Yes, as with my yearly 'tradition', I embarked on my pilgrimage to Land of Smiles once again for the ushering of the new year. I will be travelling to Bangkok to enjoy some spa bliss... thai food and a relaxing good time before we all grow one year wiser.
Wish everyone have fabulous plans for the coming new year. Report back when I am in Bangkok!
To all my lovely readers, Happy prosperous, shopping bags bountiful 2011 in advance:-)
Below: Lanvin Spring Summer 2011 Mens Shoes... these hybrid shoes with a sports vs couture design is truly refreshing... some work, some less so. But these leather slip-ons are beckoning to me... Love the first one and even the high cut version...
Below: Bold fusion of typically unappealing tracking sandals with fashion touches of exotic textures and sports details... I am not so sure about these, but the first one might work better and looked the best... my humble opinion:-)
Below: Hybrid sandals as seen on Lanvin's Spring Summer 2011 runway...
Below: Besides the runway pieces, there are also updates on Lanvin favourites, such as the signature trainers that all Lanvin fans adored... the multi coloured snake skin versions are looking really fabulous!
Below: Other more subdued designs to suit the taste of those seeking more classic styles...
Below: Love these boat shoes!
Lanvin Spring Summer 2011 Mens Shoes
This collection is evidence of Lanvin's evolution into the grunge and tough luxe territory. Compare it to H&M x Lanvin's design style and you immediately see the difference in style. No longer contented to live in a dandy world of refinement and gentlemen charm, Lanvin boys are ready to venture out of their cosy mansions and rough it out in the real world.
Sports vs. Couture? Yes indeed! There is a heavy sports theme in the designs shown on the runway but given a twist with highly applauded detailings. Fusing tracking sandals, sporting details (such as straps and buckles) with exotic skins and textures, the result is a refreshing take on mens footwear. Lanvin has pushed the boundaries of mens' shoe design once again, introducing a brand new way we perceive men's footwear. Some ideas work, some lesser so.
The tracking sandals may be an interesting spin from their actual sporting counterparts, I am hesitant to be wearing them in the city. Perhaps the first one may have a potential to change my mind (pair with skinny pants as seen on the runway?) ,there is still something amiss in them, they remind me too strongly of English tourists with socks:-P (Sorry my English readers!)
However when it comes to the leather shoes, the crossing inspiration worked for me. I love the fusion of sporting gear buckles and canvas straps embellishing the shoes, while a touch of exotic skin adds a dash of adventure. Truly an urban warrior's choice of footwear. The taper back of the wooden heel gives an impression of YSL's Johnny boot, but done in a much tougher way:-) The version in brown and the high cut ones just went straight to my wishlist.
Beyond the 'wow' factor of runway designs, there are other toned down versions to suit a more subdued taste. Signature Lanvin trainers are updated with multi-coloured snake skin... highly lust inducing. The boat shoes in suede and python are equally TDF. Leather lace ups have also been tapered more dramatically at the tip, given a burnished effect that makes them have a charming used appeal.
The strap sandals and full leather trainers (red and brown) are nice, but too plain for my liking.
In my opinion, this is still a wonderful collection with a good mix of favourites and refreshing ideas. Are you ready to shop Lanvin shoes next Spring Summer 2011? I know I do!
Below: Rosie Huntington Whiteley and Jason Statham spotted with a Hermès Birkin and Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Nero Duffel respectively...
Below: Rosie Huntington Whiteley, looking fabulous in the recent Victoria Secret's fashion show runway... For someone young and beautiful as her...the Birkin seems to have added years to her look. Agree?
Below: The iconic Hermès Birkin Bag in Blue Jean...
Below: Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Nero Duffel Bag... great travel companion if you want to travel in style:-P
Spotted Hermès Birkin On Rosie Hungington Whiteley And Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Nero Duffel On Jason Statham
I just got to watched Victoria Secret's latest fashion show a couple of hours ago and I was wowed by the beautiful, elaborate lingerie + 'costume' design. Most importantly, by the beautiful girls and the surprising line-up of models for this year's show. I cannot believe Anja Rubik made it as a Victoria Secret's Angel... always thought she was too edgy for a bombshell look. But she pulled it off in a way. Lily Donaldsonlooked very at ease on the catwalk. Who knew she has such great 'assets' too:-P
But of the girls, Rosie Hunington caught my eye with her super seductive lips:-P That brought to mind a pic that I recently came across of her alongside 'boyfriend(?!?), Jason Statham at London's Heathrow Airport.
