GQ Brasil Men of the Year 2013

Last night, I was extremely delighted to attend the GQ Brasil Men of the Year 2013 awards at Copacabana Palace in Rio. From Pelé to Alexandre Birman, from Oskar Metsavaht to Naldo Benny - the room was filled with the most stylish Brazilian men and women from various walks of life, making the night an unforgettable affair of empowerment, glamour, gentlemanliness and inspiration. 

Football legend Pelé received a lifetime achievement award for his outstanding contribution on promoting Brazil worldwide, while Lapo Elkan received the award of GQ's International Personality of the year. Founder and creative director Oskar Metsavaht, behind the most powerful fashion house in Brazil - Osklen, received the award of the Designer of the year. In an emotional tune, super elegant Maria Casadeval was declared GQ's Woman of the Year 2013 and close the evening. 

Obrigado GQ Brasil for having me!

M. 

Will you marry me?

Suit: Dries van Noten, Handmade silk designer Tie and Handkerchief : KYDOS , Wedding Dresses: A Modista

Photos: Gleeson Paulino 

…and just before you start wondering, NO, I'm not planning on getting married anytime soon but this beautiful atelier of wedding designer A Modista in Sao Paulo inspired me for this post. I was there yesterday to help a friend to choose something special for the trousseau in London next month, while my mind flew away to dreamland wearing my handmade silk tie by KYDOS. 

I don't remember who said that in life there is a role for everyone you meet, some will use you and others will bring out the best of you. Rarely, few people remind you why it's worth it. Today, I'm very grateful to be surrounded by a very few but amazing people, that keep making my life challenging and joyful everyday. This post is for you. 

M. 

Principles

Suit and shirt: João Pimenta

Photos: Stefano Maccarini

Not many of you know that almost nine years ago, I spent two whole years in the army. I'm originally coming from Cyprus (a small island in Mediterranean sea) and military service is mandatory there for all males. Looking back, I have no memories of the physical pain or mental brainwash that I went through, but I can only recall memories of some great friendships. Today, I support the idea of love and mutual respect for all life. This post with Stefano in his studio, reminded me just how lucky I am to live as a free human being and equal in dignity and rights.  

M.

Bras(z)il a Photo Diary

A Gucci experience

Tie, Blazer and suede horsebit loafer: All by Gucci

Photos: Gleeson Paulino

Even in a city like Sao Paulo you can have a gloomy day every occasionally. However, there's no greater joyful escape than shopping at JK Iguatemi mall and Gucci's men's-only shop. Perhaps is the overwhelming customer experience, the Art Deco elements overseen by Frida Giannini herself, or the 3,600-square-foot shop floor with a full range of men's wear, accessories and luggages. Whatever the case, I brighten my day and put a smile on my face when I found a pair of blue grey suede horse bit loafers to match my new adventures in Brazil.   They have the perfect fit, are extremely comfortable and I couldn't stop showing them off! 

M. 

Truth & Dare

Suit: Reiss, Shirt: Emmett London, Tie: Salvatore Ferragamo, Pocket Square: Reiss
Photos: Gleeson Paulino 

Gleeson Paulino is without any doubt one of the most talented self-taught photographers that I know. We met at a party in London 6 years ago and since then I followed his career throughout the years. He now lives in Sao Paulo and works as a freelance photographer.  We got together in the morning with ice latte's and I was very happy to hear what he got accomplished. Gleeson's work never ceases to amaze me. Neither does his genesiously talent in challenging the norms.  Finally, I couldn't be more excited to share this story of "Truth & Dare" and I hope you will like it as much as I do. 

Thank you for inspiring me.

M. 

Stanley Kubrick.

Yesterday I visited the Museum of Image and Sound (MIS) in São Paulo, currently housing  the "Stanley Kubrick" exhibition. The show brings together hundreds of materials used by the director,  including documents, photographs, letters, scripts and uncut pieces of Kubrick's films. 

Kubrick is the great author of classic cinema and recognised worldwide for his technical innovation, richness and diversity of the themes and concepts presented throughout his extremely rich career as a photographer, director, screenwriter and producer. They have successfully designed the exhibition to make you feel part of each movie from the horrors of the Shinnings to the playful Lolita - it was incredible!

M.