My MANy Bags News #356

Below: Celebrity trendspotting right here in Singapore!:-P Check out what Will.i.am wore to Mnet Asian Music Awards yesterday...

Will.i.am Wears Christian Louboutin Silver Glitter Rollerball Spikes To Mnet Asian Music Awards In Singapore!

Celebrating the best in K-pop, the biggest music award ceremony in Asia: Mnet Asian Music Awards was held in Singapore just yesterday. Amongst the stellar number of celebrities who attended was Black Eye Peas' very own Will.i.am. The international celebrity wore a pair of scene stealing Christian Louboutin Silver Glitter Rollerball Spikes, which is absolutely red carpet worthy!

Who would have thought star and trendspotting came to our sunny tiny island just 24 hours ago:-) Way to go to Christian Louboutin for that extra glamour in Singapore. Who owns a pair of these? Envy envy...

Source: Zimbio, Christian Louboutin

My MANy Bags Lookbook #27

Below: Marni frenzy... it's time for prints and colours!

Prints Frenzy: Marni Obsessed?

Inspired by the upcoming Marni at H&M collection... I want some Marni in my wardrobe already:-P So I decided to center a look on some key Marni pieces... that means prints and colour blocking!

I chose a Marni moss green polka dot shirt, loose fitted for a relaxed silhouette but contrast it with a ultra narrow Lanvin tapered leg slim navy trousers to play on proportions. Burberry Prorsum's SS2012 wedge sole woven leather shoes adds that much needed pop of colour and eccentricity to evoke feel of Marni. Né-net's Tiger Brooch also adds up that playful touch.

For a luxurious boost, who else to turn to but some 'orange' magic from Hermès. The H en Voyage silk and cashmere fringed scarf will drape nicely around the neck, complimenting the green tones of the look, while a Cape Cod watch keeps the Marni guy timely and preppy. Lastly, Marni's Canvas and Leather Colourblock tote bag rounds off the outfit, balancing the navy tones of the trousers. Are you ready for more Marni? I do!

(Check out my facebook fanpage for pics of each individual pieces that created this look. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.)

Source: Mr Porter, Marni, Hermès, Lanvin, Burberry Prorsum

My MANy Bags News #355

Below: Marni is the next designer to collaborate for H&M! The Marni at H&M collection will hit stores on 8 March 2012...

Marni Is the New Designer To Collaborate With H&M For Next Spring 2012!

Another piece of good news for all fashion and H&M fans! Fast behind the highly hyped Versace for H&M collection which was just launched mid November... H&M announces their next designer collaboration for next Spring 2012 today! And surprisingly... of all the brands we have been speculating... it's Marni's turn to shine! Consuelo Castiglioni is famous for her whimsical and bold patterns with quirky styling that gets every girl and guy clamouring for her designs. Now everyone can have a chance to wear Marni's inventive styles all at H&M pricing:-)

“I wanted to create a true Marni wardrobe by revisiting all our favorite pieces in signature fabrics and prints. As always, I love juxtaposing prints and colours, mixing modern tribal with Bauhaus graphic adding sporty utilitarian elements”. Consuelo Castiglioni, Founder and Creative Director.

“We all love the collection here at H&M and we believe that our customers will do the same. Marni has such a modern touch with everything they do, mixing prints and accessories in a playful but chic way. It’s fantastic to see how Consuelo Castiglioni coordinates her designs, matching new combinations of print and colour, with such incredible craftsmanship behind every piece. The collection will arrive in stores at just the perfect time, as a lovely statement for spring“. Margareta van den Bosch, Creative Advisor H&M.

However, I have my reservations for this collaboration. Marni is founded on the concept of innovative fashion with an emphasis on hand work quality and revolutionary materials. Since Marni does not leverage on flashy styles or opulent glamour... I wonder how well Consuelo's designs will translate at H&M level. The beautiful fabrics/materials and quality finishes may take a back seat? (Leatherwares always disappoints for fast fashion) Or the prints will save the day as a key part of the collection as previewed in the pictures above? What are your thoughts?

One thing's for sure, this collection will still appeal to many fans nonetheless. Marni's aesthetics will be more wearable hence that will bore well for H&M:-) The Marni at H&M collection will hit stores and online come 8 March 2012.