She did not seem like the Hermès birkin kind of girl. Rosie's look is playful and young (she's 23)...and Birkin bag was unlikely to be her choice of bag. But she carried one... in Blue Jean (I think) with silver palladium hardware. Do you guys think she look too young for a birkin? Me think so. The bag although being such an icon(here lies the problem)weighs her down...and made her more mature in her years than she should be. She had looked so cute and full of youthful zest in her Victoria Secret's runway, perhaps a more edgy alternative the likes of Givenchy's Pandora bag or even a PS1 bag would befit her age better. My humble opinions:-P... feel free to convince me otherwise.
As for Jason Statham (twice Rosie's age)... he looked composed and well 'heeled' with his gorgeous Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Nero Duffel Bag. I wished he'd took off that cap. It's just the opposite of what Rosie is doing (She gained 'years' with such a classic handbag) but Jason looked as if he is trying to rekindle his teenage years, perhaps to be a better match for his young girlfriend?
Enough said, I still love those bags! They make gorgeous travel companions for sure, looking as good as the cute couple:-) Source: Just Jared, Bottega Veneta
My favourites... preppy cool Liberty of London, grungy Complex Geometries, minimalist sexy Theyskens' Theory, quirky casual Over The Stripes and modern deconstructing Tess Giberson.
Below: More shopping from my recent Tokyo trip... this time it's from Neil Barrett! (I love the shopping bag with a leather lace tag tied to the handles...)
Below: Something I have been searching high and low, online and offline, (unfortunately Club 21 mens in Singapore do not stock this)... it's these highly versatile and interesting brooches featured prominently in Neil Barrett's Fall Winter 2010 Mens Show...
Below: Varying shades of grey and sizing, different fabric patterns and leather texture, allows for creative decorating of any plain blazers, coats and even t-shirts.
Below: 'Logo-phille' rejoice! There is branding on the back:-) so your 'investments' are assured that it is from a designer brand:-)
Below: I got a new set online after I got back from Tokyo... now it's double the brooches fun:-)
Below: As seen on the runway of Neil Barrett's Fall Winter 2010 Mens Collection! Interesting embellishment of blazers that adds a focal point...
Below: Decorated on coats as well... I love this collection.
Below: Watch the Neil Barrett Fall Winter 2010 Mens Show to get inspired... look out for the brooches. It's everywhere:-)
Below: A clearer pic of the individual badges in this set...
Below: Neil Barrett's Aoyama store in Tokyo is now one of my favourite boutiques in the world... not only is the store well stocked but the ZahaHadid designed space is immensely inspiring!
Below: Store entrance...
Below: The space within with dramatic curves, concrete walls and clever play of space...
Below: The sculptural centre piece in the store is clever layered to form shelfing space... very clever and original
Below: Check out these 2 clips of Neil Barrett being interviewed about his brand and concept for his Aoyama store (bear in mind the interview was done a while ago)...
Neil Barrett Fall Winter 2010 Fabric/Leather Brooches
One of the top agendas of my recent Tokyo trip was to pay a visit to Neil Barrett's ultra modern standalone boutique in Aoyama district. Besides getting inspired by the ingenious interior space designed by renowned architect, ZahaHadid(whose name is synonymous with some of the most innovative buildings/structures around the world). Blending architecture and sculpture, the minimal space is a embodiment of dramatic curves and serenity of ambient space. I just had to see the store (one of the rare few Neil Barrett standalone stores in the world) for myself.
But my expedition to Neil Barrett's Aoyama store also comes with another mission: to locate the set of fabric and wool badges featured prominently on the Neil Barrett Fall Winter 2010 Mens Runway. Decorated on blazers, coats, sweaters, t-shirts, it's everywhere on my most favourite Neil Barrett collection to date. Everything from the collection is a must-have. Wrinkled treatments never looked this good! And after seeing the immaculately styled sales guys at the Tokyo store, I was ever more convinced I love the collection.
