Swanky Men’s Magazine - November 2024: The Men’s Edition Issue 2

NOVEMBER 2024 ISSUE 01

TRY IT, WEAR IT, LOVE IT

EGO PLANETS NEW BORN

FRANCK DANICAN WEARS TOM FORD

suit up BE UNIQUE,BE BRAVE,BE DIVINE

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM

INSIDE COVER MALE MODEL: KIRILL STRUNNIKOV, IG: @GO.BEFORE FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KIRILLSTRUNNIKOV TW: TWITTER.COM/GO_BEFORE_ PHOTOGRAPHER: KEMAL DEDECAN, IG: @KEMALLDEDECAN MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 2

Editor-in-chief SALLY MARIE Lucy Morris Ashley Buchanan Tobias James Jarna Nasso Darren Wynne Heather Wilkins Lyndsey Adams Chloe Bennet Karaaina Bishara Laszlo Balogh

Executive Editor Fashion Editor Digital Editor Staff Writer Photo/Sub Editor Features Editor Beauty Editor Advertisement Manager Features Editor Logo Illustrator

Connect with us!

INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK TWITTER WEBSITE YOUTUBE ENQUIRES

@swankymag @swankymag @swankymagazine www.swankymediagroup.com @swankymediagroup info@swankygroup.com

The Swanky Media Group LTD takes pride in all aspects of photography that prioritises the safety and welfare of every team and their environment. The Swanky Media Group LTD is committed to the correct representation of the fashion world, away from the manipulation of media, and to total honesty in our captioning. Photographers, please support us in providing all relevant information around the circumstance of the image and giving total clarity of where the image was taken.

The Swanky Media Group LTD will provide trusted, independent fashion, makeup and beauty, travel advice and information. Our aim is to allow access to (including, but not limited to, clothing, travel, accessories, makeup tools and books) for a range of backgrounds and budgets. Within our travel sector, we are clear with the positives and negatives of a location we visit or recommend. The views that are expressed within The Swanky Media Group LTD are entirely the views of the authors, and not necessarily the views of the magazine, editorial team, or publisher. The editor-in-chief, the publisher, the contributors or the editorial team accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors, mistakes, omissions, or issues in any such advertisement feature.

The Swanky Media Group LTD publications should not, under any circumstance, be reproduced either partially or wholly in any form or means without prior consent with the publication. It should not be hired, resold, or otherwise disposed to in any means of trade more than the recommended retail price set.

PUBLISHED BY SWANKY MEDIA GROUP LTD, Swanky Media Group LTD, PO BOX 9788, Poole/London Office, BH12 9PS © The Swanky Group Magazine 2024

Online Store Available @swankygroupworldwide.shop MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 3

CONTENTS 08 SUIT UP

ART DIRECTION AND MODEL FRANCK DANICAN. IG: @DANICANFRANCK PHOTOGRAPHER @FELIXTHEBALD TOM FORD SUIT.

& LEGACY, CELESTIAL 14 ART COLLECTION WITH DMITRY CELSIN

INTERVIEWED BY MIA WALLACE WORDS AND JEWELLERY BY DMITRY CELSIN IG: @DMITRY.CELSIN PHOTOGRAPHER: GALINA FILINA IG: @FILINA_PHOTO

24 EARN YOUR STRIPES MODEL: DEERIC GARNELL IG: @MISTER.KINETIC PHOTOGRAPHER: CHRISTIAN POWELL IG: @WATCHMYAMBITION

30 MUKHAMED PHOTOGRAPHER: LIUDMILA EVSTRATOVA IG: @LUDMILA_EVSTRATOVA07

34 RED REC MALE MODEL: KIRILL STRUNNIKOV IG: @GO.BEFORE FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KIRILLSTRUNNIKOV TW: TWITTER.COM/GO_BEFORE_ PHOTOGRAPHER: KEMAL DEDECAN IG: @KEMALLDEDECAN

