Gentle Monster To Open First SEA Flagship Store At ION, So You Can Up Your Streetwear Game

If your Insta-feed is filled with picture perfect snaps of fashion bloggers, Gentle Monster is a brand you’ll be no stranger to. After all, nothing makes a better accessory (or prop for the ‘gram) than a stylish pair of shades.

A Korean designer eyewear brand, Gentle Monster has grown a cult following from its experimental – and sometimes, over the top – line of eyewear.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWfBIEGFJ1a/?taken-by=gentlemonster

A brand that’s been worn by stylish Hollywood-folk the likes of Miranda Kerr, Gigi Hadid, as well as fashion blogger Aimee Song of Song Of Style, Gentle Monster will be opening its first flagship store in Singapore – and Southeast Asia – in Ion Orchard come mid-September.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BR1p5URl4ow/?taken-by=gentlemonster

Gentle Monster At Ion Orchard

If you’ve been eyeing a particular pair of Gentle Monster’s stylish frames, you’ll be excited to know that you can shop its full eyewear range at the store, which includes Gentle Monster’s recent collaboration with Tilda Swinton.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRH2RE6Fe5I/?taken-by=gentlemonster

One of the most recognisable frames at Gentle Monster is Love Punch, a wire rimmed style that you’ll surely have seen while scrolling through your Instagram.

[caption id="attachment_29238" align="alignnone" width="1348"] Love Punch (Image Credit: Gentle Monster)[/caption]

Right on the coloured lenses trend, Gentle Monster also has multiple styles with lenses tinted yellow and pink.

[caption id="attachment_29239" align="alignnone" width="1365"] Image Credit: Gentle Monster[/caption]

To browse Gentle Monster’s sprawling catalogue of chic frames, head over to their Andsoforth’s Unique Dining Experience Serves Up Dinner With A Side Of Theatre

Melissa’s Latest Collection Celebrates The Power Of Girls With Edgy Shapes And A Sprinkling Of Glitter

Melissa shoes – they’re fun, they’re comfortable, and they’re super cute to boot (pun intended)!

Melissa has just launched its MDREAMS flagship store in Singapore, and at 1,700 square feet, it is currently the largest MDREAMS retail outlet in the world!

[caption id="attachment_27920" align="alignnone" width="1721"] Melissa Flagship Store Singapore[/caption]

Situated in the heart of Singapore’s CBD at Raffles City Shopping Centre, you’ll immediately notice strong curved lines in the stark white space. From the display shelves to seats, to the fixtures on the ceiling, curves feature prominently in this store, taking inspiration from dance and movement which characterize the Melissa shoe.

[caption id="attachment_27909" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Melissa FlyGrl FW’17[/caption]

We popped in for a preview of their latest FlyGrl FW 2017 collection, which celebrates girl power. With bold, edgy shapes in muted fall/winter tones, as well as some glitter and metallics, these shoes are for the girl who’s not afraid to own her power.

Even the boys can join in on the fun at Melissa! Some of the styles, such as the Melissa Free ($125), are actually unisex, and it’s not altogether unusual for men to buy these fun kicks to wear on their feet. We’re not kidding – there were guys sporting their Melissas at the MDREAMS launch, some even pulling them off better than we did!

Some of the new styles we fell head over heels for were the edgy Panapana Mule ($170)

[caption id="attachment_27910" align="alignnone" width="1258"] Melissa Panapana Mule[/caption]

the square-toed, lace-up Wonder ($190) boot that makes you feel all-powerful…

[caption id="attachment_27911" align="alignnone" width="1473"] Melissa Wonder[/caption]

and Melissa’s plastic spin on the hot sneaker trend, the Be ($135).

[caption id="attachment_27912" align="alignnone" width="1517"] Melissa Be[/caption]

Other styles to keep your eye out for are the statement Cosmic Sandal ($135), the barbie-esque Mule ($140), the understated Panapana ($160), and the Melissa Rain Drop Boot ($180) that’s perfect for looking fab this rainy July.

[caption id="attachment_27913" align="alignnone" width="1187"] L-R: Rain Drop Boot, Panapana, Cosmic Sandal, Mule[/caption]

Also, expect new colours and details on your favourite styles like the Ultragirl!

Make sure to check out all of the styles in-store. While these shoes look great in photos, they look and feel even better in person!

