Sweatshirt Frenzy For Fall Winter 2013: Kenzo, Givenchy And More!

Below: Sweatshirt frenzy continues for Fall Winter 2013... what was once a garment reserved for sports, it's now a major fashion statement... Thanks to Givenchy and Kenzo who propelled Sweatshirts to fashion stardom with their eye catching prints and colours.

 Below: Brands are realising the unstoppable appeal of sweatshirts... so look out for more options to appeal to different tastes... From Carven's Michael Wolf photo print to Ami's rustic Bear heads... there's one for everyone:-)

The Unstoppable Sweatshirt Frenzy: Givenchy, Kenzo And More!

What was once reserved for the sporting arena or the gym... is a now huge fashion star. Yes, I am talking about the much frenzied Sweatshirt. Thanks to Givenchy and Kenzo, 2 of the pioneers who put this once boring and unsightly garment into the fashion forefront. Credit goes to them for their bold colours and eye catching prints such as the Tiger and Rottweiler. Now everyone wants a piece of the sweatshirt action. They sell out fast and often do not even last till the sales. Guys also find more wear in sweatshirts than high maintenance wools, making them a useful and wearable piece to add to their wardrobe.

Relatively low cost and easy to manufacture, brands understood the potential of this money making fashion phenomenon. So for Fall Winter 2013, look out for many more options if you are just getting into the sweatshirt showdown. French label, Ami has a quirky bear head design and Carven featured a graphic antler and Michaeal Wolf photographic print for theirs. Balenciaga continues their Sci-Fi Egyptian antics while fast rising Italian brand MSGM churns out the most eye catching quilted florals and abstract camouflage prints. Of course, veteran Givenchy and Kenzo are still unstoppable as leaders in sweatshirt designs. Doberman prints ensure sell out for Givenchy while Tiger heads, funky eyes and cloud prints continue to appeal for Kenzo.

Below: Kenzo is still the undisputed leader in sweater shirt designs... for Fall Winter 2013, look out for Eye icons, Tiger heads and cool Cloud pattern:-P

Below: Fast rising Italian label, MSGM has amazing quilted florals and camo prints while Balenciaga proposed Sci-fi Egyptian motifs. McQ (Alexander McQueen)'s swallow print versions are just as fun:-)

Which sweatshirts are you ready to adopt for this Fall Winter 2013? Just in time to keep you warm and toasty while making a fashion statement for the new season!

Click here for more pics of Fall Winter 2013 Sweatshirt designs (Givenchy, Kenzo, Carven and more) on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Matches Fashion, Kenzo, Luisaviaroma

The Material Boy #570

Below: Visually captivating, Alexander McQueen's Spring Summer 2013 'Dragonfly Wings' Graphic Print is memorable and statement making... The vibrant yellow is summery and dynamic!

 Below: Comes in a range of ready to wear pieces, from shoes, ties, shirts, blazers and more... but my favourite is the silk bomber jacket. Gorgeous:-)

Alexander McQueen Spring Summer 2013 'Dragonfly Wings' Print

While other designers are drawing inspirations from the sporting life, the extra-bright neons or masculine military themes... Alexander McQueen’s Spring Summer 2013 mens collection seems to dwell in a world of their own. Nature’s world, that is.

One of the most memorable print of the season (in my opinion)... Dragonflies are the heroes of Alexander McQueen’s SS2013’s menswear direction. The intricate composition of a dragonfly’s wings zoomed in to create a captivating effect which makes a statement without conforming to the general trends. Visually dynamic with a vibrant shade of fresh yellow, the nature inspired print runs thru on blazers (USD3095), cardigans (£691), shirts (£580), ties (£120), shoes (£621) and most outstanding of all, a wool-silk bomber (£1628) jacket that will induce mega envy.

If you want a breather from camouflage and overly blinding neons... McQueen's 'Dragonfly Wings' Print offers the ideal alternative to garnering some attention. I want!