(Check out more preview pics on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.)

Source: H&M

My MANy Bags Sales Updates #64

Below: Club 21 FW2011 End of Season Sale for cardmembers starts tommorrow!

Club 21 Singapore FW2011 End Of Season Sale For Cardmembers Starts Tomorrow!

Get your Visa cards ready... Club 21, the top luxury retailer representing many top brands will start their end of season sales for cardmembers on 30 November and 1 December. Club 21 cardmembers will enjoy additional 10% off for these 2 days at all Club 21 operated free-standing boutiques in Singapore. Check out www.club21global.com for a list of store addresses. Shop till you drop for Dolce Gabbana, Lanvin, Dries Van Noten, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Comme Des Garçons and many more!

The sale will be open to the public thereafter.

What better time to kick off your x'mas wardrobe or gift shopping than sale season:-) Are you ready to shop?

Source: Club 21 Global

The Material Boy #505

Below: Meet the 'most luxurious couple' in Hermès history...:-P

Meet The Most Luxurious Hermés Couple: Monsieur Montres And Madame Cuir

Hermés is renowned for creating some of the most fascinating works of art on their scarfs and silks. For Fall Winter 2011... meet the most whimsical and luxurious 'Hermés couple' as featured on their latest range of pocket squares (16" x 16")... Monsieur Montres and Madame Cuir! These pocket squares have officially made it to my collectibles wishlist seeing how fascinating the prints are.

Monsieur Montres features our dear gentlemen surrounded by a huge array of luxurious Hermés timepieces from Cape Cod to Arceau Chronograph. Madame Cuir on the other hand is surrounded by all the leather bags from Kellys to croc birkins that we can never get enough of.

Beyond the luxury connotations, the illustrations are truly something to admire and behold. I reckon framing them up and using them as art in the house will be a most perfect idea! I want!

Retails for only SGD270.... get them while you can:-)

(See larger pics of the prints on my facebook fanpage. See how many Hermés pieces you can identify! 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post. )

Source: Hermés

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #243

Below: Lanvin's Spring Summer 2012 Mens Shoes continues to push expectations with some amazing designs that is ever so desirable... this season it is all about deliberate unfinished details. I love the Pecary Derby (wedge sole lace-up) with the exposed stitches!

Below: Not a fan of the bags... but perhaps some of you will like the utilitarian and practical designs...

Lanvin Spring Summer 2012 Mens Bags, Shoes And Accessories

In a collection that celebrates the heroic male, Lanvin continues to toughen up their boys for SS2012, shaping them into male archetypes that transcend inspirations from uniforms, military, hippy ethnic to urban tailoring.

Evident with such diverse influences are details and designs that translated well both on the ready to wear and amazing accessories. Lanvin Spring Summer 2012 sends out footwear with deliberate 'unfinished' details such as stitch work, loose laces, frayed seams on lace-ups, wedge shoes, boots and the best sandals ever. These are highly original shoes had won me over as a fan, tasteful in the sense of being 'distasteful'. Oddball designs seem to be the trend for mens footwear next season. Shoes that become statement pieces and the more off beat you are, the more outstanding. Somehow there seems to be a strange refinement in Lanvin's that makes them more desirable than the rest. The Pecary Derby featuring exposed stitches with a wedge sole is my ultimate favourite.

However, the same appeal cannot be said of the bags. I always find Lanvin bags being over or under designed that they fast become irrelevant outside of their current season. The only redeeming detail which gets me excited for SS2012 are the techno ethnic pattern on a nylon tote (also seen on asymmetric t-shirts) which could be worth a look. Otherwise, I reckon I save my money on other bags that could milk more mileage and style statement.

All in all, in my opinion, Lanvin's ready to wear, jewellery and shoes gets an obvious tick... but the bags are best left at individuals' discretion.

More pics of the SS2012 collection on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Lanvin

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #242

Below: Prada Spring Summer 2012 Shoes and accessories collection... kitsch or chic? You decide! I bet these golf inspired shoes are going to be a hit with the boys come next season...

Below: Bejewelled bags for guys in pastel colours? Prada makes them just so desirable!

