Month: September 2025

As the storied Rolls-Royce marque celebrated its 120th anniversary last year, a sea change was taking shape in its top office. After nearly 14 years as CEO, during which time the opulent automaker saw a 500 percent surge in sales, Torsten Müller-Ötvös announced he was stepping aside in favor of UK-born industry veteran Chris Brownridge—a return to the brand’s roots, you might say.

“To be invited to lead this great British brand, at such a pivotal moment in its long and remarkable story, is an extraordinary privilege,” Brownridge said of his ascension. “Rolls-Royce is one of the world’s most recognized, desirable, and influential brands, and I’m keenly aware of the enormous affection and esteem in which it’s held.” Earlier this year, he demonstrated his commitment to the evolution of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy, presiding over the debut of Black Badge Spectre, the most powerful car in Rolls-Royce history, based on its $400,000-plus electric ultra-luxury grand tourer.

Just prior to that, he’d announced plans to invest around $375 million to expand the marque’s famed Goodwood, U.K. factory to focus more on the bespoke side of the business, a thriving division that has gained a reputation for ever-more-incredible custom creations. Some of its most notable bespoke commissions in 2024 included solid 18-karat gold sculptural elements, hand embroidery consisting of more than 869,500 stitches, veneers including 500 individually-shaped pieces of wood, and one-of-a-kind holographic paint finishes.

At the same time, the brand opened an impressive new Private Office in New York, catering to stateside clients wishing to order bespoke vehicles and collaborate directly with the marque’s designers. We recently spoke to Brownridge about his appointment, vision, and plans for the future.

What aspects of the brand’s direction are you most eager to develop or refine?

Every day, I gain a deeper appreciation for our ability to connect with clients through Bespoke. I am continually inspired by the talent and vision of our artisans in Goodwood and our teams around the world. Our ambition is to further expand personalization options, ensuring each motor car reflects the unique desires of its owner. This includes investing in the Goodwood facility to accommodate increasingly complex Bespoke projects—reinforcing our unwavering commitment to individualized luxury.

How does the Black Badge Spectre embody the pinnacle of the Black Badge ethos?

Black Badge is the alter ego of the Rolls-Royce brand— darker, bolder, and more visceral. Spectre, our electric super coupé, provides the ideal canvas for this expression. Its emotionally charged design and powerful stance made it the natural choice for our most performance-focused model to date. With 650 brake horsepower and exclusive features like “Infinity Mode” and “Spirited Mode,” Black Badge Spectre pushes the boundaries of bold design while maintaining the serene luxury expected of Rolls-Royce. In many ways, this is the motor car Black Badge was destined for.

How has the Black Badge program evolved over the past decade?

Black Badge was introduced to appeal to a younger, more dynamic clientele. It has since matured into a bold symbol of individuality— perfectly aligned with the expressive capabilities of our Bespoke division. Over time, we’ve introduced enhanced performance features, culminating in the Black Badge Spectre—the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever. Simultaneously, Black Badge has allowed us to innovate with new materials, further expanding the visual and tactile palette available to our clients.

What is the current state of the Black Badge program, and who are its clients?

The Black Badge collection continues to thrive, attracting those who seek a more daring and unconventional Rolls-Royce experience. Our client base for Black Badge is very diverse, but our Black Badge owners value bold design married with dynamic performance. They are seeking a truly personal connection to the image their motor car projects and deliberately move away from expected aesthetic codes.

What was involved in engineering the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history?

The development of Black Badge Spectre required a transformative approach to power and performance—executed the Rolls-Royce way. Teaching Spectre how to behave with increased torque and horsepower while remaining, first and foremost, a Rolls-Royce demanded precise calibration of the transmission, suspension, and steering systems. Our engineers also crafted a sound profile befitting this elevated performance. The result is a motor car that redefines power for the brand with-out any compromise regarding the refined character that defines Rolls-Royce.

How do you balance innovation and electrification with the heritage that defines Rolls-Royce?