*Take note that the Panapana Mule, the Wonder and the Rain Drop Boot are only available at the MDREAMS flagship store at Raffles City Shopping Centre.

MDREAMS (Raffles City Shopping Centre)
Address: 252 North Bridge Road, #B1 – 28, Singapore 179103
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 10am – 9pm

Also read 10 Amazeball Events And Makan Places To Jazz Up The First Half Of July [1-15 July]

6 Bag Labels Every Stylish Singaporean Guy Should Be Familiar With

When putting together an outfit, the one problem that almost every Singaporean male will have is picking out the right bag. While the ladies have an array of purses, clutches, totes and god knows what else to choose from, men usually face the challenge of finding a practical yet aesthetic bag that doesn’t look like one they borrowed from their girlfriends/sisters.

Well, step aside ladies, because this article is where men rock the runway.

If you think a man’s bag is a ‘murse’, it’s time to join in the crowd. From backpacks to tote bags, here’s a list of six labels to kick-start your man bag predilection and to complete your outfits with.

1. Brownbreath

Brownbreath[/caption]

Designed with a distinctive minimalist colour palette, each bag is carefully fashioned for maximum convenience while assuring that your appearance remains on point

Price: $70 – $270
Where to Get: 
The Assembly Store
#01-22/23, The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, S229233

Megafash Outlets


2. Gnome & Bow

Gnome & Bow is a Singaporean label started by local Quanda Ong. Since its infancy, the brand has been getting stirring reviews for its quality materials, workmanship, and storytelling. Wait, what?

[caption id="attachment_23612" align="aligncenter" width="865"] Gnome & Bow[/caption]

As a novel entry into the local fashion scene, each bag is imbued with a whimsical storytelling element such as The Hare & The Tortoise and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde.

[caption id="attachment_23611" align="aligncenter" width="865"] Gnome & Bow[/caption]

Harmonising functionality, class and fun, Gnome & Bow bags are designed for the discerning individual.

Price: $245 – $395
Where to Get:
The Assembly Store
#01-22/23, The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, S229233
Naiise

3. Herschel

Renowned for its quality and innovation, Herschel‘s bags are perhaps the most prominent among Singaporean males. Their collection is diverse with various styles to complement your outfits. The design behind Herschel is rooted in vintage mountaineering and travel, as evident from their great emphasis on functionality.

[caption id="attachment_23610" align="aligncenter" width="865"] Herschel[/caption]

Herschel bags are fitted with big compartments, ideal for wanderlusts and leisure travel shoppers. Rugged and sturdy, they are also the perfect companions for Secondary School and Tertiary School students bearing laptops or textbooks whilst commuting to and fro.

Price: $52 – $232
Where to Buy:
The Assembly Store

#01-22/23, The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, S229233
DOT Outlets
Zalora          

4. Porter

The Porter label is split into two different categories – Porter International.

[caption id="attachment_23609" align="aligncenter" width="865"] Porter[/caption]

Head Porter/Porter Tokyo is from Japan and carries exclusive tote bags, backpacks and shoulder bags that are nearly impossible to find in brick-and-mortar stores. Their bags are catered towards affluent young to middle-aged adults and are on the pricier side.

[caption id="attachment_23608" align="aligncenter" width="865"] Porter[/caption]

The Porter International bags on the other hand, are widely available. Porter bags are generally considered affordable luxuries with a strong fan base comprising of working adults. Melding aesthetics with practicalities, their collection features folios and shoulder bags optimal for the professional office look.

Price: $144 – $452
Where to Buy:
STATE is probably so indie most would have never heard of it. This American bag-makers pride themselves as crafters of style and durability. The best feature of this bag is undoubtedly the company behind it.

[caption id="attachment_23607" align="aligncenter" width="863"] STATE[/caption]

STATE is a philanthropic company that employs the “Buy One, Give One” model, whereby for every bag sold, one containing school supplies is given to a needy American child for free.

[caption id="attachment_23606" align="aligncenter" width="865"] STATE[/caption]

From the eye-catching colours of The Kane to the unique fireman clip closure of The Smith, this upcoming brand is generating massive amounts of hype. So, before it goes mainstream, win yourself a couple of hipster style points by getting a hold of one of these babies now!

