Fendi 'Strap You' For Men And Women

Below: Fendi has a new must have accessory for Spring Summer 2016... get ready to refresh your bags (Fendi and other brands) with colourful 'Strap You' Bag straps... And the fun extends to the boys too, as they have mens version as well...Yay!

Fendi Spring Summer 2016 'Strap You' Bag Straps For Men And Women

Fendi has had much success creating add on accessories to add playful character to your prized IT bags. Bag bugs and those cute (but slightly creepy) Karlito charms or miniature monster backpack keyrings are nothing but instant sell out during their initial launch. Despite the huge price tag... fans just willingly fall in line to offer their hard earned cash for them.

For this Spring Summer 2016, Fendi wants you to part with even more of your bank resources by introducing their latest bag accessory... the Fendi 'Strap You'. Quirky and fun bag straps that offers instant refresh to any weary bags, even those that are not Fendi. Choose from simple bi-coloured versions or exotics to floral appliqués and colourful square studs for the ladies. Or for the boys, multi-coloured granite print and coloured python options. (The guys strap will be longer with a different coloured metal clasp) I’d go for the simple coloured leather ones as those will be most suited for boys.

Many may frown upon the starting price of £300 for basic bi-coloured leather versions (womens) or even more pricey ones for exotic and heavily embellished variants. But you cannot dispute that they instantly make your bags relevant and fun again. Something to kickstart the visual appeal of tired bags and bring back your love for them. Now that is what I would call, a good investment accessory. Come to think of it, those ball of fur on bag bugs or miniature monster backpack charms cost even more. So the price of around £300 is not too unreasonable.

I need one for my light grey Peekaboo... a blue and red leather strap will change the look and inject much needed newness to it! Will have to try both womens and mens version on my bag to see which looked more suitable.

What are your thoughts about this Fendi’s latest bag gimmick? Will you get one yourself?

Below: The guys version of 'Strap You'... I want the version in multi-coloured granite print!

 
 

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Source: Fendi

Céline Summer 2015 Bags, Shoes And Accessories

Below: My picks for some guy-friendly Céline bags, shoes and accessories this Summer 2015... Check them out... Céline Skates (if you have a small enough feet) are must haves in my opinion... Love the tan textured croc pair! The Curved Evening Clutch (comes in black or white) is another good gender bending option... interesting curved base and refreshing silhouette:-)

Below: These vertical cabas features striking patterns perfect for a cheerful summer season!

Guy Friendly Céline Summer 2015 Bags, Shoes And Accessories

Céline have always tread on the middle ground when it comes to their womenswear designs. Their minimal and modern accessories have often been non-gender bias and appealing, that boys and girls fall in love with them all the same.

After combing thru their Summer 2015 collection, here’s my choice picks on interesting pieces which I feel could work very well on a guy. Yes, time for some gender bender shopping!

The Vertical Cabas have always been a favourite of mine. And when it comes in a striking red and blue diamond jacquard with lambskin leather (Euro1000), the result is a guy-friendly tote but with all the bold pattern and colours often lacking in the mens bags. For a more paired-down option, go for the vertical cabas in textile with natural and red stripes (Euro780). Part Mediterranean, part city modern... this will be a perfect getaway bag!

Both cabas come with matching Solo Clutch pouch (Euro320 - 400) that bears similar patterns and materials. Good things do come in a set:-)

Another unique design that catches my eye is the Curved Evening Clutch in Palmelato Calfskin (Euro800), reminding me of those wrist strap pouches that business guys love to carry. But of course Céline’s version is tastefully different employing a curved base paired with a foldover closure... challenging the convention of flat and rectangle format.

On to footwear... guys who have smaller feet are the lucky ones who are able to fit into Céline’s highly coveted Skates sneakers. With savvy colours and materials, Phoebe Philo has turned this generic sportive design into an understated fashion statement. For this season get a pair in Sun Tiger Snake (Euro750) or Black and White Stripes Canvas (Euro480) or Tan Stamped Croc (Euro580)... you just cannot go wrong with these comfortable and versatile footwear. Great match for any summer wardrobe.

And if sneakers is not your game, perhaps a revisited Espadrille Slipper in black calfskin (Euro380) could serve you just as well over warmer days to come. I love this Céline’s variant, bearing a more minimal silhouette. 

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Source: Céline

Proenza Schouler PS1 Backpack

Below: New year new start... A Proenza Schouler PS1 Backpack will definitely suffice for me! Anyone together with me on this?:-P

 Below: The back and insides of the PS1 backpack looks just as good as the front. Love this backpack!