At the start of the 20th century, our founder, Charles Rolls, declared that electric drive would be the technology of the future, ideally suited to the type of car he–together with Henry Royce–was destined to create. Traveling in a Rolls-Royce has always been defined by silence, effortless power and the unrivaled “magic carpet ride.” With our meticulously engineered Rolls-Royce electric drivetrain, that renowned feeling of “one endless gear” takes on a new quality: Even more powerful, silent and refined than our legendary V12, it delivers the ultimate Rolls-Royce experience.

What motivated the $375 million expansion of the Goodwood manufacturing facility?

This strategic investment is dedicated to expanding our Bespoke and Coachbuild capabilities, not to increase annual production volumes. As client demand grows for increasingly complex and highly individualized commissions, the enhanced facility will support advanced paint techniques and intricate “one-off” interior treatments, reducing wait times for our clients. Our mission is not more volume, but more magnificent, meaningful commissions.

How has Rolls-Royce come to lead the industry in vehicle customization?

Bespoke is not an option at Rolls-Royce—it is the essence of what we do. From the initial consultation to the final handover, every touchpoint is tailored to transform each motor car into a singular expression of the client’s lifestyle. Our goal is to ensure that no two Rolls-Royces are alike—each is a one-of-one commission that reflects the individuality of its owner.

What is driving the increase in Bespoke and Coachbuild demand?

True luxury lies in individuality and exclusivity. Our clients are highly accomplished individuals who turn to Rolls-Royce to express and celebrate that success. They don’t want a car—they want a statement. A unique Bespoke commission is their way of making that statement.

What inspired the growth of the Private Office program? Doesn’t its invite-only nature create limitations?

Private Office was conceived to serve clients with highly ambitious bespoke visions—clients for whom time is their most precious resource. Not everyone can travel to Goodwood [UK], so we brought the experience closer to them. The Private Office allows direct access to our design team and creative resources, empowering our most visionary clients to bring their ideas to life in collaboration with our brand.

How does one receive an invitation to the Private Office?

Invitations are extended to clients who demonstrate a strong affinity with the brand, often through previous Bespoke commissions or a clear vision for a one-of-a-kind vehicle. At Private Office New York, for instance, access is granted via dealer-client advisors. While every Rolls-Royce dealership houses a Bespoke Lounge, clients whose requests are particularly elaborate are invited to the Private Office where they can work directly with a Rolls-Royce designer and dedicated client experience manager.

How does direct collaboration with Goodwood designers enhance the commissioning experience?

Working directly with our designers—whether at Goodwood [Rolls’ UK headquarters] or in Private Office locations—immerses clients in the creative journey. Their personal stories and preferences are deeply integrated into the final design, resulting in a motor car that is not only one-of-a-kind, but profoundly personal. These collaborations often inspire new techniques and innovations in design, material use, and craftsmanship.

Are there plans to open additional Private Office locations? What determines their placement?

Currently, our Private Offices in Goodwood, Dubai, Shanghai, Seoul, and New York are serving hundreds of clients on highly complex projects. Our focus remains on delivering world-class service at each location. While we have no immediate plans to expand, we will continue to evaluate based solely on one criterion: our ability to meet and exceed client expectations.

Are more ultra-limited Coachbuild commissions planned? What determines eligibility?

Wait and see! We continue to explore ultra-limited Coachbuild projects with clients who have a deep understanding of the brand and a compelling vision. These commissions are profoundly collaborative and ensure alignment with Rolls-Royce’s heritage and standards. While we can’t reveal specifics at this time, we are always seeking opportunities to evolve the Coachbuild concept in response to client demand.

This article originally appeared in Maxim’s September/October 2025 issue.

Every man should own at least one great suit. That sartorial commandment has been passed down for generations, but many of us have never had a custom suit made, and may wonder what to keep in mind when investing in a bespoke suit or tuxedo. Enter Alan David Custom. The family-run suitmaker has been creating fine American-made suits, tuxes and shirts since 1913. Located on Madison Avenue in midtown Manhattan, the dapper outfitters craft each individual piece with meticulous attention to detail, creating bespoke garments designed to fit flawlessly and enhance your silhouette with elegance and comfort. Here, ten essential suit-buying tips from ADC owner Alan Horowitz and his team of expert stylists.

