Juyeon with the Balenciaga Bel Air.
(BALENCIAGA)

These days, it's no longer enough to be produce an It bag. The 2000s and their stylings may be back and experiencing a (rather long) resurgence, but the trendy mindset of the times aren't being adopted as much. We're more cognisant of our purchases—buying designs and pieces as investments instead of fleeting of-the-moment wants.

The Hermès Birkin has unwittingly become the benchmark for this enlightened approach to luxury fashion and it's not difficult to see why. It-bag status has been replaced with a flagship investment bag so tied to a fashion house that it's bound to be a perennial hallmark unaffected by trends; the Birkin's continuously sought-after demand and distinct aesthetic has made in an icon of design as well as status.

That's not to say that a fashion house like Balenciaga hasn't had hits or isn't known for a particular style. In fact, the Balenciaga City bag by former creative director Nicolas Ghesquière was an indelible part of the noughties that the House brought it back into rotation since 2021 under a rebranded Le City tag. It also became a point of reference for the Le Cagole line, featuring the former's signature studs. But a Birkin-equivalent, Le City is not.

Kit Butler with the Balenciaga Bel Air.
(BALENCIAGA)

What makes a bag worthy of being exalted to Birkin status, you ask? For one, a design that's quite unlike any other with elements you'd immediately associate it with. Like the Birkin, an icon hopeful needs to have a versatile everyday appeal and practicality while exuding a sense of elegance—you should just as easily bring it to the office and still stuff it to the brim with groceries and all manner of randomness. Then, there's the potential for it to age and age well, meaning that it has to be made with stellar craftsmanship and material. And of course, there's the aspirational pricing that offers some sort of exclusivity to owning one.

The Balenciaga Bel Air could potentially be Balenciaga's answer to the Birkin.

A completely new design by creative director Demna for Balenciaga, the Bel Air made its first appearance only this year and had already appeared in a campaign fronted by brand ambassadors Isabelle Huppert and Michelle Yeoh, and Naomi Watts in August. In the latest Bel Air campaign, Balenciaga positions the bag as a gender-neutral option with the XL iteration worn by model Kit Butler and Juyeon of K-pop group THE BOYZ.

The Bel Air is in some ways a follow-up to the Balenciaga Rodeo but packed with a bit more functionality. Unlike the latter, the Bel Air is constructed with gussets at the sides that unbuttons to transform it into a roomier piece with extended sides. The front of the Bel Air (like the Rodeo) is interchangeable as well between a clean exterior and that of a more relaxed folded front that's instantly recognisable. Space-wise, the XL version (it's also available in small and medium) is massive with a wide inner zipped compartment and a fully unobstructed interior space.

There's no denying that the Bel Air is well made too. It's crafted from smooth calfskin that's also soft enough to give that supple drape at the front. Yet at the same time, it's a sturdy piece. And going at SGD10,900 for the XL size, it isn't something that's easily accessible to a lot of people.

It may be too soon to predict how the Bel Air will fare in the luxury market. But given all that it has going for it, this could potentially be Balenciaga's next big thing, and if done right, it's very own answer to the Birkin.

(BERLUTI)

No, there isn’t a new artistic director at Berluti. In fact, there hasn’t been one since Kris Van Assche left the Maison in 2021. There is, however, a new CEO in the form of Jean-Marc Mansvelt.

Mansvelt has been in the LVMH Group of brands for decades. He had spent about 10 years in Louis Vuitton before moving to become jewellery house Chaumet’s CEO in 2015, focusing on storytelling to revive what was often referred to as the “sleeping beauty” of the jewellery world. And while high jewellery is far from the world of luxury fashion, Mansvelt is likely to enact a somewhat similar approach to Berluti as its CEO.

The Maison’s latest campaign is the first of what is certain to be many new directional changes for Berluti. Lensed by Bastian Archard, whose works often capture objects and people in a quiet and intimate manner, the 17-image campaign zeroes in on the Maison’s emblematic pieces. They’re treated like objets d’art—shoes and bags positioned on pedestals, while ready-to-wear pieces envelope and take on the personalities of the models they’re put on.