40 NEW BORN ASSISTANT: IRINA KUZMINA IG: @IRENE_GINGER_KUZMINA PHOTOGRAPHER: LUIZA KUZMINA IG: @KUZJALUIZA MALE MODEL: SHURIK MIKHALEV IG: @MAVSLAYER

48 A FASHION FAIRYTALE PHOTOGRAPHER: AMANDA ANDERSON IG: @AMANDAANDERSONCREATIVE MODEL: JOHN JOHNSON STYLIST: SHELLEY NOVOTNY IG: @SHELLEYNOVOTNYSHAKTIART FASHION BRAND/DESIGNER NAME: SHELLEY NOVOTNY IG: @SHELLEYNOVOTNYSHAKTIART

MEN’S EDITION

November 2024

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 5

Editor’s Letter

November 2024

Sally Morris Editor-in-chief Welcome to this month’s Swanky Men’s November Issue, gentlemen, and welcome to the heart of the autumn season!

As the last leaves cling to the trees and the air turns brisk, it’s time to fully embrace our cold-weather wardrobes. This November, we’re seeing a sophisticated evolution of autumn trends, blending timeless classics with modern interpretations.

November is about perfecting the art of warm, stylish layering.

Begin with a quality thermal base layer, add a luxurious merino wool sweater, and finish with a statement overcoat. This approach ensures you’re prepared for the increasingly chilly November days while maintaining a polished appearance.

This month’s colour palette deepens into rich, warm tones. Think burgundy, forest green, and deep navy, accented with touches of burnt orange and mustard yellow. These colours evoke the cosy feeling of November and pair beautifully with neutral basics.

Texture plays a crucial role in November fashion. Incorporate plush velvet blazers, chunky cable-knit sweaters, and flannel shirts into your rotation. These fabrics not only provide necessary warmth but also add visual interest and depth to your ensembles.

As we move deeper into autumn, it’s time to fully transition to winter-ready footwear. Invest in a pair of weatherproof boots with good traction for those unexpected icy patches. For dressier occasions, opt for polished brogues or sleek Chelsea boots in dark, rich leathers.

Accessories are key to both style and comfort this November. A luxurious cashmere scarf, leather gloves lined with wool, and a classic felt fedora not only complete your look but also provide crucial warmth as temperatures continue to drop.

This November, strike a balance between fashion-forward choices and practical, weather-appropriate attire. Remember, the most stylish man is one who looks put-together while staying comfortable in the face of autumn’s unpredictable weather.

As we look ahead to December, we’re excited to guide you through the transition from autumn to winter fashion. We’ll be exploring festive styles for the holiday season and preparing for the new year ahead. Stay tuned for our upcoming winter fashion guide!

MEN’S EDITION

PHOTOGRAPHER: AMANDA ANDERSON IG: @AMANDAANDERSONCREATIVE MODEL: JOHN JOHNSON STYLIST: SHELLEY NOVOTNY IG: @SHELLEYNOVOTNYSHAKTIART FASHION BRAND/DESIGNER NAME: SHELLEY NOVOTNY IG: @SHELLEYNOVOTNYSHAKTIART

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 6

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 8

suit up ART DIRECTION AND MODEL FRANCK DANICAN. IG: @DANICANFRANCK PHOTOGRAPHER @FELIXTHEBALD TOM FORD SUIT.

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 10

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 11

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 12

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 13

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 14

Art & Legacy, Celestial Collection with Dmitry Celsin

W

INTERVIEWED BY MIA WALLACE WORDS AND JEWELLERY BY DMITRY CELSIN IG: @DMITRY.CELSIN PHOTOGRAPHER: GALINA FILINA IG: @FILINA_PHOTO

elcome Dmitry, and congratulations on making the front cover for this month’s Swanky Mens November Issue. Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. It’s lovely to have you here.

SMM: Can you take us through your journey into the world of jewellery design? What were the pivotal moments or experiences that inspired you to create your own brand, and how did your background in researching ancient languages and manuscripts influence this decision?