  

Proenza Schouler PS1 Backpack

New year new start. Looking for a new bag to begin afresh for 2015? Here’s my first pick for the new year.

If you have been a Proenza Schouler PS1 bag fan, good news. The iconic PS1 bag now gets a new backpack cousin. Yes, just in time for the backpack craze that gets every brand hopping on the queue to offer their own spin. Not all are successful, but in my opinion, this Proenza Schouler PS1 Backpack gets a thumbs up. Inheriting the iconic styling (from hardware, to flap closure to front pockets), the PS1 backpack is instantly recognisable without blatant branding. That is a plus! No true fashionista need be a walking signboard for any brand. The hardware for PS1, especially the metal buckle has been one of my favourite designs. It is distinctive and yet carries a bit of that industrial street edge, done polished or brushed finishing. So the bag is perfect to glam up or dress down. It is a versatile ‘everyday’ bag design.

The PS1 backpack comes in 2 sizes. The regular version measures 11.5” (29.21cm) length, 15” (38.1cm) height and 7” (17.78cm) depth, with a handy top handle should you need some hand grip. The PS1 XL Backpack is slightly wider but shorter and will be ideal for bigger build guys. Measures  16” (40.64cm) length, 13.5” (34.29cm) height, 7” (17.78cm) depth.

Look out for full leather and suede versions (€1,535) or beautiful jacquard patterned (€1,460 - €1,825) variants. The XL backpack comes in a lightweight nylon and leather combination which is (€1,250). Love these!

Below: Comes in a variety of materials as well as a XL size for those who likes their bags 'BIG':-P

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Source: Proenza Schouler

Gucci Fall Winter 2014 Ramble Reversible Tote

Below: This Fall Winter 2014 Gucci Ramble Reversible Tote is 2 gorgeous bags in one... with contrasting colours/ materials that makes your 'style investments' go that extra mile! I love duality in my fashion pieces:-) Comes in a variety of leather colours, even one with python skin... timeless design with great style indeed.

Below: Since I feel 'logomania' may be making a comeback... I vote for this version (below) which reverses from a gorgeous nut brown to GG monogram canvas... Love!

Gucci Fall Winter 2014 Ramble Reversible Tote

I am all for making my ‘style investments’ go that extra mile. Hence, any fashion item that has duality functions get my vote anyday. So today I am happy to report my latest shopping find that embodies this quality. Check out Gucci’s Fall Winter 2014 Ramble Reversible Tote which gets you twice the style power in 2 contrasting colours/materials for 2 bags with one price! I love the fact that Gucci uses very different hues to make the reversible function more distinctive and you truly feel you are getting a new style each time you flip the bag around.

Reversible fun not withstanding... the timeless and elegant design will ensure the bag stays relevant season after season. Armed with a shoulder strap as well, you can also have 2 ways of carrying... tote on hand or sling with shoulder. How perfect is that?

Since I sense an impending return to logomania... the Gucci Ramble tote in Nut Brown reversible to the GG monogram canvas (USD1750) gets my vote! I love the iconic monogram against the tan brown tone ... which makes it nostalgia chic amidst interchangeable styles. The light blue and tan version (Approx SGD3800 or USD2650) looks incredible as well... a warm and cool colour to suit any mood on any occassion. Made for women but the gender neutral design makes this a good contender for guys as well.

In Gucci stores in Singapore now. Go check them out. Leather is incredibly luxurious to handle:-)

Check out the collection in store or online now!

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Source: Gucci

Céline Spring 2014 Twisted Handbag And Phantom Cabas

Below: New Céline totes for Spring 2014... I love the new Twisted Handbag which features an interesting knotted handle, simple but ingenious...

New Totes for Spring 2014: Céline Twisted Handbag And Phantom Cabas

I have always been a fan of Céline totes. The simplicity in design speaks volumes of taste and the notion of less is more. Each piece is timeless and modern and best of all, gender neutral  with the right size and design.

For Spring 2014, I am happy to find out there are new designs to join the Céline tote family. I can’t wait to check out the new Twisted Handbag... a modern and minimalist design with clever knotted handle ends. Such a simple thought but makes for a clever way to incorporate the handles.

And for fans of Phantom Cabas... this new season sees a drawstring style of straps rather than the straps hanging from the sides. I love this new version which is less cumbersome and aesthetically pleasing. The linen and leather bi-material piece has got to be my top choice!

 Below: The new Phantom Cabas spots a drawstring strap that extends from the middle instead of the sides. I love the new placement:-)

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Source: Céline

Coach The Large Clutchable

Below: Check out Coach's new 'The Large Clutchable' in leopard which I spotted while shopping this Saturday... I love the foldover design with a modern minimalist look!