There’s no distinguishing the timeless Berluti classics from pieces picked out from the latest collections. It’s a strategic and artful approach to signal this new chapter of Berluti where seasonality is seemingly obsolete. Instead, the focus is on the craft honed by its artisans. A number of the images from the campaign highlight the design intricacies and details that are easily recognisable for those already familiar with Berluti, while serving as a reminder of the hands and artistry that go behind each piece. The tone-on-tone hand-stitching of the Andy loafers, and the sliver of the contemporary on the sporty-soled Fast Track leather sneakers showcase time-honoured expertise, and are essentially a snapshot of the artisans themselves. The scuffed up and worn out soles of a pair of Alessandro lace-ups demonstrate that Berluti’s pieces are meant to be lived in and remain dependable for years to come.

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Perhaps, the most drastic change is the return of the classic Berluti logo. The serif typography has been revived, given due prominence with each and every campaign image bearing the mark—even alongside the Van Assche-initiated trademark onto the sole of a pair of boots. And like the creations it’s featured against, the emblem radiates character and renewed energy, a signifier of the history and upcoming stories yet to be told with the brand.

All that is to say: Berluti is home.

Icons only as Loro Piana makes known its signature creations, like the Icer.
(LORO PIANA)

Do not think of Loro Piana as “quiet luxury”. The Italian brand has been around for 100 years and remains one of the foremost producers of top-quality fabrics used by every luxury fashion house from Yves Saint Laurent to Giorgio Armani to Savile Row’s own Huntsman. Anyone with a go-to tailor would be more than familiar with Loro Piana pre-Succession, as it’s constantly name-dropped by tailors as one of their offerings as a mark of quality.

Ardent customers of Loro Piana are able to distinguish a Loro Piana piece quite easily—if not by look, by touch. The incorporation of its signature vicuña colour as trims, the hidden touches of luxurious comfort (a pocket lined with cashmere for instance), the white soles of the Summer Walk loafers, and more are all telltale signs of a Loro Piana creation.

If you are part of the camp unfamiliar with the brand’s classics, the brand is making it easier to do so. The Loro Piana Icons series is a consolidation of 12 key styles the brand has introduced over the years, each originally designed for a specific activity and then further developed into everyday classics. Collectively, the Icons embody Loro Piana’s ethos of masterfully merging functionality, comfort and versatility through the utmost attention to detail.

Consider the Icons series as a mainstay capsule collection. Pieces like the Horsey (a jacket first introduced in 1992 for the Italian Equestrian Olympic team), the formal Spagna jacket, and the impeccably lightweight and roomy Roadster jacket can each be easily worn over the Polo Open shirt or the Neopolitan-inspired André shirt. Finish with the aforementioned White Sole series—choose between the Summer Walk loafers or the Open Walk boots—or the Sergio Walk loafers, and you are pretty much set.

The Traveller. (LORO PIANA)
The Horsey. (LORO PIANA)
The Voyager. (LORO PIANA)
Sergio Walk loafers. (LORO PIANA)
The Spagna. (LORO PIANA)
The Grande Unita. (LORO PIANA)
The Roadster. (LORO PIANA)
The Bomber. (LORO PIANA)

The Icons series is rather outerwear heavy and there is good reason for that. Not only is the brand known for its quality fabrications, it has also come up with a number of nifty design elements and technologies to enhance functionality. Designed with numerous pockets and an adaptable back and waist, the Voyager jacket is also crafted from waterproof fabric to suit the needs of anyone constantly on the move; the Traveller field jacket is similarly constructed with a waist drawstring for that added versatility. The Storm System treatment is central to the Icer jacket—a cashmere ski jacket that is waterproof and wind-resistant—while Windmate makes the Loro Piana Bomber an indispensable sailing companion as it is lightweight and teamed with the warmth of cashmere.

To complete the 12-piece offering is the Grande Unita scarf. It is the oldest design in the series as it was one of the first finished products introduced by Sergio and Pier Luigi Loro Piana in the 1980s. The cashmere scarf is undoubtedly soft to the touch and is the embodiment of timeless elegance, functionality and comfort.

There is no telling if the Loro Piana Icons series is set to grow in the future, including more of its designs into the fold. If there is one contender that could easily find its way into being an Icon it would be the Bale bag. The leather bag was first introduced in Spring/Summer 2023 as part of the womenswear collection, inspired by cashmere bales. For the Autumn/Winter 2024 menswear collection, the Bale is reintroduced in an extra large hobo style for men while still retaining its unlined construction and bulbous shape. And of course, marked by that steely attention to detail and functionality.

