My Bag Collection #41 (SOLD)

Bally Baltic Canvas Tote Bag With Beige And Blue Contrast Stripes (SOLD)
(Reveal from 'Sale Shopping Time... How Could I Miss It?')

Finally after more than 2 weeks of buying this, I am ready to show my new addition to my bag family. It does take a lot of time to take pics and edit them. 'Sigh'...I need an assistant:-)

Okay, back to the post. I was not planning to get any bags, especially from this season, since most offerings were not appealing to me at all. I was already shopping Spring Summer 2009 so all the the dark coloured and heavy looking winter bags are out of the shopping radar. But when I pop by Bally store as their sale commences, I just have to flash out my credit card. Reason? It's this beautiful nautical inspired Bally Baltic Canvas Tote Bag! I love the colour ways. The ivory white canvas with deep blue and beige signature Bally contrast stripes just shouts 'Yachting' and 'By-The-Sea vacation'! Preppy, nonchalant and lightweight, it's the perfect companion to head aboard a private yacht and sail the Baltic seas! I also adore the chunky shiny silver hardware on the bag. Bally branding is subtle as a small button on the front pockets on each side.

Perfect for the 'resort vacation' looks I am aiming for next season. This will go well with white shorts, bright coloured tops and white leather loafers. Wonderful. With Takashimaya offering a SGD$10 voucher for every $100 spent, I get 10% discount as vouchers which I can use for my next purchase. That is on top of the 6% rebate as vouchers when I use my Takashimaya Amex card to pay. Already at a 30% discount for the Bally sale plus all the rebate in vouchers, the deal just gets sweeter!

In the end, I paid SGD $694.40 for the bag which I top up to SGD $719.40 to get 7 vouchers instead of 6, in addition to the 6% rebate for Takashimaya Amex Card. Got a $25 'Aqua Stop' spray from Bally to hinder moisture and dirt on the light coloured canvas. Works for other bags and materials as well:-) Perfect.

I am waiting for next season to take this bag out to compliment my nautical, sea-faring holiday looks!

Retail price: SGD $992. Where to buy: Bally Boutique at Takashimaya

The Material Boy #193

Gucci Cruise 2009 Womens Khaki Military Shorts

Another cute pair of shorts I like. But it's from the women's collection by Gucci. Hmmm...I wonder if guys can pull this off. It looks just like what a guy's pair of military cargo shorts look like, except more refined and glamourous. The slanted pockets is really cute as does the light gold hardware and belt.

What do you guys think? Does this look like a 'skirt' or can be passed off as a guy's shorts? I should be able to fit into the biggest size in the women's range. Hopefully the zippers is where it should be...in the front!:-P

Beautiful things comes at a price. Even more crazy than Dsquared2, this costs US $1150. Yikes!

Retail price: US $1150. Where to buy: www.gucci.com

The Material Boy #192

DSquared2 White Checkered Tailored Shorts

My hunt for the perfect pair of shorts has begun. Dsquared2 seems to offer chic options despite the brand having 80% tacky and cheap looking things in their line. Somehow, if Dean and Dan wants to be sophisticated, they can do it!

This pair of cute DSquared2 White Checkered Tailored Shorts is perfect for summer. In a way, the fine checkered lines, more like 'window pane pattern' made the white less stark and also adds a sense of relaxed elegance to the casual piece. DSquared2's cut also makes a man feel sexy. Dean and Dan knows how to cut at the right places and enhances certain important assets for a guy (If you know what I mean). That is why their jeans are selling like hot cakes when Club 21 stocks them.

Hopefully the new Dsquared2 dedicated boutique we will be getting in Ion, Shopping Mall will open soon and stock this. I know it is ridiculously priced but if the cut is perfect for me, I will not mind. I see lots of wears for this shorts and it will be worth any price.

Retail price: US $525. Where to buy: www.eluxury.com

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #15

Contrast Grey Stripe Shirt And Grey Tailored Shorts

Ooooooh...I must find myself a pair of Grey Tailored Shorts, in a fabric usually used in making of trousers. I love the look of the guy in the pic (Right). His shirt is like my new D&G acquisition,except short sleeves. I like his cloth batch and tie as well. The look works well with dark rim plastic glasses. I need to get mine fitted with lens now! I need those shorts, I need those legs and I need that tan! Inspiration, inspiration!

Yup. This is my kinda look for Spring Summer 2009.

Anyone into this style as well?

Source: www.manofcloth.blogspot.com

The Material Boy #191

Gucci Cruise 2009 Beige Ebony GG Plus Canvas Bags With Light Brown Leather Trim

Sorry I have to babble about Gucci bags again. I have to stress that I am in no way related to Gucci and will not get any 'benefits' out of blogging about this brand:-) I just happened to find material to blog about from Gucci and their new cruise collections are resonating to me in many ways.

