Brand ambassadors play a vital role in promoting brands and products within their networks, enhancing visibility and (hopefully) driving sales. They shine as beacons of excellence, selected for both acclaim and personal merit as well as the embodiment of the brands they front.
We're only into the second half of the year and there are already a number of new additions of brand ambassadors. To help you keep up, we're keeping track of all the new male brand ambassadors that have been officially announced for the year of 2024.
Sun Woo is the main rapper of the South Korean group THE BOYZ, who debuted in 2017. An internationally acclaimed pop superstar, he stands at the intersection of music and fashion, celebrated for his musical innovation and distinctive personal style.
AMIRI's collaborations are known for their authenticity and genuine connections. Mike Amiri and Sun Woo first met at the Autumn-Winter 2024 AMIRI show in January 2024 in Paris, sparking a partnership that deepened when they reconnected in Seoul a few months later. Their bond is rooted in a shared love of music, style, and artistic freedom.
As a rising global icon, Sun Woo epitomises AMIRI's contemporary blend of diverse mediums and cultures. His ambassadorship reflects both AMIRI's musical roots and its global vision for the future.
Billkin, a rising star in Thailand's entertainment industry, is now a brand ambassador for Gucci. Recognised as both a talented actor and singer, Billkin has also launched successful projects under his own label as well as sold-out concerts across Asia. Since 2021, Billkin has actively participated in Gucci events in Thailand, showcasing a natural alignment with the brand. This appointment also unites him with fellow Thai stars Gulf Kanawut and Davika Hoorne as Gucci ambassadors.
Versace has tapped Chinese singer and music producer Cai Xukun, known as KUN, as its newest global brand ambassador. KUN's artistic fearlessness and genre-bending music align perfectly with Versace's long-standing celebration of audacious creativity. Donatella Versace herself praised KUN, stating, "He's brave, incredibly talented and unique... He represents the new confident voice of a generation."
Louis Garrel, a leading figure in contemporary cinema, joins Dior as its menswear ambassador on 16 May. The French actor, director, and screenwriter will embody the spirit and unique style of Dior Men, reinvented each season by artistic director Kim Jones.
Saltburn star Jacob Elordi seamlessly transitioned into the role of Bottega Veneta's newest brand ambassador on 23 May. This wasn't a surprise, as Elordi had been a longtime fan of the brand, sporting Bottega Veneta on red carpets in custom suits and casually carrying its signature Andiamo bag.
South Korean actor Son Suk-ku is now an official ambassador of the British brand. Rising to fame in the early 2010s, he gained recognition for roles in romantic comedies and political thriller series. Notably, his portrayal in the drama My Liberation Notes earned critical acclaim. With diverse roles spanning genres, Son's dynamic career aligns seamlessly with Burberry's ethos of innovation and versatility.
Acclaimed for his versatile performances, Song Wei long has mesmerised audiences with his leading roles in dramas such as Find Yourself and Go Ahead, earning widespread adoration. His presence at Gucci events like the Autumn/Winter 2024 menswear show in Milan and the Gucci Ancora event in Shanghai, underscores his growing relationship with the fashion house.
RIMOWA, renowned for its constant exploration and innovation in luggage design, has found a perfect partner in Jay Chou, the "King of Mandopop." Chou's relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries and setting new standards in his music perfectly mirrors RIMOWA's brand values. This natural synergy makes him an ideal choice as their latest ambassador.
Additionally, on April 26th, La Mer proudly announced Jay Chou as their newest brand ambassador. His unique musical style has transcended borders, solidifying his status as one of Asia's most influential artists, with immense popularity across the region and beyond. Chou's boundless youthful energy extends beyond music, fuelling his success in film and directing as well.
(RIMOWA first and then La Mer so that it's clearer)
Yosh Yu, a rising star among a new generation of actors, exudes an unrestrained free spirit, genuine sincerity, and tenacity. Named a brand ambassador on 20 April, his unwavering passion and pursuit of excellence align seamlessly with Chaumet's timeless values, embodying a shared commitment to elevating each and every moment.
Coach announced Jayson Tatum, forward-guard for the Boston Celtics, as its newest ambassador, on 27 March. This partnership—in line with Coach’s “The Courage To Be Real” campaign—celebrates authenticity and bold self-expression, echoing Tatum’s narrative of resilience and ambition amidst challenges.
Alton Mason, known for his runway prowess and campaign presence, has solidified his position in the fashion realm. Mason's appreciation for a designer's creativity and craftsmanship distinguishes him as a visionary. His participation in Dolce&Gabbana’s Milan shows accentuates his infectious energy and alluring style, epitomising the collection's elegance and artisanal expertise.
In a collaboration between LVMH and the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, Louis Vuitton has named Antoine Dupont, former captain of the French national rugby team Le XV, as its latest house ambassador. Dupont's unwavering determination mirrors Louis Vuitton's pursuit for excellence. He's known for being a versatile player with historic achievements under his belt.
Actor Barry Keoghan has earned global acclaim for his roles in films such as Dunkirk, The Killing of a Sacred Deer, and Banshees of Inisherin—the latter earned him a BAFTA award. Last year, Keoghan graced events wearing Burberry, such as the Burberry Summer 2024 show, the Met Gala, the European premiere of Apple TV+’s Masters of the Air as well as the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards. Burberry creative director Daniel Lee praises Keoghan's growth over the past five years, describing his talent as inspiring and a great fit for the brand.