SMM: Your brand places a strong emphasis on the sacred meaning behind jewellery. Could you elaborate on how you incorporate this philosophical approach into your designs? Are there specific symbols, materials, or techniques you use to convey these deeper meanings?

DC: In Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance natural philosophy, all beings, both animate and inanimate, were believed to be related to seven planets. The nature of these planets was recognised in seven types of human beings, seven virtues and sins, seven days of the week, DC: My journey into the world of jewellery design began with a seven colours, metals, stones, foundation in visual arts and technical notes, and so on. In my work, drawing. However, my passion truly ignited I appeal to medieval tables of when I started a degree in philosophy and “Initially, I worked with simple materials, but as correspondences between the the history of religious art. This education seven planets and metals, stones, I grew more confident, I began experimenting introduced me to the fascinating history of figures, symbols, and other with more complex substances and even art, including its unusual and often forgotten elements used in jewellery art. techniques. reproduced alloys mentioned in ancient

documents. ” - Dmitry Celsin

During my studies, I became increasingly interested in the meanings of metals and stones across different cultures and religions.

This curiosity led me to explore ancient languages and manuscripts, which revealed the hidden meanings and secrets behind precious pieces through various combinations of materials. I even learned Old Hebrew, Latin, and Ancient Greek. This knowledge allowed me to delve deeper into the historical context of jewellery-making and the symbolism behind it.

Initially, I worked with simple materials, but as I grew more confident, I began experimenting with more complex substances and even reproduced alloys mentioned in ancient documents. One of the pivotal moments in my journey was my first exhibition, where I showcased a collection inspired by religious art. This experience was not only a step toward professional recognition but also a chance to share my perspective on the relationship between art and spirituality.

Overall, my background in art history and ancient languages has profoundly shaped my approach to jewellery design, enabling me to create pieces that reflect both cultural significance and personal meaning.

MEN’S EDITION

Ancient philosophers believed that these elements united in one piece of jewellery make it sacred and endowed with the nature of the related planet, creating a universal principle incorporated in one small object. Additionally, planetary correspondences were thought to be united in related time, so the main point was to recognise planetary elements and transform them into the piece of jewellery at an appropriate time. This is the way I incorporate sacred meaning in my jewellery.

SMM: The “Celestial” collection draws inspiration from Renaissance art, a period rich in symbolism and artistic innovation. Could you walk us through your creative process of blending these historical elements with contemporary design aesthetics? How do you ensure that the pieces remain relevant and appealing to modern wearers while still honouring their historical roots?

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 15

MEN’S EDITION

DC: I believe that the main idea behind Renaissance art is to attract attention to the individual human being and its passions. In discovering human nature, artists developed methods and approaches that were believed to have roots in the very human soul and mind. The philosophical and artistic principles are thus inherent to modern art and culture and reflected in all aspects of contemporary life. However, forms of self-expression are quite unique to every epoch, so I believe that my goal is to incorporate ideas that are considered eternal and coherent to human nature into modern jewellery design.

My creative process begins with thorough research into the historical elements of this era, focusing on planetary symbols and their meanings. I then blend these historical elements with contemporary design aesthetics by using modern techniques while preserving the essence of the original symbolism.

SMM: Your unique approach involves researching ancient languages and manuscripts. Can you describe this research process in more detail? How do you translate the knowledge and insights gained from these historical sources into tangible design elements in your jewellery pieces?

DC: I delve into historical texts to uncover the cultural significance and symbolism behind various materials and techniques. This involves studying manuscripts, translating them, and extracting key insights that can be applied to my designs. Each author concealed behind these manuscripts tried to represent a unique understanding of this global philosophy. From a jewellery perspective, I am also interested in alignment, sizes, and ratios between elements depicted by some authors and artisans of that epoch. Once I gain an understanding of each element and its place, I create my own design which, in my opinion, resonates with today’s audience.

