My MANy Bags Lookbook #24

Below: New myMANybags lookbook for Spring Summer 2011!

Colour Rush

It's a flurry of colours this Spring Summer 2011 season. Much as I love the colour blocking trend, I do not see myself in head to toe outrageous hues. So I devised my own colour blocking style toning it down just a little. Using a white shirt as the base, I surround it with other more eye poping pieces and accessories to create the colour trend.

Martin Margiela White Plastron Shirt is plain but with an unusual longer back (like a swallow tail) for added detailing interest. Balenciaga's Mimosa RGH Triple Tour Bracelet gives a yellow boost against the bright Topman 'Yves Klein Blue' Slim fit Chinos. A Jil Sander Orange Colour Belt wraps around the waist, dissecting the white top and blue bottom while giving another layer of colour blocking. Finally, I accessorise the outfit with a pair of the hottest shoe of the season, Prada's Espadrilles Brogues, a cute blue Net-net Swallow Shaped Fabric Brooch and my favourite Céline Cabas Linen Stripe (for its subtle touches of blue and red).

I am having a colour rush!

(Check out my other lookbook posts here)

Source: Prada, Mr Porter, Balenciaga, Topman, Lane Crawford

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

My MANy Bags Lookbook #22

What's Up, Brad?

I am starting to watch 'Rachel Zoe Project: Season 3' and I simply adore Brad Goreski every time I see him appear on screen. Congrats to Brad scoring the style director position with the departure of Taylor. I think Brad has impeccable style and taste. He will do a good job. I also love to see what he wears on the show which makes for great inspirations. It is really Brad who got me hooked on Rachel Zoe Project more than anything else.

So for this new lookbook post, I dedicate the style to Brad Goreski, interpreted thru the eyes of Me:-P Geeky look with a touch of flamboyance. Matching Neil Barrett's contrasting collar shirt and matching bowtie with Mihara Yasuhiro's grey contrasting rolled up hem trousers for a preppy feel. Tom Ford's Sunglasses adds to the refined gentlemen look while Panerai's 18kt Radiomir 42m Rose Gold Casing Watch says it all for luxury. For touches of flamboyance, this Brad Goreski inspired guy carries a Limited Edition Trussardi 1911 Animalier Overnight Bag, playing up the wild side in him. Balmain Homme's Silver Metal Loops Leather Belt gives a much needed rebel bling, while Nicholas Kirkwood's Lace Print Sculpted Heel Brogues lets him express his sensitive side:-)

I love Brad! Geek chic never looked this good until he came along!

Source: Trussardi 1911, Neil Barrett, Tom Ford, Nicholas Kirkwood, Balmain, Mihara Yasuhiro, Panerai

My MANy Bags Lookbook #21

Nautical Safari

The Navy Cadet has landed in Africa! After braving harsh seas and winds, his ship has docked in Africa to ready for some safari action:-) Tapping on the 2 key trends of Fall Winter 2010 season, namely leopard prints and military references, this look mixes prints and functionality with 'operational' precision.

Balmain Homme's immaculately cut Navy Wool Pea Coat with military insignia sleeves is worn over 3.1 Phillip Lim's Tiger Stripe Intarsia Jumper. Warm and well protected from the elements while look sharp as ever. Olive green Dries Van Noten Buckled Leg Trousers adds a dash of handsome army chic, while Lanvin's Leopard Print Leather Trainers ensures comfort without forgetting a dash of exotic animal charm. For more luxe, Hermès' Extra Wide Clic H Enamel Bracelet is here to rescue and Céline's Leopard Haircalf Leather Cabas keeps all his safari hunts neatly tucked:-) A YSL Y-Insignia Leather Belt completes the look with understated elegance.

Source: Luisaviaroma, Colette, Antonioli, YSL, My Wardrobe, Céline, Hermès

My MANy Bags Lookbook #20

Fall For Red

Fall Winter 2010 season is soon upon us. If you think Fall Winter season belongs to dull hues of browns and blacks, be disappointed. This Fall Winter 2010 season, bright reds emerged triumphant as the brightest colour against the dark tones. Red is the key accent hue to dress and impress for Fall!