Price: $89 – $109
Where to Get:

6. RAINS

[caption id="attachment_23605" align="aligncenter" width="865"] RAINS[/caption]

Premium Danish label RAINS was established in the rainy (duh) streets of Copenhagen. With a name as simple as its concept, RAINS does exactly what you expect it to do – it protects your beloved from getting soaked by rain. Their collection includes designer tote bags, messenger bags, and duffel bags; all of which is a reflection of modern city life.

[caption id="attachment_23604" align="aligncenter" width="865"] RAINS[/caption]

As we all know, Singapore is host to unpredictable weather and you wouldn’t want to be caught off-guard when it starts pouring. Practical for use be it to protect precious documents or electronics on a hike, you won’t have to worry anymore.

Price: $126 – $190
Where to Get

Yes, gone are the days of Crumplers or Kankens. These bags may not necessarily come cheap, but they are definitely investments worth making. They’ll carry all your essential work or school materials, and not to mention other optional daily products like a deodorant, hair wax, or even a durex condom.

Not only will they complete your look and keep your style on point, you’ll get your money’s worth with the bags’ durability.

Also, read 6 Products So Thin They Will Make You Feel Fat

10 Labels You Need To Know From Singapore Fashion Week 2016

The orgy of high fashion hit all the right notes this year at Singapore Fashion Week 2016. Held at the National Gallery, this year’s style extravaganza topped last year’s venue at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza.

During the 5-day fashion festival (26 – 30 Oct), the spotlight was trained on an eclectic mix of Asian designers whose collections were showcased on not just one, but two different stages.

This year’s highlights

Indeed, the highlight of this year’s Singapore Fashion Week was none other than its emphasis on Asia; be it Asian-born designers, or designers based in Asia.

Out of nearly 22 featured creations, 20 in the show were from Asian designers – the greatest number in all of 15 years.

This was a distinct departure from the previous year, where American designer Diane von Furstenberg opened the show, and British style meister,Victoria Beckham, closed it.

Today, we bring you a quick round-up of some noteworthy designers at this year’s Singapore Fashion Week and their spectacular collections!

1. Day 1 – Guo Pei opens the event

Kicking off the event on the main stage was designer Guo Pei.

The Chinese born-and-raised dressmaker is best known for dolling Rihanna up in a canary-yellow, floor-trailing gown during the MOMA 2015.

[caption id="attachment_17929" align="aligncenter" width="962"]Credit: dailymail.co.uk Credit: SingaporeFashionWeek Guo Pei SingaporeFashionWeek Max Tan SingaporeFashionWeek Sheranut SingaporeFashionWeek Aijek SingaporeFashionWeek Exhibit SingaporeFashionWeek Chi Chi Von Tang Singapore Fashion Week Naeem Khan HashtagbyLily SingaporeFashionWeek From left to right: Arissa Cheo, Nida Shay, Elyn Wong SingaporeFashionWeek Han Chong's Designs SingaporeFashionWeek Mashizan Style with an Edge: Hardy Hardy 2016

Header image credits: 5 Apartments In Singapore That Are Role Models ‘Cos They’re So Green

9 Sneakers So Timeless, You’ll Never Go Out Of Style With Them

Who says we’re sloppy dressers? Walk down Orchard Road and you will easily find Singaporeans clad in the latest kicks. Sneakers have taken the sartorial world by storm, and we are well caught up in this booming trend. Casual, comfortable and effortlessly chic, these shoes are going beyond functional footwear, fast evolving into a wardrobe staple.

However, with new styles and colourways dropping faster than you can say hypebeast, it can be challenging to hop on the sneaker bandwagon and actually stay on it. Here’s our take on 9 classic designs that have stood the test of time – if you could only wear one pair of shoes for the rest of your life, one of these will be it.

1. Adidas Stan Smith

[caption id="attachment_7867" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image credit: source: sneakerbardetroit[/caption]

These bad boys have amassed a longstanding following ever since its release. Its wearability, athlete endorsement (by a bigwig in the basketball scene that is Michael Jordan) and appeal to both basketball fans and sneakerheads alike propelled the Air Jordans to cult status. Nike has since released countless variations of this iconic shoe over the years, while still maintaining the old school silhouette that makes them a long time favourite.

