It’s time to shed away the old and welcome the new—it’s the Year of the Snake after all. Like an unpredictable game of Snakes and Ladders, the highs and lows are consistent parts of life every child of the Zodiac goes through. So for added sparkles getting through the new year—for yourself or a significant other—we’ve curated items tailored to each characteristic from Raffles City Singapore, with illustrated assist by thejontan.
Chinese artist Wu Qiong’s interpretation of Guan Yu—a famed military general who served under the warlord Liu Bei—is what one wouldn’t necessarily associate with a fierce, deified warrior. Rounding out the facial features and immortalising an innocent expression, there’s a certain enigmatic quality to the artwork that’ll sit rather beautifully in the home of an equally enigmatic Snake.
Ode to Art
#01-36E/F
This quilted tote bag may look all glossy and precious, but it’s actually quite the workhorse. Crafted from a foundation of upcycled nylon with kappa leather trims, the CABaN by Patricia Urquiola piece is entirely padded for both comfort and aesthetic. Its roomy interior means that you’re able to lug just about anything, while its make allows the bag to be relatively lightweight and sturdy at the same time.
LUMINE
#01-01
The first film in the planned Creation of the Gods trilogy was released in 2023 and is already regarded as one of the GOATs of Chinese cinema. BOSS references the epic film’s typography and patterns of bronzeware of the Shang and Zhou dynasties, creating a double-B monogram in a gold tone that’s affixed like a military badge of honour. In other words, perfect for future and upcoming GOATs.
BOSS
#01-37B
Any man who’s smart and sharp (you know, like the Monkey) would know that a red lip is one of the sexiest things a woman could wear. Guerlain’s special edition of its customisable lipstick is a fiery combination of two contrasting shades, with a marbled bullet inspired by the undulations of a snake. And to top it all off, a collector’s jewel case is decorated with a textured finish that’s both artistic and luxurious. You know what to do, guys.
Guerlain
#01-40
We all can’t innately be like the Rooster and get up at the crack of dawn every single time. But with a little assistance, we can definitely be the proverbial early bird. Bacha Coffee’s gift set of six varieties of coffee ensures that your mornings will be off to a great start as your senses are awaken by the discovery of new smells and tastes of the unique harvests.
Bacha Coffee
#01-38/39
There’s a sense of prudence embedded in Givenchy Beauty’s Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow Cushion—it’s right in the name. The liquid foundation isn’t just mere makeup; it also has skincare benefits. The formulation promises 24 hours of glow, wear, and hydration, all while being water-resistant. It also protects from daily UV exposure, which is a definite non-negotiable in today’s climate. And look, you could very well gift this to her, but it’s 2025, men wear makeup too.
Givenchy Beauty
#01-40B
If golf is something you’ve recently picked up and intend on keeping diligent at (a very overlooked Pig trait), the right fit is needed. DESCENTE’s lightweight duo consisting of a golf cap and a polo T-shirt are the kind of golfing essentials you’d want to buy multiples of. The former is designed with side vents for better comfort and enhanced moisture-wicking, and the latter offers UPF100+ protection while you’re upping your game with each swing.
DESCENTE
#01-19
Nibble your way into the new year with a splendid assortment of 24 Venchi chocolates—including the brand's signature Chocoviar. Because you're kind like the Rat, gifting them to spread some much needed festive cheer is made easier with the vibrant gift box that they're packed in. But if you'd rather indulge in one for every single day of Chinese New Year, no one will judge too—they're that good.
Venchi
#01-37A
Concocted by Dominique Ropion, HOPE is both a celebration of oud as an essence and the human emotion it’s named after. Smoky and leathery oud notes are balanced with the freshness of pink pepper, the warmth of vetiver, and the depth of incense. The fragrance truly unfolds over time, opening up to one who observes and is patient enough to discover its true intricacies—much like hope itself. This new year, be determined like the Ox to have hope in everything.
Editions De Parfums Frédéric Malle
#01-23
Like its namesake, there’s no telling what Onitsuka Tiger would come up with as a new interpretation of its beloved MEXICO 66 silhouette. A special edition has been rendered in cream-coloured calf leather with two-toned red accents. Traditional Chinese knot patterns are incorporated onto the insole as well as the Onitsuka Tiger Stripes as graphic nods to the occasion. With a pair, you’re stepping into the new year both with style and some extra confident energy.
