Valentine’s Day is rapidly approaching and for most men, that means scrambling around trying to find the “perfect” gift of over-priced flowers, candy, and lingerie … or does it? This year, give the give of yourself; purchase a pair of underwear from 2(x)ist.

Get things just right this Valentine’s Day…

2(x)ist has a special “Love Collection” for 2012. That special someone in your life would love seeing you in the Contour Pouch Brief ($18.00) or the No Show Trunk ($24.00). If underwear isn’t your thing, try some other gifts for yourself.

Show 2(x)ist some love…

2(x)ist also offers Long Sleeve Henley Long Johns as part of the Tartan Collection and snazzy Dress Socks (in Block or Demi Stripe).

Read about Cody Blymire, a 2(x)ist pro…

No matter which 2(x)ist product you find yourself in, make sure to make your mate happy as can be this Valentine’s Day.

Written by: Sal Canzonieri

Most non-single men by this time of the year are seeking to give their woman a most memorable Valentine’s Day, even striving to make it the biggest event of the year (ensuring that she’ll make it memorable for you later). So, it just won’t cut it to buy a cheap card and some cruddy chocolates from your local drug store. The debonair man knows that a personal touch is just what will bring on heartfelt feelings that will smolder and ignite over the course of the evening. Following are some pointers and suggestions that are often overlooked by the common man.

First, let’s start with the card. Yes, it is good to give a card, but the extra step would be to make your own. You can go to a craft or stationary store (or even online, such as this website) and purchase some handmade paper, preferably with roughened edges. Next, download and print out a love poem, or write your own if you are so inclined (you can download some quality love poems here; there are about 100 different ones to choose from!). Either hand-write the words on the special paper, or print out the words via your printer; better yet, have a copy shop do it for you from your print out of the poem. Going the extra mile to make this personalized card shows her that you appreciate and value her. Also, it would be good to actually give her a small note ahead of time – with once sentence stating that you are looking forward to the date – and say nothing else. This will put a smile on her face and be a bit intriguing as well.

The next thing to do is to get her some quality chocolate that you buy by weight from a quality chocolatier or candy shop, preferably dark chocolate rather than milk chocolate (if she doesn’t like chocolate then a reasonable substitute, as long as it is something that would put a smile on her face). According to this website, chocolate is a psychoactive food, with more than 300 different constituent compounds in chocolate having been identified. Many of these are chemicals that promote the feeling of well being and happiness, such as theobromine and anandamide. Chocolate also contains the amino acid Tryptophan (which makes the mood-enhancing brain chemical serotonin), and it is a neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety and depression. Further, eating chocolate triggers the release of endorphins, which have been shown to trigger the feeling of pain relief and a warm inner glow. Even the odor of chocolate has been found to enhance relaxation. Chocolate also contains the same alcholoids found in wine. Finally, chocolate contains Phenylethylamine, a brain chemical found during orgasms, which has been found to enhance feelings of attraction. Why dark chocolate? Well, the more cacao in the chocolate, the more healthy flavinoids it contains and most importantly, the more psychoactive compounds it contains as well. Basically, eating the chocolate will help put her in a good mood and help her feel more stimulated; at the very least, it will act as a pleasant pick me up.

As important as it is to set the mood right, it is also important to be well groomed, which includes smelling right. It has long been established that scents also have an impact on mood and feelings. Besides getting a good haircut and shave (if necessary), not to mention a shower, it is important to have a scent on your person that will catch her initial interest but not have her overpowered by reeking cheap cologne. One thing to consider is a men’s eau de toilette water for a lighter scent to be used as a skin refresher. Regardless, whether wearing cologne or toilette water, smelling good is also enhancing to your own mood, which is a strong confidence booster. One thing to consider would be to find a scent that contains musk. According to some studies, women’s sensitivity to musk, an ingredient commonly used in perfumes, is 1000 times greater than men’s. Thus, it is more likely to arouse a woman to feel more sensual. Logically then, such perfumes would make a good present for the holiday as well, since a sensually aroused woman is much more apt to feel happier about herself and more attractive. More controversial has been the effectiveness of pheromones within perfumes and colognes. Pheromones are chemicals that are secreted in our sweat (and other bodily fluids) that release neurotransmitters. These chemical are believed to directly triggering the feeling of sexual attractiveness. According to this website, “In married couples, pheromones might cause a renewed interest in the other person, leading to feeling closer and being more attentive … not necessarily to sex.” Often enough, a renewed interest is all the push one needs to have the evening headed to the right direction.