Below: Get golf crazy for SS2012... cute key rings!

Prada Spring Summer 2012 Mens Shoes, Bags And Accessories

If anyone can turn kitsch to chic, it has to be Miuccia Prada. The ever inspiring and intellectual designer has turned gaudy flower prints, quirky illustrations, bejewelled studs and odd colour combinations into a highly interesting (and I presume highly sought-after) collection for Spring Summer 2012. Throw in golfing influences, and you have a most unexpected and clashing mix of inspirations.

Is it time to 'retire' all those espadrilles brogues that Prada has been unabashedly promoting the past 2 seasons? I think so... Cos' there's a new hit shoe waiting to be headlined for next season. Fringed golf shoes with a twist, bejewelled or not! I bet all the streetstyle blogs will be flooded with male fashionistas spotting a pair come next fashion season. Equally head turning are those portfolio bags in pastel coloured saffiano leathers, and again decorated with jewelled studs which you either love or hate. Tacky or chic, you decide:-P

Get ready to tee off for SS2012 (It's a golf frenzy... Even the key rings spot golf motifs)... will Prada score a retail 'birdie' for next season? We shall find out soon!

Check out more pics on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Prada

My MANy Bags News #354

Orlebar Brown Setter II & Bulldog II Swimshorts: Indispensible For Guys At The Pool And Beach!

Orlebar Brown creates some of the most practical and stylish swimwear for guys. Watch this clip and find out about their new Setter II & Bulldog II Swimshorts. Indispensible for any savvy beach or pool worshippers. I love the design and cutting which gives a tailored sophistication on men's style even when dressed minimal.:-) Best of all, the nanotex technology of the fabric dries 6x faster and hence ensures maximum comfort.

The Setter II and Bulldog II is an evolution of the highly popular Setter and Bulldog shorts.

Can't wait to wear my pair to the pool with upcoming getaway in December:-P

Get yours online here!

Below: Also watch this video of Orlebar Brown's 2011 shoot in Lake Mesolongi, Greece... hunks bare bodied in beautiful scenic settings...

Source: Orlebar Brown

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #188

Below: PS1 bag in large size for guys? Does it look right? It seemed so for Marie Claire's new Accessories Director, Kyle Anderson!

Proenza Schouler Large PS1 Bag For guys... What do you think?

I have always felt the PS1 Extra Large bag is the only size that will work for the boys. However, some of the more interesting bi-material designs only come in large sizes. That's frustrating. I have always love these more outstanding pieces with unique jacquard fabric, such as Fall Winter 2011's Navajo Jacquard version now available at Net-a-porter (£1,373.16 w/o UK VAT).

But check out this pic of Marie Claire's new Accessories Director, Kyle Anderson modeling the large version of this design. What do you guys think? Does the large size fit a guy? In my opinion, I love it on Kyle, love the rugged spin of boots and khaki hued pants with the colourful jacquard fabric of the bag:-)

Check out the entire range of PS1 Jacquard range (with UK/SGD pricing) for FW2011 on my facebook fanpage. The range is also available at Club 21, Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore)

Source: Kyle Anderson, Net-a-porter

The Material Boy #504

Below: New arrivals at Mr Porter this week and I just added this Burberry Prorsum T-shirt to my x'mas wishlist... Have you started making out your 'Santa delivery order' yet?:-P

Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2012 Printed Cotton Jersey T-shirt

Have you started making out your Christmas wishlist? It never hurts to start early, especially when Christmas atmosphere are trickling in with full momentum everywhere in the stores!

Thanks to Mr Porter, my first x'mas wishlist just found it's first candidate. I love this Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2012 Printed Cotton Jersey T-shirt with a bold, nerdy ethnic print. Graphic in pattern and definitely making you a memorable style statement. I can already forsee many male fashionista wearing this t-shirt waiting to be photographed by Tommy Ton over the coming mens' fashion week in early 2012!

Pair it with a skinny pair of trousers, wear a basic bright coloured blazer... this t-shirt adds a welcome contrast to basics. I want it! The patch pocket is also a cute touch. Nerdy never looked this chic:-)

Prints are a major trend for SS2012. So this t-shirt is perfect to kick start yourself to the front of the fashion curve.

