My Shopping Conquest #116

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 Zaha Hadid 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, Zaha Hadid (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

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #143

Below: 'Sheer' joy of Spring Summer 2011? Men's peekaboo torso and nipples?!?! Many designers are proposing transparency for next season. Neil Barrett's Spring Summer 2011 menswear sees lots of take on this transparency trend... sheer tops anyone? I like this look, blazer to show just a little and not too overwhelming for the eyes...

Below: Leather and sheer seemed to create an interesting opposing aesthetic of tough vs. the feminine... use transparency wisely to not look effeminate and trying too hard... (Neil Barrett SS2011)

Below: If you are shy, layer the translucent top over a solid for a more subtle take... (Neil Barrett SS2011)

Below: Burberry Prorsum proposes biker's take on masculine/feminine transparency trend... netted knit top over biker style pants and tough looking sandals...

Below: Military shirts in sheer fabric for Burberry Prorsum SS2011... again, tough over soft...

Below: Even more classic brands like Bottega Veneta are also not shying away from showing subtle skin... layer a trench over, show enough of pecs to tease... chest hair in minimal amounts please:-)

Below: Not even Hermès are spared from the invasion of transparency in menswear...

Below: Givenchy SS2011 also sees men dressing in sheer shirts, who says women can only do the seductive look:-)

Below: Nipple bearing seems fundamental for Spring Summer 2011 menswear... Lanvin agrees too...:-)

Below: Alexis Mabille SS2011 Menswear... sheer and flamboyant...

'Sheer' Joy For Spring Summer 2011

Remember this guy whom I commented I was against men showing off his nipples no matter what the situation is?


Time to eat my words back... *Glurp*. It may used to be 'socially' unacceptable for men to flaunt skin thru translucent fabrics (guys who do, screamed effeminate and fetish) things are about to change. Our female counterparts have always leverage on 'seduction' thru 'now you see it, now you don't' fabrics... now it is the guy's turn to 'shine' in this arena. (One thing I find strange is that guys wearing sheer tops are feminine, but it is strangely acceptable when guys bare the full torso during summer. That's considered masculine).

For Spring Summer 2011, transparency have been a big trend on the women's runway. But it seems designers all over have decided it is just as good a fashion statement for men as well. So here we are, presented on the runways of almost every major fashion brands, be it avant garde houses like Neil Barrett, Lanvin or Givenchy, or classic houses like Hermès and Bottega Veneta... each had their interpretations of transparency to some extent.

Nipples, pecs and abs 'peeked' in abundance thru sheer fabrics, lightweight knits or netted tops... it's 'male-physique' galore for any adoring eyes:-)

I wonder how widely adopted will this transparency trend be when Spring Summer 2011 hits full steam. I know if I am to wear sheer tops, I'd do it in Neil Barrett's style, militant and tough, over blazers and utilitarian pants to oppose the femininity of this subtle exposé. Or even Burberry Prorsum's biker take, with leather jackets complete with killer strap sandals.

What say you guys? Will you ever be ready to 'peekaboo' some nipples and abs?:-) Is it 'sheer joy' or 'sheer despair' for you?

Source: Vogue UK

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #142

Below: Blue is the new favourite colour for Spring Summer 2011! Neil Barrett SS2011...

Below: Ultra bright blues for Jil Sander SS2011... this is one dominant shade for the season...

Below: Bottega Veneta SS2011... blue is masculine and never boring...

Below: 3.1 Phillip Lim SS2011... lighter blue is also seen in abundance for the new season...

Below: Calvin Klein SS2011...

I See Blues For Spring Summer 2011!

Khaki and Military hues were dominating Fall Winter 2010 season. But for next Spring Summer 2011, get ready for an invasion of the blue hues! Navys, midnight blues, sky blues (Especially a bright, almost flourescent shade is everywhere!)... you name a shade, you have it on the runways!

From Neil Barrett (my favourite collection), Jil Sander, Calvin Klein, Bottega Veneta, 3.1 Phillip Lim and more... Blue is the new favourite for Spring Summer 2011.

Source: Vogue UK

My MANy Bags Lookbook #23

Merry Plaid Winter

After a trip to Japan, I am inspired by winter wear, especially themes of English sensuality, the great outdoors and folklore. So for my new long overdue Lookbook post, I shall create a look mixing classic plaid patterns (English), a bit of rugged outdoor charm and lots of festive spirits (Red colour!). Perfect for spending the holidays in mountain log cabins, warming up to log fires, treading knee deep in snow covered forests... ahhh...the spirit of X'mas time.

Trussardi 1911 and Neil Barrett are 2 of my favourite brands this Fall 2010 season. Hence, outerwear of wool plaid pea coat, cosy neckwear of red wooly snood from Trussardi 1911 are top selections. To extend the cosy feeling of thick wool coat, I pair these pieces with a pair of cargo sweatpants from The Soloist. To add some grunge attitude, I leave it to pieces from Neil Barrett to work their 'grunge' magic... black extreme creased knit sweater, wool fabric and croc embossed leather badges and then finally round it off with some tough military boots and Bell And Ross Phantom Watch.

Finally to pack all the winter necessities for a winter getaway, Trussardi's fabulous wool plaid and leather duffel is the perfect arm companion while reinforcing my 'Merry Plaid Winter' theme. Happy Winter time, merry merry X'mas everyone!

Source: Restir, The Corner

The Material Boy #426

Below: Who wants these Spring Summer 2011 Mens Shoes as much as me:-P?

