delivers effortless, head-turning style for those who aren't afraid to make a statement, and thanks to what it is made of, we can’t wait to see how it might age.

Russell - Rinse Wash Selvedge Straight Fit Denim Jeans

The Russell jeans are a classic pair of straight-fit denim with a rinse-wash finish, giving them that perfectly worn-in look right from the start, something every man needs to have in their wardrobe. Made from selvedge denim, they have that high-quality, durable feel, and the edge stitching gives them a clean, crisp finish.

The straight-leg cut is super versatile, so it works whether you’re nipping down the shops, doing some bits around the house, or even going for dinner. If you’re into that timeless denim style that feels premium but isn’t overly fussy, the Russell will no doubt be a solid pick.

Nolan - Natural And Multicolour Check Wool Overshirt

We mentioned layering earlier on and the Nolan overshirt certainly delivers. The mix of multicoloured checks gives it a bit of a retro feel. Made from wool, it’s perfect for when you want something warmer than a regular shirt but lighter than a full-on jacket.

The check pattern adds a pop of personality without going overboard, and the wool fabric feels cosy while still breathable enough for layering. The Nolan cut is relaxed, so it’s easy to throw on over a tee or long-sleeve shirt. An overshirt has always blended function and fashion, with this one from Wax London delivering it

Park - Burgundy And Ecru Floral Jacquard Jacket

The Park jacket is a standout piece with its burgundy and ecru floral jacquard pattern, giving it a vintage-inspired yet modern vibe, and we know, it won't be for everyone, but what a statement. The jacquard fabric adds a rich texture to the jacket, making it feel luxurious and unique.

This jacket brings a bit of flair to any outfit, but the deep burgundy and neutral floral design keep it balanced and easy to wear. The fit is tailored but not too tight, so it gives you room to move while still looking sharp, and once again, just in case you were wondering, yes, it is perfect for layering.

Osier - Navy And Brown Drawn Check Jacket

If you’re looking for a jacket that is a smart and versatile piece with a bold navy and brown drawn check pattern that gives it a unique yet subtle vibe, then the Osier is for you. The check design is intricate but not too loud, making it perfect for adding a bit of personality to your wardrobe without clashing with other items.

It’s certainly one of the standout items from what has proven to be a cracking collection from Wax London, with plenty of items having a bold streak but perfectly demonstrating what we need to look good during the chillier months.

Honourable mention: beanies

As an honourable mention, we've also included some of our favourite Beanies on offer in this collection because we’ve hit hat season, and there is nothing worse than having cold ears when you’re traipsing back from a long day's work. Wax plenty of hats on offer, but here are our three favourites.

What we’ve included above are just our favourites, but there is plenty in this collection that’s worth getting excited about - both unique pieces and great basics and staples that every man needs to fill out their wardrobe. You can check out the full range over at the Wax London website.

• The new rules of Autumn/Winter tailoring: 7 top tips from a Savile Row expert

The Pebble Time 2, a device we thought might be lost to the mists of trademark disputes, is officially back and looking rather spiffy. Remember when it was going by the slightly less catchy Core 2 Duo? Well, thankfully, the iconic Pebble name has been triumphantly regained, so prepare for the Pebble Time 2 to grace wrists soon.

While pre-orders are open, it's worth noting that this clever little gadget is still in its final polishing stages. However, Pebble's founder, Eric Migicovsky, couldn't resist a design reveal on his blog, Tick Talk, giving us all something to ooh and ahh over. This watch, initially teased way back in March, is finally shedding more light on its features.

The Pebble Time 2 is set to arrive in four colour options: black, black and silver, red, and blue. Though not yet finalised, Migicovsky is keen on hearing from fans to nail down the perfect palette.

In terms of build, expect a swanky stainless steel 316 body and buttons, just like the original Pebble. The Pebble Time 2 promises a whopping 30 days on a single charge, hopefully fixing the modern anxiety of always feeling like something you own needs to be charged.

The front panel boasts a sleek, flat glass face, a departure from the older model's curve. Behind it lies a 1.5-inch 64-colour e-ink display, backlit with RGB LED. This means you will have the power to control your backlight colour, allowing for a personalised glow throughout your day.

New features include a built-in compass, which sounds perfect for those of us who constantly get lost, plus dual microphones, a heart rate sensor, speaker, sleep tracking, vibrations, and waterproofing. It also boasts a screw-mounted back cover and quick-release 22mm watch strap for easy customisation.

Priced at £165, the Pebble Time 2 is available for pre-order now. Migicovsky himself calls it "the watch of my dreams," and honestly, with its minimalist design, sleeker profile, rounded edges, and significantly smaller bezels compared to the Pebble Time Steel, we can see why.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic review: Putting the smart into smartwatch

HTC has officially launched the VIVE Eagle, a pair of AI-powered smart glasses that are here to make your life effortlessly futuristic and a lot cooler. These aren't your grandpa's reading glasses; they're a sleek, fashionable frame that discreetly packs in music, voice assistance, smart photography, and even real-time translation. So, whether you're channelling your inner secret agent or just trying to order lunch in a foreign country, the VIVE Eagle has your back.

Charles Huang, HTC's Senior Vice President, charmingly describes the VIVE Eagle as "more than just a pair of glasses - it's a way to live life with greater freedom." It will let you discreetly snap photos, take calls without fumbling for your phone, and even translate a menu with a simple voice command, so you don't have to awkwardly ask the waiter to explain what number 12 is.

Weighing in at a light 49 grams, these glasses are designed for all-day comfort. They even come with ZEISS sun lenses for UV protection, because who wants to be a visionary with squinty eyes?

The real magic lies within; the VIVE Eagle features open-ear audio that delivers rich sound without making you an accidental DJ for everyone around you. And with its 12MP ultra-wide camera and the VIVE AI voice assistant, capturing life's spontaneous moments is as easy as saying, "Hey VIVE, take a photo!" Think of the first-person storytelling possibilities – your friends will be green with envy (or just confused as to why you're talking to your face).

Need to jot down a reminder or find a restaurant? Just ask. The VIVE Eagle handles all your everyday productivity needs via voice, freeing up your hands for plenty of other activities. Plus, with AI-powered translation in 13 languages, you'll be a global conversationalist in no time.

HTC says all your data is stored locally and protected with military-grade encryption. And a built-in LED light indicates when you're recording, so no accidental candid shots of your cat napping.

For now, the VIVE Eagle is soaring into Taiwan first, priced at NT$15,600, roughly £383. So, if you're in Taiwan and ready to upgrade your eyewear from "just glasses" to "super-smart sidekick," the VIVE Eagle awaits.

• Forget Ray-Ban Meta specs, Snap has announced smart glasses

Oakley, the company that's kept extreme athletes looking cool (and seeing clearly) for five decades, has just snagged the ultimate flex: designing the visors for NASA's Artemis III lunar mission. It means that the next person to strut on the Moon will be rocking some seriously tricked-out Oakley optics. Move over, Neil Armstrong's humble helmet, there's a new sheriff in town, and he's got 24-karat gold-plated swagger.

Koichi Wakata, an astronaut and the Chief Technology Officer for Axiom Space, put it best: "In space the sun is really harsh, it feels as if it's piercing through your eyes." Well, Koichi, perhaps you've been using the wrong kind of sunglasses. But fear not, for Oakley's Senior VP of Advanced Product Development, Ryan Saylor, assures us, "the next person to walk on the Moon will be wearing Oakley's next-gen High-Definition Optics, and that's a responsibility we don't take lightly."

So, what makes these lunar specs so special? Besides the bling, they're packed with "Prizm Cosmos technology," which sounds like a fancy way of saying "magic, but with science." The gold coating isn't just for looking like a futuristic pharaoh; it's a stellar reflector of infrared radiation, crucial for preventing astronaut eyes from turning into crispy critters under unfiltered solar bombardment. Additionally, a flip-down visor is available for use in extreme conditions.

Oakley's decades of experience in creating gear tough enough for motocross and mountain biking proved surprisingly relevant. Turns out, lunar dust is pretty much just really, really gritty dirt. And if you can survive a face-plant on a rocky trail, you can probably handle a tumble on the Moon.

This partnership is part of a broader trend where space exploration is getting a civilian makeover. Axiom Space, in a move that's part fashion show, part rocket science, has also teamed up with Prada for the spacesuit's outer materials. So, get ready for astronauts who are not only trailblazers but also fashion icons.

While you won't be able to grab your own gold-plated moon visor for your next beach trip, this space-grade tech will likely trickle down into terrestrial eyewear, with the learnings acquired used to improve products we can get without becoming astronauts.

• Fancy something a little more down to Eart? Take a trip to Ibiza with this Sergio Tacchini and Wavey Garms collaboration

Get ready to channel your inner Balearic beat because Sergio Tacchini and south-london brand Wavey Garms have teamed up for a "Summer of Love" collection that's available in Selfridges and online now.

Inspired by David Swindles' Ibiza '89 (a book that apparently blew Wavey Garms' Creative Director Andres Branco away – "I’d never seen people look so sharp while raving!"), This collection is a vibrant, nostalgic trip back to the late 80s rave scene, but with a fresh twist for today.

Think pastel sportswear, nautical stripes, and an aesthetic that blends flash with freedom. As Branco himself puts it, "I wanted to create something that me and my friends would actually want to wear. Something grown-up but still with attitude."

Luckily, the company has delivered on this goal and the launch cements its achingly indie-cool status by releasing alongside a new short film, and Wavey Garms' founder Andreas's house music label called Area Records. The whole collection points towards a love for the style and era, which you can get involved with thanks to the clothing capsule.

There's a lot to love from this collection but we whittled down our top picks from this collaboration:

The Sergio Tacchini x Wavey Garms Haze Velour Track Jacket is a bold piece that’s ready to bring some serious retro vibes to your wardrobe. This snazzy number, crafted from a soft and slightly stretchy velour, is all about laid-back luxury. It zips up the front, sports a cool ribbed collar, cuffs, and hem for that perfect fit, and even has two front pockets for stashing your essentials.

