Things I Want: Porter x Margaret Howell

This item encompasses two of my obsessions... bags & Japanese design. Could Porter do any more collaborations? Maybe? I feel like there are new ones every week (and I love it!).

I'm not that familiar with Margaret Howell, but after seeing this line of bags she did with Porter, I want to know more. I love that it is simple, and like the colored zipper and zipper pulls. Give me this tote!

Everyone has been blogging about this (Selectism, hyrcollective, highsnobiety) so I'll just send you to the All Beams site where you can buy it: www.allbeams.com

Things I Have: Filippa K Waistcoat

Let me start by saying I own the Filippa K waistcoat... but I have it in blue, not black. And this model didn't come with it. I first tried it on at the Barney's Co-Op in Costa Mesa, loved it, but couldn't justify the expense.

Luckily... I saw it again at Barney's in Beverly Hills, on sale, and it had to be mine. I love it! The jersey is so soft, keeps it classy but casual. It is very fitted (great for a skinny guy like me).

This photo, and the opportunity to buy the vest in black can be found at: http://www.matthewizzo.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=100&products_id=3111

Things I Want: Glasses by Tom Ford

Just this morning I was thinking that it is about time for new glasses. I love the Oliver Peoples (which I got in Amsterdam) but they are three years old now and a change is needed.

Luckily I came across these outstanding specs by Tom Ford (yes, I know, I have a little crush). Cool shape, great color, and I love the metal nose bridge that is separated from the rest of the frame. Bring it on!

Learned about these from the super cool Jake Davis (http://jakedavis.typepad.com/jakedavis/).

You can learn more about the glasses (and other items by the illustrious Mr. Ford) at http://www.tomford.com/

Things I Want: Japanese Scarves!

While not very appropriate for the cold Shanghai winter, these scarves from Pure Blue are perfect for Spring in L.A. They're from Japan, which is no surprise since 99.495% of everything hot these days comes from there (except for Band of Outsiders of course).

I'd like to pick up the blue since it seems to be my signature color...

You can read more about them at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2008/12/24/pure-blue-japan-plaid-scarves/.

Things I Love: Ina Garten (aka the Barefoot Contessa)

I have long been a fan of Ina Garten, otherwise known as the Barefoot Contessa. Since I don't have cable, I haven't caught many of her television episodes but I am a total convert to all of her cookbooks. She has fun while she cooks, it is all about friends & family, and in many photos she has a bottle of champagne next to her. What's not to love!

Just before Christmas I prepared one of my favorite recipes, her Chicken Stew with Biscuits. It is amazing. So simple to make, but is such good comfort food. When I was living in Amsterdam this dish became a winter staple.

And then, voila! On Christmas Day my mother had given me Ina's lastest book... Back to Basics. I can't wait to read it!

You can learn more about Ina through her page on the Food Network: http://www.foodnetwork.com/ina-garten/index.html

Things I Have: Ring by Martin Margiela

Have to admit... I am a bit obsessed with Martin Margiela, and as soon as I saw this ring on Oki-ni (www.oki-ni.com) I knew it had to be mine.

It is a steel key coated in white rubber (also comes in black). Brilliant!

The only problem is that the ring arrived, I tried it on, and realized I didn't like it on my pinky and it didn't really fit on my other fingers. So I'm slowly bending it out and will put it on a string, to wear around my neck. Regardless of how you wear it, it's a great accessory from a great man.

Things I Want: Natalia Brilli

I have been reading about Natalia Brilli for a couple of months now, and actually trekked around Hong Kong to try and find some of her awesome leather goods. Now you can pick the smaller items up at Barney's...

She does leather covered pieces like the watch below, or a helmet, a studded wristband, a skateboard. Pretty rockin' stuff & I am saving up to get the watch.

You can check it all out at: www.nataliabrilli.fr

Things I Have: Wallet by Comme des Garcons

Well I have been using my Goyard card holder as my "wallet" for a couple of years now. I love it. It's small & doesn't create a huge bulge in my pocket.

But I felt it was time to freshen things up, and I have had my eye on the tartan collection from CdG. It's a bit larger than the Goyard card holder, but I like the zipper around the side, and the leather pouch inside (where I put my cash).

Plus I got a great deal on it through the MOCA store (thanks John!)...