Below: Discreet in branding and making a strong style statement thru design is what draws me to this clutch bag... Coach's The Large Clutchable also comes in pebbled leather in gorgeous fall-ready colours.... The Alpine Moss is my favourite:-)

Coach Fall Winter 2013 The Large Clutchable

December is fast approaching next week... And I am sure many of you are swarmed with year end party plans. What better way to make some style statement than to carry a great looking bag that compliment those gorgeous outfits.

I would say a clutch is the best option for these special occasions as they do not hinder any movement (you will be dancing and socialising, and believe me, big bags are too troublesome) and yet carry just enough for all your party needs.

While shopping over the weekend, I found a great candidate that serves up both function and style in one design. Check out Coach’s new Large Clutchable in Leopard (SGD1575) with a foldover zipped design. Subtle but outstanding with the very on-trend animal print for Fall Winter 2013... this clutch bag is sure to get well deserving attention at any turn. Measures 40cm (L) x 18cm (H) x 5cm (W), this women’s design will also work perfectly for the boys. I tried on the clutch bag and it’s love at first sight!

If animal prints are too overwhelming for your tastes... then get those pebbled leather versions (SGD975) in colours of Ivory, Oxblood or Alpine Moss which boast minimalist chic with discreet branding. No longer are blatant logo blasting a cool way to make an impression, but now tasteful and subtle designs speak volumes of good taste.

I love the Alpine Moss green. And I am all for the unique zipper tab with long leather strips as an interesting and ingenious detail:-) Well done again, Coach:-P

Below: Made for ladies but the generous size works well on guys too! This Ivory coloured version is pure and chic:-)

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Source: Coach

Valextra Large B-Shopping East West Tote

Below: New bag obsession... Valextra Large B-shopping East West Tote has a gender neutral appeal with it's structured construction and contemporary details... Love this one in havana brown grained leather:-)

Valextra Large B-Shopping East West Tote

These past weeks have been a busy one for Singapore’s retail scene. Not only are major department stores, such as Robinsons, reopening with bigger and better shopping concepts, new brands such as COS, Repetto and the highly anticipated Valextra opened their doors to Singapore shoppers as well.

Making my rounds yesterday to check out all these newly minted shopping destinations... as expected, I was not spared the temptations while braving these ‘wallet-precarious’ shopping heavens.

Valextra... Valextra... Valextra.... why does thee have to stock such a gorgeous bag the likes of this large B-shopping East West Tote? Crafted with light-weight grained leather in a variety of gorgeous colours... the Valextra Large B-Shopping East West Tote has a modern structured silhouette, perfect for work and play. The external buckled straps with pale gold flip clasp does remind me of a certain iconic handbag, but the flat handles and contemporary details sets it apart enough to have an identity of its own. The roomy interiors with a convenient open top closure and 2 internal zipped pockets ensure you stay organised while holding aplenty. I especially love the havana brown version of the bag which is rich and versatile... even the boys can work this bag!

The size of 39cm(w) x 28cm(h) x 21.5cm(d) is close to a men’s briefcase  proportions and the no-frills detailing all contribute to the gender neutral appeal of the bag. Retails for SGD4850. Pop by the new Valextra boutique at Paragon Shopping Mall, Singapore and adore this arm candy’s beauty for yourself!

Below: Valextra opens its first store in Singapore at Paragon Shopping Mall... remember to check out this Large B-shopping East West Tote while you are there! Alternatively, Net-A-Porter stocks this bag in Lobster ( Orange) for USD2660. CLICK HERE to check out the bag.

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Source: Barney's, Net-a-porter, Valextra

Céline Winter 2013 Bags

Below: From the 'phantom luggage' looking Tie-in tote to new Hobo shapes and appealing textured materials on favourites such as cabas... I am once again smitten by Céline this Fall Winter 2013...

Quirky Modern: Céline Winter 2013 Bags

Céline Winter 2013 Bags are here to rekindle my love for the brand. It’s been a while since I find anything interesting, ever since luggage totes begun to flood the market and become a unusually common sight. The exclusivity and innovation that is Céline also lost its lustre.

But with the new Fall Winter 2013 collection... thanks to the 'laundry bag' checks as featured on the runway, my bag radar has once again turned its focus back onto Céline.

I am a fan of the woven leather ‘laundry bag checks’ bags, but I am just as excited by a new ‘Phantom Luggage’ looking design called the ‘Tie in’. With fold out flaps and a wide shape reminiscent of it’s cousin, the Tie in comes with rolled handles and also feature a fold over top flap (somewhat inspired by Birkin’s but interpreted in a more modern and geometric way). The one in natural tan coloured calfskin is a clear winner for me, with a magnificent colour combination contrasted from the blue lining.

