Paul Smith Wallets

Paul Smith wallets are the most sought-after wallets in the United Kingdom. If you’re buying a Paul Smith wallet for own use, you are definitely giving yourself a treat. If you’re buying one for another person, they must be a very special man indeed! There is no doubt Paul Smith wallets look stunning … but it is not just the unique nature of his wallets that drive the public crazy … it is the entire Paul Smith brand and its history. MFB investigate…

History of Paul Smith

Paul Smith's early ambition was to become a cyclist but an accident at the age of 17 put stop to that. Whilst in hospital following his accident, Paul Smith met a group of artists who opened him up to a new world that inspired him to become a fashion designer. Indeed in 1970, at the age of 24, Paul Smith opened his first fashion boutique in Nottingham, and by 1976 he had shown his first menswear collection in Paris.Paul Smith has become a global phenomenon. Indeed the designer brand now spans 12 collections, selling everything from jeans and accessories to high-end fashion and furniture. There are also 14 Paul Smith stores in Britain and over 200 in Japan.Despite the enormous success many things have remained the same. Indeed Paul Smith retains an integral role in the company, as both designer and chairman, and his unique designs continue to combine sharp looks with a genuinely offbeat sense that's unmistakably English. Walk into one of Paul Smith's shops and you probably come across his personal collection of art, or an array of antiques and other unique objects, all examples of a personal touch that is so lacking in many other large fashion houses.

Paul Smith Wallet

MFB have selected a few of our favourite Paul Smith wallet designs to highlight the unique nature of this luxury men's accessory.

Naked Lady

This is the most impressionable image thought of when Paul Smith comes up in conversation.

The wallet that everyone remembers due to its cheeky design depicting a nude lady is one of Paul Smith’s best selling products since the start of his label in 1970.

The buxom brunette, pictured kneeling naked and holding a red telephone, is the favourite model of Archie Dickens, who works from his small studio in West Wickham.

The 94-year-old pensioner initially sold the illustration to an American collector who then sold it on to Sir Paul Smith for use in his products, giving Paul Smith an untimely classic.

The Mini

The traditional Paul Smith branding, coupled with one of England’s most recognisable icons gives us the popular Mini wallet sold by Paul Smith.

With the outer of the wallet showing its ‘work’ side which is made from fine Italian leather, and its playful side with the striped Mini image on the inside, this wallet is perfect for the Gentleman who loves cars.

Multi-Stripe

The unforgettable image of Paul Smith branding makes its way entirely onto a wallet with this design.

Incorporating unmistakable Englishness augmented by the unexpected, this design is for the Gentleman that likes to portray their unique side, while letting people know he is accustomed to the famous Paul Smith brand and all it stands for.

Rope Stitched

One of Paul Smith’s newest collections, the ‘Rope Stitched wallet’ moves away from the iconic Paul Smith branding and moves onto bolder colours,

Whilst still incorporating the feel of the classic Paul Smith wallet, the larger branding in the corner of the wallet still lets people know that the Gentleman owner is apart of one of the World’s most stylish labels.

For more information about Paul Smith wallets, and other mens wallets; click here.

MFB

Paul Smith Socks vs Duchamp Socks – The Battle of the Socks

MFB have picked two of the leading British men’s fashion accessory designers; Paul Smith and Duchamp; and compared their men’s sock collections, putting them head-to-head in the ultimate men’s sock review of 2007! Which sock was the softest? Which sock was the most comfortable? Who had the best designs? Read on to find out…

Paul Smith Socks

Made in Italy and generally of mercerised cotton (although some pairs are high percentage wool), there’s no surprises that Paul Smith’s current sock collection is an impressive sight to all but the hardest of fashion connoisseurs. To ensure quality, Paul Smith opts for a high mix of cotton in his 2007 collection, with percentages reaching up to 100% but generally 80% mercerised cotton, mixed with polyamide.

Designs for this season include “Concertina” stripes, “Checker board”, Contrast heel and toe, dot socks, plus, our current favourite, Pencil flower socks. Of course the signature Paul Smith striped sock design is not forgotten also.As MFB have found with most designer socks, care should be taken in washing Paul Smith socks because we have noted shape is not fully retained when washed at “normal” temperatures. MFB recommend a low temperature was to keep your Paul Smith socks looking great wash after wash.

So Paul Smith socks are great, there's no argument there, but does Paul Smith win the “Battle of the Socks” in 2007?

Duchamp Socks

Well the answer is no! For us there was only going to be one winner between Paul Smith and Duchamp in 2007. As soon as we saw the eye-boggling socks collection at Duchamp we knew we were in sock heaven…a psychedelic sock heaven to be exact!