Boasting colour-blocked panels and the classic embroidered Sergio Tacchini logo on the chest, it has that vintage athletic edge we all love. Priced at £175, the jacket is your go-to for effortlessly stylish streetwear looks, whether you rock it solo or go full-on matching set.

A standout piece from the collection is the Eden Striped Cotton Shirt. Crafted from 100% cotton, this lightweight, non-stretch shirt offers a relaxed yet refined silhouette, perfect for warmer days and layering. It features a pointed collar, button-front closure, and long sleeves with buttoned cuffs, complete with a single patch pocket at the chest.

The shirt is subtly adorned with an embroidered Sergio Tacchini logo on the front, harmonising with its all-over striped pattern and gently curved hem. This versatile top seamlessly blends vintage sportswear aesthetics with contemporary streetwear sensibilities, making it ideal for pairing with denim, layering, or wearing as a standalone staple (although, we would suggest wearing some form of short / trouser with it)...

These shorts are like a chameleon of the summer – they effortlessly blend athletic vibes with streetwear style.

Let's be honest, with their mesh lining and breathable shell, they're practically begging you to wear them all summer long, whether you're hitting the gym, chilling out, or rocking a layered fit on a warm evening.

We're talking about a crew-neck sweatshirt that's so classic, it practically comes with a vintage filter. It boasts long sleeves with ribbed cuffs and hem, and an embroidered Sergio Tacchini logo on the chest. With its detailed stitching, this piece perfectly balances minimal branding with just enough tailoring pizzazz to make you look like you actually tried.

Available in two shades – Buff Orange and Maritime Blue – it retails around £125. This isn't just a sweatshirt; it's a casual polish meets relaxed sporty styling masterpiece, making it the most versatile (and dare we say, our favourite?) piece in the entire Wavey Garms lineup.

What better way to complete your rave-ready look – and shield yourself from that scorching holiday sun – than with the Dropout Cap? This collaboration reimagines vintage sports caps with a fun, nostalgic '80s clubwear twist, fitting perfectly into the "Summer of Love" vibe while keeping things feeling authentic.

If you want to check out the complete collection, you can head over to the Wavey Garms website for more

• Richard Ashcroft's new mod-inspired clothing line is a sweet-not-bitter symphony in retro style

Omega and Swatch, the dynamic duo of timekeeping, are back at it again, proving that even in the vastness of space, there’s always room for a chuckle and a very limited-edition watch featuring Snoopy. Their latest cosmic caper, the MoonSwatch Mission to Earthphase in Moonshine Gold, is set to launch faster than a rocket-powered beagle on the 9th of August, perfectly timed with the full Sturgeon Moon.

This isn’t just any watch; it’s a tiny, wearable universe encased in a 42mm navy Bioceramic body. But the real star of this show isn’t the luminous markers or the sleek design – it’s the dual complication layout, an intelligent feature that will no doubt spark conversation with everyone who sees it.

At 2 o’clock, you’ll find a moonphase indicator, twinkling with Omega’s proprietary Moonshine Gold. And at 10 o’clock, the pièce de résistance: an earthphase display, showing us Earth as seen from the Moon.

Snoopy and Woodstock, those inseparable cosmic adventurers, are depicted beneath the earthphase, gazing skyward, no doubt contemplating the mysteries of the universe. And for those with a keen eye (and a UV light), a hidden quote from a 1969 Peanuts comic strip awaits discovery. We won’t spoil it, but it's a classy touch.

Underneath all that witty charm, a quartz movement diligently orchestrates both complications on a 29.5-day cycle, moving in opposite directions. It’s a clever twist on traditional celestial timekeeping, reminding us that sometimes, the best way forward is backwards.

A navy rubber strap, complete with velcro closure, enhances the deep-space aesthetic. In a touch that’s either incredibly thoughtful or just plain adorable, the battery cover features an Earth-inspired graphic.

The navy Bioceramic case, crown, and pushers are paired with a matching rubber strap, creating a cohesive deep-space vibe. The hour markers are coated in Grade A Super-LumiNova – because glowing green in the dark a timeless look.

The earth phase indicator boasts oceans that glow blue under UV light, making your wrist a miniature planetarium. And the moon phase indicator features two radiant full moons, both coated in Moonshine Gold. One is undeniably Snoopy-esque, while the other sports a net-like pattern, a playful nod to the Sturgeon Moon.

Now, for the slightly less fun part: the release strategy. Much like all previous Moonshine Gold editions, this cosmic marvel will be exclusively available in select Swatch stores for one day only on the 9th of August, retailing for $380. It’s limited to one per person, per store.

This strategy, while undoubtedly a masterclass in generating fervent queues and FOMO, feels like it will exclude plenty of die-hard Snoopy fans. The stores stocking the watch are also incredibly select, with this looking as though it will be an exclusively US launch, so no luck for anyone who’s based in the UK — you'll have to keep an eye out for aftermarket sales, or call up a stateside buddy to get queuing for you.

• 5 colourful watches you can get away with whatever the occasion

Mondaine, the revered Swiss watchmaker, proudly unveiled its Special Edition Pocket Watch on the 1st of August, a collector's dream that blends timeless design with Swiss precision. It was meant to be a homage to the golden age of watchmaking, a nostalgic nod to an era when timekeeping was an art form. Instead, it became a lightning-fast lesson in supply and demand, selling out in no time at all.

The initial buzz surrounding this limited-edition masterpiece was palpable. Only 200 units were crafted worldwide, each a fusion of Mondaine's iconic railway clock dial and the distinguished form of a pocket watch.

The £380 wonder is encased in a brushed stainless-steel 48mm case with a protective lid. It comes complete with a matching carabiner and chain, either for those who still rock a waistcoat or simply those who like to attach their valuables to a belt loop. Between the classic style and the handy attachments, it's the perfect blend of both elegance and practicality. Each piece was individually numbered and engraved with the Mondaine and SBB logos, making it a truly unique collector's item.

The Special Edition Pocket Watch, inspired by Hans Hilfiker's groundbreaking 1944 Official Swiss Railways Station Clock design, proved to be an irresistible blend of heritage and modern allure.

Its minimalist white background, black geometric markers, and the unmistakable red seconds hand clearly resonated with collectors, who, it seems, have a quicker trigger finger than even the most punctual Swiss train conductor.

So, while the 200 lucky owners are undoubtedly basking in the glow of their newfound treasure, the rest of the world is left to ponder what could have been.

Perhaps Mondaine will consider a "Specialer Edition" next time, for those of us who missed the express train to timeless elegance. On the watches page, it does say “Notify me when available”, where the buy option would be. It feels unlikely you’ll ever get that notification, considering how few have been made, but it’s worth a shot.

• Q Timex 1975 Enigma watch is a gravity-defying nod to a 1970s space-age obsession

London's avant-garde watchmaker, Mr Jones Watches, has once again shattered horological norms with its latest creation, The Odyssey. This isn't just a timepiece; it's a vibrant philosophical statement designed by the visionary Edward Carvalho-Monaghan, challenging the very essence of how we perceive and track the passage of time.

Carvalho-Monaghan, also the creative force behind Mr Jones’s acclaimed The Indefatigable Sphinx, candidly stated, "There’s never enough time in the day to worry about keeping track of hours…Months and years are the appropriate planning horizon."

This unconventional philosophy has birthed a watch that boldly prioritises the date, relegating precise seconds to a playful afterthought - something I’m sure will go down well with your manager.

True to the Mr Jones Watches ethos, The Odyssey is a veritable explosion of colour. The dial, date ring, underside of the sapphire crystal, and even the rotor of the automatic movement have been drenched in a chromatic symphony. The result is a dynamic, layered composition that constantly shifts and evolves as time progresses.

Despite the visual swagger, the watch remains surprisingly legible. Slender black pointers discreetly indicate hours and minutes, offering a subtle nod to traditional timekeeping. A dramatic white lightning bolt serves as the second hand – a whimsical touch for those who might still be attempting to count every tick.

However, the date undeniably commands attention. Displayed in bold red digits against a vibrant yellow wheel, it offers a refreshing perspective by showcasing more than a full week of dates, extending into both the past and future. This serves as a gentle, yet profound, reminder from Carvalho-Monaghan to embrace the big picture.

The Odyssey, priced at £695, will sadly be a rare item, limited to a mere 50 pieces. Its rapid disappearance from the market leaves many hoping for a future limited release from Mr Jones Watches, eager for another opportunity to strap on a timepiece that encourages deep reflection and a healthy disregard for the minutiae of seconds.

• 5 colourful watches you can get away with whatever the occasion

Hold onto your headphones because Bravest Studios has just dropped a bombshell that will make your AirPods case look like, well, an actual AirPods case. Prepare to feast your eyes on the AirPack, a 44-litre backpack that’s essentially a giant, wearable tribute to your beloved tiny tech accessory. Forget subtle — this bad boy is set to launch globally on the 25th July, and luckily for us, Bravest Studios does deliver to the UK.

The AirPack made its grand debut with a pop-up in NYC’s Soho, complete with a billboard mural that probably made actual AirPods feel insecure about their size. Bravest Studios, clearly unconcerned with subtlety, has crafted an all-white capsule that zips open clamshell-style to reveal two dome-shaped pouches. Yes, they look exactly like oversized earbuds.

These removable compartments are perfect for when you need “flexible storage solutions” – which we assume means one for your actual AirPods and one for, like, anything that's roughly the size of a small dog. Plus, there's a padded laptop sleeve because even avant-garde fashion statements need to be practical enough so you can take it into the office.

The AirPack is just the latest in Bravest Studios’ noble quest to turn everyday objects into hilarious art. Remember the Rock Shoe (a sculpture you could wear, apparently)? Or the Toe Slippers and Bear Claw Mules, which clearly proved that footwear can be both fashionable and slightly terrifying? Bravest Studios thrives on bold reinterpretations, a healthy dose of tactile humour, and an unwavering commitment to making you do a double-take.