Wish for yours today at Mr Porter for only £195.83 (more reasonably priced than Givenchy's birds of paradise print t-shirt!). Mr Santa, do take note!

Source: Mr Porter

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #241

Below: Pics of Céline Spring 2012 Bags are here! New designs and updates on favourites that do not disappoint:-)

Below: Python luggage totes are always worth coveting!

Below: Fuchsia satin cabas will make any girl fall head over heels over...

Céline Spring 2012 Womens Bags

One of my most anticipated Spring Summer 2012 reveal from one of my favourite brands... pics of Céline's Spring 2012 bag collection is here!

There are a quite a few new designs and updates on favourite classics and the colours used are simply refreshing and bold.

Get ready for new bucket style leather bags named as the Seau and chain strap shoulder straps options from the Gourmette collection. The patchwork suede version of the Gourmette is simply chic, with interesting colour combination. You can never wrong with neutral colours of black and nude as well for both the new designs!

However, what I am always a fan of... are the updates on classic favourites, the likes of luggage totes and cabas bags. Fuchsia pink satin cabas against white leather? Must have! Luggage tote in python jungle (leaf green)... not to be missed! The trapeze bags also get shoulder strap options which will be perfect for city ladies dashing around town and need to keep their hands free:-)

All in all, a good collection with stunning colours and exciting new materials.

What are your picks?

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

Source: Céline

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #240

Below: While H&M is hyping up glamour with their upcoming Versace for H&M collection, Zara stuck to their brand of classic neutrals with pieces that will stay appealling thruout many seasons and years... love their understated offerings from the November lookbook... Lovely military shearling coat...

Below: Gingham checks shirt with red wool pullover seemed so right...

Below: Burgundy red is a key colour for FW2011...

Below: Chunky roll neck sweater ensures maximum warmth for winter months...

Below: Military coat with silver buttons for a smart and sharp appeal...

Zara Mens Fall Winter 2011 November Lookbook

While H&M is hyping up all the glamour with their upcoming Versace for H&M collection, Zara has stuck to their understated offerings of smart basics and wearable pieces. A collection of classic menswear that will keep its appeal thruout seasons and years. Their November collection offer quite a good selection of neutral pieces with a few outstanding ones to mix and match. Zara has always been my go-to brand for winter wear. I wish Singapore has temperate climates. I'd grab the shearling coat or military wool navy coat (with silver buttons) in a heartbeat. I also like the red wool pullover and the gingham checks shirt combination.

Sometimes, a guy just need to dress down and not shout loud:-)

What will be your picks?

(Check out the full lookbook on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.)

Source: Zara

My MANy Bags News #353

Below: I love the runway music and styling for the Versace for H&M fashion show that took place in NYC last evening! Check out the bling bling necklaces on the boys...gorgeous!

Below: The womens collection have pieces befitting a true urban goddess! The metallic silver chain mail dress is a must have...

Versace For H&M Runway Show In NYC Yesterday!

With more hype and fanfare than ever, Versace and H&M presented their collaboration in a special designed building on Hudson River, New York City last evening.

A stellar guest lists that comprises some of the hottest young stars and veterans alike add to the buzz of the glamourous evening. Uma Thurman, Blake Lively, Chace Crawford, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Hudson and Selma Blair were among the guests who joined Donatella Versace and H&M to celebrate this occassion.

Below: Some of the hottest stars attended the fashion show and after party last evening. Jessica Alba look fantastic in a Versace for H&M studded dress while Chace Crawford is forever handsome in his all black suit...

“It was the perfect evening, so glamorous and special. I loved celebrating the launch of Versace for H&M here in New York, an iconic city in which to showcase this iconic collection. Now I cannot wait for it to finally reach stores and be available to the world”, says Donatella Versace.

“Donatella Versace has taken us at H&M on an incredible journey since she began designing the collection for us earlier this year, and last night’s fashion event was the perfect culmination. She has given us the essence of the Versace brand, and last night that came to life with a magical catwalk show that we’ll never forget”, says Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor at H&M.

Watch the runway video accompanied by an amazing soundtrack as many many fantastic pieces sashayed down the runway. Which ones will be you eyeing at on 17 November? Start planning... know your sizing and prioritise... it's going to be a frenzy next Thurs at H&M stores!