Click here for more pics of Alexander McQueen's Spring Summer 2013 Menswear & Accessories Collection on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Alexander McQueen, Selfridges, Mr Porter

The Material Boy #541

 Below: New bag obession, Alexander McQueen Padlock Skull Leather Tote... Now on 40% off in Singapore!

 Below: Made for the ladies, but the design and size is perfect for guys!

Alexander McQueen Padlock Skull Leather Tote

I recently found a gem while doing my rounds of sale shopping in Singapore. Spotted just last weekend at On Pedder at Scotts Square, Singapore... it was a love at first sight for this Alexander McQueen Padlock-Skull Leather tote. Crafted with thick pebbled leather and contrasted with a beige canvas panel... this bag packs an understated chic, made only more so with a signature Alexander Mcqueen Skull motif in the form of a brass lock! Hanging proudly on the left side of the front handle... the skull lock shows off the macabre personality of McQueen's designs, not overtly brash yet eye catching enough to get your attention. A key fob hangs on the other side of the handle, hiding 2 keys that opens the lock. It's functional and not merely cosmetic.

The 2 way zipper top opening ensures secure safekeeping of your bag contents with roomy interior pockets (one zipped compartment) to get you organised.

I adore the tote. Hand carry or shoulder sling... this is one good bag for any occassion. Measures Length 33cm / Width 15cm / Height 39cm / Handle Drop 20cm, so it's a great size for guys as well as girls. Available in full leather as well for a slightly higher price. 

Below: Comes in full leather versions and other colours too...

Best part of it all, it's now on SALE at 40% off at On Pedder store in SG! If you are not based in SG, hurry to Lane Crawford's website to get the bag online. Retailing now for USD690 after a 40% discount:-) (Lane Crawford ships international!)

More pics of Alexander McQueen's SS2012 Padlock Skull Leather Tote on my facebook fanpage. 'LIKE' my fanpage if you enjoy reading this post.

Source: Alexander McQueen, Lane Crawford

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

The Material Boy #484

Below: Look razor sharp with these new McQ Fall Winter 2011 jewellery collection... I need these leather double wrap bracelets with razor blade shaped hardware:-P

Below: Dog tag like Razor Blade necklaces are equally cool...

McQ Fall Winter 2011 'Razor Blade' Jewellery

Now we all have no excuse not to look razor sharp this coming Fall Winter 2011. Check out these ultra cool bracelets and necklaces from McQ's Fall Winter 2011 collection! For the first time, McQ is offering a jewellery range in addition to their very avant garde ready to wear pieces. This first jewellery collection (though meant for women, boys can wear them too!) sees dominant inspiration by the most mundane of dangerous objects, think razor blades and safety pins... given a distinctive bad-boy McQueen spin, turning them into menacing but interesting accessories.

I want everything... love the razor blade shaped hardware that will get you that 'don't mess with me' attitude and envious glances:-)

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

(McQ is available at Club 21b at Forum Shopping Mall, Singapore) Source: McQ by Club 21 Global

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #139

Below: Remember Mr 'Giacomorelli', the guy who was first to spot Giacomorelli's studded leopard print loafers? He's back with new fashion inspiration! Alexander McQueen Skull Leather Clutch anyone?!?! Looked great even for a guy! His metallic gold shoes are fabulous too... if you got yourself the recent Lanvin x H&M versions, this is how you can wear them!

Below: Never seen these Alexander McQueen Clutch on a guy... but it worked for him! Now I want one!

Below: Alexander McQueen Skull Clutches for Spring Summer 2011... these basic ones will be perfect even for guys:-)

Below: Mr "Giacomorelli' was the first guy I found to be spotting those beautiful studded leopard shoes...

A Guy And Alexander McQueen Clutch

Does everyone remember 'Mr Giacomorelli'? (I named him that as he was the one who got me noticing Giacomorelli's studded leopard loafers. But unfortunately, I do not know his exact name.)