Onitsuka Tiger
#01-14
The racing appeal of the TAG Heuer Carrera is universal. And while it may be instantly recognisable, there’s a sort of quiet elegance (much like the Rabbit) to it that’s timeless. This particular iteration is a solid gold construction that adds a more luxurious edge while keeping to its sporty roots. Whether you’re intending on this year to be the time you’re making time or be better at prioritising time, this is one piece to help.
TAG Heuer
#01-28
There’s a clever, almost ingenious, quality to this special duo of candles by Acqua di Parma. Like “Chapeau!” alludes, the duo of candles can be—when not in use and the wax in both are solid, of course—combined to form a sculpture that’s shaped like the Art Deco form of an Acqua di Parma fragrance bottle, with the yellow portion shaped like a hat. Somewhat magical, don’t you think?
Acqua di Parma
#01-07
Find out more about Raffles City's "Spring in the City".
Photography: Jaya Khidir
Art Direction: Joan Tai
Styling: Asri Jasman
Illustrations: thejontan
Photography Assistants: Nowo Kasturi and Tawfiq Ismail
2024 was relatively not a great year for fashion and luxury as a whole. And now that we've kicked off 2025 proper, shifting branding and marketing strategies are taking effect with the upcoming Autumn/Winter 2025 menswear show season showing the first signs of how brands are seeking to ensure newness beyond the collections.
That's not to say that there's very little to look forward to during the year's first slate of fashion shows and presentations—it's quite the contrary. Making early headlines are some eagerly anticipated debuts as well as welcomed returns to the official fashion calendar. Here, we list them all down so you won't be missing a beat when the time comes.
There will be plenty of fashion brands and houses that have opted out of the Autumn/Winter 2025 menswear show calendar, focusing instead on co-ed showings during the women's shows in February and March. Gucci, Moschino, Fendi, DSquared2 and JWAnderson will be absent from Milan, while Loewe (surprisingly) has bowed out of this season's Paris Fashion Week Men's calendar.
After a brief showing in June last year, Moschino decided to release its Autumn/Winter 2025 menswear collection (together with its Pre-Autumn 2025 womenswear collection) as a lookbook back in December. Sparking a trend of a return to co-ed runway shows, Gucci, DSquared2 and Fendi will instead show during the womenswear show calendar—Fendi will also officially start its 100th anniversary celebrations without an artistic director for its womenswear universe.
The Milan Fashion Week Men's calendar may be looking rather sparse without the presence of several flagship brands, but the usual big-named favourites remain. Prada and its host of famous attendees are scheduled in its usual spot, so will Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani, and Zegna is set to close Milan in true sartorial form.
After multiple seasons of showing off-calendar, Saint Laurent will be making its Paris Fashion Week return. Sort of. While its Autumn/Winter 2025 menswear show won't exactly be part of the official calendar, which ends on 26 January, it's still the closest it has been for a while.
Creative director Anthony Vaccarello is scheduled to show his latest menswear creations for Saint Laurent on 28 January 2025, right smack in the middle of Haute Couture Week. In any case, the show will certainly be one to watch as Vaccarello has certainly come into his own in the past few seasons, especially when it comes to the House's menswear universe—unifying the vision and look of the House as a whole.
After a year of opening boutiques in New York City and London, another brand that will be making its Paris Fashion Week return is Jacquemus. Known for showing somewhat off-calendar and away from Paris, Jacquemus' last Paris Fashion Week Men's showing was back in 2020. The brand has been focusing on co-ed runway shows since, with an overall sense of dramatic theatricality reflected in both its show locations as well as its designs. While there's little information of where the show will take place, there's little doubt that founder and designer Simon Porte Jacquemus will be putting on a show made to go viral on social media.
Let's face it: Lanvin hasn't exactly been quite the same since the late Alber Elbaz was its creative director. British designer Peter Copping—he had most recently spent five years at Balenciaga—was named Lanvin's newest artistic director in June 2024 and is set to show his first collection for the brand, closing out Paris Fashion Week Men's on the eve of Haute Couture Week.