However, red on men (as the colour suggests) needs to be adopted with caution. Too much and you screamed tacky and wannabe. For me, my choice will be to invest in accessories in this colour rather than on clothing. The right accessories often enrich an outfit and will seldom go out of trend. Accessories will ensure more use and longevity for your 'investments':-)

For this edition of myMANybags lookbook, I have chosen a slouchy silhouette, with Damir Doma drop crotch and skinny leg knitted trousers balancing off draping t-shirt and soft unstructured jacket from Japanese label, Kolor. Neutral hues are worn, but fiery red accents comes in the form of Céline's outstanding but understated leather cabas with Hermès Collier De Chien in Red Garance and Silver Palladium Hardware for a touch of luxe. Lastly, stay warm from pre-fall temperatures with 'rebellious' Alexander Mcqueen's brown and white pashmina scarf. The look is a bit of an edge, some elements of luxe but aplenty of 'envy red eyes' to induce!

Source: Oki-ni, Net-a-porter, Céline, Hermès

My MANy Bags Lookbook #19

Winter Exotica

It's been a while since I did a lookbook post. After a long lapse and browsing thru Net-a-porter and Bottega Veneta's Pre-fall/Fall Winter 2010 collections, I had an inspiration moment. Hence, my first attempt at women's lookbook!

Winter time is the season for luxe and over the top decadence. And what better way to flaunt that indulgence then to have some exotics all over. So this woman I had in mind, channels ferocious allure, sexiness and confidence. Burberry Prorsum's tough luxe Cropped Shearling Biker Jacket keeps her warm over a stunning Stella McCartney's One Shoulder Python Print Dress, while she glamourize herself with iridescent coloured Bottega Veneta Metallic Python Sandals and Insect Motif Antique Sterling Silver Cuff. For arm candy, who else to turn to but the late ingenious Alexander McQueen for an eye catching De-Manta Faithful Python Clutch. All the pieces keeping in the tones of warm greys and ink blues, while accented with a dash of green.

Source: Net-a-porter, Bottega Veneta

My MANy Bags Lookbook #18

Summer Hippie

Imagine a modern cowboy gone psychedelia... a mix of hippie influences from the good old 70's, lots of colours but thrown in a dash of ruggedness from his Cheyenne roots. Wearing not sandals but Cowboy Boots from D&G, with desert beige tones from his Zara Double Collar Linen Blazer to provide a blank canvas for the vibrant splashes of colours all over his look. Etro Floral Skull Print T-shirt, Multi-coloured Braided Leather Belt, Tie Dye Pocket Square and even a roomy Suede Shoulder Bag with Braided Shoulder Strap And Embroidery Details all reinforce the colourful theme. Since it is summer, he also spots a smart Mini Checks Tailored Shorts from John Varvatos, while pairing a quirky colourful Louis Vuitton Sunglasses to round off the fun summer style!

Source: Zara, Etro, Louis Vuitton, Matches Fashion, D&G

My MANy Bags Lookbook #17

Officer Off Duty

I am 'military crazy' this Spring Summer 2010 season. Partly caused by the 'Balmainia' that has survived last season and progressed into the new year with even more rage. So now I envision a military 'officer' looking for a good day out during his off-duty time. Smart as always, he spots a lightweight Burberry Silk Blazer in a cool greyish blue over a Balmain Camouflage Print T-shirt for some army cool. Slim fitted Balmain Cargo Biker Pants are also matched with Martin Margiela Ruched Leather Open Toe Ankle Boot that look smart while being casual. To have some rock star appeal, a HTC Gold Studded Belt and Dita Midnight Special Yellow Gold Sunglasses add some much needed bling! Finally, the finishing touches comes in a Céline Bi-coloured Leather Tote while he wears an army insignia batch proudly on his chest.

From Fort Benning to Fort Lauderdale, it's time to party!

Source: Browns Fashion, Céline, Antonioli, Luisaviaroma

My MANy Bags Lookbook #16

Summer Wanderlust

Time to travel and explore the tropical regions of the world. A collector of 'souvenirs' from different places, he has his eclectic mix of taste and style. From straw hats and silk scarves of ethnic influences, to street rebel skull motif t-shirts, 'ammunition' belt reminiscent of war torn eras and space age Gladiator sandals from modern metropolis. Oh and an oversize duffel bag to carry all the bric-à-brac he can find on his trip! It's a guerrilla combination of influences from different cultures that he sees during his worldly exploration. Except, all done in the name of high fashion... Alexander Mcqueen, Balmain, Balenciaga, Dries Van Noten, Lanvin and Versace are his favourites. Comfort is key, trendy is paramount. It's summer wanderlust time!