During my express shopping stop at Gucci Paragon today, I spotted the new range of Gucci Cruise 2009 Beige Ebony GG Plus Canvas Bags. Although Willis (Gucci SA and friend) have shown me the 2 totes in small and big size while I was shopping in the Takashimaya store last Saturday, I was not very impressed with the designs.

Upon a second look today, the bags are starting to grow on me. The light brown leather trim and beige/Ebony GG canvas are a very sophisticated colour combination. Easy to match lotas of outfits and the light gold hardware (Namely studs and zippers) adds a certain amount of glamour to these otherwise 'basic entry level' Gucci bags. I also love the size of these bags... the large tote and duffel being my favourites.

I tried on the duffel bag today and it is definitely a worthy piece of luggage to tote around looking chic at airports and airplanes. I feel this range of Gucci bags can withstand the rigours of air travel and security checks. What's more, the pricing being so affordable, you can put your mind to rest if it ever gets some knocks and bumps.

For those of you looking to get designer bags at a good price, this range may be for you. The red and green web ribbon on the bags will ensure your 'investment' gets recognition and attention as it shouts Gucci from 'malls' away!

Happy shopping!

Source: Pics from www.gucci.com

Retail price:
1) Gucci Cruise 2009 Beige Ebony GG Plus Large Tote: SGD $670
2) Gucci Cruise 2009 Beige Ebony GG Plus Small Tote: SGD $640
3) Gucci Cruise 2009 Beige Ebony GG Plus Duffel: US $695 (Need to check SGD prices)

Where to buy: Gucci Boutique at Paragon

My Shopping Conquest #39

Agnès B Gunmetal Star Shape Bag Charm With Blue Rhinestones Studs

Agnès B is having a 10% discount promotion at all their outlets. And DBS Cards will allow you an extra 5% discount. So on hearing this piece of retail news, I knew I had to rush down to Agnès B to get my hands on a bag charm I have been eyeing for the past weeks. I was again cheapo and waiting for a promotion of some sort to get that. I needed the charm to hang on my beloved Izzue Gunmetal Coated Canvas Duffel.

So yesterday my wish came true. I got the Agnès B Gunmetal Star Bag Charm With Blue Rhinestones Studs:-P At just approx. SGD $72 from the usual price of SGD $85, I am happy I picked up something I truly want at a discount. Feels good not to pay full price:-P

Now the charm hangs on my Izzue Duffel, so matching and with a bit of 'disco bling' from the blue rhinestone studs. Cool eh? Love it.!

(BTW, I cannot seem to locate this star shape bag charm anywhere besides the Isetan Scotts outlet. So if you guys want to get this as well, you know where!)

Retail price: SGD $85. Where to buy: Agnès B Shop at Isetan Scotts

My Shopping Conquest #38

D&G Slim Fit Grey Stripe Woven Shirt
(Reveal from 'By The Way Last Saturday...')

I would classify this purchase as an accidental 'shopping conquest'. I was not expecting to find anything I would like last Saturday at D&G, Forum Shopping Mall. I have been visiting D&G stores both in Singapore and London but nothing catches my eye.

Plaids are big for D&G this season. There are some gorgeous plaid shirts being sold in Singapore's store. I was contemplating to get those but seeing how the trend will be over in a couple of month's time, I decided against the idea. In these economic times, I have to be more focused in my 'shopping sprees' and only get things that I really like:-)

Nevertheless, after visiting Gucci last Saturday, I dropped by D&G just in case I miss out on anything exciting. (I am a true shopaholic...sadly:-P). I browsed thru the racks and though I saw a tuxedo style plaid shirt I like very much, my size was not available. In a way, it was a blessing in disguise. I need to stick to the plan to shop beyond the fall winter season. I want to find something that can be carried over to the next season or even longer. Something classic and transcend trends:-)

I was about to call it a day when my sharp 'shopping radar' (being honed thru countless sale shopping sprees) spotted this handsome D&G Slim Fit Grey Stripe Woven Shirt! It almost seemed I am fated to own this shirt. Although only 2 sizes were left, my size was there hanging on the rack, waiting for me to pick it up. How lucky! I happily asked to try on the shirt and being a fan of D&G's cut for shirts, I was not disappointed:-) The shirt fits like a glove! I also love the placket design which is pretty special. I have also been looking for a grey stripe shirt for a while now (Remember, I am on a grey colour craze lately!) so this makes it a definite must-buy!

I paid SGD $314 (after a 37% discount) which is a very good price for D&G Shirts.

Source: Model pic from www.neimanmarcus.com

Retail price: SGD $499. Where to buy: D&G Boutique at Forum, The Shopping Mall

My MANy Bags Sales Updates #10

Gucci Sale Starts 1 Dec 2008

Okay folks, sale season is in full force now. Right after Club 21, Gucci is next to offer markdowns for fall winter merchandise. The sale starts from 1 Dec, starting with 30% discount.

