The Material Boy #491

Below: Prada Brogues alternative? Loving these Comme Des Garçons SHIRT Vibram Sole Brogue Shoes...

Comme Des Garçons SHIRT Vibram Sole Brogue Shoes

Been lusting over a pair of Prada's thick wedge sole brogues but put off by the high price? I found a great alternative by an equally avant garde brand. Comme Des Garçons SHIRTs Vibram Sole Brogue Shoes offers similar quirky styles but at less than half the price. Retailing at £275 pounds, this shoe is much lighter in weight than Prada's. Of course, you do not get the coloured stripe soles and panelling, but if you are the understated dresser, these fit you perfect.

Saw them at Club 21's Bangkok boutique and I would grab a pair myself! If not, get them online from my wardrobe.

Source: My Wardrobe

The Material Boy #490

Below: Gucci rubber moccasins... the most affordable Gucci shoes ever!

Gucci Rubber Moccasins With Horsebit Hardware

The most affordable Gucci shoes ever. At SGD350 or USD245, you cannot beat the pricing.

And if you are skeptical about price vs. quality, these highly well made rubber molded Gucci moccasins can easily pass off as patent leather... and there's nothing cheap about it. I was questioning the quality until I saw the shoes in person. Now I want them. It's more quirky and fun than regular leather ones... the thicker rubber soles is in line with the thick sole shoe trend raging now. I am tracking down the green pair as we speak:-)

Hit Gucci stores today and track yourself a pair... many stores have sold out of these, so best of luck to those who finds one.

Source: Gucci

The Material Boy #489

Below: It's time to don some fur, 3.1 Phillip Lim style! Lynus Double Wrap Fur Bracelet adds some luxe appeal to your wrist:-)

Below: Or let Lynus Fur Key Ring enhance your bag's Fall Winter luxe appeal! Love the lapis colour (blue)...

3.1 Phillip Lim Lynus Fur Key Ring And Double Wrap Bracelets

Fall Winter 2011 is the season for all things furry. Fur accents are everywhere on ready-to-wear, accessories and bags. To stay on top of 2011 winter trends, it is imperative you need to don some fur these cooler months. I choose to accessorise instead of wearing fur all over myself, to spare me certain death by heat stroke in humid Singapore. So bag charms and accessories will be my foray into the fur frenzy for this FW2011.

If Céline's fox tail key ring prove to be too overwhelming (either your conscience strikes and empathy sets in for our furry friends due to actual fox fur fabrication or the pricing being too steep?), then I think I can offer a perfect alternative to your furry shopping hunt. Introducing 3.1 Phillip Lim's Lynus Fur Key Ring in 3 colours (Lapis, Absinthe and black). These little rabbit fur accessory (length of 8.5cm) can hang outside your precious bags and transform your bags from mundane to luxe winter. And no worries about breaking the bank for these little sweet furries, they cost a mere US$75 and should be easily afforded by anyone!

If bag accessory is not your cup of tea, then go for 3.1 Phillip Lim's Lynus Fur Double Wrap bracelets to accent your wrist. The luxurious fur will bring a new sense of sophistication to your style. Comes in lovely Black/red, Black, and Black/Absinthe combinations so you have no excuse for not being spoilt for choices. Again, at only US$125, it's not to be missed.

Get yours from Shopbop today!

Now for the bad news... unfortunately, due to the real rabbit fur fabrication, these accessories cannot be shipped outside of USA. Better befriend your US friends right now. These are times when friendships do count:-P

More pics on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Shopbop

My MANy Bags News #337

Below: Was invited to the opening of British fragrance house, Penhaligon's 1st standalone
boutique in Singapore, Ion Orchard last evening... truly a night of divine scents for the senses...

Penhaligon’s, the fine British fragrance house, opens its doors to Singapore

In this image driven day and age, looking the part does just half the job. To ensure you always elicit a positive image in your social endeavours, smelling good is as critical as looking good.

From 15th Aug 2011, men and women in Singapore have no more excuses not to impress:-) Now we can smell as fabulous as we look with the opening of Singapore's 1st Penhaligon's boutique at Ion Orchard.

The British fragrance house have been renowned for their innovative perfumery and incredible legacy that spans over 140 years. Penhaligon’s challenges the traditions of the art and seeks new ways to interpret elegance. True to their eccentric past, the new Penhaligon’s boutique is a riot of textures, colour and finishes; designed by Christopher Jenner. The boutique embodies the brand’s heritage appeal with contemporary touches to reflect its modern approach to perfumery. The traditions of Victorian design; elegant wood panelling, tiled floors and display cases, have been transformed with the addition of modern touches including bespoke light fixtures and padded leather walls.