Taylor Fritz, the dynamic American professional tennis player, has been named the global brand ambassador for BOSS, further solidifying the brand's relationship with sports. With his embodiment of BOSS' core values as well as being one of the top American tennis talents right now, this partnership marks a strategic move by the brand to deepen its involvement in tennis.
Gulf has emerged as a leading figure in the Thai entertainment scene, showcasing exceptional talent as an actor, model, and singer. His influence extends beyond the screen, as he is celebrated globally for his fashion sense. Before this significant milestone, Gulf fostered a close relationship with Gucci since 2020, gracing events and fashion shows as a friend of the House.
As the ambassador of men’s fashion in China, Lang Lang has now become the global face of Dior. Continuously exploring new musical frontiers, this virtuoso pianist deepens his connection with the House, inviting enthusiasts to celebrate the enduring bond between Dior and the enchantment of art and music like never before.
On February 20, Louis Vuitton announced Victor Wembanyama as its brand ambassador following talks initiated a year earlier. Playing for Paris-based team Metropolitans 92, Wembanyama garnered NBA attention as a LeBron-caliber prospect. Already noticing his talents at an early stage, Louis Vuitton tailored his NBA Draft suit. In his rookie season, Wembanyama clinched MVP, Best Young Player, scoring, and shot-blocking titles.
Tiffany & Co. appointed Arón Piper, the Spanish-German actor and singer, as its newest house ambassador. His selection symbolises the convergence of music, art, culture, and luxury. Rising to fame with his breakout role in the acclaimed series Elite, Piper's career has since flourished. Alongside acting, his passion for music led to the release of the hit song "Sigo" in 2020. It garnered over 100 million plays across digital platforms as well as a sold-out European tour.
Aurelien Giraud, revered in skateboarding circles, was selected by Kim Jones to become Dior Men's fashion ambassador. His audacious spirit and creative flair converge with Dior’s values, blending sportswear, heritage, and reinvention. This distinctive alliance, dedicated to dreams and personal triumph, marks a unique fusion of styles in the pursuit of excellence.
Louis Vuitton proudly appointed BamBam as their brand ambassador on 1 February. The K-Pop sensation, formerly of GOT7, transitioned to a solo career in 2021 with his album Ribbon. His musical talent, unique style, and magnetic charisma has amassed him a global fanbase. His appearance at the Louis Vuitton Autumn/Winter 2024 menswear show in Paris drew hundreds of fans, with #BamBamXLVFW24 garnering over 2.1 million social media posts.
Hsu became Fendi's brand ambassador on 11 January. He has frequently showcased Fendi's creations from quite a while back. Shortly after, on 19 January, Sulwhasoo expanded its global presence by selecting Hsu as an ambassador. Internationally acclaimed for his role in Someday or One Day, Hsu is also known for his versatility and deep artistic passion beyond acting.
Fendi introduced American actor Jeremy Pope as one of its newly appointed male ambassadors alongside Greg Hsu and Massimiliano Caiazzo. With an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and two-time Tony nomination, Pope's acclaimed performances in The Inspection, Hollywood, and Pose highlight his talent. His upcoming role as artist Jean-Michel Basquiat in The Collaboration is set to make him an even bigger star.
The Fendi Spring/Summer 2024 campaign marked a significant milestone in Massimiliano Caiazzo's journey with Fendi. It solidified his bond with the brand after sitting front row Spring/Summer 2024 menswear show held at the FENDI Factory. Caiazzo gained popularity for his portrayal in The Sea Beyond as Mare Fuori and is set to star in the fourth season of the series.
From his formative years, the Tahitian surfer has been synonymous with the legendary wave. Qualifying to represent France at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Dior recognised his allure and appointed Vaast as its latest brand ambassador. While it may seem unconventional for a fashion brand to sponsor a surfer, Dior has shown interest in the sport in the past. Collaborations with Vissla, French shaper Notox for high-end wetsuits and surfboards, alongside previous sponsorships like Kanoa Igarashi, underscore Dior's affinity for surfing.
Jamie Dornan was appointed brand ambassador for Loewe on 5 January. Dornan has been featured in a number of Loewe campaigns, including for Spring/Summer 2024. His recent accolades include Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award nominations for 2021's Belfast. “Having watched many of Jamie’s films and following his work closely, he was front of mind when we were thinking about a new ambassador for Loewe. I’ve always liked how his performances embody a sense of strength that feels very pure and organic," says creative director Jonathan Anderson.
Following the launch of its first brand store in SEA at Raffles City earlier this year; Salomon, the iconic mountain sports lifestyle brand, opened its second location at Bugis Junction. The latest Salomon store targets a diverse audience, from adventurers to urbanites looking to infuse their style with an athletic edge. Featuring some of the brand's most popular products, its line has transitioned from the trails to the streets, becoming staples of street style.
Known for their retro-inflected, utilitarian aesthetic, Salomon’s products perfectly fit emerging subcultures such as utilitarian gorp-core and function-first dressing. Additionally, bold colour way pieces are available for those looking to make a vibrant fashion statement.
Among the offerings at the new store will be Salomon’s beloved XT-6 and XT-QUEST sneakers, which garnered a dedicated following. In addition to these iconic shoes, the Bugis Junction location will also offer an enhanced range of accessories. Notably, the ACS+ Pouch combines functionality, Salomon’s distinctive DNA, and urban style into a sleek, compact crossbody bag that is ideal for both everyday use and outdoor adventures.