Thanks to Willis for the update! Remember to look for him when you are at the Gucci Takashimaya store during the sale:-) Say hi!

He also told me Takashimaya's additional 10% promotion will happen once again, from 2nd to 5th Dec. Only for Takashimaya shoppers, not at the Gucci Paragon boutique. You clever shopaholics who can sniff a better bargain miles away will know what to do!

Top picks from myMANybags will be the Washed GG Canvas Medium Tote with charm and the GG Monogram Tote with Red Leather Trim. I am not sure about availability. Since I have not seen these in the stores during my recent visits. Maybe it might 'miraculously' reappear during sale time.:-) And another important question is whether these bags will be markdown at all. They may be considered as classic range and no price reductions. Well, the best is to find out for yourself in the stores when the sale starts!

(PS. for those guys seeking more info about the sale...BE THERE YOURSELF! That is the best way to get the items you want or find out stock or pricing details.)

By The Way Last Saturday...

By The Way, Last Saturday...

Last Saturday beyond the Gucci shopping bag, there's another 'indulgence' I got from Club 21. Yikes. No more shopping this weekend. BAN!

I shall do something 'constructive' this weekend, like going for a massage:-)

Ciao ciao. Time for 'Cashmere Mafia'. Eye Candy 'Davis'. Who is that actor?:-P Just googled.

The Material Boy #190

Loewe Cruise 2009 Menswear And Accessories

Loewe...the venerable Spain luxury label has finally made its menswear debut! With Stuart Vevers (Ex Mulberry Chief Designer) holding the creative reins, this first collection of menswear is scoring flying colours in my books. I love the looks! It's luxe, it's daring in use of colours and it's fitted and slim while being very wearable! In these dark economic times, purchasing luxury brands means you have to make the money spent work harder. So classic, longevity styles will be a key factor in consumer's decisions.

I love this new Loewe Cruise 2009 Menswear collection. As I have mentioned before, real men wear pink! Not every guy can carry this colour well.Embrace this brightly coloured hue in clothing takes 'courage' to ward off onlooker's stares. So the man who wears pink is exceptionally comfortable in his maculinity. Stuart Vever is apparently not shy about using colours in his new cruise collection. He has chosen an exceptionally exciting colour palette, ranging from lush green, crimson, whites, navy to...yes, bright coral pink! That decision paid off! I absolutely love the pink suit ensemble and the pink coloured leather tote! How refreshing. It is time to shed off the browns and blacks of winter and get ready for a colourful summer.

Beyond the bright colours, do get totally in awe with the tailored and fitted silhouettes. Shorts are a key trend here. As does big man bags in every incarnation. The Amazona which was previously only available for the ladies, is now made in a bigger size, suitable for the metrosexual male of today. I love the brown version with gold Loewe logo.

These looks are so me. And these are the styles that I am gonna be following for next spring summer!

However, one piece of bad news. Singapore will not stock the ready to wear collections. But we can still indulge in the new mens accessories. Hong Kong will be the nearest shopping heaven to get yourself these luxurious looks. I want that pink belt! Yum!

If the collections to follow are going to be as good as this...I see myself joining the Loewe fan club for sure!

Source: www.loewe.com

The Material Boy #189

D&G Gingham Check Woven Shirt

Cruise 2009 collection is starting to trickle into online retail websites:-) And I always love cruise collections. There is a certain lightness from the heavy winter looks so everything feels fresh and sunny yet again.

A new lust worthy offering I spotted 5 minutes ago while surfing www.saks.com, is this beautiful D&G Gingham Check Woven Shirt! I love D&G's cut for shirts, fits perfectly and ultra fitted.

Featuring blue gingham patterns with shoulder epaulets and patch pockets. What makes the shirt interesting is that the designers have displaced the check pattern diagonally for the pockets and collars. I love the visual effect created, how ingenious! There are also smaller check pattern lining the placket and interior neckline.

I forsee pairing this with white shorts and a pair of strappy sandals. I feel like I am on holiday already!

Retail price: US $315. Where to buy: www.saks.com

My MANy Wants Next Season #01

My MANy Wants Next Season - Spring Summer 2009 Edition

As promised, I have looked thru the collections for next Spring Summer Season, and compiled a list of what caught my eye. Some are must buys, some pending closer item inspection and trying, some on the fence but look nice on runway pics. Of course all is subject to availability.

All in all, the looks I picked are very much easy breezy styles, suitable for daily wear and Singapore's tropical climate. Longevity is a key consideration as well.