Extra Large Bale Hobo bag in Warm Mastic, LORO PIANA
Extra Large Bale Hobo bag in Azuki Beans, LORO PIANA
Extra Large Bale Hobo bag in Salty Cappers, LORO PIANA

So is Loro Piana “quiet luxury”? At least, only to those not in the know.

Rahul Mishra x Tod's Di Bag and Rahul Mishra x Tod's Gommino loafers, TOD'S
(TOD'S)

Italian craftsmanship traditions meet Indian artisanal techniques in the latest Tod's Factory project. Renowned Indian designer Rahul Mishra—known for his incredibly intricate creations that draw inspiration from India's rich cultural heritage—reimagines a range of Tod's icons for both men and women, adding touches of opulence for pieces meant to be seen and admired.

Mishra explains that the Rahul Mishra x Tod's collection is a result of "drawing inspiration from nature, my constant muse, crafting classic in-house motifs and the distinctive foliage, synonymous with my designs". Kaarigar artisans were employed to decorate leather with embroideries reflecting nature. On the Tod's Gommino loafers and mules, these embroideries take on the shape of Mishra's Tree of Life motif and woven with silk on black velvet trimmed with leather for men, while women Gommino loafers are additionally done in a metallic nappa leather. Similar techniques are applied on the Di Bag and the Timeless T shoulder bag, amped up with sequins, crystals and beads.

More than simply introducing Indian artisanal techniques onto Tod's icons, the Tod's Factory project is an artistic dialogue. The project was launched in 2018, first with Italian fashion designer Alessandro Dell'Acqua and has since seen collaborations with creatives the likes of the late Alber Elbaz, Hender Scheme, as well as a three-prong with Moncler and Palm Angels. Tod's Factory allows these creatives access to the brand's craftsmen and savoir faire in Italy's Marche region, and of course, breathing new life to classic Tod's pieces.

This latest Tod's Factory edition is easily a standout based on the decorations alone. The Gommino loafers for men would make for the perfect evening option with suiting, while the Timeless T mules are an easy way of dressing up a classic white-shirt-and-jean pairing. Because when the pieces are this beautiful, they deserve all the spotlight.

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The Rahul Mishra x Tod's collection is now available in boutiques and online.

IB Kamara with the RIMOWA Original Bag in Silver.
(RIMOWA)

Considering that RIMOWA has been around for more than a century now, it's inevitable that the brand has evolved. What started out as a brand famed for pioneering aluminium and polycarbonate for use in suitcases—effectively changing the way people travel—is now a luxury lifestyle brand that still puts materiality, innovation and craftsmanship at the forefront.

RIMOWA's biggest shift was in 2020 when it launched its first series of lifestyle bags and accessories parked under the Never Still line. The soft, canvas constructions are trimmed with nylon and leather for hardy, urban-driven solutions that extend the brand's ethos of functional tools for a lifetime of movement beyond the travel space. Around the same time, a collaboration with Dior introduced the Personal case, which is essentially an Original suitcase shrunken into a crossbody bag or clutch, that now remains part of RIMOWA's core offerings and has birthed a Sling Clutch iteration. And just last year, the RIMOWA Signature line was launched with sustainable regenerated nylon as its base material.

Now, four years since its evolution into lifestyle bags and accessories, RIMOWA returns to its game-changing lightweight aluminium innovation for its first unisex handbag, the Original Bag.

Right off the bat, the design of the RIMOWA Original Bag is distinctively RIMOWA—the grooved design emblematic of the brand, the seamless colour-matched aesthetic, and the rounded reinforced corners. Like the Personal, you could consider it as a mini-sized Original suitcase but constructed and designed with updated functionality to adapt for its handbag use. It's crafted in aluminium with a leather handle that's further reinforced with an aluminium frame so that it's both comfortable and sturdy to hold on to as a top-handle bag. A branded webbing strap is included for added versatility so that it can be used as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag.