So, get ready to turn heads and spark conversations. The AirPack isn’t just a bag; it’s a declaration that your love for tech is so profound, it needs to be carried on your back, larger than life. Fashionistas and tech geeks, mark your calendars and prepare to secure this unique piece of wearable art from Bravest Studios’ official webstore when it releases on the 25th of July, when we will also find out how much this bag will set you back.

• The best commuter bags for men: Briefcases, backpacks and slings

For those who believe their travel documents deserve the same level of luxury as they do, Carl Friedrik, the purveyor of premium travel goods, has just dropped its latest sartorial bombshell. Expanding on the wildly popular Sonder collection, the brand has unleashed its first all-leather accessories line.

Returning to its very well-accessorised roots, Carl Friedrik introduces two new small silhouettes: the Foley and the Clifton. Crafted from what sounds like a pampered cow’s finest hide, they are described as "premium, refined full-grain, semi-aniline bovine leather with an elegant grained finish". And for an extra touch of tactile titillation, each piece boasts "smooth vachetta leather details," offering a subtle contrast in texture.

Available in three different colours – Black, Chestnut, and Dark Olive – these accessories will help ensure your entire travel ensemble has perfect synergy, allowing you to look suave whilst panicking through customs. For us, the Dark Olive is certainly the standout in the collection and a must-have for anyone on the market for something like this.

Mattis Oppermann, co-founder of Carl Friedrik, channelled his inner design guru, remarking, “Our approach to designing small leather goods is the same now as it was over a decade ago. Minimalism with purpose, skilled craftsmanship and fine materials are always to the fore.”

First up, the Clifton, an "elegant full-grain leather passport sleeve" that promises to make "light work of moving through the airport."

Forget frantically searching for your boarding pass; this bad boy features a handy extra pocket for stowing all your travel documents. Because who has time for fumbling when you could be gliding through security like a seasoned secret agent? Both primary and secondary leathers are so high-brow, they're "sourced from tanneries certified Gold or Silver by the Leather Working Group." So, you can rest easy knowing your passport is nestled in an ethically sourced embrace.

Then there's the Foley, a leather cardholder that looks both minimalist and classy. Holding up to 8 cards – perfect for those who collect loyalty cards everywhere they go – this "subtly curved silhouette" also boasts a side-opening compartment for cash and receipts. Like its passport carrying sibling, the Foley's leathers are also Gold or Silver certified, ensuring your plastic is housed in the finest, most responsible leather.

The price for this swanky travel sophistication? £125 each. Which isn’t too shabby a price for accessories that will undoubtedly elevate your airport style from dishevelled tourist to effortlessly chic, international man of mystery.

• From Cigarettes & Alcohol to Cufflinks & Class: How Savile Row’s Richard James gave Oasis a sartorial masterplan

Forget AI — the original exam cheat is back. Casio’s put together an all-new range of its iconic calculator watches, perfect for some old-school maths class subterfuge.

Though the Casio calculator watch line itself has a great and decades-long heritage stretching back to 1980, the new CA53WB-1B, CA53WB-1B and CA53WB-8B watches take their inspiration from an even older Casio device. They’re styled around the 1972 Casio Mini, the company’s first personal digital calculator.

Available in black, green and ivory colours, the new watches pop a calculator-style LCD above a full keypad, complete with the Casio Mini number font and grid line. A little red dot in the top right even mimics the old calculator’s power indicator.

You’ll get five years from the built-in battery — a touch more than your modern smartwatch manages — while the calculator function is also paired with dual time, stopwatch and alarm functions.

Now, we know they’re not a match for the complexity of a touchscreen smartwatch, and that you’d just as easily do your calculations on a smartphone app as these piddly little buttons.

But there’s still something devilish about secretly tapping away at your wrist — and the juvenile “5318008” upside down number trick still raises a smile.

On sale later this month, you can sign up for notifications from the Casio website for release date details. They’ll go on sale for $35.95, which converts to roughly £28.

• Timex’s new watch turns back time with incredible $1 / £1 price tag

Some people can be pretty hard to buy for – which is probably why they end up with the same pack of M&S socks year after year.

But beyond multi-packs of pants and socks, there's a world of brilliant gifts you can choose for the men in your life this Christmas - as our best gifts for men list showcases.

Whether they're into music, sports or something else entirely, our best gifts for him guide features a hand-picked selection of the best products out there – no half-hearted last-minute shopping needed.

Top picks include aftershave, whisky, LEGO, a good book and many more gifts no matter your budget.

And, this goes without saying, but these gifts are universal and not just for men - but we're guessing that's who you are buying for, given you have landed on this list.

The best gifts for him at Christmas

• The ultimate best whisky list - don't buy until we've tried.
• The best gifts for whisky lovers

If you want to look cool in the sun, one brand has long dominated: Ray-Ban. But with so pairs out there, which frame do you go for? We're happy to say that we've come to the rescue, collating a list of the best Ray-Ban sunglasses around.

Most famous for its iconic Wayfarer and Aviator lines, the company has made stylish eyewear since the 1930s and is practically the byword for great looking sunglasses - but the big question is: which are the best Ray-Ban styles for you?

• Protect your skin with the best sun cream around right now.

There’s plenty to discover beyond the big names – and we’ve got the scoop. Here’s our pick of the best Ray-Ban sunglasses for you to buy this summer.

Upvote the pair you'd most like to wear, and suggest which frames you think we should add to this shortlist.

Best Ray-Ban sunglasses

Our pick for a Ray-Ban alternative

If you are looking for a pair of sunglasses and want to veer away from Ray-Ban, then we thoroughly recommend a pair from FINLAY. Handmade in Italy (and designed in London), with a line-up full of innovative frames and colours, they really are a stylish brand.

Our pick are the Hamilton frames. They were worn by Liam Gallagher during his Glastonbury sets and we love the unique lens shape.

• Head to FINLAY's official site now to see all the styles available.

Author Bio

Marc Chacksfield

As EIC of Shortlist, Marc likes nothing more than to compile endless lists of an evening by candlelight. He started out life as a movie writer for numerous (now defunct) magazines and soon found himself online - editing a gaggle of gadget sites, including TechRadar, Digital Camera World and Tom's Guide UK. At Shortlist you'll find him mostly writing about movies and tech, so no change there then.

SOMETHING MISSING FROM OUR SHORTLIST?

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If you're heading back to school, college or starting university, then there's one thing that's a must-have: a bag filled with all of your things.

Whether you choose a backpack, old school satchel, tote or big handbag, a good, sturdy bag you can throw everything in is essential for your books, your tech and any other accessories. But what do you really need inside your back to school backpack?

In our list below we've collected together the essentials that we think will make life, studying and everything in-between easier. Think a rain jacket for running between classes, a calculator for keeping tabs on that student budget, a reliable laptop to use in lectures and a power bank to make sure everything else is always juiced up.

We've selected our top picks for each, but have provided some budget alternatives, too. And if there's anything you think we're missing, let us know below.

Back To School: backpack essentials guide

You don’t need the trainer collection of a superstar rapper and 007’s never-ending rails of expensive suits to build yourself the perfect wardrobe - as this wardrobe essentials list proves.

In fact, there are but 10 (count 'em) essential items (you also need underwear but you don't need us to tell you that) that need to be within reaching distance when you’re dressing yourself in the morning.

These are pieces that can work their magic in any number of scenarios, should never leave your side, will never date, can make you feel better about yourself or will simply take the stress out of decoding the dress code.

Get scrolling through our list, and start filling those wardrobe must-have holes ASAP…

1. Slim-cut jeans

Hitting the middle ground between nut-hugging drainpipes and Dad Jeans, the slim-cut silhouette is the most versatile shape a man can get his legs into. Wearing them on te terraces? They look ace with your Fred Perry polo, parka jacket and favourite trainers. Trying to decipher the ‘smart casual’ dress code of your weekend drinks party? On these go with a crisp plain Oxford shirt and a pair of Clarks desert boots. They’re the Swiss Army knife of your wardrobe, especially in indigo.

• ShortList Recommends: Levis 511s

2. Harrington jacket

As much as it may pain the wannabe hell raisers amongst us, not every man can pull of a leather jacket. For some, throwing one on is a whole lot less ‘achingly cool James Dean’ and a whole lot more ‘out-of-work Grease The Musical extra’. But when it comes to the Harrington jacket, you’d need arms where your legs are and legs where your arms are for it not to suit you. Worn by everyone from Steve McQueen to punks, Frank Sinatra to preppy college kids, this undeniably classic garmant, with its iconic tartan lining, is a go-to for nailing the transitional climate between winter and spring. And you’re gonna look real good doing it.

• ShortList Recommends: Stone Island Cotton-Blend Twill Overshirt

3. Leather Brogues

Originally worn by workmen earning their keep in the Great Outdoors of Ireland and Scotland, the perforations you find on a true pair of brogues were put in place to let out the stinking bog water that the wearer may have stepped through while going about his duties. Flash forward to now, and the classic shoe has earned a promotion, ditching rolling hills and sodden grounds in favour of smart drinks parties and work dos. That said, its rugged history still means a pair of hardy brown or oxblood brogues can look most excellent with a crisp pair of dark and turned up jeans.

• ShortList Recommends: Base Darcy Burnished Brogue
  

4. Blue crewneck jumper

Aside from in the middle of a desert, the supporters’ stands at Anfield or in a militant nudist camp, we can’t think of a place where a simple blue crewneck wouldn’t be appropriate.

• ShortList Recommends: Tod Snyder Sweater In Oil Blue

5. Statement socks

We’re not sure if there’s been any highly scientific studies into the effect good quality socks have on professional males, but we’d expect the results to look at little like this: awesome socks make men feel awesome. Not only do fresh-out-of-the-packet feet huggers give you a tiny little “ooooh yes” pep-up in the morning, but a splash of colour between your shoe and trouser hem tells the rest of the world that you take pride in the details, too.