Source: Browns Fashion, Luisaviaroma, Antonioli, 00o00

My MANy Bags Lookbook #15

Tribal Trekker

Cold months will soon be over and it's time to head down to warmer territories and expand your horizons! Exotic escapes to the Asian jungles or the safaris are key trends for Spring Summer 2010. So for this long overdue post of mymanybags lookbook, my guy is draped in tropical ethnic themes. A guy on a 'pilgrimage' to another holy land of style!:-) Worn and overdyed Mihara Yasuhiro Jersey Vest drapes (with interesting 'braided' ends) over a Washed Wrapped Style Jersey Polo shows his carefree attitude. Balmain's harem style Khaki Coloured Wrapped Canvas Trousers allows him to brave the rough terrains in the tropics, as does the sleek Ankle Height Chloè Leather And Canvas Crossover Sandals. As a member of the great fashion tribe, he proudly wears his warrior tribal origins in the form of KD2024 Jaguar Necklace and Givenchy Studded Belt and Bracelets. To complete his travelling arsenal, the ultra chic Givenchy Optical Print Pandora Bag is there by his side with those amazing geometric tribal patterns!

Time to explore and conquer more 'fashion temples' all over the world!

Source: Luisaviaroma

My MANy Bags Lookbook #14

Luxury Hunter

Inspired my newly acquired Zara leopard print belt, I had an idea to create a safari style look for a gentlemen into 'hunting' for all forms of luxuries in life:-P He is the Luxury Hunter. Well travelled, nonchalant, he travels through the safaris of Africa and feels as comfortable in the urban jungles of New York City. Never losing sight of his apreciation of finer things in life as he explored both the rugged and man-made terrains of the world.

Decadent casual looks...mix of luxurious and outdoor 'roughing it out' styles. He wears his Dries Van Noten Cotton White Shirt open collar and sleeves rolled up. He prefers his Dsquared2 Khaki shorts to tailored pants. And he adorns his waist with an eye catching Zara Leopard Print Fur Belt, his neck with Bulgari's 'Save The Children' Silver Pendant, while wearing his Lanvin Silver Captoe Lace-ups. On the luxurious end, he enjoys the company of his cosy Hermès Cotton Losange Stripe Scarf and flaunts his Crocodile Skin Collier De Chien bracelet. His sac of choice? None other than the unisex and interesting looking Hermès Jypsiere Leather Sling bag. He is definitely not afraid to show off his luxurious acquisitions or brave the harsh wrath of nature:-P

Source: Browns Fashion, Hermès, Brieuc75

My MANy Bags Lookbook #13

Plush Mariner

MyMANybags lookbook is back! After a long hiatus, I finally had some inspiration to create a new post:-) This time, it is all about the sea, protection and all things plush and 'cushiony':-P I was inspired by the very quirky Chanel Cocoon bags that I saw this weekend at the Chanel store here. I dunno why but I also seem to be seeing lots of nautical stripes online these days.

So hence all these inspire my concept of a refined sea faring gentlemen wrapped up in all kinds of plush and protective gear allowing him to brave the colds of the Atlantic. At the end of his nautical journey, he docks at a hip city like London or Paris and am ready to conquer the streets, looking appropriately luxurious and in style! He wears a Fendi Silver Fox Coat Cape over his cosy Martin Margiela Navy Chunky Wool Long Cardigan. And inside the thick warm outer layers, he retains some of his sea faring identity, in the form of an APC Nautical Stripe Long Sleeve T-shirt. He proudly wears a vintage Anchor Brooch on his chest to remind him of his many nautical adventures. And as a military man, his footwear of choice has to be those chic Lanvin Wool/Leather Tall Boots which he wears with his comfy Ann Demeulemeester Wool Sweat Pants. To complete the look, he has Marc Jacobs Stripe Fingerless Gloves and ultra fabulous Chanel Cool Cocoon Bag in his hands.

Come sail away in soft 'plushy' style!