RIMOWA Original Bag in Silver, RIMOWA (RIMOWA)
RIMOWA Original Bag in Black, RIMOWA (RIMOWA)
RIMOWA Original Bag webbing straps. (RIMOWA)

Because the Original suitcases' locking mechanism wouldn't make complete sense to be adapted for a handbag (imagine having to fiddle with two clamps every few minutes), RIMOWA devised a new button mechanism that facilitates easy opening and closing of the Original Bag. And if you're familiar with the Original suitcases' handles that snap down flat with that rather satisfying clack, the same mechanism would be a potential annoyance for something that you'd reach for far often than a suitcase. The top handle on the RIMOWA Original Bag stays upright so you're able to grab it and go with ease, but it can also lay flat for a more sleek silhouette when not carried as a handbag. All very clearly thoughtfully crafted.

The interior of the Original Bag is fully lined with Italian-made leather with a roomy compartment. Considered touches include a zipped pocket as well as slots for cards; there's ample space for all that you'd need on the daily to go about your way.

This is a new chapter for RIMOWA and the Original Bag is most certainly just the beginning. You could say that this new design is a longtime coming but as they say, good things come to those who wait. And, boy, isn't this a good one.

The RIMOWA Original Bag in Silver and Black is now available at RIMOWA stores as well as online.

Horsebit 1955 shoulder bag, GUCCI

For his first menswear collection for Gucci, creative director Sabato De Sarno focused on strengthening house codes seen through a more modern lens. The Autumn/Winter 2024 menswear collection saw accessories making their own statements—distinct in form yet not brashly shouting to be heard. Dressed in the House's now signature Rosso Ancora shade, staples like the Double G belt and the Horsebit loafers-turned-creepers reflect a renewed Gucci aesthetic.

Double G buckle belt and Marina chain necklace, GUCCI

Photography: Shawn Paul Tan
Styling: Asri Jasman
Photography Assistant: Chay Wei Kang

Son Heung-Min with the TUMI Alpha Bravo Navigation backpack.

It's not often that we're afforded the opportunity to bear witness to the birth of a legend—they're considered "legendary" for a reason. Son Heung-Min is one, a legend whose football skills have earned him critical acclaim and a number of accolades, while at the same time, possessing the charm and charisma of a seasoned public personality. And let's not kid ourselves, Son also has the mug of a model.

We'd go as far as to say that the partnership between Son and TUMI has been a seamless fit based on those attributes alone. The global ambassador embodies TUMI's dedication to quality, innovation, and style that the latter prioritises in pretty much all of its creations across the different facets of its ever-growing universe.

Son's latest campaign with TUMI is perhaps the most personal yet. The entire campaign was shot at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, essentially the second home of the club captain. "I was personally excited for this campaign to be set in my home away from home," he says. "I always value that TUMI is there for me and has my back, whatever journey I’m on." The brand literally has had Son's back for quite a while now too. He's often spotted with an iteration of the Navigation backpack from the Alpha Bravo series that pairs stylishly with both his professional kit as well as his off-duty outfits.

Son with the TUMI Alpha Bravo Logistics backpack.

It's no surprise then that the latest campaign highlights the Alpha Bravo as one of the essential companions to Son's fast-paced lifestyle. Looks aside, the Alpha Bravo series' ballistic nylon composition has been a staple signature of TUMI for over three decades. Its hard-wearing strength is a boon for just about anyone living in the fast lane and dispels any worry about their bag falling apart or belongings not being well protected. Couple that with nifty design elements that put function at the very forefront, the Alpha Bravo series is made to outlast and outperform.

Speaking of innovations, the Tegra-Lite® luggage series takes centrestage as Son's travel companion. The series is available in a number of configurations and dimensions (a select few seen in the campaign) and all feature the durable and lightweight Tegris® material commonly used in lifesaving armour, race cars, and professional athletic gear. The shell of every Tegra-Lite® luggage is a composite of many layers that further strengthens the exterior, so you're assured that it'll hold steady against any and every bump along the journey.

Tegra-Lite® International Front Pocket Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On, TUMI
Tegra-Lite® Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case, TUMI
Tegra-Lite® International Front Pocket Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On, TUMI

Both the Alpha Bravo and Tegra-Lite® excel at being the embodiment of TUMI's key design pillars. The brand takes it a step further this time around—these pieces are not only thoughtfully designed to accompany your journeys, but also to be part of every moment. It ties back to Son; the signature pose that the pro footballer is known for—connecting his index fingers and thumbs together to resemble a camera, and often paired with a smile—after every goal as a means of capturing those moments and holding on to them. TUMI intends on the Alpha Bravo and Tegra-Lite® series to do the same albeit in more tangible ways.