It is also right to consider giving flowers. Flowers are important to many women; they again act as a mood enhancer. If you are living with your woman, then surprising her with an arrangement of classic long stem red roses or a rich bouquet of flowers, it is often most appreciated. If you are meeting your woman someplace, such as a restaurant, it may be impractical to bring along a big bouquet of flowers. Then it would make more sense to have some kind of more practical arrangement that still conveys the message that she is special to you, since as two pink carnations with a large single rose in the middle. These would be not only easier to carry but easier for her to handle once you give them to her, while still making her feel good towards your thoughtfulness. Another possibility is giving a beautiful orchid that can be pinned to her hair, dress, or blouse. Be sure to order your flowers early because it can be very hectic at this time of the year for many floral shops. Also, do the research so that you can choose carefully which flowers to get; different flowers can convey different messages.

Finally, you must think about THE present. This is the one day to really tell the woman in your life how important she is to you. Unless it is an espresso maker or some such thing, home appliances are not Valentine’s Day gifts! They are the kiss of death for romance. More often than not, the present that a modern woman would most appreciate is lingerie of some type. Lingerie gifts tell your woman that you find her romantic to be with and sexy. Isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is essentially all about? Not only does it say to her that every inch of her is truly appreciated, but it shows her that you went through a LOT of effort to procure it for her.

It is not easy for a man to go out and pick out lingerie. Here are some things to consider in making the ordeal of shopping for lingerie a bit easier: 1. If you don’t know her size, stick with lacy undergarments that come in the three main sizes of small, medium, or large. Clearly you would know which one of these she is. 2. For the most part, it would be wiser to steer clear of vulgar looking lingerie. Most women in a committed relationship are looking for something that makes her feel good wearing it and also showing it off to you (before it winds up being taken off for the night!). It’s about HER feeling good, not (just) your wishes. But, the more dignified man knows this instinctively, because he knows that a happy woman is a playful and sensuous woman. He wants her to feel special. Nowadays, there are many websites that help you better purchase lingerie gifts. A couple of the better ones are this website, and this website.

On the other hand, for other women, they would prefer being gifted some jewelry, clothes or even a getaway trip. One very good present to show how much you care for her and appreciate all that she does that you can give, is a day at a spa getaway, either done together or just for her. Most women would appreciate some quality time to relax, be pampered and preened, and get a great massage to top it off. She’ll feel fresh and attractive, and will know that this gift comes straight from the heart. For longer-term couples, such things as a ball room dance class or a couples cooking class will bring you both closer together as you learn something new as team while cooperating with each other doing something fun and interesting.

What are your plans this Valentine’s Day? Share your ideas with us…

About the author: Sal Canzonieri is a long time writer for many different music, art, political, health, and martial arts publications. He has a degree in Behavioral Science from Drew University. He has spent many years since 1980 studying, practicing, and teaching spiritual and health enhancing modalities, such as Energy Work, Chinese Qigong and Martial Arts, the Kabala, Mysticism, Tantra and Tantric Sex, and other materials. He currently practices Energy Healing. Sal teaches Chinese Qigong and Martial Arts programs, and performs healing sessions, guided meditation, group healing events, seminars, demonstrations, fitness and toning classes, and much more. Information on his programs and energy healing can be found here. He has been a certified Qigong and Martial Arts instructor since 1998 via the International Congress of Oriental Medicine and Martial Arts. He is well known the world over for his involvement in the music scene through his various musical projects and also for his decades of research and articles on the history of Chinese Martial Arts. Many of Sal’s articles can be found here.

http://sara-benvella.blogspot.com

Houston Bernard is a pop artist who loves to flaunt himself and bring energy into everything he does in life. His latest song and music video, “LUV” was recently released and is the perfect song to play right around Valentine’s Day. Take a deep breath and prepare yourself to get to know the latest pop sensation.

What is love to you? Please explain how love is expressed in your hit video “LUV.”

“LUV” and love alike is accepting the good and the bad of another, while still loving and respecting yourself.

Take a look at “LUV”…

What are you working on at the moment?

I’m hard at work, working on a new album; it is probably the best work I have ever done! I wrote over 100 songs to get these lucky 13. I’m working with Greg Campbell from the Sound Syndicate who is producing. It should make for a good time and beautiful meeting of the minds.

How do you feel that music is related to the world of fashion?

Yin and Yang baby! You can’t have one without the other. Most of my best friends are designers of bags, clothes, art, and music. When you create something, the best way to put it on a pedestal is to add all the gorgeous things that come with it. I change my look every now and again, but I always come back to vintage.

