LIKE BRUCE WAYNE AND THE NEW COOL KID ON THE BLOCK

Because nobody out there does cool better than these guys

What makes a store great? Sure, it has got to be a handsome space packed with cool stuff. But that’s just the beginning.

And no, this isn’t in Sheung Wan nor Aberdeen Street.

The great ones have a unique point of view, a story to tell. When you walk in, it’s more like stepping onto a set of a perfectly art-directed movie.

Regiment, a brick and mortar clothing store rooted in history, heritage and the spirit of vintage Americana have all of your five senses checked - what music is on, what the sales staff are wearing and how the store smell (leather? sandalwood?).

To be clear, I am an everlasting devotee of men's stores that can painlessly solve my wardrobe problems: get you the paisley and red dress socks you need and get you out. Thank god for those places but Regiment is not that store. Regiment makes you rethink the way you dress entirely as to sell you some sweet vintage Momotaro jeans from Japan or a canvas briefcase from Filson . Just be forewarned: You're going to want to give yourself a clear budget before you even step INTO the store’s unassuming black door.

Not a cathedral but definitely a chapel of style—a place where the denim is just as holy as the Baracuta jacket, where service is sacred and the community is practiced and built. Honestly, gentlemen's stores like this were supposed to be extinct, but the guys behind Regiment (and SIGNET) resurrected the format and—just as crucially—updated it for us modern blokes.

Kelly See, Eddie Lim, Jason Qua and Tom Sing, the team of men behind Regiment (and SIGNET) have built a  whole culture of well-tailored cool in Manila (where there was none before), and if anyone can start a style movement in this part of the world, these are your guys.

And trust me, one trip here can change the way you dress for good. 

BECAUSE HOW YOU DECORATE YOUR HOME REALLY HAS EVERYTHING TO DO WITH THE WAY YOU LIVE YOUR LIFE



Alessandro Squarzi, the Milan-based fashion entrepreneur and street-style regular shows restraint done right

Like fashion, your approach to how you decorate your home is an expression of one’s self, with the furniture and objects you chose directly reflecting your own experience, or a pursuit of a showplace, stocked with attractive yet impersonal objects. It’s definitely not the latter for me.

Frank Muytjens, Menswear Director of J. Crew in his dreamy upstate New York Cottage

I believe there’s a karma associated with decorating and that the people who pursue the first option are ultimately happier. Trust me, in some sense, the way you relate your love seat or a coffee table is, like it or not, the way you relate to the people in your life – because you are either being authentic or you are not.

Fashion regular, Nick Wooster and his tasteful and masculine West Village apartment

How you decorate your home really has everything to do with the way you live your life. When it comes to your own home, do not be afraid to keep it personal and less trendy, just because.

No pretense, definitely real – who knows, it might even make you a happier person.

COBBA | THE WORLD’S FIRST NON-STOP SHORTS FEATURING APTGRIP

Stylish Rannulu de Zoysa, the man behind Cobba

It is not always easy to find the perfect pair of shorts for stylish urban guys. Trust me, it is impossible! (Unless you aren’t too picky with the kind of fabric and how they fit you, then hop to your nerest trusted department store.)

For someone who wear  trousers whole week,  the perfect pair of shorts is always a good breather. Guess what, Sydney-based designers Cobba have changed the game with the launch of their brand new shorts range.

Designed in Australia, Cobba was created to cater to the lifestyles of busy “urban warriors”,who may be at CrossFit one moment and cocktails, the next. Thanks to some revolutionary high-tech features, Cobba enables wearers to go all day without an outfit change, no matter where the wind takes them. Best of all, they look good enough to get past even the pickiest bouncers. 

“Cobba shorts have a one-of-a-kind ‘AptGrip’ waistband designed to prevent plumbers crack, which is the result of 2 years research and development. They also feature silver infused fabric, which is proven to fight the bacteria that causes clothes to smell, and keep the shorts fresh for up to 3 weeks, no washing required,” explains Lulu and Rannulu De Zoysa, Cobba’s Creators (who previously designed for SABA). Plus, the shorts stain and liquid resistant, quick dry, have clever concealed pockets, and 360 degree stretch – all features that are essential for urban warriors!”