Here's the breakdown, see if you can tally it to the collage (Click to enlarge pic) I have made:-P

Clothing:

1) Dior Homme Gold Nylon Biker Jacket - Amazing details and fitted cut. Very sleek and suave. I love the colour
Lust factor: 7/10

2) D&G White Shorts With Navy Fabric Trim - A must buy shorts I am definitely getting! Hope the size fits. Might alter it shorter.
Lust factor: 9/10

3) Gucci Floral Short Sleeve Shirt - Cute print. Good to coordinate for a very tropical South American holiday look. Sao Paulo?!?
Lust factor: 7/10

4) Gucci Dip Dye Lime Green And White Jeans - Like the dip dye effect. Simple but interesting! Hope it is skinny cut:-)
Lust factor: 7/10

5) Gucci Tattoo Print V-neck Tee - I am a fan of the illustration! Waiting for it to arrive in stores.
Lust factor: 9/10

Accessories:

1) Goyard St Louis Tote in Black (or White) - It's a classic. Wonder when I will get it.
Lust factor: 7/10

2) Balenciaga Argent Ladies Weekender - Miss it in London. I hope to find it soon! Gorgeous colour!
Lust factor: 10/10

3) YSL Croc Embossed Nubuck Leather Overseas Tote - Miss it at last season's 50% YSL sale here, the black version. But this grey croc embossed version is cute too.
Lust factor: 7/10

4) Gucci Tattoo Print White GG Plus Canvas Tote with Red Patent Leather Trim - It's doing charity while shopping! I like to shop for a good cause. Guilt free shopping!
Lust factor: 7/10

5) Gucci Cruise 2009 Women's Rope Belt with Metal Beads - Glamorous rope belt that can work on a man. I want, want , want it!
Lust factor: 10/10

6) Lanvin Suede Strappy Sandals - Easy, comfy and highly adaptive to summer styles. I like the one in Beige.
Lust factor: 8/10

That's it folks!...enuff 'lusts' to make me go broke. Yikes! Lastly, note to other fashionistas and fashionistos: "Stay away from these pieces! It's mine!" Hahahaha. (Sharpening claws as I type this...:-P)

The Material Boy #188

1) Krane Jonas Coat

2) Krane Emory Coat

3) Krane Cyril Coat

Krane Wax Cotton Coats With Recycled Military Blanket And Quilted Lining

Big name luxury brands are no doubt impeccable in terms of design and quality. However, beyond my appreciation of all things luxurious, I also love smaller labels which offer a different point of view with fresh design concepts and innovative mixing of materials. Perhaps, being smaller allows for their designers to experiment more and be more avant garde in expressing their ideas.

My top recommendation for locating cult labels is www.oaknyc.com. Not only do they stock fresh innovative brands, they have a fantastic website that is easy to navigate and also ships worldwide.

During my most recent visit on their website, I found these interesting coats from a less heard brand, Krane. I love their black wax cotton coats in different variations from bomber to hooded to double breasted officer's coat. Utilitarian, masculine designs that offers lots of interesting details. The feature that caught my attention most is the use of recycled military blankets from Italian or Swiss army to do the lining of these gorgeous jackets. They must feel really warm! Very unique and I have never seen these done before anywhere else. I love it. This idea adds a touch of vintage look while injecting a certain macho attitude to the wearer. I am sure the lining will be a conversation topic among friends when you flash the inside to your friends! Very cute.

The aged finishing extends to the small pewter coloured snap buttons and hardware all over. Detachable fur collars softens the hard masculine edge while adding a touch of luxury. Most important of all, I think these coats have a great cut which I adored.

Here's the description for the 3 designs offered on www.oaknyc.com.

1) Krane Jonas Coat (US $1100)
Medium weight waxed cotton double breasted officer’s coat; two-way zip front and hook & eye closure at neck; detachable sheep skin fur lined collar with corozo buttoned fastenings; angled dart with large pewter snapped pocket flap pockets at front; double vents at back; kasha and striped sleeve lining with interior mobile pockets; functional sleeve vents with die-cut leather slider button fastenings; detachable recycled Italian military blanket and quilted lining.

2) Krane Emory Coat (US $952)
Medium weight parka bomber with hand-weaved elastic waistband and sleeve cuffs; angled dart detail with pewter snapped flap pockets and welt pockets at front; centre antiqued silver zip front with elastic cord and die-cut leather slider button fastenings; recycled Swiss military blanket and quilted sleeve lining; sheepskin lined hood; pewter snapped mobile and hidden zip pocket at sleeves.

3) Krane Cyril Coat (US $938)
Medium weight waxed cotton aviator with hand-weaved elastic waistband with black powder-coated buckled straps at sides of jacket; centre zip-front with pewter snapped storm flap and hook and eye closure; detachable sheepskin trimmed collar with corozo buttoned fastenings; angled dart detail with large patch pockets; recycled Italian military blanket and quilted sleeve lining; die-cut leather slider buttoned sleeve cuffs.

Where to buy: www.oaknyc.com