S$119-339, available at Image credit: Image credit: Saints and selected Nike outlets 

5. New Balance 574

[caption id="attachment_11494" align="aligncenter" width="700"]nb-574-1 source: hypebeast[/caption]

Fans of New Balance, you probably already own a pair of 574s – the label’s mothership model. This is the most popular sneaker from the brand’s lifestyle and retro category, and has since been released in every colourway imaginable. Versatile, casual and wearable, the 574s deserve a permanent place on the shelf.

S$74.90, available at New Balance Concept store

6. Adidas Superstar

[caption id="attachment_11495" align="aligncenter" width="700"]source: natterjacks source: natterjacks[/caption]

This three-striped sneaker with its all-leather upper and iconic shell-toe design needs no further introduction. Superstars were inspired by basketball shoes in the 70’s and are deeply favoured by indie punks, basketball fans and high street models alike. It made a phenomenal resurgence in 2014, and shows no signs of abating.

S$149, available at selected Adidas outlets 

7. Puma Suede

[caption id="attachment_11496" align="aligncenter" width="700"]source: kicksonfire source: kicksonfire[/caption]

First made popular by Olympic track star Tommie Smith and legendary basketball player Walt Frazier, the Suede has remained a highly coveted pair of Puma kicks to date. The classy suede upper and stitched rubber outsole scream retro chic. Pair this with jeans and you’re good to go.

S$79-129, available at selected Puma outlets 

8. Nike Cortez

[caption id="attachment_11497" align="aligncenter" width="700"]source: highsnobiety source: highsnobiety[/caption]

A pioneer in the running world, the Nike Cortez is a long time cult favourite amongst sneaker fans. It is one of the first sneakers that kickstarted the athleisure trend, and has since been released in many different colourways. Our favourite will always be the original Cortez Classic with its varsity red Nike Swoosh and herringbone patterned outsole.

S$99.90, available at selected Nike outlets

9. Onitsuka Tiger Corsair

[caption id="attachment_11501" align="aligncenter" width="700"]source: fashionbeans source: fashionbeans[/caption]

The Corsair oozes old school cool. Its track shoe silhouette and iconic curvaceous ‘tiger stripes’ weaving on the sides have crowned it one of the most recognisable and timeless sneakers of all time. It strikes the perfect balance between timeless and retro – an ideal pair for everyday casual wear.

S$99.90, available at Onitsuka Tiger stores and selected Tangs outlets

While it is not easy to keep up with volatile sneaker trends, you don’t need to sell and arm and a leg to own all the latest releases in an attempt to stay in style. Sometimes all you need to do is to stick to the classics – a pair of timeless kicks goes a long way.

(header image: askavetquestion)

Also, read Rope Yoga & Kitesurfing? 6 Thrilling Sports For Adrenaline Junkies

8 Blogshops Launching Their Final Oriental Collections Today (31st January)!

Ladies, this one is for you. With Chinese New Year a week away, the clock is ticking to find that perfect outfit for visiting. We all know how stressful that is, don’t we? In this article, we’ve compiled a list of blogshops that are launching their final oriental collections today. Fastest fingers first!

1. Faire Belle

[caption id="attachment_1436" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Image Credits: Faire Belle Facebook Page[/caption]

Launch Time: 11AM
Price Range for CNY collections: $27 for a top – $50 for a dress

2. Image Credits: Fash Mob Facebook Page[/caption]

Launch Time: 11AM
Price Range for CNY collections: $28 for a top – $52 for a dress

3. 5. Image Credits: Ohvola Facebook Page[/caption]

Launch Time: 8PM
Price Range for CNY collections: $29 for a top -$49 for a dress

7. Image Credits: The Closet Lover Facebook Page[/caption]

Launch Time: 8.30PM
Price Range for CNY collections: $27 for a top – $67 for a skirt

8. Image Credits: The Stage Walk Facebook Page[/caption]

Launch Time: 9PM
Price Range for CNY collections: $29 for a top – $39 for a dress

Tips to avoid disappointment

As the blogshops only bring in limited quantities of each piece, here are some tips to help you snag your coveted clothing:

  • Visit the blogshop’s Facebook or Instagram page to view previews of the collection
  • Take note of the pieces you would like to get
  • Log onto the websites early
  • Locate your item and cart it out immediately
  • Make prompt payment
  • Opt for courier service over local normal mail to ensure timely delivery

Happy shopping and happy Chinese New Year in advance! May the odds be in your favour.

(Featured Image Credits: Fayth Facebook Page)