Of course, this is not to overlook Cobba’s classic tailoring and contemporary colour palette – both of which make the shorts ideal for the most fashion-conscious wearers. With his extensive menswear experience, De Zoysa has also ensured the shorts are available in two lengths the mid length and the knee grazer. While this is first product launched by Cobba, it won’t be the last. “We plan to continue expanding our range. It’s all about creating designs that fit with the urban lifestyle,” says De Zoysa. “Our philosophy is very Aussie – even the name ‘Cobba’ is Australian slang for ‘mate’.

Cobba will go live with a Kickstarter Campaign for its one-of-a-kind “AptGrip” shorts today, the 21st of November, 2016. Click HERE to know ore about the campaign.

Now, who’s excited? Because, I am!

WHAT TO WATCH OUT: WONDEROUS, THE WORLD'S FIRST LIFETIME SIZE AND QUALITY GUARANTEED CHINO PANTS WITH ODOR, LIQUID AND STAIN RESISTANT TECHNOLOGY

I have always been picky with trousers. Most retailers don’t seem to get the details right, or probably, I just don’t have the right body for one. Thank god, I found a tailor who got my pattern right and yes, they fit me like a glove!

Apart from getting all the right details, making average guys like me appear less schlumpy, it has also upped my game, making me feel like Alessandro Squarzi with an added doze of sprezzatura.

Fast forward, and more good news later, Wonderous will go live next month, with a Kickstarter campaign for its Forever O.G. Pants. The company has invented the world’s first odor, liquid and stain resistant chino pants backed by a lifetime size and quality guarantee, perfect for us men who are always on the go.

“Our inspiration for The Forever O.G. Pants was simple. We saw how cheap pants don’t last and how expensive pants don’t fit for long.” asserted, Jeff Chang, Founder, Wonderous. “With our lifetime size exchange program you never have to worry about size again. Just exchange out your pair for a pair that fits. With transparent pricing, silver threading, Odor, Liquid and Stain Resistant fabric and a lifetime quality guarantee we intend to redefine what quality means.”

Wonderous prides itself on being manufactured in New York, with buttons from San Francisco, and custom fabric from Los Angeles. For decades, the company feels that fashion giants have trained consumers to accept inferior products, they plan to change all that by providing superior quality fit, at an affordable price.

Backed by 2 years of R&D and 12 rounds of prototypes, each pair of The Forever O.G. Pants outperforms all existing clothing standards by featuring; silver infused extremely flexible fabric, premium embroidery, a heavy duty YKK zipper, ultra strong 3-ply 4 way stretch twill, Italian gingham lining, tucked belt loops, extra strong inseam, a reinforced double crotch, and is made from odor, liquid and stain resistant fabric boasting state of the art liquid repellant nanotechnology. The pants come in a Classic Fit or Tailor Slim Fit and the company expects to ship in time for Christmas 2016.

What sets them apart from most retailers?

The Lifetime Size Exchange Program – A program where we exchange out your pair of Forever O.G. pants for the correct size you need, anytime, free of charge!

The Lifetime Guarantee – The Forever O.G. pants have a full warranty. Covers everything. No hassle. For Life.

The Odor, Liquid & Stain Repellent Fabric – Silver threads infused with nanotech make the pants protected from any external bacteria or liquid.

The Quality Design – The build is so strong that you can workout, run, or even squat in these pants and they won’t tear.

The company’s goals is to raise $20,000 for its first production run.

Think of it as the best slim-cut trousers that feels just as great as your tailored pair. With the Forever O.G. Pants by Wonderous, there’s no reason you should be wearing trousers that’s floppy and baggy, especially in the thigh area. Tighten it up! Uncool.

Now, who's excited? Because, I am!

Wonderous will go live with a Kickstarter Campaign for its Forever O.G Pants on Thursday, the 1st of September, 2016. Click HERE to know ore about the campaign.

PROJECT SIMPLIFY

I have always been a fan of the color blue which has a longstanding pedigree in the canons of scripture and law. Some think it’s a uniform reserved solely for the upper classes, which I totally disagree.  