These brooches in varying shades of grey menswear fabrics and leather texture add depth and interest to any outfit. They instantly transformed a plain garment into one with a focal point and excitement. I love the mix of rectangular and circular shapes of varying size, allowing u to creatively mix and match as you deem fit. I was disappointed when I learned Singapore's Club 21 store did not carry these versatile brooches. I knew I had to track them online, which I only briefly found them available but was sold out as soon as I want them! So hunting down these brooches was a real challenge. All's well ends well... I am thrilled my 'Tokyo Neil Barrett store visit' bears results, not only do I get inspired by the highly original store interiors but I bag myself these coveted brooches:-)
Love every detail of my shopping experience in the Aoyama store. I proclaimed the store space my favourite in the world, to the extend, I went back a couple of times just to see the decor and merchandise in greater detail. Since pricing in Japan is over the top, I had to hunt down the pieces I want online once I get back to Singapore. Guess what, I picked up another set of the brooches 0nline at less than half the price I paid in Japan (Irony in life, you always find what you want when you least try to look for it). But I simply love them, double the joy now.
Blazer decoration 'DIY' will now commence, and in time for New Years! Source: Neil Barrett, myMANybags
Below: Blackjack rebranded... New Club 21b debuts in Jan 2011!
Blackjack Rebranded As Club 21b In Mid Jan 2011
To further reinforce Club 21's position as Singapore's most cutting edge fashion retailer, the brand is having a little spruce up on their multi-brand store, Blackjack. This initiative is to provide more tandem of the Blackjack brand to existing Club 21 multi-brands and to inject newer, more exciting shopping experience for their customers (Namely you and I!).
Blackjack will officially adopt the new name Club21b come mid Jan 2011. With this new name, the store will spot a bigger 330 sq metres retail floorspace, occupying both the existing Club 21 collectibles and Blackjack stores at Forum Shopping Mall, Singapore. Club 21b will spot brand new interiors to showcase existing favourites the likes of Julius, Mercibeaucoup, Ne-Net, Aviatic, McQ by Alexander Mcqueen and new brands such as Theyskens' Theory, Liberty of London, Opening Ceremony x ChloéSevigny, Golden Goose and many more. The new pure and minimal space, housing both mens, womens and accessories is designed by KoichiroIkebuchi of Atelier Ikebuchi. The decor will bring out each individual brand's personality, keeping up with their different characters, but not outshining them. I can't wait to see the new face lift given to the store and also check out the new brands that resonate most with fashion fans who swears by eclectic, avantgarde styles.
2011 better come soon! Such injection of exciting retail news makes the new year something to look forward to:-) I have been a fan of Blackjack since the longest time due to their stockist of super interesting Japanese brands and more. Now Club 21b just made shopping there double the pleasure!
Club 21b will be located at unit #01-07 (opening mid Jan 2011) and #01-10 (opening mid March 2011), Forum Shopping Mall, Singapore.
Below: Shopping in Tokyo! I got something from Tsumori Chisato Mens from their store in Aoyama:-) Singapore will soon get our own standalone boutique in Jan 2011! Rejoice!
Below: This was what I got... Tsumori Chisato Pre-spring 2011 Flower Appliqué Shirt... A huge 'painted' flower appliqué on the chest for some flair and flamboyance:-)
Below: What got me more interested are the subtle red stripe jersey lining under the collar...
Below: and end of the placket of the shirt... which peeks thru subtly when unbuttoned at neck or left untucked into pants...
Below: Mandatory myMANybags dressing room shot! I am trying out the shirt. Fits like a glove, Tokyo stocks Asian sizing:-) See how the red stripes peek out at the shirt ends...
Below: Wearing the shirt on its own... the flower print is cute!
Below: Angled view... I am sold with the red stripe detailing:-)
Below: What I wore that day... My 'newly bought in Tokyo' Tweed Blazer from Gap(Who would have thought Gap looked fab in Tokyo!), 'Brad' Denim Shirt from D&G, Dior Homme Jeans, Balmain Metal Loops Belt, Zara Military Boots (Finally my chance to do the 'tuck in' boots look! Yay!)...
Below: Spot the shirt inside the Tsumori Chisato store, Tokyo-Aoyama... See how it was matched with 'drop crotch' pants. Love the store decor. Simple and wooden rustic... hope our upcoming Singapore store by Club 21 shares the same interior details! Most importantly, stock some great merchandise such as the Aoyama store:-) Cruise 2011 Mens looked fab...
Below: Professional pics of the shirt without my 'yellow tinted' lighting at time of photography at the store...
Tsumori Chisato Pre Spring 2011 Flower Appliqué Shirt
December is indeed a month where I bled out my bank account! Having a visit to Tokyo is very bad news to my wallet. When you are in Tokyo, especially posh Aoyama... Shopping is inevitable with so many temptations waiting for you in every corner.