Copping's Lanvin debut won't be the only debut of the season. In Paris alone, a couple of brands will be making their first appearance in the City of Lights.
American designer Willy Chavarria will make his Paris debut after years of being a New York Fashion Week fixture on 24 January, before the Kenzo show in the evening. And on the second day of Paris Fashion Week Men's, British brand S.S.DALEY—the brand that Harry Styles himself owns a minority stake in—will open the day's proceedings.
There will unfortunately (to the disappointment of this style director) not be a Dries Van Noten show by newly installed creative director Julian Klausner this time around. However, it's been said that the Autumn/Winter 2025 collection will instead be dropped in a lookbook and presentation format, showcasing a first look into Klausner's vision for the beloved brand.
For all the first-person encounters during Paris Fashion Week Men's for the Autumn/Winter 2025 show season, follow @esquiresg.
It was in October 2023 that Dior Men artistic director Kim Jones released the first Dior Icons capsule collection. Fronted by Robert Pattinson—an indelible face of the House—the collection was an exercise in restraint with a curation of pieces meant to act as a contemporary wardrobe for the Dior man.
The concept hasn’t changed a year later. For Spring 2025, the Dior Icons capsule collection continues to be centred around a complete wardrobe meant to be versatile and timeless enough to get one well-equipped for just about any occasion. And while the overall vibe remains discreet and luxurious, Jones has doubled down on interpreting house iconographies in a manner that stays true to the original vision of the capsule.
For example, the use of pale pink. Dior may be more famously known for its characteristic grey hue, yet pink is also among one of the colours that have grown to be part of the House’s haute couture visual vocabulary. In fact, Jones’ first Dior Men collection paid homage to the bluish-toned shade of pink (inspired by Christian Dior’s childhood home in Granville) with a spate of tailoring. For the latest Dior Icons capsule, Jones introduced pale pink into the mix as a sort of palette cleanser to its earthy foundations. Pale pink polo shirts come in two versions—one crafted in a lightweight knit, and another that casts a luxurious sheen.
The Dior Cannage and Oblique are inescapable motifs. Present in the capsule since its first drop, the maxi version of the Cannage is focused on tactile applications in the form of cable-knit tops. They’re enhanced this time around by cashmere, and in the capsule’s more outstanding pieces, a mock-neck cable-knit vest is decorated with pronounced Cannage lines that’ll cause a double-take on the streets. Along the same vein is the Dior Oblique that appears on bags, accessories and shoes as Dior Gravity Leather creations, serving to complement the more quiet presence of the brand’s ready-to-wear.
Yet, at the heart of the Dior Icons capsule collection is the savoir-faire of the Dior ateliers. Modernising time-honoured craftsmanship for the modern man, the capsule is grounded by classic wide-legged trousers, tailored jackets and long, structured coats—all defined by their impeccable lines and detailed finishes. Because when it comes to Dior, nothing else is as iconic as its craftsmanship.
Photography: Brett Lloyd
For those of us who don’t ski but hit the slopes just for the vibes (well, someone has to hang back and drink all that mulled wine!), keeping warm is essential. And doing so with a little bit of style won’t hurt.
There’s an inherent opulence to that ’70s style that continues to be a point of reference for fashion across the board. It’s not quite an excessive display of richness as much as it is about a sense of frivolous refinement. When it comes to the Italian style of that era, it’s more to do with luxurious tactility than anything else.
The latest Tod’s Holiday Collection heeds said ’70s Italian style, revamping its icons with elevated nuances. Gommino loafers take on more luxurious forms with calf leather and a sleek, branded metal bar, while soft shearling line bags for added warmth. They’re subtle enhancements yet embody the timeless elegance that’s a hallmark of Tod’s craftsmanship.
The brand’s Winter Gommino too gets an upgrade in time for the holidays. You may not be able to put them on and attach them to ski bindings (maybe just not yet), but the Winter Gomminos have become a Tod’s classic you’d want to bust out every winter season. Each is shaped like an ankle boot that’s built upon the famed Tod’s rubber pebbled sole for maximum comfort. A new desert boot style is introduced this time around, offering a shorter option for those who prefer the silhouette. Both the ankle boot and desert boot styles are expertly crafted by Tod’s artisans in suede and leather—a brilliant versatile duo of materials that works both day and night; in the city or at the ski lodge.