Prepping myself for next year, I am challenging myself to a self-project called, “simplify”. Yes, that only means I am getting rid of anything too busy from my closet and replacing it with shades of white, Indigo, powder blue and chambray with hints of gray. 

I don’t think it’s boring. It’s a matter of hitting all the right buttons, looking good and feeling great. And yes, I don't think there's a guy on the planet that doesn't have anything blue in his closet.

I’ve compiled a couple of images taken by Scott Schuman of The Sartorialist, who I believe, has achieved a polished look, and has brought the shade back into their everyday look.

SNOOP HAPPY AND GETTING BACK ON TRACK

I finally got my energy back after mom’s funeral last March and launching two stores the past six  months. I also have been working on a few projects in-between while taking care of an eight-month old spoiled schnauzer.

Enough about work! Yes, call me nosy (Thanks to Instagram!), but whether it’s seeking imaginative solutions for updating our own home, checking out how the other half live, or just taking pleasure in a good old snoop, obsessing about other people’s house style is one of the great pastime of modern life.

Today, we have plenty of space to ogle, from the pages of ELLE Decoration to Veranda, Domino and House Beautiful. There’s a modern riverside apartment, which layers pattern and color on to a blank canvas, creating  the ultimate in urban glamour to bungalows that are in perfect pitch with the owners’ lifestyle.

My parents always tells me to be myself and the same holds true in your home – be honest about what you love because it is always important to be charmed and seduced by where you live. I definitely agree!

(My apartment always smells good – eucalyptus and Frangipani are two of my favorite scents.)

Previously, I used to use colors quiet forcefully, but now, as I’ve grown up, I realize that less is more.

INSTAGRAM AND OOTD's - BECAUSE GETTING DRESSED IS A RITUAL

(Because details are meant to be subtle. They should be noticed and not gawked at - Zac Posen. Follow me on Instagram)

Sometimes, something as superficial as picking a good outfit will actually have profound repercussion on your well being.  Believe me, getting dress is a ritual.

DRESSING HIGH AND LOW: H & M

It’s all about good taste and the right amount of basics put together that makes a great menswear wardrobe.

Though compared to my usual shirts from Ascot Chang, Brooks Brother, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Lorenzini and J. Crew, and trousers from either bespoke or APC and Uniqlo, high street brands like Club Monaco, Massimo Dutti and Zara aren’t investment pieces but are  fashionable alternative to any look.

Think high and low! No, I’m not talking about bargain versions where stitching can be iffy and fabrics are generally inferior. Not those!
Yes, you got it! H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M), the Swedish multinational retail-clothing company, known for its fast-fashion clothing for men, women, teenagers and children, is finally making its presence in Manila on the 17^th of October.

[Hyperventilating] Skip the affordable and accessible pieces for the more premium Studio Collection. The store will have 3 floors, span over 3,000 square meters, and is bigger than Hong Kong’s Silvercord along Canton and Cityplaza at Taikoo Shing!

I’m already keeping an eye on a couple of pieces and even have my shopping bag ready for the 15^th (hahaha!).

Here’s a tip - when trying less expensive clothing, always pay careful attention to the details: Does the shirt button properly without gaps? Does the zipper on the trousers buckle or pull? Do side seams pucker? Is the fabric likely to pill? And are the pockets strong enough to stand up to a set of keys and serious wear? Yes, be extra meticulous! Still clueless? Window shop and look at magazines and menswear blogs for guidance on styles and options.

SEANOTES, PALMETTOS AND GETTING NOTICED FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS

Basic matter - I have always been interested with the classics – things that don’t go away and are based on functionality as much as fit and aesthetics and I’d  say it extends to how I feel about the music I listen to and the decors I buy for my flat.

For someone in my profession, it is just impossible to dress badly and with the amount of daily client and internal meetings, site visits, socials and last minute invites to launches, I just can’t! Honestly, it can get pretty tiring.

Even despite having the luxury of pulling out my favorite trousers and dress shirt all crisp and ironed from my make believe Narnia, the thought of repeating an outfit within the same week is like stabbing yourself with a Swiss knife. And for others who end up ironing their own clothes in the morning, wasting precious minutes, would you rather enjoy a nice cup of newly pressed coffee than suffer, trying to flatten every crease?

