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

The Material Boy #444

Below: Coloured jeans are a great way to get on the colour blocking trend for Spring Summer 2011. Shown below are Zara's SS2011 lookbook featuring coloured jeans from orange to yellow to reds (SGD 89.90)! I love this first look with a light blue stripe L/S sweater... Nautical colour blocking?

Below: Notice the colourful bandana on his wrist? Use your colourful Hermès twilly for the same but more luxurious effect!

Below: Topman has nice colours and the most flattering slim cuts too! Prices from USD80...

Coloured Jeans And Pants For Spring Summer 2011

Time to welcome colours into your wardrobe. Colour blocking is a must for this Spring Summer 2011 season, be it for boys or girls:-)

I am now crazy and 'craving' some coloured jeans/pants, the brighter the better. Need to have that extra visual zest for summer's dressing.

Who else to turn to for slim fitted mens coloured jeans than our most affable and affordable Zara and Topman! At least these fast fashion brands are quick to latch onto the colour frenzy this summer (all thanks to Jil Sander and Prada SS2011!). Shame on those mens brands that shy away from colour and keeps men clad in just the usual dull tones. Boring!

Wear them with basics, rolled up the helm (for a more upbeat look)...let the colours come forth to enhance your style quotient. Wear with trainers or lace-ups... anything goes! I want an orange pair!

Priced from SGD 89.90 onwards, these Zara and Topman coloured jeans/pants gets u ahead of the fashion curve, excite your summer wardrobe while safely keeping your bank account intact. There can be no better win win situation. Of course, if you have a bigger budget, go for the real high fashion versions from Jil Sander (they are gorgeously neon and not for the faint hearted). But I'd stick to my fast fashion ones.

Need to hunt these down!

Source: Zara, Topman

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

The Runway Sniper #53

Below: Military inspired collection from Topman Limted Fall Winter 2010. My favourite look from the collection which sends this gorgeous aviator style with shearling lined collar short jacket down the runway, or to my wishlist.... LOOOOOVE!

Below: Attention!!! I need this sweater with the zip details!

Below: Army green cargo sweat pants...and boots... look for next season!

Below: Long johns never look this good and in wine colour...

Below: Parka and fur collar... and military detailing...what's not to love...

Below: The pants has interesting seam details and looks so slim fitted...perfect...

Below: Gradation tones on the shirts with prints of bare tree branches, melancholy but colourful at the same time... I like this orange red version

Below: Burgundy trench and the belted look...

Below: Fur coats...wonder how much these will cost in Topman prices...I want one too...

Below: Skinny ripped jeans...juxtaposition of the luxurious and tattered...

Topman Design Fall Winter 2010

Divine intervention has come my way. I am destined to save some shopping money for next season, cos' I am falling in love with the latest Fall Winter 2010 Topman collection presented yesterday in London. It is a disappointing feeling to see a collection from a luxury brand, get all excited and then get traumatised by the price tags. But it is pure joy to know what was presented on the runway can be 'attained' in your wardrobe when they hit the stores. Topman's latest military inspired looks come with so many pieces I want for next fall! As Joe of 00o00 puts it, now it's only a matter of which runway piece makes it into production. I am crossing my fingers the pieces he picked made it to the store racks...cos' I love them too.

Here's Tim Blanks' (from Style.com) review of the collection (I always love his writing. Insightful words and interesting interpretation, all very Tim:-P)

Topman At Attention
Topman has been a major underwriter of the growing men’s fashion scene in London, as well as a participant in the MAN group show that, in the past, helped designers like Kim Jones to find their feet in the business. Today, the last day of London fashion week, Topman finally flew solo, with a whole show devoted to the label’s Fall collection. It was brilliant. Kudos to design director Gordon Richardson and his creative team, but the shadowy genius behind the presentation was stylist Alister Mackie. He took the same military track as Christopher Bailey at Burberry, referencing the precision, the cut, the color scheme of army uniforms from both world wars. And Mackie proved, like Bailey before him, that there is no better-looking coat than an officer’s coat. The parkas were pretty cool, too. But the collection wasn’t simply a soldier’s story redux. While Topman was still part of a group show, there were restrictions on the breadth of the offering. Today, Mackie was able to show some great knitwear and ombré prints that looked a little like war-blasted terrain, or maybe just trees in winter. Either way, a reminder that Mackie is a dark soul. But, thinking of the many collections he’s brought his unique tweaks to in the past—Marc Jacobs, Fendi, McQueen, Lanvin—he’s just about the best natural asset Topman could have right now.
- Tim Blanks