As much as it's uncommon to be living in the same era as a known legend, TUMI's commitment to continuously innovating its function-first approach to design while marrying that with style, is too a rarity in the arena it's in. And if you're in the habit of making memories of just about every moment, the Alpha Bravo and Tegra-Lite® series by TUMI may just be the essential companions to those journeys.

The latest Alpha Bravo and Tegra-Lite® collections are now available at TUMI stores.

It's the second Friday of May. You're a couple of days away from turning up to Mother's Day dinner with a flower arrangement that (a) you didn't order in advance so it's pretty much an assortment of leftovers the florist managed to collate, and (b) you're kinda screwed, dude.

Not to bring up an Asian mother trope, but we sure she's going to be nice about receiving a floral bouquet, before flicking through Facebook or her Whatsapp group chat with [insert aunty's name] showcase of the gift her thoughtful son got her. It's no competition, yes. But she definitely deserves something more.

Thankfully, there are plenty of last-minute Mother's Day gift options out there that you don't even need to sneakily get her sizes for. And we've scoured 10 just for you.

Ella Boston bag, MCM

(MCM)

Adorned with the signature Visetos monogram, the Ella Boston Bag in Maxi Visetos epitomises timeless elegance and contemporary allure. Drawing inspiration from vintage travel trunks of Munich's golden era, this bag boasts a leather hang tag and a logo-engraved metal padlock, paying homage to its jet-setting heritage. Red roses? Nah.

Diva's Dream necklaces, BVLGARI

(BULGARI)

How do you honour a mother's invaluable and nurturing love? Bulgari’s exquisite Diva's Dream necklaces might offer a radiant answer. Featuring signature shapes with mother of pearl inserts and vibrant malachite, these timeless pieces symbolise unconditional love—a perfect tribute to the extraordinary mothers in our lives.

Rogue Dior lipstick, DIOR BEAUTY

(DIOR BEAUTY)

Encased in a sleek, new design with magnetic closure, a Rouge Dior red lip never goes out of style. Its long-lasting formula ensures comfort, enriched with hydrating lip care for nourishment. There's a spectrum of shades in matte velvet and satin finishes—the matte velvet finish grants full, soft lips with a weightless feel, while the satin finish imparts brightness and shape. More than just a lipstick, it's also a small piece of luxury that she'll be able to carry with her wherever she goes.

Origami Flowers by Atelier Oï, LOUIS VUITTON 

(LOUIS VUITTON)

We know we’ve been veering from the usual flower choices, but bear with us—these aren't your typical blooms. These exquisite origami flowers are crafted by Atelier Oï in collaboration with Louis Vuitton. It's a partnership that celebrates craftsmanship with creations inspired by emotional material encounters. Each leather petal reflects a story of love and care, reflecting the essence of maternal strength as well as the beauty of handmade artistry. If you want to get her flowers, get her these ones that won't wither after a week.

Collection de l’Atelier, HENRY JACQUES

(HENRY JACQUES)

Made from the handpicked roses cultivated in the House's new Southern France atelier, Henry Jacques reveals its latest expression, Collection de l’Atelier. The limited edition collection features three distinct fragrances—Rose Soleil, Rose Trés Rose, and Rose Azur—in generous 30ml volumes to emphasise the rarity, preciousness and quality. Also available as a set of three, elegantly presented in a handcrafted chest. Limited to just 500 bottles, each a singular creation, this collection is an exclusive offering never to be duplicated. 

Rocking Horse bag, BURBERRY

(BURBERRY)

Handcrafted in Italy from textured calf leather, the Rocking Horse Bag blends nostalgic charm with modern versatility. Featuring a unique "b" closure, it's a nod to the classic rocking horse toy. With an adjustable strap, it effortlessly transitions from shoulder to crossbody wear. Embellished with the iconic tartan-check pattern, this medium version in Lichen ensures versatility and ample space for your mother's everyday needs.