Fast forward – I’d rather not! We’d rather NOT!

Thought bubble – how about non-iron trousers for each day of your work week? 

You got all days covered! 

Bonobos, a men’s apparel brand focused on better-fitting clothes and a better-shopping experience, recently launched their Weekday Warrior Collection, featuring iron-free, embroidered pants in 12 colors. Yes, 12 colors from your standard navy to edgy burgs (burgundy).

Made of premium cotton, each trousers are precisely cut, conforming to the natural shape of your waist, minus the extra saggy fabric which usually  gives that unsightly mangina (for the lack of a better word).

Connect with Bonobos on Instagram and Facebook and get yourself a pair!

They fit like a charm which also makes it perfect for weekends. Pair it with your favorite blazer or pique shirt and you’re good to go.

You’d rather get noticed for all the right reasons, right? 

DOWN TO A TEE

After hitting 9 holes and spending a couple of hours in the driving range over the holidays, I’m confident I never lost my swing even after years of inactivity in the fairway.

Lately, I have noticed a lot of golfers no longer dress the part, favoring more on loose frumpy shirts,  shapeless shorts, jeans and basketball shoes – horribly dowdy!

 

Got my groove back with 200 yards and a perfect tan

Being a classicist myself minus the old tartan-wool cap, I am one of those who prefer hitting the fairways looking good in lightweight cotton pique shirts in lime, pink or white paired with either tartan trousers or shorts that are cut just right, not too tight or baggy – and oh, nothing that would seem out of place in the country club or Saturday brunch.

Bringing back what was once the most stylish game in the world, thankfully, brands like FootJoy, have created functional and fashion-forward golf apparel perfect for the younger and hipper generation of golfers.

Using the best athletic material without sacrificing style, maximum protection and comfort, FootJoy equals fashion-meets-function golf-wear. Even  FJ’s sport golf shoe is beyond words – even more comfortable than your favorite pair of espadrilles.

Starting the year right, online golf apparel specialist, Function18, just launched their GREAT FOOTJOY SALE (Silent scream) – everything from jackets, coats and waterproof trousers. I have my basket ready and fingers itching to click, BUY! You should have yours ready too.

And oh, just like the sport, FootJoy is all about accuracy and yes, they’ve nailed it to a tee.  Time to hit your driver like a top PGA tour player!

BRING SOME THRILL TO THE APPROACHING CHILL. OF BARBOUR JACKETS AND THE RIGHT PIQUE SHIRT

(Waxed cotton Barbour jackets and pique from Fred Perry are available at  Cockney Rebel Fashion, 43-45 Bridge Place, Worksop, Notts, S80 1DT)

REWIND: After spending 8 days in the south to visit my mom who is currently undergoing dialysis and a side trip to the family mango, durian and purple mangosteen orchard, I noticed I didn’t pack much, only bringing with me 3 trusty pique shirts out of almost 17, 3 pairs of shorts and a pair of khaki trousers in cotton twill.  People who know me well know I only wear my pique shirts to the beach, the farmers market or during casual weekends usually paired with shorts and loafers and never during cocktails. But again…

PAUSE:  Rummaging through my old closet

FAST FORWARD: A month before the year ends, I have come up with a few easy steps to increase (clueless guys) your closet’s productivity. Start with these smart multitaskers that easily create a slew of distinctive looks.

(Oxfords, knit tie and pullovers. Photos from Close up and Private)

Scratch the matchy-matchy. Yes, loosen up your rules and watch your wardrobe horizons expand. A knitted tie paired with an oxford shirt don’t seem like the typical office combo (as opposed to the silk ties you’re used to and wrinkle-free shirts), but with the right fiti and the right accessory (think tan leather belts), they look pulled together.

(A huge selection of waxed cotton Barbour jackets are available at  Cockney Rebel Fashion, 43-45 Bridge Place, Worksop, Notts, S80 1DT)

Hello November! Layer unexpectedly – bring out your cashmere pullovers. Invest – a black or gray pullover may go with everything in your closet, but it reads “dullsville.” Meanwhile, a red one (or lime, navy and purple) single-handedly adds pop to whatever you wear even if it doesn’t coordinate exactly. Keep it all cohesive with the right pair of brogues in either black or tan.