SMM: Each piece in the “Celestial” collection is intriguingly associated with a planet. Could you delve deeper into the significance of this celestial connection? How does this planetary association influence your design process, from concept to creation, and what meaning do you hope it imparts to the wearer?

DC: Each piece of the “Celestial” collection represents seven ideas depicted through Medieval and Renaissance sacred symbolism related to seven planets. These ideas are contraction (Saturn, realised in black), expansion (Jupiter, white circle surrounding square), passion for action (Mars, realised in reddish gold), aspiration to power (the Sun, made in pure gold), love (Venus, realised in electrum, a greenish alloy of gold known from ancient times), need for knowledge (Mercury, made of gold and silver that symbolises its middle position between the Sun and the Moon), and compassion (the Moon, a circle surrounded by nine stones). One of the main points of Ancient Greek psychology, recognised by contemporary philosophy, consists in representing the reason for human desire as a lack of something, which the human entity is seeking to achieve. As this something can be represented through seven principles, I depicted them in seven pieces of the “Celestial” collection, using the language of Renaissance symbolism.

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 17

SMM: In your view, how is the role of jewellery evolving in modern society, particularly when considering the sacred and symbolic aspects that your brand focuses on? Do you see a growing interest in jewellery that carries deeper meaning, and how does your brand aim to meet this evolving demand?

DC: I see a tendency towards personalisation and individualisation in jewellery. This tendency also reflects modern society’s attempts to know itself and rethink the position of each individual within society as a whole.

This process of transformation occurs in multiple ways, including a turn towards sacred symbolism and its roots in contemporary society. I believe that all trends in modern jewellery have their impact, and my brand has its specific part in it.

SMM: We’d love to get a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process. Could you guide us through the steps you take when designing a new piece, from initial inspiration to the final product? How do you balance artistic vision with practical considerations?

DC: One of the most important rules I was taught while learning to craft jewellery was that the final item has to be realised before starting the process. I think that this is as brilliant an idea as it is difficult to follow. First, I recognise the gap between the initial idea and the final piece. But this understanding is itself the first step of my work, because the very idea is the prime cause of my work. Once I have the idea, I have only three things left: materials appropriate to the final piece, a design representing the idea itself, and me as a creator called to unite the idea, material, and design in a final piece of jewellery. This is an ancient Aristotelian approach that I have adopted for jewellery.

SMM: Balancing traditional craftsmanship with modern jewellery-making techniques must present unique challenges. What are some of the most significant obstacles you face in this regard, and how do you overcome them to create pieces that are both historically inspired and contemporary in execution?

DC: The main obstacle lies in the idealistic roots of sacred objects. Usually, when discussing this matter, people—especially in previous epochs—did not concern themselves with the obstacles existing in the real world, because the very idea was considered far more important than the problems standing between it and its practical execution. Nevertheless, the artisans of the past, inspired by the ideas they were pursuing, repeatedly managed to resolve seemingly unresolvable issues. One of the secrets to success is persistence in experimentation, and this is the only way to succeed in the challenges of both traditional and contemporary jewellery. As my focus is on using traditional techniques and metals, crafting specific pieces of jewellery makes the most challenging projects those involving pure metals, particularly pure gold, which many artisans regard as nearly impossible to work with.

SMM: Looking towards the future, how do you envision your brand growing and evolving in the coming years? Are there new directions, collections, or collaborations you’re excited to explore, and how do you plan to stay true to your brand’s core philosophy while expanding?

DC: At present, I am working on a new collection that will align with the subject of my brand. It will also concern sacred symbols and figures, but its geometry will be more expressively geometric. There are many ways to articulate the ideas that humanity has tried to express through craft arts such as jewellery. However, these ways are integrated into Renaissance philosophy and art, serving as a bottomless well of new ideas and inspiration.

SMM: For aspiring jewellery designers who are inspired by your approach of infusing meaning and symbolism into their work, what advice would you offer? How can they begin to explore and incorporate deeper significance into their designs while developing their unique artistic voice?