• ShortList Recommends: Pantherella Kilburn

6. Oxford shirt

Pretty much the definition of ‘wardrobe staple’. Get a couple of these button-downs in white, a couple in blue, and never have that ‘but what should I wear to work/the party/the pub/dinner/the date/my holiday’ dilemma again.

• ShortList Recommends: REISS Queens slim-fit long-sleeved linen Oxford shirt

7. Chronograph watch

Ditching the digital Casio and strapping an analog timepiece to your wrist is a rite of passage that sees a boy turn into a man, a step up from burying plastic dinosaurs in sandpits, eating spaghetti hoops with a plastic fork and thinking girls have cooties, to answering questions on University Challenge, appreciating hops in beer and putting together IKEA furniture. A smart yet simplistic but timelessly stylish watch maketh the man.

• ShortList Recommends: Christopher Ward C60 Atoll 300

8. Tortoiseshell Wayfarers

Google Image search for ‘John F Kennedy on a yacht’ and discover how a man should look every weekend, even when he’s got the world’s most powerful country to run. If we can get close to the envious levels of ocean-going chill the former pres achieved in his Wayfarers, we’ll be doing okay.

• ShortList Recommends: Ray-Ban RB4184 sunglasses

9. Leather billfold wallet

Much like the watch, there comes a time in every man’s life where his £5 Umbro wallet (circa 1993) needs to fall into the big pocket in the sky. Hopefully, you’ll only ever need to buy two or three high-quality leather billfolds in your lifetime, but the more beat up they get the better they look so don’t be afraid to get it out regularly to treat yourself to a spending spree.

• ShortList Recommends: Aspinal 8 Card Billfold Wallet

10. Weekend bag

A man with a quality weekend bag is a man that knows how to travel. A man who knows how to travel is a man with a bank of stories worth hearing. A man with a bank of stories worth hearing is a man you want to be friends with. We’re not saying you’ll be Mr. Popular with a bag this smart, but you’ll sure as heck look like it.

• ShortList Recommends: Filson Rugged Twill Medium Duffle

• These are the best Ray-Ban sunglasses you should be buying...

Here’s a collection of desirable items, the best desk toys, to make the hours and Zoom calls melt away. Whether it’s surrounding your break time, mental health, creativity or just plain boredom, here are a whole host items that will improve your 9-5... whatever that is.

These are the best desk toys you can surround yourself with. They won't teach you how to use Excel properly, but they will make the work day go that little bit faster.

Additional reporting: Marc Chacksfield

The best desk toys

• Now your desk is looking awesome, get the best office chair - your back will thank us later.

SOMETHING MISSING FROM OUR SHORTLIST?

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There's no escaping elements, even when the sun is meant to be shining. When it comes to battling the elements only the best umbrellas will do.

It's time to accept keeping dry has once more crept up near top of our collective to-do list. That's right, it's time to start carrying an umbrella again.

It may seem like a not particularly exciting necessity, and we're not going to tell you that buying a new umbrella is going to be the most exciting thing you do this season.

But look a little deeper, rather than just buying the first you find, and you'll see there's more to the humble umbrella. There's a pretty good range of options out there to keep you dry and looking stylish at the same time. Here's our pick of the best umbrellas.

Keep the water off but also keep the water in, with the best reusable water bottles.

Best umbrellas to keep you dry

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Covid-19 is still with us and is set to be a part of our lives for some time to come, which means that we should all be wearing masks wherever possible when out and about. As this best face mask list proves, though, there are some fantastic designs out there to make sure that you look good while protecting yourself and others.

And, hell, if Bane can wear one while overthrowing the world of banking and putting rich people in their place, then we sure as hell can wear some sort of face covering for an hour while we pick up our weekly shopping.

UPDATE: Well, here we are again. With a new strain of Covid-19 it's now more important than ever to wear a face mask when out and about and on public transport. Here's our pick of the best face masks and best face coverings to make sure that you protect yourself and others in style.

If you want to know the government's guidelines for face coverings, then head to the official site.

In short it says: "A face covering is not the same as the surgical masks or respirators used by healthcare and other workers as part of personal protective equipment. These should continue to be reserved for those who need them to protect against risks in their workplace, such as health and care workers, and those in industrial settings, like those exposed to dust hazards."

With that in mind, we've picked out 10 of the best face masks to wear that look great when you wear them. All of them are non medical use but offer the protection the government is asking for. If you want to go further, then please check the small print about just how much the material used filters and protects, as each manufacturer offers a different design.

In the end, it's not about looking cool but protecting you and those around you, so find the right one for you.

• If your hands are chapped after all that washing, head to our best hand cream guide.

Best mask and face coverings

Christmas, for its many positives, is not a particularly environmentally friendly holiday. Food waste is at an all time high, seemingly everything comes wrapped in useless single-use plastic, and novelty toys, played with once and then discarded, end up scattered all over the house before eventually being chucked.

When you're trying to be a bit more environmentally conscious, this can be a pretty depressing spectacle. But it's not impossible to have a slightly more eco-friendly Christmas – and some of it's down to the gifts you buy.

We've collated the best vegan, vegetarian, plastic-free and ethical gifts out there so you can spread festive cheer with a clear conscience.

Best ethical Christmas gifts

• Best vegan cookbooks: brilliant vegan recipes you need in your life
• Best vegan chocolate: dairy-free and plant-based treats
• Best gifts for vegans - great vegan-based gifts.

We asked some of the best minds in the business world what they have on their desk and how it affects their day to day business lives.

These are the desk accessories you need to make sure you are getting the most out of your office.

1. Get a grasp of global culture

Nigel Travis, former CEO of Dunkin’ Donuts and owner of Leyton Orient Football Club

“I have a globe that rotates as it sits there – I’ve had it for eight years and I must say, I haven’t a clue how it does it. It’s important to think of the world as a whole. I’ve been in business for 50 years and the world has become smaller: people travel more and have a greater awareness of global issues. The implications of social media are critical, too. The globe reminds me how small the world is and gives me perspective. It also helps me think more broadly.”

Buy an office globe now

2. Curate a gallery of greatness

Matt Barr, director of sports agency All Conditions Media

“I’ve got my favourite snowboarding photo, by Nick Hamilton, on the wall. It’s a sick powder shot, but it’s not terrifying. It’s a talking point. It’s always, ‘Wow, where was that taken?!’ People expect me to say somewhere like Alaska. When I tell them it’s by a lift in Val d’Isère, they get that it symbolises what the sport’s about and our role in communicating it.”

Check out Matt’s action sports podcast Looking Sideways (wearelookingsideways.com)

3. Never work late again

Dan Kieran, CEO and founder of crowdfunding publisher Unbound

“My desk is a total f*cking mess. Among the pictures of my kids, books I’ve written and tons of post, I have a plasticine sloth lying on a log. Sloths are my favourite animal. People see them as lazy, but they’re incredibly efficient. It’s a good symbol for how I like to work: they don’t waste time doing sh*t they don’t need to do. I try to act the way I expect other people to: I never work late, I’m not on a power-trip. Old-school power plays don’t work, and smart people don’t put up with that sh*t.”

4. Let a hawk bring you luck

Patrick Grant, creative director at fashion labels E Tautz and Norton & Sons

“My desk is littered with oddities, from a pair of 19th-century mill-worker’s clogs to Staffordshire porcelain dogs. But my 37cm-high Sasano-Bori hand-carved and hand-painted Taka [hawk] – a gift from the buyer at Beams in Tokyo – is the most commanding. It’s a beautiful and rare object that’s taken a skilled craftsman a lot of time and care to create. Everything we do aims to be all of those things, so it’s a reminder of that. The world needs to make fewer but better things.”

5. Deploy full sensory overload

Rupert Rixon, founder of digital agency Perspective Pictures

“One wall of our office is covered in newspaper clippings, art we’ve commissioned, letters from clients, polaroid photos and other stuff we’ve accumulated. When a client comes into the office, I’ll greet them there, offer them a tea and leave them to take in the wall as I head to the kitchen. Not only is it the ultimate ice-breaker – people always have questions when I get back – but it’s a way for them to discover what we’re about without me having to open my mouth to pitch or explain it.”

6. Make the most of mementos

Andrew Reeve, CEO and founder of online beer shop HonestBrew

“It sounds obvious, but if you walk into our office, you’re going to notice the beer fridge. It’s stacked with some of the best from around the globe. I’ve got some of the world’s rarest beers, too. For example, I have a bottle that I bought when I started the company: a Shnoodlepip by The Wild Beer Co. The last one I cracked open for a meeting was a Cuvée by Tommie Sjef, from a tiny brewery in The Netherlands. My beer is like an updated version of the whisky in Mad Men: beer instead of bourbon.”

7. Immortalise yourself in art

Jamie Waller, CEO of Wisehill debt-collection company

“I have a couple of bronze sculptures. One, on my handmade Neal Jones desk, is of the Wall Street bull, and reflects my attitude towards business. The other, by royal sculptor Frances Segelman, is a bust of me. It’s a real talking point. People think someone who has a bronze sculpture of themselves must have bundles of self-confidence. The truth is, it was a gift from me to my two daughters.”

Jamie’s book Unsexy Business is out now (Harriman House)

8. Puzzle out who the bozos be

Alistair Barr, founder of award-winning architects Barr Gazetas

“I have a model of the ARoS museum in Denmark on my desk. The building is a cube with a circular walkway on top, and the model is an oak cube with a brass ring. It represents my feelings about architecture and creativity, but half my visitors use it as a coaster! It has ended up being my test to sort those who are confused from the creatives.”

Alistair contributed to the book Creative Superpowers, out now (Unbound)

• You need the best office chairs to go alongside these brilliant desk accessory ideas.

As seasoned travellers know, the best way to take the stress out of flying, cruising or road trips is to be organised - and the best travel suitcase will help you to that.