Things I Want: Canvas Bag by Mismo

Quelle suprise... another bag I want! This one from Danish brand Mismo as part of their Canvas Collection. I love the simplicity, the one pocket on the side, and the black leather handles. Perfect "day out in the city" bag!

You can see it and the rest of the collection courtesy of Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2008/12/11/mismo-canvas-collection-bags/#more-6305

Things I Want: Accessories by Norsea

I saw a collection of accessories by Norsea posted on Men's Rag (http://mensrag.com/) and thought they were really cool. With the recent scarf obsesssion I have been seeing the use of pins or brooches (yes, on men) to secure the scarves.

I think these are great because they look pressed, and they are sterling silver. Now just need to find out how to order one (or three)!

You can see their accessory and apparel collection at: http://norseaindustries.com/norsea09.html

Things I Love: Look Magazine photo by Milton Greene

While on a plane recently I read Vanity Fair (love that magazine) and came across an article about Milton Greene and a book being published of his photographs.

This one struck me immediately.  I loved the confluence of the stripes, and thought it just worked so well.  Update the outfit a bit and you could have a hot modern shot.

You can see the article at: www.vanityfair.com/style/features/2008/11/greene_portfolio200811

Things I Want: Converse by Thom Browne

I have to say it... Thom Browne is amazing.  I mean, really really amazing.  How else do you explain these sneakers he did for Converse's 100th Anniversary?  The blue/white/red weave on the outside, with a suede lining.  Incredible!

The best part (worst part for those of us Stateside) is that they're only being sold at Isetan.  I am hoping that Isetan Shanghai qualifies as a worthy outlet because I have to get a pair of these!

Of course every menswear blog had a post about this... but you can get more details from the peeps at Selectism:  www.selectism.com/news/2008/11/24/thom-browne-for-converse-100th-anniversary-sneaker/

Enjoy!

Things I Love: This Makeup Bag

Here is another post that is not menswear related... but I have a fascination with makeup bags.  Bought a really cute one at Harvey Nick's in Hong Kong and then saw this one at Ten Over Six.  

The dotted font reminded me (somewhat) of Stella McCartney, I liked the bold lettering, and the light purple color was very cool.  Just something to have on hand for when I need a gift!

Things I Have: Shipley & Halmos Bowtie

See my last post.  I'm diggin' the bowties and found this one at Ten over Six on Beverly.  First of all... that store rocks!  Second, I had to have this tie.

The price tag however.... it read $466 (which I found a little exorbitant).  So I asked and discovered (to my delight) that it was mismarked and definitely within my budget.  Done!

Those boys over at Shipley & Halmos are awesome, I love their stuff....  and cannot wait to wear this tie.

Things I Want: Plaid Bowtie

I've always been a fan of plaid and in the past year have really gotten into bowties.  So this is a perfect combination.  Made in NYC, I have been reading about these particular ties, by David Hart, a lot recently.  You can check his site out at: www.davidhartnyc.com.

Things I Have: Marc by Marc Wellingtons

I am such a fan of Marc by Marc Jacobs because it is fun, well priced, and a little kitschy.  This weekend I picked up these rockin' rain boots (aka Wellingtons) for $10!  Amazing!  They also had a cute butterfly pin for $5, a lipstick shaped pen for $1.50 and some fingerless gloves for $5.  How can you go wrong?

Granted, I live in L.A. and don't really need Wellies but they were too cute to pass up.

Things I Want: Mills Gear Bag

Here we go again with another bag I want! Let's forget that I just bought a cute shoulder bag in Shanghai... now I want this awesome canvas bag by Mills. Comes in a variety of colors although of course YELLOW is the way to go!

Found this on hyrcollective, which I love to read: http://www.hyrcollective.com/daily-blog/2008/11/j-mills-gear-bag/

You can check it out & buy for yourself: http://shop.millscanvas.com/thegearbags.html

Things I Have: Comme des Garcons for H&M

I did it!  I really did it!  Stood in line at H&M, on Queens Road in Hong Kong, and I nabbed some pieces from the Comme des Garcons collection!  This cardigan & also the scent.  

It was mayhem in the store with people running and pushing and camera crews everywhere to capture the madness.

I snagged a suit as well, loved it, but it was just a bit too big... and in the back of my mind I could hear Dina the tailor saying "why did you buy this, it does not fit you!".

Well I am happy with what I got!