Source: Browns Fashion, Antonioli, Marc Jacobs, Chanel

My MANy Bags Lookbook #12

Sky Captain Winter Edition

Sometimes what you need is a 'statement' fashion piece to inspire a whole look. For this edition of myMANybags lookbook, it was those amazingly indifferent and cool Martin Margiela Mono Lens Sunglasses whose design is radical and unseen off! Crafted with only a huge single piece of lens, these sunglasses seem to come right out of those sci-fi comics or even the futuristic Sky Captain movie starring Jude Law (my favourite actor for a long time!).

So I decided to create an aviator look to honour those flyboys and pilots who always seem to carry off a nonchalant charm. Perhaps their adventure thousands of feet above ground is always filled with exciting stories. To kick start the look, a Zara Fur Trim Collar Leather Jacket ensures a suave outer look. Burberry Prorsum's very interesting Scarf Strap White Tee builds upon the classic fighter pilot look. Balmain's Prince of Whales Checks Biker Trousers for some bad boy attitude. Of course, no pilot can be without his boots. So Rick Owen's Chunky Sole Leather Boots fills in those shoes! Martin Margiela's amour-like Metal Buckle and Leather Belt looks seamless to complete the modern warrior look. Last of all, no man can do with his bag...so Dries Van Noten's military inspired Leather Bag will ensure our Sky Captain will always have his 'excess baggage':-P.

Soar high this winter!

Source: Browns Fashion, Luisaviaroma, Antonioli, Oki-ni

My MANy Bags Lookbook #11

Time To Get Boyish...Baker Boy Style!

Classic boyish charm is the way to go for this edition for myMANybags lookbook. I was inspired by the cute Baker Boy Hats seen on multiple runways this fall season with Burberry Prorsum especially emphasizing on this particular head gear. Love the playful style and it's practicality, keeping your hair in place and head toasty during the cold winter months.

I am going for a classic style with some modern twist, all in the name of fun and play. Comme Des Garcon Homme Plus' trompe l'oeil Stripe Vest Shirt. The vest is sew on the front and gives the effect that you are wearing one while not. Simply quirky. Lanvin's mighty cool wool jersey blazer calls for a fluid and soft silhouette to give a sense of youthful nonchalance. Alexander Mcqueen's plaid trousers add texture and pattern to the whole ensemble (roll up the legs to ankle height please:-) while Lanvin's Blue Velvet Trainers finish it off with a sense of sporty luxurious chic. As for accent pieces, Dries Van Noten's casual Silk Tie Belt looks thrown on effortlessly and unplanned. Last of all, no men nor boys should ever leave the house without a bag. Hence, Bottega Veneta's classic and elegant Nero Toro Tote crafted in textured leather and intrecciato handles is a brilliant companion.

Who's in for boyish charm?!?!

Source: Matches Fashion, Browns Fashion, Antonioli, Bottega Veneta, Yoox

My MANy Bags Lookbook #10

Balmainia

I have caught the 'Balmainia'. Those ultra slim, over the top decadent embellished pieces (at the most exorbitant prices) best sums up what French party girl chic is. I love those skinny of the skinniest jeans!

But of course, guys are not supposed to emulate exactly what the women's looks are. That would put you in drag queen territory. Christophe Decarnin realised that and developed a men's collection which played safe but was disappointly lacking the true Balmain flavour we loved from the girls. He could have taken it slightly further and have more fun. We boys do like to have some bling and get skinny too, just not as overdone as the ladies.

So for this edition of myMANybags lookbook, I have selected pieces from different sources and try to inject a bit of that bling and sexy slim Balmain silhouette for the boys. To add some shiny embellishments, a croc embossed leather silver chain belt, silver lined gauze scarf (courtesy of Givenchy) are used. These are paired with super skinny biker jeans with stitch detailings from Diet Slim Skin Butcher and of course to retain originality to the brand, Balmain blazers and crystal brooch.

A slouchy draping Julius white t-shirt ensures the nonchalant attitude of a biker dude is retained. Same goes for those cool looking Oak distressed leather boots. Time to 'outshine' the ladies:-P

Anyone else caught the 'Balmainia'?

