Esquire 12: The "Spirited" Edit

The dawn of a new year often means a fresh start. In this edition of Esquire 12 (for the 12 days of Christmas) we curate a list of objects meant to inspire new discoveries, journeys and a trove of positive energy to kick-start 2025
Published: 9 December 2024

1. Bale hobo bag, LORO PIANA

Understated elegance is an underrated attribute, especially when it comes to bags. This Loro Piano Bale hobo bag in extra-large size has all the makings of a timeless piece, and versatile to boot. The shape is inspired by the brand’s unparalleled cashmere manufacturing, with a suppleness that reflects the quality and care behind every Loro Piana creation. This should be the only baggage you bring over to the new year.

2. L’Orange en Fêtes, HERMÈS

Moisturised lips are a universal need, so imagine finding this limited-edition Hermès creation under the Christmas tree. L’Orange en Fêtes is a lip balm housed within a folded paper ornament shaped to resemble an orange and dressed in Hermès’ signature hue. It’s a simple touch of luxury that, if anything, reminds you that life may be full of uncertainties but the condition of your lips shouldn't be one of them.

3. 24-Year-Old cognac cask finish, ROYAL SALUTE

There is reason why this particular Royal Salute expression is all kinds of huat. Firstly, there’s the hue of red that in many Asian cultures signifies prosperity and success. And then, there is the use of the finest first-fill French oak casks (a first for Royal Salute) to create a complex taste profile that appeals to Asian palates. Basically, this is what you should be toasting the new year (and Chinese New Year) with.

4. Rush bumbag, LOUIS VUITTON

The Rush bumbag could be considered an entryway bag—one that’s left near the doorway and constantly packed with everyday essentials ready to go. It’s easy to pair with just about any outfit and the nifty top handle (something you’d rarely see on a bumbag) adds more adaptability to an already versatile piece. The charm is removable if you don’t fancy it, but the bottomline is this: we’re all about seizing new opportunities in 2025 and having a bag that’s always at the ready is key.

5. Optical frame, OLIVER PEOPLES

Whether they are prescription or reading glasses, it’s always nice to put a stylish spin on an essential accessory. This Oliver Peoples optical frame comes in a flattering lens shape that’ll suit most faces. The gradient hue is a contemporary take on simplicity in design, showcasing the frame in its very essence and highlighting its curves. Here’s to seeing and looking (better) ahead.

6. ENPRIA-E backpack and NEOPOD 55/20 EXP easy access luggage, SAMSONITE

It’s 2025 soon and high time to get smart about how you are travelling. This Samsonite backpack and luggage combo is perfect for those quick trips, especially with the easily accessible compartments and expandable volume. The backpack is what one would expect of a thoughtfully designed piece that’s centred around functionality, but with the added boon of design simplicity.

7. Leather tote bag and Pop Strings bag charm, PRADA

If you do not understand the hype behind the Labubu plushie decorating bags the world over, let this Prada combination persuade you. The leather tote bag is roomy enough to be an everyday work companion (those wide handles are a nifty design choice). And when paired with the brand’s latest bag charm that consists of an abstract robot and utility cords, what you have is a carrier with the bells and whistles, but in wholly grown-up way.

8. The Onitsuka brogues, ONITSUKA TIGER

Onitsuka Tiger isn’t just about its iconic sneakers. The Onitsuka line is the formal expression of Onitsuka Tiger’s Japanese craftsmanship and comfort tech, with a twist. Take these wingtip brogues for example. They are of a classic silhouette, set on a chunky outer sole meant for durability and enhanced cushioning. They have tweed inserts that are woven in Japan’s Iwate Prefecture and combined with the glossy finish of the Japanese Kobe beef leather, making them a pair to be treasured.

9. Dog collar, DOLCE&GABBANA

Canine elegance aside, there is something particularly appealing about this Dolce&Gabbana dog collar. Made out of leather decorated with a leopard print, it comes with a dog paw charm. It's quite perfect for your non-human bestie. Or (and we won't entirely be surprised) you might actually be persuaded to adopt one.

10. Historiques American 1921, 40mm white gold case with leather strap, VACHERON CONSTANTIN

To tell, keep and make time for all that is coming in 2025, you are unlikely to find a timepiece as nostalgically handsome as the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921. It is designed to stay true to the spirit of the 1921 original, with that iconic diagonally placed dial that allows you to make quick work at telling time.

11. Baies des Lunes scented candle, MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN

Nothing puts you in the mood of the season quite like the smell of woody effervescence. Maison Francis Kurkdjian extends its olfactory expertise to a limited-edition scented candle that celebrates mistletoe with a subtle one-two of musk and creamy woods. It’s calming, but not overtly festive, so you can burn it any time of the year.

12. Desert Dawn eau de parfum, BYREDO

As its name suggests, Byredo’s Desert Dawn takes you on a journey to the vast expanse of the desert with a warmth that’s felt with every spritz. The scent opens with the sweetness of cardamom and rose before the woodiness of cedar and sandalwood sets in. A body of silk musk and vetiver, together with the lightness of papyrus rounds off Desert Dawn for the right amount of depth.

Photography: Jayden Tan
Styling: Asri Jasman
Stock Images: Unsplash

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