Photo Credit: Michael Wakefield

What does being debonair mean to you, and why?

“Carefree and gay; jaunty;” unforgettable … Calvin Klein clean. For real, to me it means being in perfect form; balance between looking great, feeling great, and giving positive warm energy to all those around you. It means being one with the universe … hell yeah!

More on this artist: Houston Bernard was on a self-booked world tour promoting human rights and free speech from April of 2003-2007. He is an independent artist and has been featured on the MTV/LOGO channel, and Naked News in Canada.

He is an accomplished actor, starring in such movies as “Will You,” “2 Minutes Later,” and “Children of the Streets.” Houston has also appeared in numerous comedies and musical theater performances. Houston has worked as the musical supervisor for several movies and has music featured in a substantial number of television and radio shows, as well as in promos all over the world.

His video for “I Feel Gorgeous (Klubjumpers Remix)” was voted #1 for 5 weeks on MTV/LOGO, and spent 8 weeks at #2 and #4 in 2009.

Houston Bernard’s album, See The World, was self-produced and released; it has sold very well internationally.

Yesterday, Debonair Magazine featured a wonderful signature drink created by none other than Chef Marc Forgione. Today, we offer you the step-by-step tutorial on how to make that stiff drink … the POM Thyme Margarita. Forgione says that the POM Thyme Margarita  is one of his one of his new favorite drinks, and it is a cool and different way to change the classic margarita. Watch how Chef Marc creates some elixir magic.

Was this video helpful? Drop us a line…

There is nothing more wonderful than enjoying a cocktail after a long work day. Why not make that cocktail with some super juice from POM Wonderful?

Debonair Magazine suggests the POM Thyme Margarita. This signature cocktail was created by “The Next Iron Chef” winner and New York restaurant owner, Chef Marc Forgione.

Ingredients:

1 oz. POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice
2 oz. tequila
2 teaspoons thyme-infused simple syrup*
1-1/2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Make the cocktail:

1. Assemble all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake well with ice.
2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

*Thyme-infused simple syrup is a combination of fresh thyme, water and sugar. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil and add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 6 sprigs of fresh thyme. Stir the ingredients together until the sugar completely dissolves. Let the syrup cool down and strain to remove the thyme.

Note: The longer the thyme remains in the syrup, the stronger the flavor will be.

More on POM: “POM Wonderful is a global brand committed to innovation and wellness. We grow and market pomegranates and pomegranate-based products that are healthy, honest and essential to the well-being of humankind.”

Photo Credit: T.V. Crunch

Debonair Magazine is on top of the latest fashion trends, and what better way to spot them than at an award show such as the SAG Awards? Here is our top 5 list of best dressed gentlemen, plain and simple.

5. Armie Hammer: Best known for his role(s) as the devilish Winklevoss twins in “The Social Network,” Hammer stuns on the red carpet with his Gucci suit, grosgrain bow tie, and million dollar smile.

Hammer’s got an impressive mug shot…

4. Kenneth Branagh: If you read the buzz around the internet, most people did not agree with Branagh’s choice of tie size; personally, we feel that the wider tie is making its way back slowly into the fashion spotlight these days. Branagh sports a debonair Zegna suit at the SAG Awards and looks like he could be 007′s doppelganger. Plus, we’re truly digging the scruff.

Check out what the lovely, sexy ladies sported at the 2012 SAG Awards…

3. Matt Czuchry: This man brings back old Hollywood style, in our opinion. The tux seems to fit just right and the slightly over-sized bow tie oddly enough brings the entire outfit together.

2. Aaron Paul: Mr. Paul takes a huge risk by sporting the black-on-gray look at the SAG Awards, but pulls it off together nicely. Paul brings a youthful look to the red carpet and drives home a certain edge.

Aaron Paul says Diddy’s a “sweetheart”…

1. Josh Brolin: We’re extreme fans of the three-piece suit and Brolin takes the cake for most class on the carpet. He wears his Zegna tuxedo perfectly.

Did you see the SAG Awards? What did you think of the fashion?

http://www.gq.com

We all have heard other men complaining about the horrors of shaving, and what a pain it is to shave that mug of theirs on a daily basis. We agree that shaving is time-consuming and some of us give up altogether by just stopping the routine out of pure laziness. What if there was a product line out there that made shaving fun again? What if there was a product line that did not over dry the face after a close shave? We have your answer, and the products contained in such a glorious package come in Grooming Lounge’s “The Greatest Shave Ever” Try Me Kit.