Mr 'Giacomorelli' is now back to inspire more with his adventurous fashion antics. This time, he is spotted with gorgeous flower embellished Alexander McQueen Leather Clutch with Bejewelled Skull Knob. Never seen a guy pull this clutch off before, so this is refreshing. And in some ways, it worked! In his hands, the clutch felt like a cigarette or whisky case and not feminine at all.

Love it! And for those lucky guys who managed to snag Lanvin x H&M metallic shoes, here's his take on shiny metallic leather footwear (Probably from Lanvin a few season's back)! Stunning!

Love! And inspired. I need a McQueen clutch...

Christmas pressie to me, anyone?:-P

Source: Style Sightings

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #125

Below: Pelayo Diaz from katelovesme.net shows us a new way to wear Alexander McQueen's Skull Print Scarf... as a sarong. Love it! His sandals are amazing too...is that Givenchy?

Pelayo Diaz (www.katelovesme.net) Shows Us How To Work The Alexander McQueen Skull Print Scarf

If you think a scarf is a scarf, wear it only as you would around the neck... think twice. Cos' with some innovation, the scarf becomes another type of garment. Pelayo Diaz and his adventurous sense of style has worked the Alexander McQueen Skull Print Scarf (beyond it's intended purpose) as a sarong, and not just only at the beach, but while attending Istanbul Fashion Week. Call that a fashion making statement with a bit of creativity on the side:-P

Bravo, Pelayo! I love you surprising us all the time:-P You looked amazing!

Fanboys...if you want to buy the Alexander McQueen Skull Print Scarf in cashmere blend (with fringe edges), get yours at Net-a-porter for £187.23 (without UK VAT) or Club 21 Mens at Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore for SGD $590 (it's a black and white version which is the most desirable and versatile). I know I want one once my new shopping budget allows for next month:-P

Source: Kate Loves Me, Net-a-porter

The Material Boy #412

Alexander McQueen Antique Brass Skull-embellished Bangle

Friday shopping lust. Alexander Mcqueen Antique Brass Skull-embellished Bangle is here to coerce me. I love the moulding of the skulls onto the bracelet with the same brass material. It looked like an ancient artifact, like it belong to a forbidden cult. Quite morbid, but oh so chic:-)

Net-a-porter sells the bangle for £227.74 (without VAT). Hmmm... tempting.

Source: Net-a-porter

My Shopping Conquest #109

Below: New arrivals to succumb to! Something small from Pierre Hardy...


Below: A cool handy pouch from Pierre Hardy...love the printed geometric print with red lambskin trimmings!

Below: Handy and eye-catching to use as a clutch for events...

Below: Love the gold zippers...adds a luxurious touch...

Below: Trim and lined with lambskin...again, luxurious! This is what seals the deal for me...

Below: The materials care tag that comes with the pouch...

Below: Spotted 2 amazing finds at Club 21 stores at Four Seasons Hotel. Immaculately cut Balmain blazer and Alexander Mcqueen's super well priced embossed skull full leather Faithful De-manta tote (plain black calf leather with croc embossed, cannot find the exact pic)...

Below: I am going camel colour for yesterday's shopping expedition with a touch of leopard print:-P Love my Zara Haircalf leather belt!

Pierre Hardy Geometric Print Canvas And Leather Trim Pouch

Yesterday was shopping 'Club 21' day... Saturdays are best enjoyed savouring new arrivals at the stores. And Club 21 mens at Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore has plenty of new things to tempt and deplete bank accounts.

I spotted plenty of 'fantabulous' pieces which I want, but in the end, in view of my upcoming holiday, I refrain from succumbing to my shopping impulse. But I did managed to pick up an amazingly priced Pierre Hardy Geometric Print Canvas And Leather Trim Pouch which makes a great clutch (And selling for an affordable SGD$290)! Lined and trimmed with soft red lambskin, this is one cool pouch for events and parties when you need to carry just enough but not alot. I love the touch of red and the handy size of 31cm (w) x 20.5cm(h).