With the world they way it is, travel has been the last thing any of us can do but now that flights are restarting and countries are opening up, it's essential you head to your destination of choice with the ultimate travel suitcase for you.

Having the right travel suitcase is essential - especially on shorter trips when maximising space or protecting the contents from emerging creased or damaged is paramount. It can be the difference between a relaxing break and a breakdown.

It pays to choose a case that’s right for the job. Slim and lightweight enough to zip past bag-drop? Or small enough to squeeze into the boot of a compact hire car, while still having space for all your stuff?

Airplane cabin-friendly cases should be high on your wishlist. Well-positioned straps, zipped compartments and pockets can be the difference between packing nightmare and packing nirvana.

The final feature to look for is the wheels – double spinners can make pulling a case along infinitely easier so don’t forget to test-drive your favourite from the below picks to see how well they glide.

Best travel suitcase

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• The best travel books: find your ultimate destination.

Side gigs, increased working from home and remote working will continue even when the pandemic goes away, so why not make the thing you sit at for eight hours a day work a little better for you now?

That's where our best desk accessories guide come in. Whether it is practical, for show or entertainment, a desk accessory is an essential bit of WFH kit.

Now you have your shiny new desk - and if you don't yet have a chair, then may we recommend out best office chair and best budget office chair guide - these are the things, the gadgets, the gizmos that will elevate your setup from bland to bloody marvellous.

The best desk accessories

• The best desk lamps, revealed: first-rate desk lamps to light up your life with.

Tag Heuer has revealed its fun side with its latest collaboration - a TAG Heuer x Super Mario smartwatch.

Taking the iconic video game character and embedding it into the watch's wellness tracking capabilities - as well as the watch's design - Tag Heuer has teamed up with Nintendo to offer "a fun new way to get more active, feeling the thrill of achieving goals throughout the day".

Teased initially on Instagram, the new watch is a limited edition version of its TAG Heuer Connected, complete with a new strap and case - both in the iconic Mario red - and some nice flourishes in the design, including three Mario symbols on the bezel and an engraved M on the buckle of the strap and the crown.

It's the animations that will bring out the Mario fan in you, though. Tag Heuer has created three new watch faces: a 1985 version of Super Mario Bros, one that uses Super Mario’s iconic red and blue colours, and a more classic one with subtle touches of Super Mario’s red cap.

When it comes to the fitness side of things, you get all-new Mario animations. According to Tag Heuer, "The animations are based on the gamification rewards system: Mario greets you with a welcoming salute in the morning and as the day progresses and you rack up your step count, you unlock rewards at each stage of your daily target – 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% – a different animation plays out on the dial."

The include, Mario growing after eating a mushroom, heading down a pipe and turning invincible.

There are a number of other Mario features embedded in the watch, too, with Tag Heuer promising some nice surprises.

The TAG Heuer x Super Mario smartwatch is limited edition, with 2,000 watches available only in selected TAG Heuer boutiques and at Tag Heuer's official site as of 15 July - you can register your interest now. Price wise, it's thought the watch will cost £1,800 / $2,150.

An Apple Watch is a practical device. They help you keep on top of notifications, plan meetings, track your health and more.

But making sure they actually look good - with the help of the best Apple Watch strap - is vital too. After all, you wear them all day.

From subtle, minimalist designs to statement pieces, there are plenty of straps to pick and choose from, making sure you can express your individuality whilst you get on with your day’s work.

Here’s our pick of the best. Upvote your favourite.

Best Apple Watch straps

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‘Gardens are not made by singing ‘Oh, how beautiful,’ and sitting in the shade,’ as Rudyard Kipling once pointed out. So if you haven’t done so already, now is a good time to start a love affair with your garden by giving it some TLC and using a selection of the best garden tools.

If you’ve never planted a seed or pulled out a weed, a blooming garden is achievable and with the right tools and it won’t take too much effort either.

We’ve searched high and low to find the most useful and intuitive garden gadgets around. We’ve chosen designs that are ergonomic – to avoid backache – and those that are efficient and time saving – to give you more time to enjoy a G&T afterwards.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro with fingers as green as the Incredible Hulk, or a novice to all things horticulture, these gadgets will make it easy to get your garden looking luscious in lockdown.

Take a closer look at our pick of the best garden tools below to create a fertile looking lawn and get your flowerbeds ready for action.

• These are the best kitchen gadgets to turn you into a cooking pro.

Best garden tools

Best gardening tools: more guides to help with your gardening

We've spent weeks testing some of the best gardening tools - here's a link to some more of our in-depth gardening guides...

Our top choice for a cordless lawnmower

If you are lucky enough to have a lawn, then you will probably have been using it quite a lot during lockdown. We have one and we know they are a git to maintain. That's why we spent hours testing the best cordless lawnmower for our guide. We looked at 14 different cordless lawnmowers and the Stihl RMA 235 Compact cordless lawn mower is without a doubt our best value choice. This is thanks to its low weight, as well as its slim and non-fussy design. This means you can steer it through both long and short grass with ease.

Bring your garden indoors with our top choice of house plant

The humble house plant has had something of a resurgence of late and we've been buying them up and trying our hardest not to kill them. We are big fans, as our best house plants guide shows, of the Opuntia Microdasys Pallida Cactus. Yes, it's expensive but the Mickey Mouse eared cactus will look great in any home and is easy to maintain, too. You only have to water when the top soil has gone dry and in the winter months this equates to around once a month.

Once your garden is done, then get the BBQ on

There is a very good reason you have a garden and, more often than not, it is to entertain. And you can't do better than entertaining with a dam good barbie. When the weather figures out what it is doing, then we recommend the Weber Master-Touch GBS Premium E-5775. This is a fantastic charcoal BBQ that is expensive but is without a doubt one of the best we have ever tested, with its innovative heat system and the overall design of the thing.

Whether it’s an essay for college, a report for work, or the epic novel that you’ve alway wanted to write, getting the words our of your head and down on paper - or on screen - can be hard work, especially in this day and age with so many distractions to deal with.

Fortunately, there’s a whole host of tech available to help make the process that bit easier, as this 'best writing software and gadgets for writers' list proves. It includes gadgets to help you get down your first draft, software to help block distractions, and tools to help you edit and improve your prose.

A decent notebook goes without saying, and Word and Google Docs are also no-brainers, but they’ll only go so far towards helping you reach the finish line, so below you'll find the best gadgets and software to help ease your path towards literary stardom.

The best writing software and gadgets for writers

Amazon Prime Day is always a great time to pick up a pair of discounted trainers so it's even more frustrating that we have had to wait for months for Prime Day.

While Prime Day usually takes place in July, Amazon Prime Day 2020 has yet to surface. While all the rumours point to a mid-October event, there's been no official confirmation so far. So, while we are waiting we thought that we would take a trip down memory lane and see what bargains could have been had last year.

Last year, we picked five top trainer deals from some of the biggest, most recognised brands. And we, at least, found their sizes to be fairly neutral.

There was 44% off the Puma Icra, a classic old-school design that can even look smart if paired with the right clothes. They have a suede leather upper for added resilience and breathability.

You could have also saves on a pair of classic Vans last Amazon Prime Day. Prices started at £20.29, incredibly low for genuine Vans.

If you wanted a pair that will also do the job for the gym or running, then the Nike Tanjun trainer discounted would have been for you.

For more ideas check out our best trainers shortlist and we have listed the best Amazon Prime trainer deals from last year below (as well as some gift guides).

• Best gifts for runners
• Best gifts for gamers
• Best gifts for coffee lovers
• Best gifts for bakers
• Best gifts for wine lovers

Best Amazon Prime Day trainer deals last year

As you'll probably know from Instagram, glossy magazines or your local hipster cafe, house plants are firmly in fashion but what are the best house plants for you?

Plants look good, obviously, but they also bring other benefits. Certain types of plants can even improve the air quality in your home.

UPDATE:If having house plants has gotten you excited about outdoor gardening, then you need to head to our best garden tools guide. In it you will find everything from sprinklers to smart lights to make your garden look cool, even at night. There are also a whole bunch of garden gadgets in there to get rid of those pesky weeds.

For the more green-thumbed, this is very good news. But for people who can pretty much kill a plant just by looking at it, it can be somewhat more frustrating.

But whether you're an expert gardener or you need something very low-maintenance that won't mind a bit of neglect, there's a house plant out there for you.

From the low-effort spider plant to the super-cool monstera, we've got the lowdown on the best house plants you can buy – and how to care for them.

For the green fingered out there, here are the best cordless lawnmowers we've tested.

Best houseplants to brighten your home

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The best gaming headset can immerse you in the single-player virtual worlds even more fully. And when it comes to competitive online multiplayer games, they can greatly enhance your chances of survival.

Being able to tell where that distant gunshot is coming from, or to hear the shuffle of approaching feet, may be the difference between a win and a loss (or at the very least an annoying respawn). And a decent microphone is vital if you intend to coordinate with your fellow players.

Picking out the right set of gaming headphones can be a daunting process, however. There are just so many of the things out there, not all of which will work perfectly with your chosen platform.

Here are ten of the best gaming headsets on the market, whether you’re playing on PS4, Xbox One or PC.

• Want another upgrade? Read our comparison of the best game consoles.

Best gaming headset

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Whether you're a personal grooming maven or someone who owns nothing more than a bar of soap and a toothbrush, you could benefit from the best toiletry bag.

If you have lots of products, it's obvious why you'd want something stylish to keep all of your bits and bobs in: tweezers, scissors, skincare, make-up, flannels...

But even if you favour a simple approach to personal care, you'll still need something for when you go on holiday – and why not make your bathroom look a little bit nicer while you do it?

From the cheap and cheerful to more expensive investments, we've gathered some of the best toiletry bags you can buy now. And don't forget to vote for your favourites.

• Get fully tooled-up for your next holiday with one of the best travel suitcases

Best toiletry bags 2020

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The Apple Watch has completely revolutionised the wearables market. Now on to the Apple Watch Series 5, which adds an always-on screen and compass, it's created a smartwatch bar that's been set very high.