If Tim blanks approves, so do you!

Source: Style, Getty

My Shopping Conquests #95

Below: 'Sail' away with my new Topman Skinny Fit Contrast Trim Navy Blazer, off with winter, in comes the cruise looks!

Below: Topman blazers are great for a streamlined fit...perfect for slim guys.
I am wearing it with my Zara Portrait Print V-neck Tee + Croc Embossed Leather Belt, Flippa K Skinny Light Grey Jeans, YSL Y-mail Dog Tag...

Below: What caught my eye was the contrast trimmings on the narrow lapels and the pocket flaps... interesting touch to the otherwise plain blazer:-P

Below: Another cool piece I got... a slim fit Contrast Checks Trim White Shirt. Very cute with the checks pattern trim along the placket, collar and cuffs.

Below: Fit is great for slim guys!

Below: When worn together, I feel I owe myself a luxury cruise liner trip to St. Tropez... any sponsors around??!?

Topman Skinny Fit Contrast Trim Navy Blazer + White Shirt

Topman is for skinny folks like me! Topman is the heaven of fast fashion for guys! Topman has great fitted blazers that will not burn a big hole in your pocket! Topman gives you a birthday treat of 20% discount that is valid a whole month! Topman is love!

Although my birthday is long over...I took advantage of the month long validity of my 20% off birthday voucher and went shopping at Topman, Ion Orchard last weekend. I always like Topman's blazers cos' they fit me like a glove and no alterations need to be done. The cut is very contemporary with a shorter body and very skinny torso. Best part of all, it is so affordable, you can buy many and wear different styles anytime! Of course, do choose wisely to look like a million dollars without looking the price you paid:-)

My shopping expedition to Topman was a success. It left me with 2 great pieces that I would highly recommend. The Skinny Fit Contrast Trim Navy Blazer is one of the best looking blazer designs on the racks now. It has interesting contrast stripes that runs down the narrow lapels and along the flap of the pockets. Distinctive from other plain blazers without overbearing. I always believe good designs lies in the details. The blazer also look more expensive than it should be. The fit, as expected, is skinny and streamlined, perfect to look smart without appearing to hide 2 chickens under your jacket.

Besides the Navy Blazer, I also stumbled upon an 'unintentional' buy...I also get a beautiful Slim Fit Contrast Checks Trim White Shirt. The checks patterned trim adds a charming touch, dandy-ish combined with some Comme Des Garcons aesthetics:-P The checks trimmings also runs along the cuffs and collar which adds visual interest under a blazer.

When worn with the Navy Blazer, I feel I am ready to sail on a luxury cruise liner toward St. Tropez:-) Summery cruise look. A nice pocket square will be ideal for a more dashing touch:-)

Shopping mission completed and happy customer status achieved, I only spend SGD $225 for both cool pieces. What a deal! Afterall, what better feeling than looking smart without overspending much:-)

Source: Topman

Retail price:
1) Skinny Fit Contrast Trim Navy Blazer : SGD $203
2) Slim Fit Contrast Checks Trim White Shirt : SGD $79
Where to buy: Topman at Ion Orchard

The Material Boy #343

Below: Copper coloured Metallic blazers...stunning!


Below: Comes in silver too!

Topman Metallic Skinny Blazers

End of the year equates to lots of parties to attend! Year end dinner and dance, X'mas parties, New Year's parties, store opening parties... that is lots of occassion to dress smart and look the part. And if you want to 'shine' and bedazzle your peers, I found the perfect statement piece to add some 'sparkling' attitude and make all eyes centre on you. All done without breaking the bank!