Just because it shields you from the elements doesn’t mean it has to be elemental!  Cleverly conceal your wrinkled (unironed haha) shirt sleeves with the best fitting waxed cotton barbour jacket. Paired with the right slim (not skinny – there’s a difference!) trousers and the right bag ( Filson, Jack Spade, etc.), the look doesn’t become cookie-cutter but still sleep and sophisticated.

(Pique from Fred Perry are available at  Cockney Rebel Fashion, 43-45 Bridge Place, Worksop, Notts, S80 1DT)

Finally, make your outfit last past 5 o’clock. Relax a little and pullout your trusty pique from Fred Perry. With shirts cut like a dream, whyi not? Perfectly-cut pique shirts from subculture brand, Fred Perry, paired with the right tailored blazer, a great pair of dark jeans, canvas sneaks or loafers = timeless!  A staple among the mods in the 60’s, the best thing about Fred Perry is the fabric - they do not stretch nor shrink. In fact, I still have a couple from my dad’s closet in navy, white and black.

Dressing well and looking good isn’t rocket science. Now, impress me.

THE GEORGE ON BLUE, GRAY AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

(Stick with the basics and use the sky as inspiration)

Tastemaker and legendary award winning American actor, film director, producer, and screenwriter, George Clooney on the right summer aesthetic and the perfect balance between modern and classic.

Looking good is not rocket science - If only people get the fit right, every style looks neat and refined.

THE TALENTED MR GUILLAUME

French world champion free diver, Guillaume Néry, has taken charge this summer with some impressive lightweight essentials to break the heat.

 (Credits: Photographed by Mr Arnaud Pyvka and Styled by Mr Dan May, Style Director, MR PORTER)

Think chinos, linen and cotton. Panama Hat sold separately.

MATTHEW PIKE: MORE THAN JUST BUCKETS AND SPADES

(Matthew Pike of Buckets and Spade)

Not many men have the flair, inventiveness and the ability to play around with the rules of menswear and still be a cut above the rest.

Last week, I got the chance to talk to Matthew Pike, a student support officer who also works for an online menswear shop and the man behind menswear and lifestyle blog, Buckets & Spades.

(Buckets and Spades in Style Feed – The World’s top Fashion Blogs)

Definitely not the dapper nor the classic type in two piece navy suit and primly folded pocket squares, but his way of peacocking in bold color choices and quirky taste in everything landed him on Style Feed – The World’s top Fashion Blogs.

Describe your personal style.

A nice blend of smart and casual, I lean towards a lot of classic American and British brands, work wear and patterns/colors.

When did fashion/a sense of personal style first become important to you?

Maybe when I hit my mid teens, around 15 when there was more pressure to be seen with the in labels. I didn't get why we had to have something that others did so I guess I just started exploring other options. Currently, if you go through my closet and bag, you will find 15 variations of smart and casual blue shirts - all part of my daily uniform.

Who inspires your personal style?

The every man on the street mostly and old movies where everyone was dressed for success. Music too.

If you could live anywhere else in the world where would it be (and why)?

I'd instantly go for Orlando as I spend a lot of time there already but if it's somewhere I haven't been but would love to it would be Japan.

Your favorite item of clothing that best represents you?

I have a multicolored harlequin pattern scarf from an old Scottish brand, Jonhstons of Elgin.

Limited to just a weekender, which items from your wardrobe would you have to take with you? 

Blue oxford shirt,  Levi's jeans, Beige Converse, High button work jacket, Yellow socks, Lambswool jumper, White t-shirt.

What are your fashion do's and don'ts?

I don't really have any, you have to make mistakes to work out what works best for your own style. We need to make them.

If life was a movie, which film would you most like to live in? 

The Darjeeling Limited

What category of clothing are you most drawn to/are most likely to overspend on? 

Overspend on socks for sure, I buy too many. I'm mostly drawn to none trend pieces, styles you know will last.

To know more about Matt, follow Buckets and Spades on Twitter.