The Grooming Lounge, established in 1999, “is committed to helping men look and feel more handsome.” Simple enough and well said. But do they have what it takes to truly offer the “greatest” shave ever? Debonair Magazine’s editor-in-chief, Joseph Federico, put GL to the test.

“The Greatest Shave Ever” Try Me Kit comes in an easily accessible plastic travel case. The case includes 1 Mug Cleaner Face Wash (2 oz.), 1 Beard Master Shave Oil (.7 oz.), 1 Beard Destroyer Shave Cream (2 oz.), and 1 Best For Last Aftershave (2 oz.). If purchased, the overall kit is perfect for the man on the run or world renowned jet setter.

Joseph first got himself familiar with the products by looking over the included reading material as seen in The Men’s Grooming Guide. On the second page, there was an easy to read “how to” guide, which gave a step-by-step tutorial on when and how to use each product properly; very impressive and “user friendly.”

The first product to use is the Mug Cleaner Face Wash. It has a very light rosemary and sandalwood scent to it, and is light to the touch. Once washed-off, it truly makes the face feel clean and anticipate an excellent shave. Faces around the world will be hydrated and clear. The included guide states the purpose of this cleaner is to “…eliminate grime and uproot stubborn stubble.”

“Buck up, fellas, the Grooming Lounge can solve your morning blues…”

The next product in line is the Beard Master Shave Oil. Joseph aggressively rubbed 3-4 drops into his warm, wet face as directed. The scent of this product is very clean and not overbearing whatsoever. In this case, less is certainly more because a quality product will go a long way.

Once the Beard Master Shave Oil has settled into the skin, the third product to use is the Beard Destroyer Shave Cream. It is very light to the touch and very condensed (which Joseph liked). The product is not an over-drying shaving lotion and is quite creamy. You must activate this with warm water as directed. The included guide states that you must apply “extra elbow grease to sensitive regions.” Joseph did not notice any chaffing and witnessed a very smooth, easy shave. His skin was left feeling even more hydrated.

After your manly mug has been shaved clean and washed off with refreshing cold water, the final step can then be taken. The Best For Last Aftershave is a soothing post-shave balm. It is not overly greasy whatsoever and leaves the skin feeling very invigorated.

Overall, the products made by the Grooming Lounge have a very vintage apothecary feel to them. They are just what every true debonair should carry for a truly perfect shave.

Would you like more from the Grooming Lounge? Follow them on Twitter and be sure to find them on Facebook!

About the Grooming Lounge: The Grooming Lounge is the country’s premiere solutions source for men’s grooming. We provide these solutions via our best-in-class web destination, iconic Barbershops & Men’s Spa locations and barber-formulated Grooming Lounge products.

RealMenRealStyle.com gives all of us debonair men out there a wonderful tutorial on the history and necessity of having hidden pockets in our clothes. The bottom line is: do not take ready-made clothing for granted! Watch as Antonio Centeno speaks to the modern man about hidden pocket options with grace and ease.

Was this video helpful? Drop us a line…

Photo Credit: Jason Jaskot

Debonair Magazine believes that everybody can be a little debonair from time to time. Whether you are on top of your fashion game, are a literature connoisseur, are an astronaut, have been on television, wrote the most historical symphony, or are just a regular old “Joe,” you are debonair to us. We want to highlight all walks of debonair from around the country and the world through our series “Debonair Like Me.”

Today’s “Debonair Like Me” feature is … Cody Blymire.

Debonair Magazine: What does it mean to be “debonair” to you?

Cody Blymire: I think being debonair has two different forms, the physical and the behavioral. To be debonair physically means a person is well-kept and dresses rather elegantly. No matter where this person is – whether a gym or a social function – he has a sense of style and fashion.

I also think it is represented in a way a person carries themselves. Someone who is described as a debonair man should also be very well-mannered. A debonair man should serve as a good role model to the male youth and adolescence. A debonair man should be very confident in the way he looks, as well as be confident in himself, and be true to who he is. Another quality a debonair man should uphold is self-expression; he should be able to voice his opinion and stand-up for what he believes in.

Check out Cody Blymire for 2(x)ist…

DM: Give us an example or two of your proudest “debonair” moments. It can be when you were a true gentleman, etc.

CB: I would like to think I am constantly representing the debonair society. I always am a courteous and cheerful person. It is always a great pleasure to lend a hand and help someone. One of the strongest qualities I feel that a debonair man should possess is strength in standing-up for what he believes in. I follow the quote, “A strong man stands-up for himself; a stronger man stands-up for others.” With that being said, my proudest debonair moment would be joining the NOH8 Campaign. I have met a lot of people in my lifetime struggling with sexuality issues and living in fear. Joining the NOH8 Campaign and helping fight for a cause means a great deal to me. I have also participated in many AIDS benefits to help raise money for AIDS research. A debonair man should always be generous and lend his time and assistance to worthwhile organizations.