Source: Luisaviaroma, Blackbird, Men.style.com, Givenchy

My MANy Bags Lookbook #09

Luxury London

An ode to British style and the decadence of all things luxurious:-) Perfect for a luxury vacation jetsetting in celebrity style to the capital of Great Britain:-)

Crocodile skin Hermès HAC bag, luxurious shearling collared Alexander Mcqueen coat and a bowler hat, bow tie for chivalrous elegance... classic pieces for discerning men with lots of taste and money. Of course, to ensure the look is not overwrought with vulgar display of wealth, some street label to balance it off. Such pieces in the form of a cool, plum coloured Topman skinny jeans and laceless leather boots gives a touch of colour and youthful exuberance:-) All paired and matched with a gorgeous Dior Homme red mini checks shirt for some classic cool:-)

London is calling...

Source: Matches Fashion, Luisaviaroma, Browns Fashion, Hermès, Alexander Mcqueen

My MANy Bags Lookbook #08

Sci-Fi Dandy

I like things in a dichotomy:-) As the saying goes, opposites attract. Opposing ends of things can sometimes create the most interesting of thoughts and ideas. So many different looks are created each season by the varied talents of designers, each coming up with different concept direction, some opting for a contemporary approach while some relied on references to the past. Hence, for this edition of My MANy Bags Lookbook, I played on the idea of things old/classic and modern/new coming together.

I envision a Victorian dandy made relevant in modern day context. A classic looking 'Victorian' shirt with a ribbon tie by Burberry Prorsum, matched with Neil Barrett's very cool grey wool vest with built-in suspenders and Ann Demeulemeester's cumberband belt...elements that are reminiscent of gentlemen's dressing from the good old days. So where does the modern references come in? Well, in the form of metallic skinny jeans by Dior Homme and sci-fi looking footwear befitting of a moonwalk by Common Projects.

Time for some Dandy Moonwalk...:-P

Source: Luisaviaroma, Antonioli, Aloha Rag

My MANy Bags Lookbook #07

College Cool

Inspired by the 'school bag' style of Proenza Schouler's ultra cool PS1 bag...I have come up with an outfit that reflects college chic in winter. Think Harvard or Cambridge University in the fall.

Tweed jacket and wooly combinations are essential for insulating against the cold, but I have paired Burberry Prorsum's carrot leg wool pants with Ann Demeulemeester 'biker' style buckled leather trainers for some edginess. By tucking in the pant legs into the trainers, it will achieved an equestrian riding look but in a more contemporary and 'bad boy' way:-)

Marc By Marc Jacobs 'fingerless' gloves lends an air of nonchalance while DSquared2's checkered shirt and YSL's croc embossed leather belt adds to the mood of traditional college elegance from college boys of yesteryear.

Source: Luisaviaroma, Burberry, Antonioli, Colette, Matches Fashion

My MANy Bags Lookbook #06

'Winter Knight' In The City

For this edition of myMANYbags lookbook, the look I am going for is strong and bold...befitting a modern knight in his armor of chic fitted DSquared2 jacket, Lanvin tall boots and amazingly chic Ann Demeulemeester woven fringe scarf. Looking sharp and ever ready to brave the cold winter nights in the city...military inspirations from yesteryears, his medal of 'chivalry' in the form of Ann Demeulemeester's ribbon pin:-)

I can't wait for winter to do layering, and of course the holidays that's going to follow:-) Perhaps London? Perhaps Switzerland? I am excited.

See my other lookbook posts here:-)

Source: Luisaviaroma, Antonioli, Lanvin

My MANy Bags Lookbook #05

Lazy Sunday...With A Bit Of 'City Cowboy'!

Since I was so smitten with the latest D&G Spring Summer 2010 sexy Cowboys, I decided to put together a look based on the colour tones of the wild west. Of course, mixed and matched to myMANybags taste:-P

A simple Number (N)ine tan coloured cardigan kicks off the whole look. The silk pocket trim and the sleeve crochet pattern gives off a vintage feel. Paired with D&G's latest 'Cowboy Boots' print tank top to sex it up a bit. Relaxed fit YSL jersey trousers will ensure optimal comfort for lounging around on lazy Sunday afternoons. As for jewellery, it will have to be my current obsession, the nonchalant Martin Margiela nail pendant necklace that adds a touch of 'workwear' fun. Desert browns, beiges and whites... fresh country style palette, perfect for the most easy day of the week.

Click here to see my other lookbook proposals!

Source: Dolce & Gabbana, Matches Fashion, Browns Fashion, Marni