Here’s an unexpected discovery: Google “Pharrell Williams” and “ski” in whatever permutation you can think of and you’ll come across a number of videos of skiers dancing to Williams’ infectious “Happy” hit. One video has even racked up 7.5 million views on YouTube. They’re largely from 10 years ago when, inspired by Williams’ official music video, fans of the song decided to create their own interpretations in the thousands—and for some reason, a number just so happens to be of people at ski resorts.
No one could have predicted that years down the road, Williams would go on to design ski wear. Louis Vuitton’s latest ski collection is Williams’ first as the Maison’s men’s creative director and, as one would expect, takes reference from the principles of his menswear proposals.
Louis Vuitton is no stranger to the sport, of course. It first released a ski-focused capsule collection in 2021 and has since continued to build on the aesthetics across both ski and après-ski offerings. This latest collection carries through the functionality required to participate in the sport with the infusion of state-of-the-art sustainability elements. Recycled fabrications are heavily used to construct ski suits and shell suits in order to limit the use of virgin materials and thus, reducing environmental impact. It may not exactly be the first consideration of any avid skier, but given the need to be more mindful of our environmental impact, and not to mention help ensure a future where skiing isn’t lost to climate change, it’s a welcome one.
The collection employs Williams’ Damoflage motif—a reimagining of Louis Vuitton’s Damier checks as a camouflage pattern—as an arctic adaptation that’s referred to as Damoflage Snow. The wintry palette of Damoflage Snow adorns everything from a technical ski shell suit (so that you’re a blur on the slopes) and an après-ski fleece tracksuit to accessories such as technical ski mittens and a reversible wool beanie. Damoflage Snow also informs the colour palette of the entire collection that’s replete with blacks, greys and whites.
On the more technical front, the collection has pretty much everything covered. Ski trousers are voluminous and padded, and a technical ski underlayer and its matching leggings are both crafted in mixed materials for extra protection. The LV Blizzard boot is constructed to be both durable and waterproof with an inside sock function as well as snow-proof ankle drawstring and ruching, while the LV Trainer and LV Trainer Snow have been reconstructed into technical waterproof performance sneakers. And to keep your eyes protected, the LV Snowfall ski mask is water- and fog-resistant, and crafted with a UV-protection, three-layer mask insulation with an adjustable strap (monogrammed of course) to ensure a comfortable, customised fit.
So, does Williams ski? Based on this first collection alone, he likely does. Or at the very least, has managed to put himself in the boots of a skier to create a collection that melds style and ski functionality—and that should make this season’s skiers rather happy.
Noted for their collaboration that signalled a new era for Dior Men, artistic director Kim Jones has reunited with contemporary artist KAWS for a capsule collection celebrating Dior icons and the pop-fuelled energy of the latter’s aesthetic. In other words: a throughly joyful start to 2025.
Photography: Brett Lloyd
CELINE has finally made its presence at ION Orchard, one of Orchard Road's unmissable landmarks. Building on the House's architectural design concept that had been put in place since 2019, the latest CELINE boutique greets eyes with a curved glass façade and Calacatta oyster marble that stretches from floor to ceiling. The interior is a constant juxtaposition between the natural and the industrial as metallic elements and furnishings (together with a lot of mirrored surfaces) are positioned with natural stones such as Basaltina and marble as well as warmer, wooden accents.
Like other CELINE boutiques the world over, the furniture (some commissioned) were curated specifically for the boutique. They're especially opulent in the boutique's private salon that can be easily closed off for added privacy with movable mirrors. It is also here that a CELINE Art Project piece is on full display, among a selection of other art pieces. Created by Royal Academy of Art alum Machteld Rullens, "Dolphin Creme" is a wall object reflective of her usual practice where used cardboard boxes are reshaped and then covered in epoxy resin—turning something that was once fragile into a sturdy piece. The artwork hangs to the right of the salon, a stark contrast from the glossy black wall that it's positioned against.