To celebrate the opening, Salomon will host a series of exclusive launches and activations for S/PLUS members until 30 June. Members stand to win prizes like the iconic XT-WINGS 2 by posting on their Instagram account and tag @Salomon_sg and using the hashtag (#SalomonSG).
Furthermore, the Bugis store will debut the latest model of the RX MARIE JEANNE, available exclusively at this location. Specially reserved for S/PLUS members, a limited number of these sought-after shoes will be offered for pre-order, ensuring privileged access to Salomon's latest innovations.
There's also the TECHAMPHIBIAN 5, shoes that are suited to both dry and wet environments. With a reinforced toe cap and fully-stitched construction, it coccoons your feet while its sticky outsole grips to the slippery terrain. The TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 is only available at the Bugis Junction outlet.
Salomon remains committed to fostering a vibrant community around its brand. The company hosts a range of community events, including its monthly running club, providing opportunities for enthusiasts to connect, share experiences, and celebrate their love for outdoor sports and lifestyle.
The Salomon Brand Store is located at Bugis Store #01-51, 200 Victoria St, Singapore 188021.
It would be remiss of me to talk about Balenciaga without referencing the moment in February 2023 when creative director Demna declared—after months of dealing with a duo of controversial campaigns—that he was "to go back to my roots in fashion as well as to the roots of Balenciaga, which is making quality clothes—not making image or buzz." The quote (taken from an interview with Vogue) has been brought up many times since, cropping up after every runway show or collection drop.
Demna may have jumped the gun, and it's rather understandable. In the hopes of quelling the heat surrounding the campaigns, he may have underestimated just how much people would cling onto the statement he made. But to his credit, the Balenciaga collections since have been rather restrained; or at the very least, less controversial.
To say that fashion—especially luxury fashion—could do without the "image" or the "buzz" seems pretty idyllic. One of the reasons Demna got into the position at Balenciaga and in turn, helped build this image of a rebellious and out-of-the-ordinary luxury fashion house was because of the buzz that he created through pieces that were so out of left field that one wouldn't necessary associate them with luxury. And in many ways, so did founder Cristóbal Balenciaga during his time.
Balenciaga's Spring 2025 runway show in Shanghai felt like an eventual return to Demna's roots. The rain was pouring rather heavily but the House decided to carry on with the show, prompting the audience to be shielded from the rain with on-brand black umbrellas. The models, including brand ambassador PP Krit, walked down the runway with little concern for the weather—it actually added to the overall mood of the show.
The fit: If "roots" were of any concern, the Balenciaga Spring 2025 collection showed that Demna knew how to balance the House's tailoring expertise with his more contemporary sensibilities. The show opened with a slew of oversized tailoring that have become Balenciaga signatures. Padded, elongated shoulders were de rigueur but this time, they were designed to be long and tall to mimic the towering high rises of Shanghai's Pudong district. In fact, the entirety of the collection referenced this elongated silhouette with platform footwear upping the ante.
The menswear portion of the collection riffed on favoured staples the likes of blazers, coats as well as sweats. The latter were at times skintight, further emphasising the inspiration of the collection. A futuristic sense of styling—sharp-angled eyewear, oversized accessories, and bags shaped like garments—leaned into the more experimental sides of the House.
There were a couple of collaborations too. One that was immediately noticeable was a collaboration with Under Armour, which essentially saw the brand's technical fabrications and logo given the Balenciaga treatment through oversized silhouettes. The other would've easily escaped the eyes of those unfamiliar with the brand. An Alipay collaboration was kept simple: a merch T-shirt simply branded with logos of both brands.
The details: If you thought the Triple S sneakers were oversized enough (or not), Demna took things quite literally a few levels higher. The collection's platform sneaker was essentially the Triple S on steroids, featuring an outsole significantly bigger than the sneaker's upper. Metalhead boots (also given a supersized platform treatment) proved to be very sturdy during the downpour and no model slipped or fell down throughout the show.
The Spring 2025 collection's more buzzy piece would probably be a clutch shaped into a sneaker box and crafted in leather. It's in line with Demna's penchant for attention-grabbing accessories. Turning the ordinary into seemingly ridiculous luxury objects, you could take it as a critique of the state of luxury—why just covet the sneakers when you can do the same with the box they're packaged in. Or you know, just chalk it up to the "buzz".
Three exceptional looks: Look 2's monochromatic look that showcased the ageless nature of a Balenciaga collection; the effortless Under Armour collaboration of look 17; and look 27's equally effortless combination perfect for the storm that was happening.
The takeaway: There's no taking out the "buzz" from Demna.
View the full Balenciaga Spring 2025 collection in the gallery below.
The song you're listening to heralds the birth of psychedelic symphonies, predating The Beatles by a staggering 130 years. Hector Berlioz, the French composer who wrote "Symphonie fantastique" (French for "fantastic symphony") in 1830, offers one of the earliest musical depictions of a transcendent journey. Celine creative, artistic and image director Hedi Slimane stumbled upon this masterpiece at just 11 years old and was instantly captivated.
Berlioz's composition vividly captures the torment of unrequited love and obsession. Regarded as an "immense instrumental composition of a new genre", "Symphonie fantastique" showcases Berlioz's unmatched orchestration skills, impressing critics with its avant-garde essence. Transitioning seamlessly to Slimane's fashion narrative for Celine's Winter 2024 menswear collection also titled "Symphonie Fantastique", the collection boldly revives tailoring, epitomising the designer's pure sartorial essence.