Topman's Skinny Fit Metallic Blazers...I want, especially that copper coloured one! Topman blazers fit superbly with a wide range of sizes for slim to buff guys. Very modern cut and these metallic ones make me feel like a rock star. Sadly, Singapore Topman stores do not get these gorgeous jackets, but those of you in Europe can order it online. Lucky you! Someone send me to UK again to buy these!

Source: Topman Retail price: £100. Where to buy: Topman

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #63

Below: Do you classify these as skinny jeans or tights?:-P

Too Tight Or Just Right?

Skinny jeans are no longer just skinny. They are tights! What do guys and gals think of men wearing literally such a piece of 'second skin'? One thing's for sure, it definitely does not help in propagating our species:-P... unless you had other plans for your 'family jewels':-P

This guy in the pic pulled it off quite well. Going for a Harvard look (And not the typical young street punk style), with his classic blue shirt and navy tie and those black rim glasses. He then modernised it with a short cropped blazer and add 'icing' to his outfit with a nice black and white stripe pattern scarf. I adore him revealing his socks, which again runs in stripe pattern and with matching blue tones. How cute:-)

But can anyone pull off jeans this tight easily? I have tried on those super skinny ones at Topman and I have to say, it made my 'chicken legs' look even more 'matchstick'. So I 'chicken' out and put them back in the rack:-P

Source: Wayne Tippetts

Fast Fashion Weekends...

Below: Zara Dressing Room Try-out...
1) Zara Dark Grey Jersey Nautical Pea Coat
2) Zara Light Blue Cotton Shirt with Gingham Checks Details
(On cuffs, placket, shoulders and collar)

Below: I love the soft, lightweight Jersey Pea Coat! It has nice aged nautical inspired
silver buttons and most interesting of all, wires inserted inside the edges of collars
and cuffs allow for you to 'mould' the hems of the jacket to whatever way you want.
It creates a 'rumpled' look which you can 'sculpt':-) Call it 'freedom of expression'!

Below: I like the gingham checks details all over the shirt, especially the shoulders,
as it gives definition to the area. Makes it look broader?:-)

Below: Topman Dressing Room Try-out...
1) Topman Stretch Skinny Distressed Jeans in black

Below: It's so tight fitted, it feels like tights:-P But looks very Balmain chic...rips on a few
areas on the thighs and knees

Below: Topman Dressing Room Test-out Part 2...
1) Topman Stretch Skinny Jeans in white
2) Topman Chunky Knit Wool and Acrylic Belted Cardigan

Below: Countryside chic with the belted chunky wool cardigan...love how fitted it looks.
The white jeans again, so skinny it feels like wearing tights...

Dressing Room Fast Fashion

I am soon to list Zara and Topman as my most 'favourite haunts' of Singapore. As fast fashion brand goes, these 2 has some great 'on-trend' pieces at affordable pricing. Shopping luxury brands can be fun, but you probably can't go in and out of those stores to try out the clothing as frequent as you like. I am sure you will be 'blacklisted' in no time if you show your face and not purchase often. And if in a moment of impulse, you like the clothes you try and you can incur credit card meltdown easily and cause more woes than joy.

But for fast fashion, both of these problems are less likely to happen. Pricing is less exorbitant, environment less intimidating. You get to enjoy all those random moments of clothing trials which is what makes shopping fun.

I love hitting Zara. They have something new each week to lookout for. So many styles to choose from and so many key seasonal trends to ensure you are updated constantly. Quality may not be superb, but who cares when trends lasted probably 6 months each season.