Duchamp is a world leader in men's accessories, with particular popularity due to it's funky and colourful silk ties that are instantly recognisable. The Duchamp socks collection holds true to the look and feel of the designs established by the luxury tie range. Indeed "Floral Check" socks, "Diamond Harlequin", "Linked Honeycomb" and "Overlapping Paisley" socks are bold and very beautiful.

The RRP for Duchamp socks is £15 a pair, and like Paul Smith, you are generally paying for unique designs and branding. Whilst the quality of the high content cotton socks is good, care needs to be taken during washing to ensure the shape of your designer socks are retained.

Other leading socks...

Whilst Duchamp and Paul Smith make a good luxury sock, they are by no means the only option. MFB have listed another top 5 socks that deserve your consideration:

Five: Burlington Socks - German sock maker Burlington is renowned for its extensive collection of argyle socks available in a myriad colours! From business to funky to casual, there is a everyone should have at least one argyle sock in their sock drawer! Click here to view a range of Burlington Socks for men at KJ Beckett.

Four: Pantherella Socks - Pantherella are a strong British brand, making men's socks of the highest quality since 1937. Pantherella are are specialists in manufacturing socks using luxury fibres and offering hand linked toe seams to ensure the make-up of the sock is second to none. All Pantherella socks are made in England in their factory in Leicester.

Four: Brora Socks - Founded by Victoria Stapleton, Brora was established in 1993 with the aim of giving classic Scottish cashmere a contemporary twist and creating a wide collection of Cashmere socks in unique colours. Click here to visit Brora online.

Four: Corgi Socks - UK sock company Corgi, started making socks in 1893 and today hold a Royal Warrant for their quality hosiery. Corgi's casual cotton socks are renowned for their comfort and softness which makes them expensive (RRP £14) but worth every penny. MFB recommend contrast heel and toe Corgi socks which are made in England.

One: Dore Dore Socks - Every season Doré Doré, one of Europe's top manufacturers of finest quality hosiery since 1819, make the most interesting collection of socks you can buy. The collection beats Paul Smith and Duchamp hands down! Colour, quality, fit...Dore Dore has eveything! Dore Dore socks are available in some of the world's most famous establishments including Selfridges and Harrods. Click here to buy Dore Dore socks online.

MFB

An alternative to the Paul Smith wallet…does it exist?

Men's Fashion Blog loves Paul Smith! Look around the offices at KJ Beckett and you will see super sleek Paul Smith suits, stylish Paul Smith shoes, funky Paul Smith socks, and if you look hard enough, maybe even a pair of Paul Smith boxers! Indeed MFB are particularly drawn to the funky men's fashion brand that is Paul Smith. And why not, Paul Smith stands for cutting edge quality in the men's designer fashion world.

But what about the famous and much sought-after Paul Smith wallet? Is there an alternative that would tempt the guys from MFB to put their money, quite literately, elsewhere? We investigated the competition that Paul Smith wallets currently have…and created the definitive top 10 men’s wallets for 2007. Here's the countdown...

Ten: Mulberry Wallets

Mulberry is a famous British design label renowned world-wide for its craftsmanship and quality. The brand's backbone is an comprehensive line of luxury leather goods for men (and also women) that combine stylish, stand-out design with the finest leathers and precise detailing. A Mulbery wallet is the crème de la crème of leather wallets and any lucky owner of such an item is considered to be amongst the fashion elite!

Visit the official Mulberry website.

Nine: Ducti Wallets

Ducti wallets are some of the most impressive, wow-factor-packed items you can pull out of your pocket without being arrested! These heavy-duty duct tape wallets are much more durable than normal wallets, incredibly unique and what’s more, they cost next to nothing. MFB recommend Ducti wallets as great substitute to Paul Smith wallets for anyone looking to make a low cost fashion statement. Look out for the glow in the dark striped wallets!

To buy Ducti wallets click here.

Eight: Simon Carter Wallets

Simon Carter is a British designer, famous for his funky cufflinks that are sold in many leading stores worldwide, however his line of luxury, Italian made leather wallets are just as good. Using extremely soft nappa leather which feels fabulous to touch, Simon Carter's attention to detail is superb...indeed check out the inner lining of his comic-book wallets that feature a specially commisoned "Simon Carter comic strip".

To buy Simon Carter wallets click here.