Shoes To Lust For: Spring Summer 2011

In fashion, you have to plan ahead. Fashion never stops for anyone, so it is imperative for the discerning shopper to know your next seasons' purchase even before the current season is over. Fall Winter 2010 is coming to an end... end of season sales are in full force. So what better time than now to peruse over what's coming. Plan your shopping budget, instead of 'throwing away' money on items that may just be passing trends when current season ends. Save some bucks for new seasons offerings no matter how attractive the sale discounts may be:-) Or buy into items that will stay relevant for new seasons to come. That's the sale shopping strategy I am adopting this year:-)

So here's a look at upcoming shoes that I am loving. Top on the list are thoese Burberry Prorsum sandals that I have lament over since it first appeared on the runway many months ago. Now it is time to lust over them and plan to buy them if the price and fit is right!

Next on the list are those Neil Barrett Suede And Nappa Leather Hybrid Sandals/Chukka Boots which will match exceptionally well with skinny jeans. Urban warrior off duty anyone? If covered designs are still too uptight, Dior Homme's modern Leather Strap Ankle Sandals are a great alternative for modern footwear.

For a touch of sporty attitudes, Raf Simons Lace-up Leather Trainers are beckoning out to me. I love the crazy, displaced positions of the shoe laces which creates a unique design. These trainers will serve you well on and off the running track:-P

I also love the fluorescent orange and blue soled Jil Sander lace-ups for a spot of colour shock value completed with sartorial elegance. These shoes make a statement without being vulgar. And colour is a key trend for Spring Summer 2011! Wear with shorts or rolled pants:-)

Speaking on lace-ups and smart shoes... Christian Louboutin's Denim Studded Rollerboy will always have a special place in my heart. Versatile and eye catching, it's a shoe that warrants envy eyes anywhere you tread to. Next up, how about Distressed Patchwork Suede Lace-ups from Officine Creative which will make any summer shorts look complete with a dash of casual debonair:-P

Lastly, Loewe's White Leather Brogues with Wooden Soles will be what I will turn to for smart footwear to round off smart weekend ensembles... Hamptons or English charm?

So what's your 'lust list' for Spring Summer mens footwear? Anyone planned any purchases yet?

Source: Luisaviaroma, Loewe, Christain Louboutin, Burberry Prorsum

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #137

Below: Carrot pants are my new favourite for Fall Winter 2010! Have you gotten yours yet? These slouchy on the top but skinny on the legs trousers are seen on many runways... from Dries Van Noten's cuffed hem versions...

Below: to Dolce & Gabbana's tailored or washed effect styles...

Below: or Neil Barrett's contemporary interpretations paired with high cut boots...

Below: or Topman Design's baggy cargo style design...

Below: Find affordable versions of skinny carrot pants at Topman, so many colours and fabrics to choose from...they looked fab dressed up or down:-)

Below: Carrot pants looked great with blazers or chukka boots like those similar to Pierre Hardy's!

Carrot Pants For Men

Typically a silhouette of trousers for women, these roomy at the crotch but tapered at the legs design (hence the shape of a carrot) are now seen commonly for men's collections. From Dries Van Noten to Dolce & Gabbana to Neil Barrett, designers are embracing this shape of pants for their boys. This fall winter 2010, the legs are even more skinny to emphasize the tapered shape and the volume on top. I really love the interesting proportion which gives skinny or baggy pants a run for their money.

Slim guys worked this style of pants especially well, since it gives a bit of volume to the lower body but still tight at the legs. The carrot pants are also very versatile and can be worn for many different looks. Rolled up the hem and pair with blazers for casual dandy flair, tucked into boots for a tough appeal or get those cuff hem versions which seem like a hybrid of sweat pants and tailored looks. The possibilities are countless!

I love my carrot pants, having gotten a few pairs myself. Topman has many designs to choose from, in many colours and fabrics, all at a good price (From SGD$83). Of course, for guys who wants the best, top luxury menswear designers are more than willing to offer you their luxurious versions.

What do you think of carrot style pants?

Source: Neil Barrett, Dries Van Noten, Dolce & Gabbana, Topman, Style Sightings

My MANy Bags News #281

Below: Mark Ruffalo and Julianne Moore looking gorgeous in Neil Barrett and Lanvin respecitively for the premiere of the movie "The Kids are all right" in London...

Below: Love this wrinkled suit from Neil Barrett Fall Winter 2010...

Below: Applause to Lanvin for another gorgeous dress from their Spring Summer 2011 collection...

Mark Ruffalo In Neil Barrett Fall Winter 2010 with Julianne Moore In Lanvin Spring Summer 2011

I love the Neil Barrett wrinkled suit as soon as I saw it on the runway for the Fall Winter 2010 mens collection. Now actor Mark Ruffalo has been spotted wearing the cool wrinkly suit attending the premiere of "The Kids are all right" on Monday, at at the Vue West End
in Leicester Square (part of the London Film Festival). The suit was meant to look rough and tough, but Mark wore it with in a relaxed way. I still prefer the runway styling nonetheless. It's younger and more edgy. Look out for Mark Ruffalo wearing Neil Barrett in the movie:-P

As for Julianne Moore, she is simply stunning and sophisticated with Lanvin's latest Spring Summer 2011 dress. Don't you envy celebrities...they get to wear the new season styles way before it even hit the stores! The draping on half of the dress is fluid and feminine.

Source: Neil Barrett, Lanvin