Can't wait to use this for events. Eye catching and quirky. Comes in 3 sizes, largest being a laptop sleeve and also in blue leather trim. Go check it out:-P (3 pieces of each available only)

Other amazing pieces I spotted includes an amazingly cut Balmain Satin Collar Blazer at approx. SGD$3950 (it's immaculately cut with a slight peaked shoulder. Makes me have such a v-shape silhouette) and a super value priced all leather Alexander Mcqueen Faithful De-manta Large Tote with embossed skull effect for only SGD$1450! Hurry if you want that... 1 piece left at the women's store. (exactly the same as the one in canvas and leather sold at the men's store. This is more luxurious!)

Love Club 21 mens!

Source: myMANybags, Balmain, Alexander McQueen

Ad Campaigns And Catalogues #153

Below: Alexander McQueen Fall Winter 2010 Womens Accessories collection is definitely fit for royalty! A touch of macabre and decadence while being relevant. Marvel at the many details...

Below: The shoes are more like a sculpture, a work of art than just mere shoes...it's so breath-takingly beautiful...

Alexander McQueen Fall Winter 2010 Women's Bags, Shoes And Accessories

Being the genius that the late Alexander Mcqueen is, this last Fall Winter 2010 collection by the fashion genius makes you marvel and gasp for air at the attention to details. Such intricacy, such ingenuity, oh such a loss to the fashion world by his passing.

The themes of macabre and byzantine royalty runs thru these amazing pieces. Most noteworthy are the amazing shoes which is sculptural in aesthetic and truly a work of art that befits the museum. These heels are to be admired!

The bags comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, with the knuckle buster clutches (embellished with jewels and gold studs) topping my list of favourites. Colours range from deep burgundy, dark browns and many accented with a touch of decadent gold brass hardware. The skull icon synonymous with the brand is applied in many fascinating ways onto rings, knobs on clutches, bracelets and key rings, giving McQueen fans an overdose of lust worthy buys for the new season. I love everything!

A collection fit for royalty, I must say... or a 'queen' with a dark fantasy. The Mcqueen women is definitely not to be trifled with:-P

Source: Alexander McQueen

The Material Boy #405

Below: Alexander Mcqueen Swarovski-embellished double skull ring: £106 (without VAT)


Below: Alexander Mcqueen Swarovski-embellished Skull and Bee ring: £132 (without VAT)

Below: Alexander McQueen Brass and pearl skull ring: £128 (without VAT)

Below: Alexander McQueen Leopard skull silk-chiffon scarf: £260 (without VAT)

Alexander McQueen Skull Rings And Scarf : Macabre Chic

There has always been a fascination in skulls when it comes to fashion. Rock stars dig it. Fashionistas love it. Skulls and dark themes somehow add a dangerous edge to the persona, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue.

I used to shun away from 'deathly' associations for my dressing, some part superstition, some part disinterest in darkly looks. But lately, Alexander McQueen's 'rendition' of skulls has grown on me. Call it a side effect of age?!?!? (Growing older does make you contemplate the inevitable end...but perhaps more in the name of fashion:-P)

Alexander McQueen has always adopted the skull motif as part of his designs, evident in his ever popular skull print scarves that adorns the necks of fashion forward folks all over the work. Dearly departed McQueen may be gone, you may have rushed to grab as many of his pieces to save a part of his legacy in your wardrobe... I am still searching for mine. Last season, I had wanted the skull motifs scarves. That got overwhelmingly popular and 'mass', I decided to wait.

This season, I spotted these skull motif rings which may just do the trick. Commendable are the way the skulls are being woven into the design of the rings and not just stuck on as an after thought. The facing twin skulls is my favourite, as does the bee on the skull version. Something small, timeless and very McQueen to remind you of the genius that left fashion too early.

Having said that, if I change my mind on rings, there is still the leopard print scarf to fall back on. Wait to take the plunge anytime soon:-P

so what will you pick?

Source: Net-a-porter