Below: The eccentric but interesting interior of the new boutique... must check out!

But beyond the appeal of the lush store interiors, it is the extensive portfolio of Penhaligon’s exquisite fragrances being stocked there that warrants a must-visit! Choose from over 30 unusual and distinctive fragrances, each designed to elicit a response. Soliflores, Orientals, Chypres: a palette of intense experiences that is being continually added to. These are scents are not your typical run of the mill fragrances you find everywhere in departmental stores. These are connoisseurs' choice to smell ravishing because Penhaligon's work closely with master perfumers including Bertrand Duchaufour, Olivia Giacobetti and Olivier Cresp... experts who interpret their distinctive ideas; conjuring up new perfume sensations that flow against the tide.

“Penhaligon’s is uniquely positioned as a British fragrance house, and we wanted an interactive, theatrical environment to showcase our range of fine fragrances and accessories. We demanded the unexpected: ensuring that antique pieces could sit comfortably alongside contemporary design without compromising the heritage of 140 years of history.” Sarah Rotheram, Penhaligon’s CEO.

In addition to Penhaligon's highly coveted fragrances, you can also shop the full arsenal of toiletries needs including shower gels, scented candles, hand wash or even take home very cool accessories (shape of a eccentric, gentlemenly moustache!) at the fabulous new boutique.

Go check them out! Penhaligon’s is located at #03-16 ION Orchard Singapore.

(More pics on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post)

Source: Penhaligon's

My MANy Bags News #336

Below: The most anticipated store opening in Singapore for 2011... H&M will finally be here on 3 Sep 2011!

H&M Opens In Singapore 3 Sep 2011!

The most anticipated store opening of 2011... H&M's first Singapore Flagship store will open in Orchard Building this coming 3 Sep 2011. Expect a massive 30,000 square feet space of retail heaven that spans across three levels with fashion and accessories for everyone.

“We are happy to finally open our first store in Singapore. This opening marks H&M’s first step into Southeast Asia and we see great potential for expansion in this fashion conscious region,” says Karl-Johan Persson, CEO at H&M.

“Fashion is global, and so is H&M. I’m highly confident that our fashion will be appreciated in Singapore. I’m particularly fond of our autumn collection because it’s so easy to wear, so grown up yet totally of the moment and with such great fashion attitude,” says Ann Sofie Johansson, Head of design at H&M.

Look out for H&M's Autumn 2011 collection which is about a season of cool confidence in distinguished and well composed browns, camel, burgundies and cream. 70’s style influence is essential with longer lengths and wide trousers that look great with chic blouses and comfy knits. Perfect leather accessories and a quirky hat complete the look. And to make things even more exciting, it means Singapore H&M fans will also get to shop Versace's collaboration collection for H&M come November too.

H&M’s first step into Asia was in Hong Kong and China 2007, followed by Japan 2008 and South Korea 2010. After years of anticipation, the fashion retail giant lands their presence in Singapore this year.

Source: H&M

My MANy Bags Sales Updates #63

Below: Click on image to enlarge. Club 21 Bazaar is back:-P

Club 21 Bazaar Is Back! 18-21 August At The Pit Building

Luxury bargain time! Up to 90% off your favourite labels (Alexander McQueen, Acne, Balenciaga, D&G, Dries Van Noten, Lanvin, Marc Jacobs and many more) at the Club 21 Bazaar from 18-21 August. Club 21 Cardmembers preview on the 18 Aug, 10am to 8pm. (see attached mailer above for more details)

Club 21 Bazaar is happening at the Pit Building, Republic Boulevard, Singapore 038975.

Get your shopping claws (in case of 'cat fights' to get the best items) and comfy shoes for easy trying and scouring:-P

Source: Club 21 Global

The Material Boy #488

Below: A touch of leopard fun for Fall Winter 2011! Love these Mercibeaucoup shoes from Japan!

Mercibeaucoup Leopard Captoe Lace-ups

If you have been following my blog, you should be able to tell I am a fan of leopard spot patterns. Being a fan, I have even adopted the pattern as a signature for my blog title. Leopard prints is a pattern that adds visual interest and detail when used with discretion and sparingly. I love it especially on shoes!

Hence, for Fall Winter 2011, it was love at first sight when I came across this pair of Mercibeaucoup Leopard Captoe Lace-ups. The leopard prints thankfully did not get plastered all over the shoes. They are just applied sparingly on the shoe lace panel and captoe, making it all all occasion shoe. Something basic and yet with a sense of ‘wild’ fun that can be worn everyday. Dress up or down, there's simply a lot of mileage for these shoes. I see myself wearing with cropped pants and sports coat or shirt:-)

Mercibeaucoup is available in Singapore at Club 21b, Forum Shopping Mall. I hope they stock these for their men’s selections. Best part is... the pricing is so affordable at only ¥13,650 (or approx. SGD213).