Slides, GUCCI

(GUCCI)

Just as mothers gracefully navigate the twists and turns of parenting, shoes likewise adapt to diverse terrains. Show your appreciation with a pair of Gucci slide sandals—a perfect nod to their resilience and elegance. Crafted from light blue denim, these slide sandals are adorned with an embroidered Gucci script and striped accents, merging style with comfort seamlessly.

Replenishing Moisture collection set, LA MER 

(LA MER)

Pamper mom with the La Mer Replenishing Moisture Collection Set. This limited-edition set comprises of La Mer's hydrating Treatment Lotion, transformative Eye Concentrate, protective Lime Tea Concentrate, and luxurious Hydrating Infused Emulsion and Crème De La Mer. With indulgent moisture in four simple steps, it's the perfect pampering solution for radiant, youthful-looking skin, suitable for all skin types.

Les Eaux d'Issey Solar Violet, ISSEY MIYAKE PARFUMS

(ISSEY MIYAKE PARFUMS)

Issey Miyake introduces L’Eau d’Issey Solar Violet. This new fragrance pay homage to nature's beauty, embodying the transformation of water after encountering the sublime. L’Eau d’Issey Solar Violet, crafted by perfumer Marie Salamagne, merges freshness with sensuality, featuring luminous violet and sunny pear notes. Dermatologically tested and suitable for sun exposure with proper protection, it makes a thoughtful gift as a celebration of the radiant spirit of motherhood.

Airstrait straightener, DYSON

(DYSON)

The Dyson Airstrait Straightener revolutionises hair straightening with air, not heat. Its innovative design allows for simultaneous drying and straightening from wet, without hot plates, ensuring no heat damage. Featuring precise directional airflow and intelligent heat control, it safeguards hair's natural shine by measuring temperature 16 times per second. No more accidentally burning her fingers for mom.

Bucket bag, LOEWE

In season five of Friends, there's an episode aptly titled "The One With Joey's Bag". The central narrative was of Joey Tribbiani (played by Matt LeBlanc), having received a bag from Jennifer Aniston's Rachel as part of his desire to fit into a role of "a real clothes horse" that he's auditioning for, falling in love with said bag. But of course, given that it was 1999, his friends found every opportunity to ridicule him for even carrying the bag.

You'd think that the bag was in a ghastly shade of pink or a tiny purse that could barely fit anything (even so, there's absolutely nothing wrong with a man wanting to carry either) but in actual fact, it's reminiscent of a top-handle briefcase that's far from extraordinary in today's context.

How times have changed, and thankfully so.

The best bags this season are big. They're made to fit more than just the essentials, with some having the capability to be versatile enough to transition from work bag to gym bag. And of course, because we're all for longterm investments, they're crafted from sturdy and luxurious materials that'll not only last but age well too. From Loewe's latest Pebble Bucket bag to Bottega Veneta's massive tote, we've curated some of the best bags of the season made for every man that you are.

Ear cuff, HERMÈS. Bag, DIOR MEN
Ear cuff, HERMÈS. Tote bag, BOTTEGA VENETA

Photography: Shawn Paul Tan
Styling: Asri Jasman
Grooming: Kenneth Chia using KEVIN.MURPHY and TOM FORD BEAUTY
Photography Assistant: Xie Feng Mao
Styling Assistant: Chua Xin Xuan
Model: Aaron C at MANNEQUIN

Blouson, cardigan, bermudas, trapper hat and Dior Gravity Leather Dior Hit The Road backpack, DIOR MEN
(JACKIE NICKERSON)

Artistic director Kim Jones continues to expand Dior Men’s visual vocabulary in a manner that respects and upholds the legacy of the House. His latest—for the Fall 2024 collection—looks at reimagining the Dior Oblique motif once again.

Debuted in the Dior Men Winter 2023 collection, the Dior Oblique Gravity was the medium of choice to launch a new iteration of the Dior Saddle, dubbed the Dior Saddle Boxy. The Dior Oblique Gravity was introduced in a number of rich, bold hues that highlighted its characteristic patent leather sheen, with the embossed grooves providing a kind of tonal gradation.

For Fall 2024, Jones introduces an update. Where the Dior Oblique Gravity was visually more robust, the Dior Gravity Leather is its softer cousin in more ways than one.