Seven: Billabong Wallets

Australian surf brand Billabong offer an extensive range of wallets season after season. Whilst they offer some classic brown and black leather wallets, the most interesting examples are the Croc leather wallets (especially the current white Texas Croc leather wallet) and their interesting collection of low-cost canvas wallets. The designs are urban based and embody the spirit of surfing, offering a interesting way to carry your cash! Buy Billabong wallets here.

Visit the official Billabong website.

Six: Stewart/Stand Wallets

Looking for innovative? Then choose a stainless-steel wallet from Stewart/Stand, a New York based design company that have come up with one of the most unique wallets MFB have ever seen! The stainless steel feels like silk, indeed paper is 1/3000 of an inch thick...the steel cloth used in these wallets are 3 times thinner again! Stewart/Stand offers pure stainless steel wallets but also leather wallets with stainless steel interior detail. Which ever you choose you know your friends won't have anything like it!

To buy stainless steel wallets click here.

Five: Bangers and Mash Wallets

Bangers and Mash wallets offer a similar concept to Paul Smith wallets by using photographic imagery to great effect on a printed canvas applied over leather. This has created a funky collection of men's wallets with some of the great designs including "Football", "Marbles", "Toy Soliders" and the excellent "Casino" wallet.

Four: Ted Baker Wallets

Ted Baker is the most popular lifestyle brand in the UK, and every season the company releases a myriad of luxury wallets for men. Particular favourites in 2007 include Inflect, a simple leather wallet that meets the classic man's requirements, but also Mooch and Johnny, which both offer dynamic printed leather interiors that are available in a range of colourways.

Click here to view the Ted Baker wallet collection.

Three: Launer Wallets

A million miles from a funky Paul Smith wallet, but if you’re looking for a simple and stylish leather wallet, made to the most exacting standards possible, then Launer wallets are for you. After receiving the Royal Warrant to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for their handbags, Launer of London started to specialise in making their own branded goods, designed in-house. Launer wallets are handmade by skilled craftspeople in the softest calf leather and every attention is paid to detail of their luxurious wallets.

Click here for the Launer website.

Two: Paul Smith Wallets

It was also going to be at the top of the list...yes a Paul Smith wallet is probably the most luxurious wallet a man can own. Paul Smith wallets are quality, unique, stylish, funky...they truely are fabulous. Every season Paul Smith releases a eye-boggling line of colourful wallets with photographic imagery, colourful patterns and more. Like Mulbery and Launer wallets, expect to pay big bucks for a Paul Smith wallet, but it is worth it.

For more information about Paul Smith wallets click here.

One: J Fold Wallets

Just beating Paul Smith to the number one spot is J. Fold Inc., makers of the most unique and colourful collection of leather wallets that you will ever see! The collection of men's wallets that J Fold offers is incredible, with some of the coolest colour combinations ever designed. Plus the collection is massive! With a RRP of £45 in the United Kingdom they are great value for money considering they use quality 100% top grain leather for all parts and come complete in a very nice presentation tin. Particular favourites include Loungemaster, JF Roadster and Jetstream JF.

Buy J Fold wallets online.

So thats it! The top 10 wallets for men in 2007. Paul Smith comes high (as might be expected) but it is clear there are many great alternatives for a man to carry in his back pocket.

MFB

Stylish Work Wear: 2007's Key Items

I’m sure every office has got them?
You know, the employee that rotates the same shirt and tie combinations every week with the same suit. But what does that say about them?
They’re stuck in a rut work wear wise, which can make their working persona seem inflexible, and dull.

The only way to get noticed is to mix it up (like a lot of things in life), so to keep employees guessing and make you stand out from the masses of M&S clad employees you need to introduce new elements into your work wear, or a total new look.

Luckily 2007 has seen the re-introduction of the ‘Preppy’ look and the inspiring classic English look to the catwalks which is ultimately great news as outfits such as this are smart enough to be considered stylish for the workplace, without getting you in trouble with the Boss.

The Grey Suit

Not everything in the world of business suits has to be dull.
A grey suit is a brilliant addition to your wardrobe, as it is just as sleek and versatile as its black equivalent, but less dull during those Winter months, as well as a lot cooler in the Summer months due to its lightweight cotton fabric.
This type of suit allows the wearer to ooze confidence and seem totally in-control in any situation, work or play.

V-Neck Sweater

The pinnacle of ‘Preppyness’, the V-neck sweater has been around for time, and yet still manages to be fashionable.
It’s also practical too, and can keep you warm during the Winter months when facilities forget to turn on the central heating.
Wear with a white collared shirt to create a streamlined and orderly look this year.