If the leopard ones are not available, I'd go for those polka dot versions! So Comme Des Garcons and yet not over the top pricing:-) (Polka dots are back for Fall Winter 2011!)

Below: Polka dot versions that is so Comme Des Garcons but without the price...

Source: Humor Japan

The Material Boy #487

Below: Prada have heard our pleas... the new versions of those highly popular SS2011 Espadrilles Brogues gets taller with a thicker rubber sole! They also feature a more obvious colour stripe under the jute rope trimmings...

Below: But I prefer these without the jute rope... and features a striking contrast white stripe on the thicker soles! Which colour? Tobacco+Blue+Black or Black+Orange? Decisions, decisions...

Prada Fall Winter 2011 Brushed Calf Leather Brogues

It is a blessing in disguise I did not get myself a pair of those highly popular Prada SS2011 Espadrilles Brogues. I have always been complaining why Prada did not make the SS2011 versions with a thicker rubber sole as seen on the runway or as per the womens. Thankfully, I am not alone, many of you felt the same way too (to the extent that some guys got the women's version to enjoy that extra half an inch under your feet).

Below: The Spring Summer versions have a thinner sole...

The shopping gods be with us. Prada heard our thoughts and pleas. For Fall Winter 2011... their new Tri-colour Brushed Calf Leather Brogues feature not only new colours/variations but with the thicker sole which we all have been clamouring!

I guess the only complain now is which pair to get... I love all the versions for Fall Winter 2011 collection! Will you choose those with jute rope trimmings as per SS2011 (but thicker soles... check out the new colour trim revealing under!) or the white stripe versions sans the jute rope? I seem to have a bigger inclination to the latter... what about you?:-)

(The Brogues retails for SGD1360 or €580)

Source: Prada

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #184

Below: I am now obsessed about Prada's Fall Winter 2010 Camouflage Print Briefcase with a shoulder strap. I wonder if I am too late to track one down! Looked fantastic against suiting style, as modelled by David Thielebeule (Accessories Director of Allure) ...

David Thielebeule Spotted With His Prada Fall Winter 2010 Mens Camouflage Print Leather Briefcase

I was never a fan of Prada's Camouflage range of mens leather bags when it launched in Fall Winter 2010.

But today, upon seeing David Thielebeule (Accessories Director of Allure) holding one while dressed in his immaculate suiting style. The Prada Camouflage Print Briefcase (USD1685) gives an interesting hard edge to the sleek black Topman suit he is wearing. Opposing themes create the most interesting looks.

LOVE! I am now inspired and obsessed. Wonder if I am too late to track one down...

Source: Streetpeeper, Prada

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #232

Below: Zara Mens (Young) Fall Winter 2011 Ad Campaign... some lovely casual pieces for everyday wear... love this leather sleeve military jacket matched with a dose of flaming hot red jeans!

Below: Cool icy blue grey blazer with frayed edging on the lapels and pockets... checks shirt to add a preppy feel:-)

Below: Red leather jacket... more unconventional than typical black or brown ones! Think Balmain SS2011?

Below: Sean O'pry starring in Zara's Fall Winter 2011 Mens Ad Campaign... Orange trench (Burberry/Jil Sander?) looking smart and bright for winter!

Below: Studious looking tailored looks for the refined gentlemen...

Below: Get a dose of Balmain mountain nomad chic at a fraction of the price with Zara's version of the shearling coat... Fur is in!

Zara Fall Winter 2011 Mens Ad Campaign

So which designer’s inspirations have Zara tapped on for this Fall Winter 2011 season? It seems the lines are blurred. But I still see a mix of references and looks taken from Balmain, Jil Sander, Burberry Prorsum and Marni. However, one thing is clear, Fall Winter 2011 season is still a season for colours. Bright tones in deeper shades, the likes of burnt oranges, deep reds are poping up everywhere... hence Zara is not spared. Military styling, thick shearlings and furs, English tailoring and plaids are also strong directions for Zara’s looks or for that matter, each and every designer’s FW2011 collection.

So which are your picks for FW2011 Zara shopping? For me, that red leather biker jacket, red pants, orange trench coat are top picks! We all need some colour to fend off those winter blues:-P

More pics from Zara’s FW2011 Mens Ad Campaign on my Facebook fanpage. ‘LIKE’ my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Zara

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #231

Below: My 3 favourite looks from H&M's Fall Winter 2011 mens collection...