Blouson, mockneck sweater, bermudas and Dior Gravity Leather Dior Hit The Road messenger bag, DIOR MEN
(JACKIE NICKERSON)

Unlike its predecessor, the Dior Gravity Leather employs the use of grain-textured leather for a more matte finish. The embossing technique itself is a work of art that reflects the house’s handcrafted approach in everything that it dabbles in. Instead of a typical embossing technique where pressure is manually applied to create the desired pattern, the Dior Oblique motif visible on the latest expression is created though a unique technique that delicately marks the leather with the aid of gravity. The result is an almost barely-there appearance across a selection of small leather goods and bags.

The Dior Gravity Leather is available in more muted shades of beige, black and khaki. Small leather goods, such as a belt and a cardholder, are dressed in the motif’s original scale, while bags are given a blown-up, maxi version for a play of proportions. The latter includes the Dior Hit The Road backpack that strikes a beautiful balance of luxury fashion and ruggedness in one refined piece.

Jacket, trousers, rings and Dior Gravity Leather Saddle Boxy bag, DIOR MEN
(JACKIE NICKERSON)

As the warmth of the Italian summer approaches, Gucci unveils a new collection, Gucci Lido—"Lido" referring to luxurious beach resorts that are plenty on the Italian coastline. The summer-ready collection pays homage to the enchanting allure of coastal living, capturing the essence of sun-kissed days and effortless, carefree moments of the season. 

The Gucci Lido campaign sees creative director Sabato De Sarno teaming up with photographer Anthony Seklaoui to capture themes of escapism and spontaneity. From swimwear to breezy resortwear, the collection offers a range of pieces that seamlessly blends luxury with comfort—the makings of a perfect summer wardrobe.

The Gucci Jackie and GG Marmont bags are refreshed in straw-effect raffia and canvas for a more laid-back aesthetic while easily set to become a summer essential. Neon-hued trims add a playful spin on the classic GG canvas that range from small accessories such as cardholders to duffel bags and luggage. And to complete the Lido aesthetic, pieces dressed in neoprene and finished with cable trims take on a more literal approach.

To bring the Gucci Lido experience to life, Gucci has erected a pop-up (the only one in the world) at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Located right outside the Gucci boutique on the first floor, the pop-up showcases the full range of clothing and accessories from the collection, as well as a number of exclusives.

The Gucci Lido pop-up is located at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Level 1 Grand Colonnade South until 19 May 2024.

Jacket, trousers, Maxi Dior Oblique Weekender 40 bag and B30 sneakers, DIOR MEN

In 1967, Marc Bohan conceptualised the Dior Oblique motif. The longtime creative director of the House (an almost 30-year tenure) first applied the motif on a bag from Dior’s haute couture collection in 1969. Throughout the years, the Dior Oblique has been applied on all manner of pieces by the House— from ready-to-wear to luggage to even the floors of its Dior Monsieur boutique in 1974.

Fast forward to today, the Dior Oblique remains one of Dior’s most quintessential elements. It’s become a mark of the House’s creativity with a range of treatments and interpretations imagined every now and then. The latest, is perhaps one that captures Monsieur Dior’s nonconformist spirit.

The Maxi Dior Oblique revokes any decree that branded logos and motifs are dead. As its name suggests, the Dior Oblique has been blown up like never before for Dior Men’s Spring 2024 collection. Each letter of the motif now takes significant real estate on a range of travel-ready bags and accessories. The collection’s Weekender 40 bag, for example, looks exceptionally roomier with the Maxi Dior Oblique canvas construction giving the illusion of a magnified proportion.

While the Maxi Dior Oblique may look audacious in its original colourway—there’s certainly no mistaking that it’s a Dior—a second all-black option provides a more subtle interpretation but one that’s impactful all the same. The Maxi Dior Oblique is rendered in black and set against a base that’s a couple of shades lighter. When employed on a pair of high-top B23 sneakers, the canvas adds depth and dimension. The motif may not be immediately obvious at first glance, but becomes apparent at multiple angles and in motion.

Jacket, trousers, and Maxi Dior Oblique B23 high-top sneakers, DIOR MEN

But the point of the Maxi Dior Oblique isn’t solely for the brash visual of Dior’s signature. It’s an extension of the Dior attitude—of going against the grain and challenging perceptions. After all, this is the same House that proposed a “new look” that further feminised women’s fashion post-World War II.

What’s the inverse of “quiet luxury”? This is it.

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