Photo Credit: Jenn Hoffman

DM: Who are your top celebrity (alive or dead) “debonair” men and why?

CB: My two top debonair role models would be Chris Evans and Kellan Lutz. They are both in the same industry as me – modeling and acting. They both exude confidence in every role they portray. Whether they are at a premiere, a benefit, or just lounging around the streets, the two are always dressed nicely and are well-kept. The two are also both very cheerful, and partake in charity events.

Cody Blymire on IMDB…

DM: How will you better yourself to fit the ‘debonair’ lifestyle in the future?

CB: Every day I try to benefit myself. I try to achieve this by learning from others as well as creating my own identity. I will also continue to assist in organizations and causes that I believe strongly in. I will also keep up on the latest fashion trends and continue to be a role model to the people in my life. Currently, I have two nephews and a niece that mean the world to me, and I want to be a good role model for them throughout their lives.

Photo Credit: Carlos Armando

DM: Give us an example of your best debonair outfit hanging up in your closet and why.

CB: I would have to say I tend to wear a lot of Express and H&M clothing; both of the styles fit me nicely. My favorite outfit right now is my H&M blazer with my Express button-up dress shirt with a tie. I am big on ties. When it comes to underwear, I am a big 2(x)ist fan. Their underwear fit perfectly, is very comfortable, and is extremely stylish. This would be my ultimate debonair outfit because it is rather dressy, tasteful, and suave at the same time.

Cody Blymire is a successful model and actor with various film projects coming-up. To learn more about Cody, head to his Facebook page here.

There is more to a debonair than just fashion and a pretty face. A true debonair knows how to cook, clean, and entertain to the nth-degree with the best of them.

VIDEO: In case you are a visual learner, try this recipe for Chicken Saltimbocca…

Today, we are going to share a very simple recipe with you for Chicken Saltimbocca. Even though it is quite easy to prepare, it will seem to houseguests that you spent hours in the kitchen. That’s the point!

According to Elly Says Opa, the term “saltimbocca” is Italian for “jumps in the mouth.” We couldn’t agree more. This recipe calls for fresh sage leaves, tangy lemon and Italian ham, called prosciutto. Let the party in your mouth begin.

Straight from the editor-in-chief's dinner table...

What You Will Need:

3 Tbsp. all purpose flour
2 thin-cut chicken cutlets (about 4-5 oz. each) or chicken breast halves, pounded
1/2 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage, plus 4 whole leaves (optional)
2 thin slices of prosciutto, cut to match chicken (about 2 oz.)
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 clove garlic, lightly smashed
2/3 cup dry vermouth or white wine
1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp. cold butter
1/2 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley
salt and pepper (to taste)

VIDEO: Host a stress-free dinner party…

How To Cook It:

1. Combine flour with salt and pepper (about 1/2 tsp. pepper and 1/8 tsp. salt) in a shallow dish. Pat the cutlets dry with a paper towel and then dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Lay the cutlets flat and sprinkle each with the sage. Place a slice (or slices, depending how they are shaped) of prosciutto onto each cutlet and press lightly to adhere. (I actually like doing this by using the flat side of a meat mallet and tapping lightly.)

2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. Add sage leaves (if using) and garlic. Cook until sage leaves begin to change color and are fragrant, 15-20 seconds. Remove the sage with a slotted spoon.

3. Add the cutlets to the pan, prosciutto-side down, and cook until golden brown, 2-3 minutes. (This is also typically when I remove and discard the garlic.) Flip and cook on other side until golden brown, about 2 minutes.  Remove the chicken and keep warm.

4. If there is any excess fat in the skillet, pour it off. Stir in the vermouth, scraping up the browned bits, and simmer until it’s reduced to about 3-4 Tbsp. Stir in lemon juice.

5. Turn heat down to low, and whisk in the butter. Off the heat, stir in the parsley and season with salt and pepper. Spoon the sauce over cutlets before serving.

VIDEO: What kind of wine goes best with chicken?

This meal is great for a small dinner party that you are hosting. Some other tips we have for when serving a meal like this to guests includes playing vintage music on your iPod or MP3 player such as Louis Prima, and also lighting candles on your tablescape to make sure the mood is just right. In our opinion, overall ambiance is everything.

Have you hosted a soiree in the past? Tell us how it went…

http://ellysaysopa.com