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

Source: H&M

The Material Boy #503

Below: Givenchy SS2012 Mens 'Birds of Paradise' T-shirt... ripoff or worth every penny?

Below: To be 'statement making' these days does cost an arm and leg...:-P

Givenchy Spring Summer 2012 Mens 'Birds Of Paradise' T-shirt

Has cotton prices gotten 'inflated' again? Has t-shirt printing charges sky rocketed as well?

Givenchy joins Balmain in lashing out the most unbelievable pricing for a... ahem* cotton t-shirt. I wonder if there's 'gold' embedded in the threads or 'diamonds' mixed in the printing ink.

I am aware the birds of paradise prints used in Givenchy's SS2012 mens collection are getting rave reviews and all... but at the end of the day, is a simple cotton t-shirt really worth the hefty price tag of USD785 (now available for pre-order at Barneys)? U decide...

'Statement-making' these days do cost an arm or leg...

Oh Zara, please come to our rescue and do inspired versions at less than 1/10 of the price. I'd pass on this stupid ridiculous piece of rip off anyday.

(More pics on my facebook fanpage.)

Source: Barneys

My Shopping Conquest #125

Below: I love my new McQ Alexander McQueen Razor Blade Triple Tour Bracelet!

Below: Fun and taunting attention:-P Anyone care to try to wear this when passing thru airport security?;-P

McQ Alexander McQueen Razor Blade Triple Tour Bracelet

Looking for an unusual and yet affordable piece of wrist jewellery? I highly recommend McQ Alexander McQueen's Razor Blade Triple Tour Bracelet. Featuring a menacing looking hardware, resembling your shaving razor blade, this is one fun and attention grabbing bracelet to wear. I wore mine today and it is not only of a versatile design, but adds a dangerous, 'living on the edge' persona to your look. And at a price tag of only SGD160, it seemed a crime not to add to your wardrobe... If not for the interesting design, then for the priceless reactions you might garner from airport security on your next travel:-P (How's that for taunting the authorities? Just don't tell them I suggested this:-P Oops...)

The bracelet is stocked at Club 21b at Forum Shopping Mall, Singapore. Comes in silver or gold hardware. Matching necklaces are also available.

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

Source: myMANybags, Club 21b

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #239

Below: Pierre Balmain Spring Summer 2012 Mens Collection... Is it worth your shopping budget?:-)

Pierre Balmain Spring Summer 2012 Mens Collection

Here's a look at the fresh debut collection from Balmain's second line, Pierre Balmain. Under the creative direction of Frank Durand (Emmanuelle Alt's husband), the rock star sensibility is ever present. It almost feel like Christophe Decarnin's work, but in a more parred down, less 'destroyed' way.

Will you be buying into this collection... Even if the pricing is much accessible than the mainline?

I have to admit, the collection looked mundane and expected. Underwhelmed with all the predictable pieces that we have seen recurred from the main line. However, wearability is definitely a success, anyone can fit into many of the pieces.

Below: This look feels quite Givenchy with the oversized t-shirt over shirt look...

More pics of the collection on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoyed reading this post.

Source: Balmain

The Material Boy #502

Below: I guess I will not be spared from the onslaught and temptation of funky wedge sole shoes afterall... these Burberry Prorsum SS2012 Mens Shoes are definitely making me an instant fan! Love them!

Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2012 Mens Shoes

If you think you have managed to escape the onslaught of coveted wedge sole footwear... bad news, more ultra cool designs are on the way to part you from your hard-earned cash!

Burberry Prorsum is the culprit. For next Spring Summer 2012 season, their mens footwear featuring thick cork material soles with intricate artisan woven leather and patterns are set to coerce you to literally fall head over heels for! I definitely want a pair. Or many pairs. The croc leather versions with woven panelling is both luxurious and funky. Step aside Prada Espadrilles Brogues... there's a new kid on the block waiting to win over all your fans! Statement shoes are here to stay!

Who will 'baked beans' their way till next SS2012 season just to have these Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2012 Mens Shoes? I do!:-)

Below: As seen on the Burberry Prorsum SS2012 runway...

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

Source: Burberry