H&M Fall Winter 2011 Lookbook

With H&M opening their flagship store in Singapore come September, let's have a look at what's coming to fill our shopping bags for Fall Winter 2011.

Just got a new batch of lookbook pics for the mens collection and I am loving the 'dandy-esque' styles presented. These are my top 3 favourite looks. Loving the red plaid shirt with double collar (very lanvin-ish), it's a must buy! The bow-tie and suspenders with plaid pants is too cute, retro 1940s chic. Plaids are huge for this Fall 2011 season, so the pants will be a good investment piece.

I am also eyeing that oversized heavy knit cardigan look paired with sweatpants and boots (Balmain anyone?)... perfect for cold weathers or even Singapore's air conditioned environments.

More looks (even ladies!) on my facebook fanpage. Which ones are your favourites? 'LIKE' my facebook fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: H&M

The Material Boy #486

Below: Loving these ASOS Envelope Laptop Case With Croc Embossed Texture! Comes in Cobalt Blue, Yellow And Orange... sleek and smart to use as a clutch too:-) Best part is, it is only £20!

Below: Simple and timeless design... Makes a great looking clutch for boys or girls!

ASOS Envelope Laptop Case With Croc Embossed Texture

Congrats, it's mid week. You have survived so far into this new work week, so it's time to shop to reward yourself.

In view of not over indulging, here's a suggestion that I am coveting from online shopping heaven, ASOS:-) I want these ASOS Envelope Laptop Case with Croc Embossed Texture! Simple, sleek and perfect to hold your laptop buddy or use as a smart folio clutch:-) Loving the cobalt blue version which is simply fabulous. Works for girls and boys! Best part is, the price tag of £20 is never too much to pamper yourself for...

(Remember, ASOS ships international for Free!)

More pics on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fan page if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: ASOS

The Material Boy #485

Below: Tuesday is Mr Porter new arrivals day! Loving these 2 new pieces this week!

Shopping Tuesday: myMANybags 'Mr Porter' Picks This Week

Tuesday is always a happy day for me. I love Tues because it is the day Mr Porter will showcase their new shipments on their website. This week, I am in a crimson mood... and I love 2 things that comes in red tones.

For a start, the lovely Burberry Leather Document Holder in Cherry tone (£258.59 w/o vat) is a great clutch bag for any guys! Structured, smart and with an eye catching hue, it's an accessory for any day. I adore the use of polished leather that gives it a refined appeal, suited up or down!
Next item on my wishlist is this beautiful and woolly comfy mohair wool sweater from Marc By Marc Jacobs (£222.91 w/o vat). Amazing coloured stripe of moss green, blue, coral and cream sends off a soothing vibe that makes you looking chic and extremely hug-able this fall.


Saving the pennies for these for sure!

Source: Mr Porter

My MANy Bags Lookbook #26

Below: I want to make a stripey statement this Fall Winter 2011...

Stripe Statement

I have been thinking about statement trousers for the longest time. Something out of the convention of single coloured or common menswear patterns (such as checks, houndstooth etc). Something with a bit more zest and excitement.

Today, I spotted this pair of bright green 3.1 Phillip Lim Stripe Jacquard Trousers which got me inspired. I decided to build a look around it to see if I can convince myself to adopt the style.

Colour blocking was a dominant trend for SS2011... but bright hues managed to survive and Fall Winter 2011 remains the season for colours. These bright green trousers is timely to befit the ongoing colour trend and perfect as an opposing base for any basics. I decided to balance the 'bohemian' look of the trousers with a refined collegiate style, reminiscent of intellectual undergrads, playfully mixing it up with opposing pieces in their wardrobe.

For the top, I am keeping it smart with a 3.1 Phillip Navy blazer, grey wool knit sweater to rein in the intellectual aspect of college life. A Kitsuné stripe wool scarf also helps to add another level of Harvard flair.

To keep the stripe theme going, I choose Prada's Fall Winter 2011 thick soled brogues which features a striking white stripe across the sides and fun Paul Smith stripe pattern socks. It's truly a 'stripes united' moment!

I always believe no look is ever complete without a bag. So my bag of choice is Kitsuné's large canvas weekend bag that keeps to the college feel, functional and non pretentious. Finally, Lanvin's silk twill flower pin brooch completes the look with a welcoming dandy touch. Now, you are ready to charm the ladies and impress fellow gentlemen:-)

(Check out pics of the individual pieces to form the look on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fan page if you enjoy reading this post)

Source: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Lanvin, Kitsuné, Prada, Paul Smith