DC: My approach implies that a comprehensive look at an idea comes first, and the primary source of any idea is the human being itself. At the same time, the consideration of ideas was the path that ancient philosophers took. I recommend, thus, to follow your own sense but take into consideration the philosophical concepts developed before. Read books on philosophy and don’t be afraid if they are difficult to understand. Just think about how challenging it was for those who wrote them.

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 18

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 19

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 20

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 21

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 22

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 24

Earn Your Stripes MODEL: DEERIC GARNELL IG: @MISTER.KINETIC PHOTOGRAPHER: CHRISTIAN POWELL IG: @WATCHMYAMBITION

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 25

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 26

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 27

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 28

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 29

Mukhamed

PHOTOGRAPHER: LIUDMILA EVSTRATOVA IG: @LUDMILA_EVSTRATOVA07

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 30

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 31

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 32

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 33

Red Rec MALE MODEL: KIRILL STRUNNIKOV IG: @GO.BEFORE FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KIRILLSTRUNNIKOV TW: TWITTER.COM/GO_BEFORE_ PHOTOGRAPHER: KEMAL DEDECAN IG: @KEMALLDEDECAN

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 34

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 35

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 36

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 37

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 38

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 39

MEN’S EDITION

EGO PLANETS New born ASSISTANT: IRINA KUZMINA IG: @IRENE_GINGER_KUZMINA PHOTOGRAPHER: LUIZA KUZMINA IG: @KUZJALUIZA MALE MODEL: SHURIK MIKHALEV IG: @MAVSLAYER

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 41

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 42

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 43

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 45

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 48

Poe & The Dragon King: A Fashion Fairytale PHOTOGRAPHER: AMANDA ANDERSON IG: @AMANDAANDERSONCREATIVE MODEL: JOHN JOHNSON STYLIST: SHELLEY NOVOTNY IG: @SHELLEYNOVOTNYSHAKTIART FASHION BRAND/DESIGNER NAME: SHELLEY NOVOTNY IG: @SHELLEYNOVOTNYSHAKTIART

Meet John Johnson—or “John John,” as his friends call him—and Poe, his pint-sized, loyal sidekick, snug in a custom furry bag matching his black-and-white coat. They’re an unforgettable duo at Rhinelander, Wisconsin’s Project North festival, an immersive celebration of music, art, and sustainability.

John John’s outfit, crafted by designer Shelley Novotny, is an expression of bold simplicity: pink shorts, a textured short coat, and uniquely custom-altered boots, all mirroring his quiet, empathic personality with a twist of flair. But today, he’s truly Eco Alley’s Dragon King, adorned with stunning, whimsical dragon wings Novotny created just for him.

His blond hair catches the sunlight, while his crystal-blue eyes reflect the festival’s energy, drawing gazes and sparking conversations about his unique style, making his transformation a true testament to the unfiltered creativity Swanky Magazine’s Street Fashion Issue celebrates. Poe, comfortable and curious in his cozy perch, brings smiles to passersby. As they weave through the urban allure of Eco Alley, John John’s boundary-pushing spirit glints with an otherworldly allure, completing a look that’s both regal and playful.

While John John’s look embodies the spirit of street style—from gritty alleys to vibrant festivals—he and Poe exude the raw energy and sustainable edge of street fashion, inspiring everyone they encounter.

Together, they glide through Project North like a living work of art—part street style, part fantasy. Today, John John isn’t just a visitor; he’s the Dragon King, embodying magic and creativity, where bold fashion becomes a part of the urban landscape, transforming both wearer and world.

Narrative by Shelley Novotny

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 49

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 50

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 51

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 52

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 53

MEN’S EDITION

WWW.SWANKYMEDIAGROUP.COM 54

MODEL: DEERIC GARNELL IG: @MISTER.KINETIC PHOTOGRAPHER: CHRISTIAN POWELL IG: @WATCHMYAMBITION

W WW WW W .. S SW WA AN NK KY YM ME ED D II A AG GR RO OU UP P .. C CO OM M