The fit: Bold and cutting-edge, the garments featured in the film embody Slimane's unmistakable design language in menswear. Embracing the iconic "I" line silhouette—reminiscent of 1960s tailoring with a nod to 19th-century Anglomania—the collection exudes timeless sophistication. Frock coats, three-buttoned suits, and intricately hand-embroidered waistcoats are meticulously crafted from sumptuous fabrics like silk, cashmere, and vicuña. Throughout, matte black, satin, and lacquered finishes dominate, infusing each garment with an unmistakable sense of opulence and refinement.
Standout pieces include iconic motorcycle jackets with cropped hemlines, elegantly paired with 1970s flared bottoms as well as pinstriped peacoats transformed into militaristic uniforms. As with every collection, embellished accents adorn a number of garments, adding a captivating touch. Well-dressed cowboys take the lead in ballooning denim and multi-pocket button-down shirts for more casual proposals from the collection.
The details: Silver hardware embellishments on leather jackets inject that signature Slimane edge into the garments. They create a striking contrast to the refined aesthetic of the collection, all the while maintaining the rebellious spirit of Celine. Wide-brimmed hats and square-framed sunglasses further punctuate the collection's distinctive style.
Three exceptional looks: An embellished golden coat catching the sunlight; a sleek mandarin-collar jacket; and a pin-striped coat accentuated with a velvet collar.
The takeaway: This collection vividly embodies storytelling. Each piece reflects Slimane's current fascinations, meticulously crafted in every detail—from the setting and casting, to the music and garments.
View some of looks from the Celine Homme Winter 2024 collection in the gallery below.
Father's Day is coming up on Sunday, 16 June 2024. There's still time to figure out how to express the enduring love you have for Dad but here's an idea: a luggage. Not just any luggage though, but the Samsonite Proxis™.
The Samsonite Proxis™ is what great travel luggage should be. It's incredibly lightweight yet has a strong exterior at the same time, thanks to Samsonite's Roxkin™ material. The innovative multi-layered material is resilient and is made to withstand shocks and knocks—it essentially bounces back into shape.
Gifting the Samsonite Proxis™ is symbolic in more ways than one. The tough and resilient exterior is a stereotypically father-figure trait but a luggage can also represent possibilities of the future. Travelling opens the door to endless experiences and having the right accessory aids in that quest of making whatever tomorrow a reality. It's a way of thanking him for all that he's done and offering him a tool for all his tomorrows—much like how he's provided them for you.
Each Samsonite Proxis™ is designed with the same functionality; the only difference is in its colour and hence, the inherent personality of its eventual owner. We break down the four colours and three sizes within the collection and the travel personalities that they're best suited for so that you know you're making the right decision this Father's Day. Tomorrow is here and there's no time to waste in getting that head start.
He's a cross between Bear Grylls and Aaron Taylor-Johnson—he won't be sequestering himself out in the wilderness like the former, but rather, enjoys the thrill of being one with nature for a considerable amount of time. His idea of fun includes hiking up a mountain in the middle of the night just so that he makes it to the peak at the crack of dawn, taking in the splendour of Mother Nature.
A luggage makes zero sense in the wilderness, no matter how tough and lightweight like the Samsonite Proxis™ is designed to be. But he's also not a regular outdoor-loving dad; he enjoys the luxuries that he's worked so hard to afford. He'll bring along the Proxis™ Spinner 75/28—the largest in the collection—to check into a luxury lodge, and switch it for a robust outdoor backpack that fits nicely into its roomy interior. He loves the outdoors, yes, but he's no savage.
A man as dashingly foxy as Oscar Isaac and Patrick Dempsey deserves a travel companion that reflects the sophisticated charm he's honed through years of experience. The Proxis™ in Silver makes perfect sense for someone with such a discerning taste, yet knows he doesn't need to try hard at all to appear put together. After all, this is someone who guided you through your first cigar, and that one night he sneaked in a shot of whisky for you to try when Mom wasn't home—all for a lesson in good taste.
The Spinner 69/25 size is a conscious decision. It's the mid-sized luggage in the collection and fits quite a lot. He doesn't need much but only because he's the kind of organised traveller who already has his outfits coordinated in his mind and packs only those combinations. He knows what he wants and needs; everything else is unnecessary.
You're often reminded countless times that he only looks as old as he feels. And according to him, he's only at his prime—just like Gong Yoo and Idris Elba. He's an early adopter of all things trendy and cool, long before you've even heard that digicams are back in style or that the AirPods Max are for the aesthetics. But most importantly, he's a kid at heart, fiddling with his Nintendo Switch as a way of kicking back after a long day at work.
A youthful disposition such as his is matched only by the Proxis™ in Lime. It's unapologetically bold and stands out from the crowd just like he does—which is great because he does get distracted sometimes while waiting for his luggage to make its way on the conveyor belt.
He's every bit like Jason Momoa—super chill, marches to the beat of his own drum, and most importantly, loves the beach. He loves the water and is typically the first one to run towards it every chance he gets. He's also the reason why you're able to swim pretty decently, thanks to all those weekends spent on swimming lessons. You cursed under your breath every Saturday morning because you'd rather stay in watching cartoons, but hey, you're now treading water like it's second nature.