As for Topman, I recently discovered they stock the most skinniest jeans I have ever worn. More audaciously tight than D&G or Balmain (Okay...men's range)...you are practically wearing tights (More like Balmain womens. It's stretchy and the leg ends are only 15 inches wide). So if you want slimmer looking legs, time to squeeze into those stretch skinny jeans at the risk of 'suffocating' your future offsprings:-P

Here's a few of my random try outs of some pieces I like at Zara and Topman recently...Dun we love fast fashion? Shopping made fun even without buying:-) (or did I?!?!?! It's a risk to put yourself in the face of temptations:-P)

My previous dressing room post here

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 News #107

Below: The new DSquared2 boutique is simply amazing, albeit overpriced!

Below: I really like the rustic wood exterior, signature of the rustic charm of DSquared2

Below: One of the entrance to Ion Orchard with Giorgio Armani duplex level flagship store on the side...still under renovation as of this post...

Below: The ladies will be thrilled...the new Miu Miu store is decadent and takes on

the design of the Europe stores...

Below: The very huge Burberry store on the same level as LV and Prada!

Below: Designer label heaven...big names like LV side by side with Prada and Burberry...one after another...

Below: Soon to be opened Prada Duplex level flagship store...can't wait...

(This is the 2nd level, the ground level is the main entrance)

Ion Orchard 'Expedition' Report

I finally had the time to check out the just opened (21 Jul 09) Ion Orchard Mall and oh my...the moment I step into the mall, past the gate from the underground train...I hear my heart beat faster and adrenalin rushing thru my veins...

It must be the sight and smell of brand new decor and many retail temptations that got me more than excited...I was exhilarated. I do not know where to start. Everywhere I turn, there is a shop to be checked out. The basement levels were dedicated to mid level or more affordable brands while the upper levels belong to the realm of luxury shopping! I walked past double level Zara, Topman and the soon to open Uniqlo. But I knew my first stop had to be level one where all the hot luxury labels are located. My first shopping expedition had to be the new kid on Singapore's fashion block, DSquared2! The shop did not disappoint. They stock almost a very extensive range of the new Fall Winter 2009 collection. I love the shop decor as well. It has many mirrors and a central area with a huge leather couch for shoppers to rest while contemplating their choices. Womenswear, shoes and bags are also stocked. However, one bad thing is the overly inflated prices they charge for each piece. I cannot imagine paying that much for something I can get for much lesser online or overseas. But I guess, it is the thrill of shopping in an actual DSquared2 boutique that might make me commit to my first purchase there. I had a quick browse as I still have many stops to visit:-) Within 10 minutes, I was out and proceeding to my next stop. I had a quick glimpse of the shops on the same level and I am happy to report, YSL, Miu Miu, Bally are all setting up base here. We are fast becoming a real shopping mecca of the region! One level up from the ground level, we find more big brand names like Herve Ledger, Marc Jacobs and many more. Upon finding my way in this new gargantuan shopping mall, I had trouble locating the must see Burberry boutique I mentioned today.

Taking a bit of effort navigating my way around, I landed back on ground level and soon had to get out of the mall in order to have a better sense of direction. That helps and I spotted Burberry right at the back of the mall, next to Wisma Atria. The new Burberry flagship did not disappoint. It's like an emporium of all things Burberry! The different sub-brands are housed in individual sections, like a room while cohesively sharing the same interior design aesthetics. I found the Burberry Prorsum men's section and needless to say, I was hunting for the grey tweed jacket I was eyeing. The prices are again very expensive, and since I am not sure about my travel plans for now, I refrain from committing to such a big purchase.

After taking a much needed dinner break, I decided it is time to explore the basement levels and check out my other more affordable fashion brands like Zara and Topman. I am delighted to report, these 2 shops took my breath away. They are HUGE! With 2 levels, one for the ladies and one for the men, you can find almost anything you need there. I especially love Topman. It's having such a good range and the environment is condusive for you to shop, shop and shop. I feel like I am in Europe shopping in mega flagships!

Here's some pics I have taken of my expedition today. Enjoy!

For readers outside of Singapore, if you are here for holiday or work...this is the place to check out if you enjoy shopping! Come now!:-P (Singapore Tourism Board better pay me some commission for helping to promote my country...all I ask for is perhaps a DSquared2 shirt? Hehehe)