Another new bag design worthy of mention is the ‘Fortune Cookie’. As the name suggest, the shoulder bag comes with a folded-in slouch similar to fortune cookies. Fun and unique but at the same time extra appealing when they are offered in amazing colourful madras checks of blues and dusty pinks. This is one bag I would carry in a heartbeat if I was a girl!

Also look out for weird pyramid shaped pouches, called the Berlingot, which has a tactile appearance, thanks to materials from fuzzy mink, mohair to wool and even woven leather ‘laundry checks’ (LOVE!). I am not sure how functional they will be, but they are definitely a lot of fun to carry.
 

Below: Check out the 'Fortune Cookie' bag, with a very creative and fun shape... I love those in colourful madras checks!

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Source: Céline

Gender Bender #66

Below: Another bag made for women but looking even more chic for guys... Check out Saint Laurent's Classic Sac De Jour which I tried over the weekend and loved!

 Below: A great bag for work and play: structured but considerably light for its full leather construction and very roomy and chic... Gold lock adds just the right tough of glamour:-)

Saint Laurent Classic Sac De Jour

The design of the Classic Saint Laurent Sac De Jour may remind you of another iconic bag whose prices are over the top and not accessible to many. It may also sound similar with another from a competitor brand... but I have to urge all bag fans not to dismiss this Saint Laurent offering just yet. Let all those ‘Birkin’ and ‘Fendi Du Jour’ ideas be expelled from your consciousness and let’s take in the beauty of this bag as it is.

Having tried the bag over the weekend, physically touching and modelling it... The Saint Laurent Sac De Jour has climb up my list of bags to own this SS2013 season. I especially recommend it for guys (See my modelling pic above). The convenient size (Measures: 15.5” x 12” x 8”, Drop 4.5”), structured construction with expandable side gusset by way of snap-on straps and sturdy rolled handles, are just some amazing details one would expect from a well designed arm candy. Lined in suede on the inside, with thoughtful compartmentalising via a central zip pocket, this is the bag to get organised for work or play. Best part of all, you do not have to wrestle with the weight associated with birkins, as the polished leather Classic Sac De Jour is surprisingly manageable despite the full leather construction. A touch of glamourous gold from the printed branding, zippers and brass lock make this Italian crafted beauty a bag of stealth luxury which needs no blatant introduction. The Saint Laurent Classic Sac De Jour is to be admired with quiet sophistication and hence why it is ideal for boys.

Coveting the bag now? The Saint Laurent Sac De Jour retails for SGD4330 in Singapore YSL stores or £1935 on Net-a-porter. (Click here to purchase on Net-a-porter's UK site).

Below: The red Saint Laurent Classic Sac De Jour is striking and matches my outfit that day:-) Beautiful arm colour for those who wants outstanding...

 

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Source: Saint Laurent

Gender Bender #65

Below: I am already a fan of 3.1 Phillip Lim's 31 Hour Bag... But this Spring Summer 2013 Cerulean Blue colour makes me want to add another to my bag collection. Such a cheerful colour for summer time and beyond:-)

3.1 Phillip Lim Spring Summer 2013 'Cerulean Blue' 31 Hour Bag

It may be time to add another 3.1 Phillip Lim ‘31 Hour’ Bag to my bag collection:-P  All thanks to the new Spring Summer 2013 Cerulean Blue that is updating the functional urban bag with new desirability. Who doesn’t like a spot of colour during Spring Summer time? I know I do:-)

And blue is the best colour for guys to ride the colour trend without appearing too feminine or flamboyant. The bright cerulean blue (made ‘famous’ by mention in the movie ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ by Miranda Priestly (played by Meryl Streep) is just the right shade of blue to give cheer and fun to your summer style. Complimenting the minimal and modern design of the 31 Hour Bag seamlessly, the bright coloured bag now not only transcend daytime or night time but also summer season as well. The versatile hue is timeless and enduring, adding a pop of much welcome colour any time of the year.

The cerulean blue 3.1 Phillip Lim Bag retails for USD795 (bi-colour version) or USD750 for the single colour variant.