Like every true-blue beach lover, he needs very little for his beach vacations. The Proxis™ Spinner 55/20 in Petrol Blue (what else, really) is the perfect size to fit the essentials—a pair of swim shorts, sandals, some shirts and even his very own packable yoga mat for those zen mornings.
The Samsonite Proxis™ collection is now available at all Samsonite stores (excluding factory outlet stores) and online at samsonite.com.sg.
Since ancient times, sports have symbolised and celebrated the spirit of human endeavour. Legendary feats of physical and psychological accomplishments have been enshrined in the annals of history. Within the context of sports, much of the basis of achievement centres around time, with competitors striving to be the fastest in the field. As part of our celebration of wellness, we commemorate the instruments that not only measure and determine the basis of sporting competition, but also symbolise the spirit of human endurance across land, ocean and in the air.
In motorsport, no race embodies the sporting spirit of endurance and mastery better than the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans. Drivers are required to possess cat-like reflexes and superhuman levels of stamina in order to survive, let alone compete and think about beating other contenders to win the gruelling 24-hour race. To commemorate the centenary of the world’s best- known endurance race, Rolex issued a special limited-release Daytona (recently discontinued in white gold, and replaced with a yellow- gold iteration). The embodiment of Rolex’s nine decades of motorsport heritage, the Daytona has always been synonymous with legendary feats of motorsport achievement.
As for this particular Daytona, the distinction lies in the details. Apart from a special bezel that highlights the “100” indicator in a bright racing red, the “Le Mans” Daytona also sports an exclusive, new calibre 4132 movement that boosts the maximum chronograph measure from the standard 12 hours, up to a Le Mans-appropriate 24 hours. In terms of aesthetics, the ‘reverse panda’ dial is reminiscent of its ‘Paul Newman’ predecessors of the early ’70s—a deliberate choice, considering Paul Newman himself was an avid racer and one-time competitor in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979. The horological embodiment of the human desire to consistently push the limits of motorsport, the Rolex “Le Mans” Daytona combines motorsport history with the best of Rolex’s racing association and watchmaking heritage.
Out at sea, no race brings out the best in maritime performance more than the America’s Cup. The oldest competition in international sport, the contest draws the crème de la crème of sailing talent and yacht design innovation, and is the pinnacle of competition in a nautical arena. Officine Panerai, too, is no stranger to the sea. Having supplied the Royal Italian Navy for a substantial part of its history, maritime performance is a key pillar of its DNA. On the other hand, the Luna Prada Rossa sailing team has become synonymous with seafaring performance and a desire to push the limits, having notably been the Challenger of Record for the 2021 iteration of the America’s Cup.
The partnership is one borne of the love for the sea and has birthed timepieces that capture the union of daring, skill, cutting-edge technology and that relentless pursuit of excellence that drives Luna Rossa’s competitive edge. This year’s release is no different. The Submersible GMT Luna Rossa Titanio—unveiled at this year’s Watches and Wonders—combines the best of Panerai’s watchmaking nous.
The first timepiece featuring the new SuperLumiNova X2 lume on the indices and hour hand, the Submersible GMT Luna Rossa Titanio has a case made of the same Grade 5 titanium used in the manufacture of the Luna Rossa racing yacht. The watch is also—as expected—water resistant up to 500 metres, and is proven to withstand pressure of up to 25 per cent more than the guaranteed water resistance value. A handsome union of avant-garde technology and transcendental performance, the Submersible GMT Luna Rossa Titanio is the personification of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team as it vies for its first America’s Cup victory this August.
Since early civilisation, humanity has shared a collective desire to take to the skies, long before the Cartier Santos-Dumont Reverse Wright Brothers’ first powered flight. Following their breakthrough in 1903, the human desire for continual improvement and exploration saw inventors and engineers begin to push the boundaries of flight, seeking to go higher, faster and further—exploration that persists even today. Across most aviation endeavours, time has been one of—if not the most important—elements at play, with watches such as the Cartier Santos-Dumont testament to the importance of time in the process of flight. While the modern Santos-Dumont is more of a dress watch than a true ‘sport’ watch, its continued relevance spotlights Louis Cartier’s foresight and design acumen—staying power is not something easily achieved, given how modern trends fade almost as quickly as they emerge.
The source of that staying power becomes immediately evident through this year’s Santos-Dumont Rewind. While it presents itself as any other regular Santos-Dumont in terms of movement and case dimensions, it displays the time in an interesting and playful way: backwards. To achieve that, Cartier has mirror-flipped the positions of the Roman numerals on the dial—read clockwise, it goes from 12, to 11, to 10, and so on. Despite its cleverness, however, the Rewind is still a piece that insists on being taken seriously—the smoky, scarlet dial and matching ruby cabochon (denoting its platinum case) subtly hint at the pedigree beneath its quirky facade.
As a timepiece—its presentation of the horological unpresentable in a format that has come to be beloved by watch aficionados everywhere—reveals the postmodernist artistry behind the Santos-Dumont’s design process. That said, it still carries the competitive, sporting essence of its predecessors, while reminding us all of the need to rediscover the elements of fun and freedom in sport every now and then.
Here’s a scenario that sneaker fans in 2024 might find familiar.