 1. Never Get Measured By Your Salesperson

“Measuring and selling are two completely different skills, so always get measured by a tailor. You wouldn’t let the person giving you a test drive also run your credit score. It’s the same idea here.”

2. Ask For A Basted Fitting

“A basted fitting is what really differentiates a true bespoke from made-to-measure or made-to-order. Without a basted fitting, a suit can’t really be called a full custom. After a client’s measurements have been taken, a unique paper pattern is created. It’s from this pattern that the garment is carefully hand cut, assembled and temporarily hand stitched with white basting thread. At this point, the basted garment is ready for fitting.”

3. Buy From Well-Reviewed Suitmakers With Experience

“Do some research and look at online reviews before making a decision. Track record definitely matters, whether it’s years of experience or praised reviews. “

4. Your Suit Should Both Fit And Flatter You

“A custom garment shouldn’t just be about measurements, it should also enhance your body. Even if a suit technically fits, a trim cut on a heavyset build or a loose cut on a slimmer man won’t be flattering.”

5. Get A Second Pair Of Trousers

“Jackets last much longer than trousers as they wear much quicker. So a second pair of trousers can ensure your suit lasts much longer.”

6. Be Aware Of Button Stance

“If the top button is too high, it can accentuate the belly, and if it’s too low it can tend to look rather old-fashioned and unflattering. It should sit at the fullest part of the stomach.”

7. Sleeve Pitch Matters

“Everyone’s arm position is going to be slightly different so if the sleeve pitch doesn’t match, it’ll cause wrinkles near the bicep. If you’re looking at it from the side view, the sleeve line should fall cleanly from the shoulder to the cuff.”

8. Choose Tuxedo Fabric Wisely

“A tuxedo should never use the same cloth as a basic black suit, so you want to look for barathea weaves or blends with mohair for more structure, drape, and reduced wrinkling. Fabrics with mohair are great for tuxedos, they give a bit of a sheen but really hold the crease very well. But no more than 20% mohair, otherwise it’s too shiny.”

9. Consider Fabric Durability

“Not all fabrics that are good for trousers are also good for jackets. For example, faile cloth lacks body and volume for a jacket, but holds up well to the rigors of the trousers.”

10. Match Your Suit To The Occasion

“Your suit needs to match its purpose—whether it’s work, a wedding, or another special occasion.”

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Grammy-winning pop superstar Doja Cat has announced a massive run of 2026 dates for her “Tour Ma Vie World Tour,” spanning Latin America, Europe, the U.K. and North America. The 2026 leg of the tour, promoted by Live Nation, follows previously announced 2025 stops across Australia, New Zealand and Asia later this fall and winter. The extensive world tour marks the artist’s largest-ever outing and her first time headlining in multiple international regions, including Latin America.

The 2026 tour is set to kick off in São Paulo, Brazil, at Suhai Music Hall, before heading to major cities including Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Dublin, London, Lisbon, Paris, Chicago, Denver, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami and Toronto. The run will conclude with a headline performance at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Dec. 1, 2026.

The tour supports Doja Cat’s highly anticipated fifth studio album, Vie, which was released last week via Kemosabe Records/RCA Records. Alongside the album drop, the artist unveiled the music video for her new track, “Gorgeous.” Directed and shot by Bardia Zeinali in New York City, the video features appearances by high-profile models and creatives, including former Maxim cover star Irina Shayk, Yseult, Paloma Elsesser, Alex Consani, Amelia Gray, Ugbad, Ida Heiner, Mona Tougaard, Alek Wek and Karen Elson.

Doja Cat recently performed her single “Jealous Type” at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, featuring soft jazz saxophonist Kenny G. She first teased the song in her Summer ‘25 campaign with Marc Jacobs. Last year, she released her deluxe album Scarlet 2 CLAUDE, which included the chart-topping singles “Attention,” “Paint The Town Red” and “Agora Hills.” “Paint The Town Red” spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the first rap song to reach the top spot in 2023. “Agora Hills” peaked at No. 7 on the Hot 100 and reached No. 1 on Top 40 Radio in 2024.