As good as the gadget is, though: you still need to charge your Apple Watch every day - which is where our pick of the best Apple Watch stands comes in.

To do that in style you need a stand. Buy one for your bedside table or desk at work and the Apple Watch turns into a mini alarm clock, thanks to its Nightstand mode.

We’ve tracked down from of the best Apple Watch stands around, from budget picks under £10 to hand-crafted ones that are arguably even classier than the watch itself.

Upvote the one you’d put on your bedside cabinet.

• Use your Apple Watch for fitness tracking? Don't miss out best running shoes test.

Best Apple Watch stand

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Even though many of the best smartphones on the market right now have extended battery life, if you listen to a podcast, edit some photos and scroll through social media on your commute you might still be running low on juice by the time you get to the office. The answer: one of these best wireless chargers

UPDATE: We've added the SanDisk iXpand wireless charger to our list. It may be one of the more expensive options but it serves a double function. Not only will it charge your phone, it will back up your photos while it does it. It even creates separate profiles for each member of your family, too - so there's no chance of your holiday photos being mixed up with your mum's 100 photos of the cat.

The reason we recommend them is because they're so easy to use. Work in an office? Slap a wireless charge pad down on that desk so your phone gets a juice-up while sitting there doing nothing. Or add extra pads to your bedside table and kitchen worktop, and you may never need to actually plug your phone in again.

We’ve looked at some of the best options out there for iPhone and Android devices, in an effort to make sure you’ll never have your battery die at an inopportune moment again. One obvious tip: make sure your phone actually supports wireless charging before you hit the checkout.

Upvote the wireless charging pad you'd recommend to a friend.

• Do you have a burning hatred for cables? These are our top picks for the best wireless headphones
• For on the go, why not try one of our best portable chargers

Best wireless phone charger pad

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If you’re anything as clumsy as us, you really need one of these best iPhone XR cases to protect your phone. You have probably dropped your iPhone all over the place.

On a night out, wandering around the office, on your face when you’re texting in bed. Sometimes you’re lucky – your phone, and its precious, precious glass, is safe. You breathe a sigh of relief and carry on with your life.

Other times, you’re not so lucky. Faced with a screen smashed into a thousand tiny smithereens, you have one thought: “I really should have bought that phone case, huh?”.

Well, worry no more. Luckily for you, we’ve collected some of the best cases out there for your iPhone XR – saving you considerable agony (and money). You’re welcome.

• Also check out our best iPhone 11 cases, best iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max cases and the best wireless headphones to pair with your iPhone

Best iPhone XR cases

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Let’s be honest – we’ve probably all slipped, maybe or maybe not after a few drinks, forgotten to cover our handset with one of the best iPhone XS cases and smashed our precious iPhone screens.

You’re then left with two options, neither of which are ideal. You get a dodgy screen repair done on the cheap or splash out on a whole new handset.

A better solution? Not smashing it in the first place, genius. Phone cases now come in a range of sizes, colours, designs and budgets – so whatever you’re looking for, you’re covered.

UPDATE: If you're lucky enough to be able to watch Disney+, you'll love this Baby Yoda phone case. Not only does it feature the adorable character known as The Child, it also has a rubber bumper that keeps your phone crack free and a hard frame to avoid scratches.

Here’s our pick of the best iPhone XS cases. Don't forget to upvote your favourites and let us know if we've missed one in the comments below.

• Want to know how your iPhone XS fares against other mobiles? Take a look at our review of the best camera puhones
• Upgraded? These are the best iPhone 11 cases.

Best iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max cases

SOMETHING MISSING FROM OUR SHORTLIST?

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Buying for pretty much anyone nowadays is notoriously difficult. But what about buying for kids?

One minute they're into Paw Patrol, the next they're into Peppa Pig – and you're left dumbfounded and unsure what on earth to put under the Christmas tree.

So if you've got a child in your life who you need to buy for, strap in – we have everything you're going to need.

And don't worry too much if they don't like their gift – they'll probably have more fun with the box, anyway.

If you want some more present ideas, then head over to our ultimate Christmas gift guide - where we have all sorts of interesting things to buy, watch and do. You might also want to look at our best LEGO set round up and our best toys guide.

Best Christmas gifts for kids

Gone are the days where we were just happy with a £2 chocolate advent calendar. You can now get everything from make-up to booze behind those little doors, and the calendars definitely have the price tag to match.

However, Tiffany & Co has just launched a luxury advent calendar that makes them all look cheap as chips in comparison.

Behind every door of this massive 4-foot-tall calendar is a gift valued between £100 and £13,000, and with only two in the world available, it is priced at an eye-watering £104,000. (Suddenly that £50 gin advent calendar does seem so bad).

Behind each door is an iconic Tiffany Blue Box containing gifts such as diamond pendants, the new Tiffany 1837 Makers watch (worth over £3k) and jewellery from the Tiffany T collection in which rings begin at £335.

The design of the calendar was inspired by the flagship store in New York, and drawn by illustrator Pat Vale. Fun fact: Vale helped launch the new iPad Pro and Apple Pencil in 2015 and he, along with his artwork, were featured in the TV ad for the products.

Only one of the two calendars on sale is available in the UK, and it will be available to buy exclusively from Harrods from 9 November.

So if you really want it, and happen to have over £100k lying around, then be ready to fight for it.

• If you’re looking for something more in your price range, take a look at our best adult advent calendars

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If someone in your life is a big fan of cats (not a big-cat fan), then buying for them just got a whole lot easier, thanks to this best gifts for cat lovers' guide.

Of course, you could get them something for their kitty – a scratching pole, cat treats or a ball with a bell in it. Or you could get them something a bit zany and over the top that only a true cat lover will appreciate.

Whether they’re a Game of Thrones fan who needs cuddles after the end of season eight, a tea or coffee drinker after some help with passive aggressiveness in the workplace, or a board game enthusiast always in the mood to get their game on, we’ve got a treat for you… or them; definitely them.

Prices range from under £10 to just over £35, so none of these gifts will break the bank, and most are available with free next day delivery on Amazon Prime - get your 30-day free trial if you haven't already.

Next up, check out the best compact cameras to snap the perfect feline portrait.

Here are some cat-themed gift ideas that will get your friends and family into a feline frenzy.

Best gifts for cat lovers

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High quality headphones are one of those things you really can’t scrimp on. We’ve all been witness to the incredible drop in quality when you have to emergency-buy a tinny, noise-leaking £8.99 pair in a supermarket after you leave yours at home.

And these new Melomania 1 wireless in-ear headphones from Cambridge Audio have shot straight to the top of our wishlist. The company is best known for its hi-fi and home cinema products, and the Melomania is its first product of this kind.

They are true wireless earphones: no cables at all.

The most notable thing about the model is its battery life. Cambridge Audio says the Melomania 1 last nine hours on a single charge, significantly more than other true wireless models. They also come with a charging carry case with a further four charges – meaning you can get nearly 40 hours of use on the go. Unlikely to be caught short, then.

Battery capacity aside, the Melomania 1 have some impressive specs. Their speaker drivers are graphene-coated, and Bluetooth 5.0 tech promises significant signal stability (an ongoing issue for wireless headphones).

High quality mics and noise-cancelling tech also allow you to take calls that are clear and background-noise free. An incredibly low weight – 4.6g each – means they’re not cumbersome to carry around with you.

And they’re even water and sweat resistant – so you don’t have to worry about getting them wet when it starts to rain.

You can buy the Melomania from Cambridge Audio from 11th June at a cost of £119.95.

Want to see what else is out there? Check out our selection of the best wireless headphones.

Let the hunt begin… Knowing what you want doesn’t always mean you can find it, especially in the world of fine and rare watches. It takes time and effort to search the thousands of watches online. We know your time is precious, so let us hunt down the watch of your dreams.

Launching in October 2018, Chrono Hunter is a revolutionary new service for watch enthusiasts and collectors, a unique online luxury broker that connects buyers looking for or selling fine, rare and vintage watches with a hand-picked network of dealers. It is also the first platform to deliver personalised, real-time offers for watches along with a guarantee of availability.

To celebrate its launch, Chrono Hunter will give away a Rolex Submariner, worth more than £6,000, to the one person who can guess exactly how long it will take for the ice block to melt and free the watch encased within. The block of ice in question measures 100cm x 50cm x 20cm. Enter your best guess between 24 October and 4th November 2018 and watch it happen on 5 November at 8am. 

Follow Chrono Hunter on Instagram or have a look at the website. 

CLICK TO ENTER

UK18+ only. Opens: 24.10.2018 Closes: 11:59PM 4.11.18. 1 winner will receive a Rolex Submariner watch. By entering the prize draw, you agree that you have read and understood Chrono Hunter’s Terms and Conditions and agree that you will be bound by them. Normal exclusions apply. Prize draw commences on 24.10.18, and entries close and must be received by 11:59PM 4.11.18. On 5 November @8am the video starts, 5 November @8pm: video ends and competition ends The winner will be selected by way of guessing the correct time the ice block took to melt. There will be one winner in total (the “Winner(s)”). The Winner(s) will be notified by the Promoter by email within 10 days of the Closing Date. The winner will be notified via phone or email. The winner must accept the prize within 2 weeks of notification otherwise a redraw will take place (“Claim Period”), and provide their full name, postal address, and contact telephone number. Full terms and conditions here. Promoter: Chrono Hunter. Supplier: Chrono Hunter. This an external prize draw with entries having no direct affiliation with Shortlist Media. Please see Chrono Hunters Privacy Policy for more details. 

What the hell is the time, ever? Whatever is the time? At any given point, what the hell is the godforsaken time? You don’t know, do you, because you ain’t got a watch on, you cavalier, time-ignorant rogue. How on earth are you supposed to know what time you’ve got to meet your pals at the bowling alley, eh? They’re gonna start without you! And that’s the least of your problems - your wrist also looks rubbish.