You’ve trawled the week’s wildly packed drop schedule and found something worthy. You log onto the app to purchase a little early, maybe ten minutes or more, and as you watch the clock gradually count down, your adrenaline levels slowly rise. The timer hits zero and the shoe is almost yours. Two minutes later the sold out signs go up with you still queuing like a damn fool. You log off sorrowfully, cursing your bad luck. Later that day, you spot the usual resellers surrounded by 10 or 15 pairs of the shoe in question on social media, playing with them joyfully like they were a soppy gang of puppies. If you want the shoe now you’ll likely have to pay double, maybe even triple the price.
When it comes to sneakers, the drop-and-cop schedule has been developed and refined over almost three decades. In combination with brands often deliberately cutting production runs it has become a well-oiled machine powered by A.I., bots and cold hard capitalism. But fractures have begun to appear, with the industry beginning to look just a little jaded. While OG sneaker fans were already used to feeding off scraps when it came to staying in the game, now resellers are now decrying an industry that has seemingly lost its imagination. The question is, has sneaker culture finally hyped itself out of the game?
Of course in an era of fake news we should be a little careful in what we believe. Then there’s history to tend with. As a people we often have a tendency to decry our current crisis as the worst of times. Socially, culturally, financially… the nadir is almost always here and now. The: “It was so much better in my day” effect. When it comes to sneakers, just a cursory online search reveals that its own cultural demise has been grossly exaggerated on more than one occasion.
In the beginning, sneaker culture was about community and camaraderie. It was about buying (‘copping’) a shoe at the retail price and, if there was any reselling to be done it was often direct to other collectors or even local stores, increasing the special bonds and like minds of a location. Slowly but surely that model changed.
In 2012, your average sneaker collector thought that the nascent hype culture was just a fad. Those who had been in the game since MJ dropped his OG Nike shoe in 1985 were furious, but they were content to wait it out.
At the time, a thread on the sneaker forum niketalk.com entitled “Sneaker Collecting is a Fad… and Dead” got some serious heat. While the majority tentatively disagreed with the statement, almost all were aligned on the fact that things weren’t changing for the better. “As a 13-year collector I have to say, yes,” said one user. “The sneaker culture sucks now. You can’t even buy the kicks you want without going above and beyond and out of your way. I think it’s officially time to throw in the towel.”
Others, however, were a little more committed to the long game. “I’ll just slow down for now,” said another. “I’ll stack my money and be back in full effect when everybody leaves this fad.”
While many pointed the finger at big brands such as Nike for reducing numbers and therefore creating the illusion of demand, the majority had one target for their ire. “It’s the hypebeasts and resellers that kill me,” fired off another comment on niketown. “They don’t care about the history of the shoe, they only want to make a profit off it or be seen in what’s hot.”
You can argue that it was the bot that killed original sneaker culture. Used in a variety of ways, the key is that a reseller can programme a bot to mimic human behaviour in a fraction of the time. So, after being set to alert the user of a restock or new drop the second it becomes public, the bot can then clear the digital shelves before a real life human user even has time to enter their email address. When the majority of those kicks wound up on reselling sites at hugely inflated prices, the majority of early sneaker collectors just got priced out of the game.
When brands such as StockX took things out of the spare room and into a big business model, well you knew that sneaker culture was never really going to be the same again. While bots were to blame for killing the OG sneaker game, the industry’s current malaise could be put down to oversaturation. Sneaker drops and fresh collabs have become so omnipresent that any real joy at copping dissipates in hours. But although back in the day it was the individual sneaker fan whose nose was out of joint, now it’s the resellers that are crying foul.
“This is definitely an issue,” says hegotkickz, a sneakerhead who started his YouTube channel in 2019 and regularly speaks out to more than 50k followers. “But right now what’s affecting the market is [as simple as] the lack of good colourways. People have been asking for them, but just not getting them.”
At the beginning of 2023, a Business of Fashion report revealed that sneaker sales had dropped in 2022. The market was in decline. While the big brands continued to be popular, the constant drop model—combined with uninspiring colourways—was starting to become a turnoff for sneakerheads. That was something that resulted in a spike for more niche brands such as Mizuni and HOKA.
While big brand methodology was clearly out of sync with the consumer, the hypebeasts themselves were coming under fire for something far more sinister altogether—echoing the concerns of those niketalk chats almost eight years earlier.
According to an article on ESPN in January 2020, Nike had quickly removed all its Kobe Bryant-related products from the shelves to stop people profiting off the NBA legend’s tragic death. It mattered not. Sneakers and memorabilia prices were hiked by 200 to 300 percent on resale sites within 24 hours of his passing.
In reality, while sneaker culture is undoubtedly going through some shifts in power right now that’s simply evolution. However, you cannot shift the feeling that, with every passing phase you feel the love dissipate from sneaker culture just a little more. It’s profit margins over passion. What’s needed is a reset.
As for hegotkickz, well he’s a purist at heart.
“I was into sneakers as a kid, but I just couldn’t afford them. Until I got some Military Blue Jordan 4s. To be honest, I don’t think that the culture will ever really die. But we do need to get back to simply loving the shoe instead of just the money. These shoes are pieces of art. People should enjoy that."
Originally published on Esquire ME
When Bulgari speaks of the “Italian Genius”, it is referencing Italy as home of the luminaries of science and the arts. From Leonardo Da Vinci’s visionary inventions to the astronomical theories presented by Galileo, to the Renaissance masterpieces by Raphael, Sandro Botticelli and Michelangelo, there is no doubt Italy has been a hotbed of creativity.