The ION Orchard boutique is dedicated to both the men's and women's universe of the House, including ready-to-wear, accessories, leathergoods, and the beloved Haute Parfumerie collection. It also marks the first time in Singapore that a CELINE boutique has a dedicated counter for the new CELINE Beauté line premiered a few months ago. While only one lip colour has been launched thus far, more are on the way.
There's no doubt that this new CELINE boutique is striking from the outside, but its interior offers a more playful and luxurious feel that needs to be experienced in person. Sure, online shopping is convenient but luxury shopping is all about the experience and living the brand, even if it's just for a moment.
The new CELINE boutique is located on the first level of ION Orchard.
If an accessory is like the icing on a log cake (you know, to decorate and enhance), a scarf is akin to the pieces of candied fruit in a fruit cake, where they serve a bit more of a functional purpose aside from mere aesthetics. Depending on the type, it has the ability to elevate while giving much needed comfort—we're talking about scarves, of course.
Comfort is key, especially this time of the year. And even if it may not necessarily apply to those of us not heading to cooler climes, there are always lightweight silk scarves as options to spruce up an outfit in a manner that's uniquely you. The way we see it, a scarf is a necessary tool to have in one's style arsenal. A quality piece is an investment you'd be able to whip out time and time again—a Loro Piana trait that's consistent throughout all of its creations.
The Loro Piana Grande Unita scarf is a fine example of how the brand's unparalleled elegant aesthetic is rooted in its use of luxurious materials. The scarf is made from the finest cashmere that gives it an exceptionally soft hand feel and a lightweight body, without skimping on its heat-retaining capabilities. The hand-finished details add touches of artisanal craftsmanship to an already sophisticated piece rendered in refined, solid colours. It's understated, yes. But that's exactly what you want in a versatile accessory that can easily be worn for just about every occasion.
For something a tad more versatile, the Two Tone scarf offers additional styling options with two different contrasting colours on opposite sides. The scarf is sublime; crafted from baby cashmere obtained only from the underfleece of Hircus goat kids, the scarf is incredibly buttery soft to the touch. It's so soft that no one will judge should you choose to simply lounge around at home wrapped up in the cosiness of one. Twist or fold the Two Tone scarf while wearing it to show off a hint of its contrasting colour for an added visual interest to every outfit.
No matter how you choose to enjoy a Loro Piana scarf—a gift to a loved one or to yourself—rest assured that it'll be one that'll be used and cherished for years.
Discover a selection of Loro Piana scarves now available in Loro Piana boutiques.
As part of the Dior Around the World odyssey, the Parisian house makes its stop in Bangkok, unveiling an exceptional concept store located in the prestigious Ploenchit district—a captivating retreat amid the bustling city.
The concept store is a harmonious blend of Thai culture and Dior's renowned savoir-faire. Celebrating the intricate craftsmanship of Thai artisans, with whom Dior worked closely to weave a dialogue that honours Thai heritage. At the same time, it pays homage to the original townhouse at 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris—the very cradle of Parisian haute couture, founded by Monsieur Dior in 1946.
The site where the Gold House now stands was once a humble carpark, now transformed into an extraordinary space surrounded by lush gardens, where botanical motifs thrive alongside serene water gardens. Mirroring Dior's Paris HQ, the building is crowned with a mansard roof and features 300 faux windows, each surface exquisitely covered in a million handmade gold mosaic tiles—a shade that remains an eternal hallmark of Dior's identity.
Stepping inside, you're transported to the many worlds of Dior—from Maria Grazia Chirui's ready-to-wear collections to Kim Jones' menswear featuring shoes, accessories, bags, jewellery. Not to be overlooked, the Dior Maison lines dedicated to table wear are also showcased, seamlessly integrated into the concept store's design.
Crafted by Dior's visual merchandising creation and image director, Luca Albero, the interiors are nothing short of exquisite and refined. Signature elements such as Dior's lucky star to toile de Jouy, or the iconic Plan de Paris print, are beautifully balanced with natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and raffia, creating a harmonious blend of elegance and grounded warmth.
Appreciating the country's culture and people, the Dior Gold House showcases works by nine emblematic Thai artists, each contributing to its unique narrative. Among the standout installations is a reinterpretation of Bangkok's iconic tuk-tuk by Saran Yen Panya of 56th Studio. This reimagined tuk-tuk, a vibrant symbol of Thailand's bustling streets has been transformed into a masterpiece that bridges its local culture and Dior's elegance. Boldly designed and meticulously crafted, the tuk-tuk stands as both an artistic statement and a playful nod to Thailand's dynamic urban landscape.