So what you’ve got to do to rectify this situation is get yourself a nice wristwatch, so that you can a) get to bowling on time and b) have a smart-looking wrist that everyone’s jealous of. And you can do this for under £200, didn’t you know? You don’t have to shell out a diaphragm-busting £10,000 to buy a fancy-looking watch, mate, you can do it on a budget. And I’m gonna tell you how:

Here:

Below:

Is where I’ll tell you:

The Drumline in blue nubuck by NEWGATE (£149)

That’s some minimalist smoothness right there - just imagine rubbing your cheek against that nubuck strap like a big bipedal cat on the tube, getting funny looks from the entire carriage, purring loud enough to put everyone on immediate edge, being forcibly removed at the next station. Yeah, that’s a watch right there.

Signature men’s classic timepiece with part rose gold plating by ACCURIST (£124.99)

Want a bit of a Rolex, East-End flash on your arm but don’t want to spend your entire house fund? Look no further than Accurist’s Signature collection, a range of classic designs for a mouth-watering price. Bang this number round your wrist and the fur coat will come next - you’re a hard-nut and everyone knows it. Get a pitbull, too, while you’re at it - THE BIG MAN IS BACK IN TOWN.

Huxley by JOULES (£95)

Lovely bit of classic sailor’s watch style going on here, teamed with a smart leather strap and some subtle blue detailing. “One million quid” you say, as you roll up your sleeve, “One actual million quid this cost GET OFF YOU CAN’T TOUCH IT” you snap your arm away “Don’t touch what you can’t afford,” you adjust your tie, flashing your watch once more, “Right, trigonometry, everyone turn to page 45 in their textbooks.”

Sphère grande brown by ADEXE (£99)

Look at the colour of the face on this watch - is it just about the sexiest thing of which the human brain is capable of thinking? It’s reserved for only the sexiest of beasts. The true lotharios amongst us. Team that with a red leather strap, and well, you had better batten down the hatches because you’ll have a horde of hungry paramours after your business.

Chancery by HENRY LONDON (£60)

Forget the blue face, you never see a red face, do you? Apart from every time you see your kindly neighbour Ken, of course, but on a watch? That’s rare. Rare, and it turns out, rather nice. This classical design with a modern strap keeps it simple and silver, and then thwacks you round the chops with a big red herring - ain’t seen that face around here before, have we? Apart from on Ken, we mean.

Marlin leather strap by TIMEX (£174.99)

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The Timex Marlin was a 1960’s staple piece from the brand, and they’ve whipped it back into shape and brought it back through time to the present day. Ask it what black and white television was like. Ask it about the first time it saw The Beatles live. Ask it if its ever done acid. The tales this watch will tell, eh? If it could talk. It can’t, but it is lovely.

District_M1 by ADIDAS (£120)

ROSE GOLD! BAM! I’M SHOUTING IT! ROSE GOLD IS SO NICE THE WORDS DEMAND TO BE SHOUTED! ROSE GOLD! OOF! LOOKY HERE! THAT’S A NICE WATCH! ADIDAS HAVE DONE IT AGAIN! ROSE! GOLD! RO! SUH! GOL! DUH!

Adventure green by RAYMOND & PEARL (£190)

Oh, you thought a red face (and blue face) was the only rogue direction you’d be taking today? Well, what about veering down the green road? Simple, stylish, pared-back face, classic black leather strap, then woah a green face. Not everyone will be daring enough for this, but for those that are? Well, welcome to Cool Town.

Holst titanium and brown leather smartwatch by SKAGEN (£169)

Hey, you! Did you know that this was a smartwatch? Nope, you did not, because it is only £169 and it doesn’t look terrible. Well, newsflash, buckerino, it absolutely is - you’ll get phone notifications, automatic time update, activity and sleep tracking, a phone finder, music control and “more”. It’s like we’re in Blade Runner or something. Back To The Future. Blade To The Future.

Vivid Klinga by TRIWA (£149)

Juicy slice of Scandi design here, with a modern style, not too busy, but with a unique little flash of multicolour styling - a nice bit of kit, this. Put it on your wrist and you’ll be Stylish Sam the Swish Sexy Suitor. Put it on your leg if your ankles are thin enough. Do whatever you want - I’m not your dad, I keep telling you this.

GW170 by SWATCH (£36)

Like your Nike Off-Whites? Of course you do, you big sneaker freak! Well, why not extend that design choice up to your arm, with this quirky little work-in-progress timepiece.

“Your watch ain’t finished!” the youths will shout.

“Get wrecked, ya big cows in blouses!” you’ll reply, in your head, never out loud. NEVER OUT LOUD.

A168WEM-2EF by CASIO (£26)

An all-time classic style here, by your reliable and faithful friend, Casio. Twenty six measly pounds of money is all it will cost to own this, even if it does have a fancy turquiose screen. Which by the way, it should have - if you’re going for this style (one of the most popular in the whole world) make sure you get one with a splash of colour to make it stand out. Nobody likes a sheep. Especially a sheep that can tell the time. They are the most dangerous of all.

BN0142 BN0142WHBLG by BRAUN (£124)

That’s a funny looking razor, you say, doing your best impression of a dad. Yeah, turns out that Braun make watches, too - who’d have literally “thunk” it? Also turns out they make pretty nice ones, if this is anything to go by, because that there, up there, just up above, is a nifty wrist-ornament. Unusual design, too. All round quality and you deserve it.

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It’s June, everyone, and you know what that means! It means: not only are we one step closer to death, we are also in a new month, which means you are allowed to buy at least one new item of clothing to celebrate. 

And with June being the second-best month, that’s an even better excuse to slap down some dough on a very considered (thank us later) purchase. Here are some nudges for you:

Dark teal camp anorak by RAINS (£89)

Rain, rain, go away, come again another day. Stupid, reckless rhyme for colossal morons, that, because rain should absolutely not come back another day. Still, it will, and it does, so you might as well be prepared for it. A poncho doesn’t really cut it in today’s fashion-conscious landscape (this ain’t Disneyland, you child), so you’re going to be wanting a nice understated anorak to keep those shoulders dry. This muted jacket from Rains is the perfect choice - just look at it up there, keeping a ghost dry.

Buy here

Silver Skinpole watcher by SWATCH (£105)

“What time is it?” says your mate.

“I have no idea because I do not have a watch. My life is a mess.” says you. 

Sort it out and slap one round your wrist then. A nice, smart, simple, silver piece like this from noted watch-obsessives Swatch will do just “the trick”. Should said trick be “telling the time”, of course. You’ll need a magic wand if you want to go invisible or something.

Buy here

Aop white team orange Air Max 98 by NIKE (£150)

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MNN.

Stands for: More Nice Nikes.

Buy here

Space camo duffle bag by BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB (£160)

Duffel bags are either very boring or very disgusting. There’s nothing we can do from stopping it turning disgusting (stop putting wet clothes in it, for Peter’s sake), but we can certainly push you in the direction of an un-boring one. This BBC one spins a little space yarn as it hangs by your side, and will stand out in the correct way for the sixth months it takes for it to stand out in the wrong way. Please just keep it clean, you ape.

Buy here

Blue seersucker shorts by FARNOL X LOU DALTON (£35)

Yes, seersucker, that’s where it’s at - if not just for having something to fiddle with and run those un-worked fingers of yours over while you’re sitting down. Lovely texture, has seersucker - and adding it to shorts gives what is often one of the most bland items of clothing, a little bit of that all-elusive personality. Feels a dream on the old pins too, mate.

Buy here

Conifer green Nomad medium backpack by MOLESKINE (£85)

ARSBIWDSSO.

Stands for: A Rather Stylish Backpack If We Do Say So Ourselves.

Buy here

Candy Pink/Orange Peel/White GOLF le FLEUR* One Star Suede by CONVERSE (£90)

Suede shoes - yeah, a risk on par with doing a slackline across Niagra Falls. One wayward step and everything’s over. But if you can guarantee the shoe’s safety, then hoo boy, you’ve got yourself a smart pair of sneakers right there.

Treat them to a ten minute Crep Protect shower, basically. You can never be too careful.

Buy here

Donald 4 shirt by TIGER OF SWEDEN (£139)

It’s cotton, but it looks like denim. So you get the style without the heaviness - nice and airy, but you still look like an American tough guy. Well done, you have successfully pulled the wool over your detractors’ eyes, and also your pits are dry. A day of personal victory for you - bottoms up!

Buy here

50/50 Dexter Navy t shirt by EVERPRESS X AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL (£25)

Feel bad about flicking up that wallet into the air, then booting a couple of notes out into the ether, all because of a t-shirt? Well don’t, because if you whip it out for this tee, then half of your dosh is hurtling towards the artist, and the other is slipping neatly into the post box of Amnesty International. Your conscience is clear. 

Buy here

Brown tape side skinny fit chino by RIVER ISLAND (£35)

Brown chinos? Are we suggesting you drop it all and become a geography teacher? We’re not (but it’s fine if that’s what you want to do), because these River Island chinos have jazzed a stale item up into the skies by dashing an on-trend side-stripe into the mix. So if you were to become a geography teacher, you’d be the coolest hot darn Geog Teach of them all.

Jokes* aside though, these are nice aren’t they?

Buy here

*Apologies, geography is no joke

Never, ever, go anywhere without a wristwatch. It’s essential, and even if you can’t tell the time (who can nowadays), it looks mighty smart.

“But what if I want to dive off a cliff into the sea, like a majestic pelican?” you screech - well, you get a waterproof one, like Certina’s new top-notch diving model, the DS Action Diver Powermatic 80 STC Special Edition.

The watch comes in three colourways, and is water-resistant to 300m, which is hopefully way deeper than you should ever be venturing. Take a look at what you will agree is a rather handsome model:

That’ll certainly look mighty fetching on that there wrist of yours, but there’s an added bonus that comes with buying one of these - it’ll save lives. The lives of turtles, specifically, for Certina have become a partner of the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC), and this is an exclusive model to celebrate the partnership. As such, a slice of the proceeds will go to the STC, to help conserve those beshelled underwater beauts.