Check out her American concert dates below.

DOJA CAT NORTH AMERICAN 2026 TOUR DATES

Thu Oct 01 — Detroit, MI — Little Caesars Arena

Sat Oct 03 — Chicago, IL — United Center

Sun Oct 04 — Minneapolis, MN — Target Center

Tue Oct 06 — Kansas City, MO — T-Mobile Center

Thu Oct 08 — Denver, CO — Ball Arena

Sat Oct 10 — Salt Lake City, UT — Maverik Center

Tue Oct 13 — Vancouver, BC — Rogers Arena

Thu Oct 15 — Seattle, WA — Climate Pledge Arena

Sat Oct 17 — Portland, OR — Moda Center

Mon Oct 19 — San Francisco, CA — Chase Center

Tue Oct 20 — Sacramento, CA — Golden 1 Center

Thu Oct 22 — Los Angeles, CA — Kia Forum

Tue Oct 27 — San Diego, CA — Viejas Arena

Thu Oct 29 — Phoenix, AZ — PHX Arena

Sat Oct 31 — Las Vegas, NV — T-Mobile Arena

Tue Nov 03 — Austin, TX — Moody Center

Wed Nov 04 — Dallas, TX — American Airlines Center

Fri Nov 06 — San Antonio, TX — Frost Bank Center

Sat Nov 07 — Houston, TX — Toyota Center

Wed Nov 11 — Miami, FL — Kaseya Center

Fri Nov 13 — Tampa, FL — Benchmark International Arena

Sat Nov 14 — Orlando, FL — Kia Center

Tue Nov 17 — Atlanta, GA — State Farm Arena

Wed Nov 18 — Charlotte, NC — Spectrum Center

Fri Nov 20 — Baltimore, MD — CFG Bank Arena

Sat Nov 21 — Washington, DC — Capital One Arena

Mon Nov 23 — Boston, MA — TD Garden

Wed Nov 25 — Toronto, ON — Scotiabank Arena

Fri Nov 27 — Montreal, QC — Bell Centre

Sun Nov 29 — Philadelphia, PA — Xfinity Mobile Arena

Tue Dec 01 — New York, NY — Madison Square Garden

A luxurious new membership package aimed at deep-pocketed racing buffs just hit the market. Apex Motor Club, a private racetrack and experiential motorsports lifestyle community in Phoenix, has launched the ultimate membership for enthusiasts, bundling a brand new McLaren with a custom, trackside man cave. The $2,000,000 package is an all-inclusive opportunity for anyone looking to live out their professional racing fantasies. It kicks off with a new McLaren supercar, provided by McLaren Scottsdale, that’s immediately ready to hit the track.

But an exotic, ready-to-race ride needs a proper home. The membership includes a private, customizable trackside garage condo with direct access to the track’s Pit Lane. To transform this space into the owner’s personal sanctuary, the package allocates $250,000 toward creating a customized man cave. Apex even offers an interior design service to help owners turn their private garage into a personalized motorsports haven.

The value of the membership extends beyond the hardware. Forty hours of professional driver coaching are included to elevate skills on the track, along with entry into the Apex Challenge series of races to allow members to compete like a professional. Members get their choice of an all-inclusive Formula 1 VIP Experience or a Monterey Car Week VIP Experience, both featuring first-class transportation and exclusive event access.

The package also includes a fully custom race suit and helmet, a customized Louis Vuitton personal shopping experience with $75,000 to spend, and the ability to name a turn on one of Apex’s signature racetracks. Finally, the package wraps up the membership initiation fee and three years of annual membership fees.

Apex Motor Club features three private racetracks in Phoenix. Its newest track was designed by race industry veterans Darren Law and Ian James and integrates iconic design features and turns from legendary international tracks, including the Nürburgring, Silverstone, and Monaco.