Additionally, visitors are also greeted with installations by Boonserm Premthada, made from elephant footprints and sculptures by Wishulada Panthanuvong that subtly decorate the interiors. Extending the enchantment further, armchairs by Eggarat Wongcharit punctuate one of the boutique’s rooms, while furniture by the Sumphat duo—Rush Pleansuk and Philippe Moisan—balances beauty with functionality, each piece exuding its own singular identity.
Vassana Saima and Savin Saima of Vassana
Lastly, artists Vassana Saima and Savin Saima of Vassana have crafted a series of Lady Dior bags from bamboo, drawing inspiration from traditional floral art. These exquisite creations are showcased in a dedicated space, offering a perfect fusion of heritage and haute couture.
And for a refine treat, seek Café Dior by Mauro Colagreco, where exceptional cuisine meets artistic beauty. The space is adorned with a stunning bamboo installation by Korakot Aromdee, reimagining nature's flora and fauna in a design that feels almost alive, with plants, flowers, and birds appearing to take shape in three dimensions. This enchanting backdrop perfectly complements the three-Michelin-starred chef's nature-inspired menu, blending the essence of Christian Dior's love for the natural world with the Maison's elegance.
The Dior Gold House is a vibrant union of Thai heritage and Dior's elegance, celebrating artistry and tradition. It offers an immersive experience, blending culture, craftsmanship, and couture into a harmonious tribute to both Thailand's legacy and Dior's timeless vision.
The Dior Gold House is open to the public at 1029 Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok
When duralumin was first discovered by German metallurgist Alfred Wilm in the early 1900s, no one could have predicted that the aluminium alloy would change the course of aviation. And certainly none could have foreseen it becoming the hallmark of a German brand for decades to come.
Successfully claiming a colour or a unique design or even a motif is quite common for brands, but not many can claim a material like RIMOWA has.
Legend has it that in the 1930s, a fire completely engulfed a RIMOWA factory leaving nothing save for the aluminium. This incident inspired second-generation owner Richard Morszeck to turn to aluminium as a replacement for subsequent RIMOWA creations, instead of its foundational wooden designs. Morszeck had already toyed with the idea in the 1920s, having created the brand’s first aluminium trunk.
The thing about claiming something as part of one’s branding is the need for constant innovation in order for the association to stick. A brand can be known for one thing (let’s face it, RIMOWA isn’t just about aluminium) but it doesn’t mean doing the same thing over and over again.
Much like how air travel has changed since, RIMOWA’s aluminium creations too have evolved. Initial aluminium suitcases were trunk-like with no wheels (the horror!) before wheeled luggage became mainstream in 1972; RIMOWA introduced its first Roller suitcase with removable wheels in the very same year. Eventually, the brand streamlined its aluminium offerings into three series: the super sleek Original, the Classic with leather handles, and the polycarbonate-based (another RIMOWA invention) Hybrid framed by aluminium accents.
The brand’s iconic grooves became part of RIMOWA’s design language in 1950. Taking inspiration from the all-metal (duralumin, of course), made-in-Germany Junkers F 13 plane that was a significant aviation milestone, the grooves run parallel to the length of every RIMOWA piece. And while the grooved design remains as an identifying element to a large majority of the brand’s creations, it had experimented with other decorative treatments for aluminium. The limited-release Hammerschlag collection for example, was inspired by a Hand-Carry Case from 1966 that featured a “hammer hit” exterior. The textured surface reflects light in ways its flatter predecessors don’t while at the same time, minimises any obvious nicks and bumps of prolonged use.
Over the years, RIMOWA’s presence in luxury has been strengthened not only by its distinctive aesthetic, but also by its steely determination to stick to it while innovating. It’s no longer just a luggage brand; it’s a luxury mobility brand with the aim of creating pieces for every and any movement. The brand’s use of aluminium evolved from protecting travel necessities to keeping just about anything that matters to an individual. Aluminium has been shaped into specific functionality such as vanity cases, an attaché solely for mahjong, and a watch case fit for three timepieces.