Below: 3.1 Phillip Lim's 31 Hour Bag may be positioned as a women's bag, but the generous size and minimalist modern design make it look just as good for men. I have a black version and can attest to it's appeal on guys:-) This Cerulean blue/Putty bi-colour version just reinforce the bag's desirability... (Pic below from Farfetch.com)
  

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Source: 3.1 Phillip Lim

Gender Bender #64

Below: It may be named as a Lunch Bag... But this Proenza Schouler PS1 Lunch Bag definitely pack more style than just your afternoon meal. Love this triangle print version (US$1075) which features a photographic printed interior of bicycle details... Very cool! Works as a great clutch bag, even by men standards:-)

  

Proenza Schouler PS1 Lunch Bag

I am not agreeing this glamourised version of a lunch bag should resign to just a fate of holding just your sandwich and salads. Somehow I feel the name does not do the bag enough justice. This Proenza Schouler PS1 Lunch bag is definitely packing more style than just your lunch. I would feel it works fabulously as a clutch for the ladies and even the guys.

Crafted from sumptuous leather, this PS1 Lunch Bag comes in 2 sizes. Measuring 11.75”(w) x 9”(h) x 3”(d), the large size is ideal to hold just enough and yet not become too cumbersome. The expandable sides similar to that of a lunch bag (perhaps hence the inspiration for the name and design) ensures substantial room to pack even those chunky bits. U can also choose from a triangle print pattern or a plain coloured leather version (with gorgeous contrast coloured edge). I love them both. The latter evoking a minimalist aesthetic that gives Céline a run for their money while the Triangle print version has a surprise photographic print of bicycle details that adds a whole lot of cool. To complete the design, the signature PS1 metal clasp creates a highly recognisable detail despite the very discreet branding.

What do you think? Are these PS1 Lunch Bags worthy of an investment or should they resign to their fate of merely holding your lunch? You decide:-)

Below: This single coloured leather version with contrast coloured edges is simply minimalist cool... Works great as a man clutch. Brilliant blue colour too! (US$915)

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Source: Proenza Schouler

Gender Bender #63

Below: Chanel's Quilted Leather Briefcase is another bag that works fantastic for boys too.
I love the size and simple design with a distinctive interlocking C brass clasp... 
 
 Below: Brad Goreski owns a vintage version... fits his preppy style so well:-)
 

Chanel Quilted Leather Briefcase

Guys love Chanel’s leather bags as much as the ladies. A pity Chanel creates predominantly women’s designs and many may not look right for men. But if you keep an open mind, sometimes you can find neutral pieces that functions equally well for both genders. All it takes is a little extra attention and some guts to pull of these bags. Take for example, the Chanel O-Case in quilted lambskin (which I recently acquired)... and also this gorgeous Chanel Quilted Leather Briefcase which looked absolutely fabulous for the boys.

The Chanel briefcase features no frills details and comes with a signature interlocking 'C' logo clasp. Choose neutral colours from black or brown for a more masculine look and dress preppy for a smart ensemble. The bag is available in signature caviar, lambskin or patent leathers. I was skeptical about patent, but Daniel (from Dear Daniel) pulled that off with incredible chic. I love the classic but recognisable design. Brad Goreski owns a vintage version too, slightly larger and is a match for his preppy style.

Who wants one now? Me me me!

Below: Made for ladies, but guys can work the Chanel Briefcase too... (ASOS surprisingly sold out on this yellow vintage piece for £2500)

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Source: Dear Daniel,  Chanel

Gender Bender #62

Below: I love these Zara Spring Summer 2011 Narrow Leg Studio Trousers in some of the brightest and most stunning hues! Love this orange coloured version as modelled by one of my favourite models, Stella Tennant...

Below: I'd take one in each colour since the price of SGD89.90 is very affordable!

Below: I may even wear the pink one for some statement making moments...

Zara Narrow Leg Studio Trousers

I will have one pair in each of these stunning colours! Having tried and worn Zara's Narrow Leg Studio Trousers (my khaki coloured version goes with anything.. see my outfit pic from last Saturday)... I want these new Spring Summer 2011 versions. Although made for women, they fit the best for a slim guy like me. Roll the hem up and you got a preppy casual look in fabulous hues you can never find in mens collection. (Unless you count Jil Sander men's pricey versions... or Uniqlo ill fitting ones (at least to me)...

Below These may be women's trousers, but the cut is great for slim guys like myself... I own a Khaki coloured pair and I loved it, very comfy and not as tight as many may think! Rolled up the hem for a preppy casual look... (I am wearing a McQ Argyle Checks Cardigan Shirt, D&G Red Patent Leather Belt, Zara Khaki Trousers, Paul Smith Flower Embroidery Espadrilles, Céline Faux Python Bi-colour Leather Cabas with Gucci Racoon Tail Bag Charm)

Priced at only SGD$89.90... you cannot beat that price to get into the strong colour blocking trend for this new season. Especially love the orange pair! Need that!

Source: Zara