I did not want to buy overpriced international brands, hence the local Japanese brands are a must-see. Of course, I subcumbed to the calling of the shops... much to disappointment of my fast-crumbling resolve not to! How can one resist?!?!
One of the shopping conquests I had while wandering Aoyama in Tokyo was this Tsumori Chisato Pre-Spring 2011 Flower Appliqué Shirt. I stumbled upon this shirt on the mannequin in the store, but was not paying attention to it until I was about to leave. The cute Japanese sales guy was wearing the shirt, but contrasted it with a pair of Khaki harem pants and a pair of combat boots. This is 'living' fashion inspiration! A refreshing take on something 'feminine' against something tough. I love the look and hence, made a u turn back to the men's section to try the shirt. The sizing was petite and perfect... I just had to get it.
Besides the flower print on the chest, I also adore the red stripe jersey lining inside the collar and along the ends of the placket of the shirt. Little details go a long way! When worn untucked, the red stripes peeked out from the shirt ends and collar, adding a subtle but outstanding spot of colour and interest.
The new selections for Tsumori Chisato mens looked really promising at the Aoyama store. I wonder when the standalone store in Singapore's Forum Shopping Mall (by Club 21 Global) opens in Jan 2011, will we get an equally good selection as well? I hope so! Tsumori Chisato standalone boutique is poised to open at Forum Shopping Mall (from what I heard so far)... will share more details when I have them.
Here's some pics (see above) from my dressing room try out... I got the shirt and love it. Flower prints appeared in quite a few men's runway (Jil Sander is one!)...so this shirt should serve me well in the coming summer months!
Below: What have you shopped over this festive holiday? Here's the first of my shopping conquests for this holiday season... received just last week from Tokyo, beautifully wrapped by www.restir.com...
Below: Something that I wanted long time back... finally I have it! From Trussardi 1911:-)
Below: Yes, it's a brand new belt!
Below: I am crazy military this Fall Winter 2010... and this TrussardiCamouflage belt is a must have! It's classic and timeless with a 'butch' appeal:-)
Below: Made in Italy...age old technique by the brand... as stated in the description card... Well made it is!
Below: Winter or summer, camouflage pattern will always be relevant:-)
Below: I had the pleasure of visiting Restir's actual store in Tokyo Midtown Mall when I recently visited Japan... such a cool store. Almost club like... very good selections, my taste!
Below: I took this lousy pic of the store front... was in a rush...oops..
Below: The posh and wood clad Tokyo Midtown Mall...go check it out... nice brands there, although more womens than mens:-) Most importantly, Restir is here!
Trussardi 1911 Camouflage Canvas/Leather Belt
The highly anticipated holiday of the year, Christmas holiday is over. Did everyone have a 'bountiful' holiday? One filled with lovely presents from friends, family or yourself?
I have not been posting my shopping conquests for a long while. Being busy with work and holiday... time was scarce to makes pics of my shopping.
So finally, had some time on my hands over the X'mas holiday... so what have I gotten for X'mas? Time to share #1 of 'I lost count' frantic festive shopping...
I have been raving about this Trussardi 1911 Camouflage Canvas/Leather Belt since months ago here. The military theme has been one of my favourites in fashion and I cannot begin to recall how many olive colour clothing, and army style things I got this Fall Winter 2010. So this is a must have for my 'military' chase. The only place I have seen this belt being sold was at www.restir.com. The Japanese online retailer had a boutique in Tokyo Midtown Shopping Mall which I deemed a must visit during my recent Tokyo holiday.
Fates has it that I miss out on getting the belt in person when I was at the store then... reason being I forgot my passport for tax free shopping (although it is 5% rebate only... Japan's high mark up for luxury goods means every cent saved is every cent you pay less). I could have used my friend's passport to get the belt, but after pondering a while, I could not bear to spend over $450 so early in my Japan trip so I pass it up.
Upon returning to Singapore, I chanced upon www.restir.com's online 1 day flash sale, and lucky stars smiling upon me, the belt was markdown by 40%! This is the higher powers' calling for me to grab the belt. It's shopping blasphemy if I denied myself this chance. So after pleasant email exchanges and one click of a check out button... the belt arrived in Singapore last week. Indeed a marvelous piece of fashion accessory. Last flashy than Louis Vuitton'smonogramouflage belt... but more timeless. I love it! Time to play 'military macho' this festive holiday!
What have you guys shopped over Christmas? Share here!!!