Aluminium’s more wearable, everyday functions have seen it being transformed into a number of bags and accessories. The crossbody Personal bags—a crossbody and a sling clutch iterations—have become known for their mini-sized similarities to RIMOWA’s trusted suitcases, but cleverly designed with unique locking mechanisms adapted for heightened ease of use. The brand has even crafted aluminium into a sleek cardholder that opens with a rather sexy swivel, and protects against RFID and NFC technologies.
And if you’re wondering, RIMOWA hasn’t stopped innovating with aluminium. In the last quarter of 2024, the brand released two new aluminium expressions. The Original bag is the brand’s first unisex, multi-carry handbag that takes on the shape of a shrunken suitcase adapted to be carried as a top-handle, a shoulder bag or a crossbody. Then, there’s the limited-edition Original Cabin Optical with a new take on the aluminium suitcase featuring a truly mesmerising interpretation of the grooved design.
Where will RIMOWA go from here? It has already built its aluminium legacy and will continue to do so. Perhaps, like its high-flying inspirations, the sky is the limit.
Cactus Plant Flea Market (CPFM) has the secret sauce.
You might say the streetwear brand—founded almost a decade ago by Pharrell's former assistant, Cynthia Lu—is the Krusty Krab of the fashion world, since she sits comfortably on a seemingly simple yet impossible to replicate recipe for success.
Lost? You're clearly not a SpongeBob stan, meaning CPFM's next collab is not for you. But for those fond of some nautical nonsense, here's a whopper—or rather, a Krabby Patty—of a collection: Cactus Plant Flea Market x SpongeBob SquarePants x Uniqlo.
A tripartite limited-edition line which celebrates 25 years of the Nickelodeon show, infused with Flea Market's coveted flavours.
As if the porous yellow fella and his friends aren't absurd enough—he lives, with his pet snail, Gary, in a pineapple under the sea, lest we forget—Lu has shooed the unlikely gang further into the abstract for the project, resulting in a few more eyes and some uncanny facial expressions.
The American designer also has fun referencing fan-favourite moments. For example, one tee is an ode to “Tea at the Treedome”, one of the first-ever SpongeBob episodes in which Spongebob refuses to admit he's drying out in Sandy's dome.
Silly—yes. And fun! Silly fun we can all afford—which is arguably half the reason it's fun, because this is a Uniqlo collab available in Uniqlo stores (and on the retailer's website) for Uniqlo prices.
I'mmmmm ready! Are you?
The SpongeBob SqaurePants x Cactus Plant Flea Market x Uniqlo collaborative collection arrives on Friday 13 December in-store and online.
Originally published on Esquire UK
It's safe to say that Christmastime is almost here (for those of us who aren't partaking, the holidays are almost here) and that means, all the festive things associated with this time of the year. In a sort of extension of its "It's Always Burberry Weather" campaign, the British luxury brand is doubling down on the cosy with the "Wrapped In Burberry" campaign. If the former refers to specific products, "Wrapped In Burberry" is more visceral in nature—building memories through traditions and spending time with loved ones.
"Wrapped In Burberry" features a trio of loved ones, including actual Burberry VICs (that's "very important customers") Drs. Herschel and Lilly Stoller, who've been longtime clients for over 20 years. British thespians David Tennant and Alex Hassell, as well as London-based artist Slawn with partner Tallula Christie and their two children, complete the campaign that was shot in London.
In Singapore, the campaign materialised in realtime as Burberry celebrated the opening of three boutiques in the past few months. It was undoubtedly festive with guests and friends of the brand coming together, with South Korean actor Kim Young-dae flying in to revel in the celebrations.
As a way of actually being wrapped in Burberry, the brand highlights scarf personalisation and bespoke monogramming services made to be perfect gift ideas. The range is as wide as one would imagine by the brand known for its iconic check—from two-tone reversible cashmere scarves to classic Burberry check ones. Add on initials (up to three) or labels featuring festive Burberry messaging for a piece of luxury that's a timeless style addition.
The Burberry scarf personalisation and monogramming services are now available at the Burberry Wisma Atria and Marina Bay Sands boutiques until 22 December 2024.