So what you get is a nice looking arm, a chance to learn how to tell the time, and the unmatched feeling of virtue that comes with the knowledge that you are a life-saver.

Each watch is priced at £655 and can be bought here, from June.

(Images: Certina)

Gets a bit repetitive, banging on about summer, doesn’t it? But when you live in the UK, and there is actually sunshine outside, then you’ve gotta brace yourself for everyone and their very uncomfortable dog to start the vocal deluge. And you know what? We’re joining forces with them, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Don’t believe us? Watch this:

OH GOD IT’S SO SUNNY HERE ARE SOME THINGS TO WEAR IN IT:

Arket beige pima cotton knitted jacket (£135)

And there’s your first curve-ball - the sun may be out, but so is that goddamn wind, so soak up the heat while simultaneously feeling comfortable in the shade with this nice slice of knitwear. There’s something to be said for one extra layer even though you might think you’re good to go sleeveless - it’s nice to be prepared - think of yourself as an urban Bear Grylls, ready for absolutely anything.*

*Well, like a temperature change of about ten degrees, anyway

Buy here

Illesteva Tribeca II mirrored sunglasses (£147)

You’ve got to be wary with mirrored sunglasses, because if you’re not careful, you’ll end up looking like the type of person who’s been on a ski-season for about ten years. These are a tad more understated, and they’re housed within a sleek frame - it’ll be hard to look bad in these.

Buy here

FOR dalton cropped tailored trousers (£34.99)

The only part of a suit it’s actually desirable to wear when it’s hot - grab a nice pair of cropped trou (and bloody get your ankles out, you rogue!), pair them with some simple white trainers and hello, look at you.

Buy here

Balenciaga text front leather folded card holder (£165)

What this thing, here, does, is hold your credit cards, all of which have now hit their limit.

Buy here

Dr Martens X Engineered Garments milkshake 1461 Smith shoes (£185)

Are these shoes very nice? Oh my, they absolutely are - perfect for wearing in the day, but goodness, avoid heading anywhere where somebody might scuff them. Maybe it’s best to just frame them, stick them up on the wall and never, ever wear them - they are too beautiful.

Buy here

Billionaire Boys Club leopard camo soccer jersey (£95)

A typically out-there design from Billionaire Boys Club, only wear this if you’re 100% (or at least 99%) sure you can pull it off. It doesn’t matter if you actually can’t, it’s all about thinking you can. Either way, football tops are gonna be everywhere this season, so you might as well pick one that nobody else is gonna have.

Buy here

Zara loose fitting pouch pocket denim jacket (£29.99)

Buttons that only go halfway down? What is this sorcery? Well, it’s a trend that’s steadily been creeping back into the good books, along with its close cousin, the granddad shirt. This denim number has a more standard collar and a loose fit, so is best kept for your most casual of looks. Don’t even think about wearing jeans with it though, you heathen.

Buy here

Ace & Tate X CMMN SWDN jet black CMMN Pris sunglasses (£148)

These please-help-me-I-don’t-understand-if-I-should-wear-these-but-really-want-to sunnies are inspired by Blade Runner, so if you’re keen on that androgynous, sci-fi look, then clamp them round that head of yours. You’ll certainly stand out in a pair of them.

Buy here

adidas all collegiate gold Process_SP1 38mm watch (£60)

adidas do a nice line of matte gummy watches that are extremely reasonably priced, meaning that you can bag a few colours to match different outfits. Or failing that, just get a black or white one, and you’re sorted for pretty much anything. Best kept for a casual look, though - they might stand out in the wrong way if you’re suited and booted.

Buy here

Acne Studios screen print white one t shirt (£90)

How rude!

Buy here

We’ve teamed up with Nokia to give away the hottest hybrid smartwatch on the market to two lucky readers. How good is that, mate?

Introducing the Nokia Steel HR: the hybrid smartwatch that fits effortlessly into your life and style. Whether you’re hitting the gym, rushing between meetings, or heading out on the town with mates, the Nokia Steel HR moves with you, tracking your activity whilst its premium design keeps you looking smart – in more ways than one.

With a battery life of up to 25 days, the Nokia Steel HR has more than enough life to help keep you in the know about yours. Optimise your daily work-outs by recording your heart rate and calories burned - and stay on top of the daily grind by learning about your sleep patterns. With easy changeable strap options, you can even switch up your style as often as you like.

With automatic activity detection, the Nokia Steel HR captures your every move without you even having to think about it, recording your vitals on the Nokia Health Mate app. Thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity, the Nokia Steel HR also seamlessly keeps you updated with the real world via agenda, call and text notification.

So, if you want a smart way to keep in the know about your health, the Nokia Steel HR is the stylish solution for men on the move.

The Nokia Steel HR hybrid smartwatch includes;

• Heart rate monitoring – tracks heart rate trends day and night, plus continuous tracking of the heart in workout mode

• Activity tracking – automatic walk, run, swim (water resistant – 50m) & 10+ activities recognised, plus calories burned & distance

• Sleep monitoring – sleep cycle analysis plus silent vibrating alarm with Smart Wake-Up

• Digital screen – get text, calls, and event notifications, plus view daily stats – like steps, distance, and heart rate – with the push of a button

• Long battery life – up to 25 days on a single charge, plus 20 more with time & activity tracking only

Find Nokia on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. 

For details on how to enter online, specific Shortlist competition T&Cs and the competition question, please see below. The competition closes at midnight on 01/03/18. The winner will be selected from all entries received before the closing date. Standard T&Cs here. Privacy Policy here.

By entering this competition you’ll be signed up to the weekly ShortList competitions email featuring a whole load of exclusive reader offers and competitions.

While we’d all like a Rolex, Tag Heuer, or Patek Philippe timepiece, sadly, they aren’t very easy to come by. Luckily, that doesn’t mean we have to go without a great statement watch: there are thousands of styles, shapes, and sizes to suit all budgets. 

I mean, let’s get it right: we still wouldn’t say no to a Patek or a blue-and-gold Submariner but while we’re waiting for Santa to get his act together, here are twenty of our favourite and most affordable styles – and they’re all £50 and under. Bargain.

• Timex Men's Expedition Acadia

  All black everything with the Timex Expedition: a classy, minimalist timepiece that packs enough craft and quality to rival a watch double its price.£44.99

• Swatch Petroleuse

  With a dark green-blue silicon band with matching detailing, this statement colour watch stands out from the crowd. (Try and keep the colours worn around it quite neutral mind, or else you might look a bit… wacky)£32

• Reclaimed Vintage Inspired Chronograph

  Exuding understated cool, this Reclaimed Vintage timepiece is a classy and cheap way to update your wrist wardrobe.£32

• Casio Wave Captor

  Managing to somehow look like it’s from 2027 and 1983 at the same time, the chunky, tech-y Casio will never go out of style for a certain sort of man. £47.98

• Sekonda Men's Skeleton Dial

  For men who actually know what words like chronometer, bezel, and tourbillon mean (or can quickly Google them), it’s a real treat to be able to see the cogs of your watch at work (that’s the ‘tourbillon’ bit, btw).£39.99

• Swatch Black Rebel

  Subtle, stylish and sleek: sometimes all you need is a minimalist rubber watch to up your wrist game. This Swatch classic is perfect for when you need some simplicity in your life.£47.50

• Accurist Silver Quartz

  A striking watch with a classic stainless steel bracelet, a midnight face with rose-gold luminescent hands and day-date display. £40

• Limit Leather Watch

  An ASOS exclusive, this bargain watch will never go out of style and revels in details like an especially nice typeface on the digits. Ooh, look at that 6. £10.50

• Casio AQ-230GA-9DMQYES

  Such a catchy name! This classic gold-bracelet watch is half-digital, half-analogue, and all great.£33

• Thumbs Up EQUWAT Equation Watch

  You are roundly considered the most annoying person everyone you’ve ever dated has ever dated but this watch… is undeniably jokes.£17.66

• Timex Steel Bracelet Easy Reader

  A favourite of nineties dads and grossly underpaid nurses working crippling schedules saving peoples actual lives, this stretchy stainless steel braceleted Easy Reader has got all demographics covered.£44.99

• Limit Pilot Style Watch

  The pilot watch is always in and we think it’s pretty safe to say that the combo of black watch face and brown leather strap is a Look which has dominated stylish wrists this season… combing the two for this price? Forget about it.£30

• Sekonda Men's Quartz Watch with Yellow Face

  A chrome-plated every day watch meets something a lil’ bit special. A pop of colour will elevate any outfit (and yellow is surprisingly versatile). £35

• Lorus RXN51BX9 Men's Leather Strap Sports Watch

  For the sportier men among us, a puny watch just won’t do: we need a chunky timepiece that can resist all the rugby, football, and swimming in our lives. This one definitely looks like it can withstand all weathers.£49.99

• Marea Watch 35269/1

  With a black ion plated case and face detailing that neatly compliment the textured strap, this water-resistant watch is casual and cool. £45

• Lorus Silver Metal Watch

  Mixing an on-trend silver metal bracelet with gold detailing and multiple dials, the Lorus gives you everything you need from a watch at a very reasonable price.£49

• Sekonda Blue Dial Watch

  …or if you prefer a petrol blue face (and eight extra quid in your back pocket).£41

• Timex Easy Reader Gold

  Good afternoon, respectable early 20th century gentleman. We’ve been expecting you.£49.99

• Infinite Black Snakeskin Watch

  Some people like a long rectangular-faced watch. We’ve all seen a million round watches, right? Nice to mix things up sometimes. (It’s not made of real snakeskin, don’t worry.)£30

• Limit Men's Centenary Collection Full Hunter Pocket Watch

  No, we’ve never had one. Yes, we’ve always wanted one. At this price? What better way to break your “Oh, well, I guess I’m one of those guys now” seal?£38