Bulgari continues this heritage with the B.zero1 collection. It is a fine example of Bulgari’s Italian Genius manifestation—iconic in its own right, with a strikingly distinct look that is immediately recognisable, even from afar. It’s a statement and a staple credited to its unique design language and its use of clean lines. What started in 1999 as a ring inspired by the Tubogas technique—an industrial- inspired method pioneered by Bulgari—has seen many iterations, each version exploring a different facet of the B.zero1.
Yet, through it all, the foundational design of the B.zero1 stands on its own. Reminiscent of Rome’s Colosseum with its sinewy flowing lines embedded between two thicker edges; these are key characteristics that are the focus of Bulgari’s 2024 B.zero1 novelties.
At its simplest, the B.zero1 Essential ring is a basic band branded with the Bulgari logo that’s fitted with a single diamond. Taking it up a notch is a three-band B.zero1 available in 18k rose, yellow, and white gold. Within the circumference of the ring is the interior wave with a diamond pavé set at the edge. The collection’s Mona Lisa is a truly a fearless design rendered in a two-band rose or white gold. Instead of the iconic wave, the interior is bedecked with pavé diamonds. Multiple-sized diamonds were used to create a three-dimensional depth and flow, which captures the fluidity of the original design.
And there will be more to come: two matching bangle bracelets are set to be released in June this year. The bracelets round off the entire collection as well as offer more styling options.
While American businessman Bert Lance may have reason to propose that “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, that is evidently not how a genius operates. If the constant exploration of creative expressions is a measure of one’s ingenuity then, Bulgari will keep searching for new ways to elevate and refresh an icon like the B.zero1. Because resting on one’s laurels does not break boundaries. This is one of the brand’s noble goals it aims to embody.
In recent years, Singapore has become well-established as one of the world’s top export markets for watches, boasting some of the world’s most engaged enthusiasts and collectors. As interest in horology continues to blossom here, it is inevitable that tastes develop beyond superficial interest in the usual top manufacturers. It is only natural that an appetite for vintage timepieces and independent watchmakers is burgeoning. In recognition of the increasingly diverse tastes in Singapore, Ali Nael and Nelson Lee began the Singapore Watch Fair (SWF), with the goal of helping establish Singapore as a regional hub for watchmaking and collecting. Since founding the Fair in 2017, it has grown, mirroring the island’s growth as a watch export market: from initially being the watch component of the luxury festival Jeweluxe to becoming a standalone event, supported by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Resorts World Sentosa (RWS).
This year’s event, taking place at Resorts World Sentosa from 2-6 October, is set to build on the success of last year’s, with both STB and RWS continuing their support. Focus-wise, SWF will also continue to heavily feature independent watchmakers, whilst featuring more appearances from top manufactures, amongst other displays of watchmaking savoir-faire. Watches will remain the central attractions but this show is not just for collectors; there will be something for everyone as SWF demonstrates how and why beautiful watches are central to Singapore’s cultural landscape.
In our recent chat with festival director Nelson, he reflected on the story of SWF thus far, and the new experiences attendees can expect to look forward to at this year’s edition.
Nelson Lee: Yes – especially one that is able to bridge the geographical distance between Switzerland and the region – not just in terms of bringing watchmaking expertise to Singapore, but also being able to gather regional interest in one place. There have been stellar examples of such events in the past, but there hasn’t really been one that is consistently held on an annual basis.
Moreover, given how Singapore has cemented itself as a top export market for Swiss watches, there definitely is local demand for such events to be held in Singapore, which last year’s SWF proved. So, it wouldn’t be so much that the world needs another watch fair, but more that the region needs an annual watch fair in Asia to look forward to each year – one that caters to local interests, and that is able to form a point of convergence for the best of horology and devoted aficionados in the region.
A key focus of the SWF is that we’re always looking towards the future – this underlines our commitment to showcasing a variety of independent watchmakers every year, which stems from our belief that these independents represent the future of watchmaking, for instance, Krayon and L’Epee 1839…
Nelson Lee: To begin with, I believe it’s only in the past five or so years that widespread interest in independent watchmakers and vintage collecting has begun to solidify and take off. As with the rest of the world, the value and appeal of watches only really entered the mainstream consciousness during the COVID period of socio-economic volatility. In the years since, tastes have only developed and diversified to include appreciation for the fine work of independent watchmakers. The SWF has always mainly focused on independent watchmakers and vintage collecting – areas where we felt demand was concrete, and a platform on which we could showcase how far watchmaking has come, and how it could develop, through the juxtaposition of timeless vintage pieces with the finest craftsmanship and avant-garde innovation that contemporary watchmaking has to offer.
In terms of practicality, it was only in 2023 that we were able to secure the support of a second key partner, Resorts World Sentosa. Even then (and the support of STB since 2017), despite the fact that we are more motivated by passion than by profit, the cost factor is not something that can be easily ignored.
Nelson Lee: In 2022 and 2023, the panel discussions spotlighting women who collect watches – conducted by TickTock Belles’ Stephanie Soh and Deborah Wong, amongst others – proved to be very popular. We see this as a reflection of change within the collectors’ demographic – where women are now keener to create a space for themselves in what is a traditionally male-dominated sphere, so we’re definitely retaining that and bringing more engaging perspectives from our female collectors.