You can view the whole collection at: www.hm.com/us/#/cdg/

Things I Want: General Idea

Lately I've seen a few postings about a new line out of South Korea, named General Idea. I like their ideas! Classic pieces (jackets, sweaters, trenches) but with a twist. I'm all about this jacket...

Will keep posting once I know where you can get it Stateside!

You can learn more from Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2008/10/28/general-idea-spring-2009/

Things I Have: Sweater by Opening Ceremony

I was at Opening Ceremony recently and they had a ton of great stuff! One of my favorite finds there were bags by Porter, which are so hard to find in the States. I also tried on a great suit by Loden Dager, was drooling over a handmade tuxedo by Patrik Ervell, and was disappointed that they didn't have my size in the quilted Band of Outsiders vest.

All of that aside, I did leave with an awesome sweater by the Opening Ceremony home label. It is wool and has a great collar that sort of rolls around your neck.

I've received a lot of compliments on it so far...

Things I Want: Patent Shoes

Let me start by saying I am currently in Shanghai, on a business trip, and so there will be a lot more "Things I Want" posts than "Things I Have". Although I do have a new Opening Ceremony sweater & Nom de Guerre bag that I need to post!

Since seeing Lanvin's recent patent shoes, I have been feigning for a pair. Then this morning I see that Selectism did a post on a style from Generic Man.

While I am hard on my shoes, I would buy a pair of those new rubber rain guards to protect these babies. They're fun, a little flashy, but the muted color tones the whole look down just enough.

You can check out the Generic Man site at: http://www.thegenericman.com/

Things I Want: Black Fleece

Anyone who knows me knows my fascination with Thom Browne. I'm such a fan of his work -- not only his own line but also what he's done for Brooks Brothers via their Black Fleece line. And now Thom is doing a range with Moncler! Incroyable!

Just saw a few images (via Selectism) of the latest Black Fleece collection. Check it out & snatch it up!

From Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2008/10/28/thom-browne-for-brooks-bros-black-fleece/

Things I Want: Acne x Lanvin

I'm a huge fan of Lanvin. Acne I have been so-so on... but the photos of their collaboration together are rockin'! I'm all about it and want some. Now!


Those sandals. Done. That bag. Done. The scarf -- amazing!

Check it out: www.acnestudios.com/index.php?pld=148

Things I Love: Viktor & Rolf

I've been a fan of Viktor & Rolf for a long time. These Dutchies do some really great things -- their Men's Spring '09 collection left me drooling. They did a collection at H&M, and recently an exhibit at the Barbican in London.


But now they've one upped the game by doing an "all access" S/S '09 show... all access because it's online! Amazing! Check it out at: www.viktor-rolf.com

Things I Want: Corpus Navajo Jacket

Everywhere I look lately I see Navajo prints! Linings of jackets, bags, t-shirts... it is a whole other post.

But for now I just want to call out this amazing jacket by Corpus. I'm a fan of Corpus (have a couple of their shirts from Assembly in NYC) -- although I'm curious to see what their collab with Urban Outfitters looks like. Designer collaborations + Urban Outfitters = another separate post.

Go check it out at Revolve Clothing: http://www.revolveclothing.com/DisplayProduct.jsp?product=CORP-MO37&c=Corpus&d=b

Things I Have: Osklen Shoes

Ever since working in Sao Paulo, I have been a huge fan of Osklen. Just the smell when I walk in their store makes me think of being at the beach. And while you used to only be able to get their stuff in Brasil, they now have a shop in NYC!

I bought these high tops at the NYC store & love them. It continues their theme of shoes with fish skin, which has such an interesting texture. These have zippers on the side, velcro straps, and a cool silver circle on the sides.

In another post I'll talk about the beautiful bag (yes, me & the bags) I bought at their store in Rio. It was created just for their runway show & they had it on display... I couldn't resist!

Check them out at: www.osklen.com

Things I Want: Raf Simons for Fred Perry

Raf Simons is all over the place, and I think it's great! His own line, his work at Jilsander, and his collabs. The bags with Eastpak are fantastic (http://87.106.137.70/rafsimons/).

And now, he has done some pieces with Fred Perry. I'm not normally a huge FP fan (even with the CdG stuff they do), but these I love...

Things I Love: Tory Burch

I have long been a fan of Tory Burch. Yes, I know this causes a departure from my men's centric blogging but I wanted to give a little time to something on the women's wear side... with the hopes that one day Tory will do a men's line.