Besides the various watch panels and plenary sessions, we’re also looking to ramp up the interactivity of the event: through new, on-site, immersive audio-visual driven launches and dinners, as well as a new interactive activity driven by watch expert Carson Chan, perhaps better known on social media by his IG handle @watchprofessor.
In terms of a more hands-on experience, there will also be a strap-making workshop conducted by master craftsmen, which we hope will highlight the innovation and intricate craftsmanship of an oft-underrated aspect of watchmaking.
We are also looking to bring in two more established international watch manufacturers, to add a different dimension to the craftsmanship and innovation expertise that the independent watchmakers will bring.
For more on the 2024 edition of Singapore Watch Fair, click here.
Pharrell Williams is renowned as a visionary whose creativity transcends music, art, and fashion, solidifying his global cultural icon status over two decades. His boundary-breaking efforts across diverse realms underscore the level of innovation, pioneering spirit, and entrepreneurship he embodies.
Given Williams' stature and influence, it's unsurprising that he has a track record of collaborations with other fashion houses under LVMH and beyond. Notably, he showcased a pair of custom Tiffany & Co. sunglasses while attending Kenzo's Autumn/Winter 2022 runway show. Crafted from 18k gold and embellished with 61 diamonds totalling 25 carats, along with two emerald-cut emeralds, the sunglasses unknowingly became a teaser to Williams' partnership with Tiffany & Co..
An official collaboration between Tiffany & Co. and Williams became inevitable. The Tiffany Titan Collection by Pharrell Williams showcases a remarkable fusion of ancient mythos and modern aesthetics, symbolising vitality, strength, and unwavering resolve.
“I’m very inspired by water, and the name of this collection “Titan” draws inspiration from Poseidon, ruler of the sea, King of Atlantis—“Atlantis” which is also the name of the community I grew up in Virginia Beach. The detail in all of the jewellery pieces is very intentional, the use of black titanium…it’s a physical manifestation of beauty in blackness,” explains Williams.
Featuring 19 unique styles—12 in recycled 18k yellow gold and seven in titanium—this collection comprises of an array of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. Each design harmoniously merges luxury with creativity, encouraging wearers to confidently express themselves.
The pieces adopt the structure of the trident with its angular spear-shaped motif. A symbol of unconstrained individualism, the motif is juxtaposed by a uniquely shaped link that juxtaposes the sharpness of the spear, portraying a dialogue between tensions, proportions and balance.
The pavé pieces are set with fishtail and reverse-set diamonds, strategically placed to catch light from all angles so that the brilliance of every facet is amplified. Meanwhile, titanium accents undergo a molecular process, resulting in a striking deep black hue that enhances the yellow gold features of a range of pieces for a more graphic proposal.
The attention to detail is undoubtedly meticulous. The clasps on the necklaces and bracelets seamlessly integrate with the trident motif for a flawless, uninterrupted look. Adding a dynamic touch, the pendants, earrings, and rings boast rotating elements designed to move with the wearer—another example of Tiffany & Co.'s unexpected inventiveness, much like its collaborator's.
Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams will be available this May exclusively on Tiffany.com in the US and at The Landmark in New York City. The collection will be available globally at Tiffany & Co. stores and Tiffany.com in June.
"Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking."—one can imagine Anna Wintour herself uttering those words as a throng of floral-clad outfits paraded themselves in, one after another, into the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It was the first Monday in May, also known as the Met Gala, and Wintour assumed her longtime role as co-chair. She was joined by Met Gala 2024 co-chairs Jennifer Lopez, Zendaya, Chris Hemsworth, and Bad Bunny. Honorary chairs for this year's edition were Loewe's Jonathan Anderson, and Shou Chew, chief executive of TikTok.
The annual benefit celebrated the opening of the latest seasonal exhibition, Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion, where around 250 objects spanning four decades are on display. Each fashion object features a relation to nature, serving as a metaphor for the fragility and ephemerality of fashion. As an extension of this time travel of fashion through a nature-centric lens, the theme of Met Gala 2024 was "The Garden of Time". While the title immediately conjures up images of flora and fauna, in actuality, it's quite a broad theme.
"The Garden of Time" is a reference to a 1962 short story of the same name by J.G. Ballard. It tells a story of Count Axel and his wife live in a villa surrounded by a garden of crystal, time flowers. In order to escape an approaching angry mob, the count began plucking off the flowers one by one to travel back in time, until there were none left and they both succumbed to their inevitable downfall.
Yes, it is somewhat of an irony that the story's narrative inspired the dress code for this year's Met Gala—a benefit attended by modern-day aristocrats.
Looking into the source material, the theme leaves room for interpretation. Sure, the florals and anything else garden-related are a given, but manners of aristocratic dress were also options. And due to the time-travelling nature of the story, there's also no fixed period to be restricted by. First-time attendees (and the first K-pop group in history to attend the Met Gala) Stray Kids wore custom Tommy Hilfiger suiting in the brand's signature hues with subtle floral and botanical details, while Barry Keoghan stunned in a velvet Burberry suit that was a nod to period dressing.
Others took on the story's more nuanced theme of doom and destruction. Wisdom Kaye's Robert Wun ensemble was the perfect manifestation of destroyed beauty with its burnt edges; Bad Bunny's Maison Margiela suit featured loose topstitching that were irregularly done; and Dan Levy's Loewe fit beautifully interpreted the theme with a floral suiting that graduated into darkness.
View our picks of the best menswear looks at Met Gala 2024 in the gallery below.
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.
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.