Just saw this resin clutch and think it is fantastic. Nice and clean, classic, perfect for an evening out. Although I could have done with a small gold Tory Burch logo on the side!

You can check it out (and buy it!) here: www.toryburch.com/catalog_detail.aspx?cid=497&id=46981

Things I Have: Dior Homme Skincare

I first found the Dior Homme skincare line at BHV Homme in Paris.  Bought the Detoxifying Mask and love it!  It has a slight exfoliation and makes my skin feel clean & toned.

Now of course I want more, but the only other place I have seen the range is at Hong Kong airport.  So until I'm next in Paris...  if you come across this line, pick some up!

Things I Want: Nike Snowboard Boots

The "Things I Want" list is growing... and this one is silly because I don't even snowboard.  But I am digging what Nike did with these snowboard boots.  Bright colors, a little texture on the swoosh.

Maybe my brother will be getting a pair of these for Christmas, help him look a little more hip on the slopes!

Things I Want: Karl Lagerfeld Bag

I have already written about my penchant for bags... and here is one more!  You have to love Karl.  Karl, Karl, Karl.  He just sent this number (with his own face, natch) down the runway for his next Ready To Wear collection.

Have to love it!

Work it Karl!

Things I Have: Belt by Phillip Lim

I think Phillip Lim is great... both his women's and men's lines (I found the cutest shirt of his at Harvey Nick's in Hong Kong... it was just one size too small). Totally a fan of the epaulets and the gold buttons he uses everywhere.

So, I picked up this rockin' yellow belt! I am so into yellow (I have yellow shoes and hopefully soon a yellow trench). For now the belt is enough & keeps me bouncin' throughout the day.

You can check out his collection at: http://www.31philliplim.com/

Things I Want: Visvim (anything)!

Lately I have been seeing Visvim everywhere, and their stuff rocks!  Totally in love with the zippered high tops... but then today I saw these:

No practicality for Los Angeles, but I don't care!  I want them!

Things I Want: Vincent Schoepfer

I am obsessed with designs by Vincent Schoepfer, and cannot wait for my next trip to Paris to see his work in person!

His pieces are classic (bowties, vests, coats) but with a fun & modern flair. Piping on the tie, hood on the vest... I love it all.

Go check out all of his looks at: www.vschoepfer.com

Things I Have: Vintage Sunnies

I picked these up at the Nice (France) flea market for 10 EUR.  They are so awesome -- from the color bands (blue, white, red) to the bendable metal hooks that loop behind your ears.

Such a great find... these sunnies are the perfect accessory!

Things I Have: Goyard

Two years ago I treated myself to a new wallet... the amazing Goyard Credit Card Holder. It rocks!

This brand has blown up in the past few years. I love it because it's not as identifiable as LV but those who know it, know it.

Things I Have: Krane Design

I love bags (see earlier post) and can't stop from buying them! Last Spring I decided to upgrade the ugly vinyl laptop bag I had to something I actually wanted to carry through the airport.

And voila -- Fred Segal Santa Monica obliged with these amazing bags from Krane. It is a waxed canvas with leather handles and a very sturdy construction. In goes my laptop, the latest issues of Monocle and Gourmet, passport, and some protein bars.

Check out their Spring '09 collection on their newly redesigned website: www.kranedesign.com

Things I Want: Glemaud Cardigan

I love clothes in bright colors, stripes, checks, plaids. My friend John knows that when we shop I will beeline right to the stripes... it's an affliction.

That said, check out Victor Glemaud's S/S '09 collection & tell me you don't want this fantastic cardigan. Perfect for warm weather and the colorful stripes help you stand out in a crowd!

Check it out: http://www.glemaud.com/

Things I Have: Bonobos

The most comfortable (and stylish) pants I own.... Bonobos! The linings are bright & loud, the fabric is soft, and the cut is amazing.

I get more compliments on these things then anything else I wear. And the guys who own the company rock too!

Do yourself a favor and get a pair (or three): http://www.bonobos.com/

Things I Want: Mulberry Tote

One of the first things you should know about me... I'm a bag whore. I have more totes, satchels, weekenders, duffels than I know what to do with. It is an obsession.

So of course I am all about this piece from Mulberry! It is fantastic -- great size, nice short handles (so the bag doesn't drag on the ground).

Get it!