The Tweed Jacket

The Tweed jackets symbolizes the classic English gentleman, and as the style was a hit on the catwalks again this year, it seems a better time than ever to include a classic English piece to your wardrobe.
A brown wool jacket from a designer such as John Varvatos will impress your colleagues, as well as the ladies into thinking you own a Manor House out in the country and that ‘Making Deals’ is your middle name.
Wear with dark jeans to vamp up the image from Classic to Modern English gentleman, or wear with smart trousers for a look that’s anything but conventional.

Military Coat

Heck, we’ve all seen the Military style on the catwalk this year, but it’s not just there that it’s had an impact.
Additions such as a full-length Military coat from Costume National Homme to your work outfit not only make you look like you mean business, but are also practical by protecting you from the elements during those cold, dreary Winter months.

The Tartan Scarf

The perfect accessory for your work wardrobe, especially if it’s of this year’s trend, tartan.

Wear it as the Europeans do (by folding the scarf in half around your neck and pulling one side through the loop) to keep your look preppy, tasteful and work appropriate.
Traditional designs by Johnstons are a wonderful example of how this accessory adds a touch of class, what with the clever selection of primary colours and bold dark stripes.

Be careful though with what you wear it with, as there’s a fine line between ‘Decision Maker’ and ‘Lumberjack’.

With key items such as these from the 2007 collections, we’ve done the hard work for you, so all it needs for you is to get yourself down to the shops to earn that promotion we all know you deserve.

CL

Men's Fragrances

As well as looking the part for work, a night out on the town with the boys, or a date with that special someone, you’re also going to need to be smelling the part, but let’s be honest, if that involves placing Old Spice or Brut anywhere near your body, then you might be in need of a new scent.

So what’s important when choosing that new cologne?

Well, firstly, you need to know that a scent is an extension of yourself, with every scent smelling different on different people what with how the cologne takes to your body. While your mate Clive smells charming in the new Paul Smith fragrance, you have to understand that you may end up smelling like a pair of old socks.

Selecting that scent?

The best bet to get an idea of how a fragrance smells on you is to go to a Department Store (such as Selfridges, Harrods, House of Frasier) and make a beeline for their fragrance department.

Once you’re there, resist all temptation to cover yourself in as many scents as possible, as this will cloud your judgement, as well as make you pass out.
Instead, take along several pieces of card, and spray each one with the different cologne.
This method allows the cologne scent to stay fresh, and unmixed from the other scents, allowing you to make a more informed choice, as well as not making you smell like Jean Paul Gaultier’s powder room.

Popular Scents

So, what’s at the height of cologne fashion at the moment? We explore a few options.

Calvin Klein - Contradiction

A fine concoction of oriental wood, and is a spicy blend of lime, clementine, wood and ebony means this is far too good to be sharing with the woman in your life, much like you would have with CK One.

Dolce and Gabanna

This cologne is perfect for that fresh smell and would work brilliantly for nights out. The mixture of citrus, lavender, and tobacco is unique and instantly recognisable.

Jean Paul Gaultier – Le Male

With Le Male, you don’t only get a great fragrance, but also an untimely piece of art in the shape of the fantastic bottle it comes in. Jean Paul has mixed the scents of lavender, orange blossom, cinnamon, musk, and vanilla together brilliantly to produce a scent that is provoking, yet distinctive.

Hugo Boss

A true classic, Hugo Boss has been at the forefront of popular fragrances for time.
The mixture of green apple, and outdoor scents such as pine needles, lavender and jasmine make this a sure-fire buy.

Issey Miyake - L'Eau D'Issey Pour Homme

A personal favourite of mine, Issey Miyake outdo themselves once again with this summit of a fragrance.
With the aroma being the distinctive mixture of tangerine, nutmeg, tobacco, sandalwood, musk, and blue water lily, Issey Miyake is a top choice for the gentleman that wants clean cut scent.


Fragrances are a top bet for changing your image, so remember that with haircuts, and facial hair, it’s always best to choose one that reflects you, and matches your personality.
If you keep these points in mind, then you’re on for making a good smelling impression with anyone you come across.


CL

Nixon Watches

So what do Bob Burnquist, Tony Hawk and Rick McCrank have in common?

Surely I must be on about their contribution to the modern art known as skateboarding?
Well, yeah, but I’m trying to make a dramatic point about their association with Nixon, and no, not the President before you ask.



Nixon are at the height of fashion at the moment, what with timepieces being an important accessory for men, and with their varied styles of watch, there’s a style to suit any outfit, from their elite ‘The Automatic’ for formal wear, to ‘The Dork’ for the retro, preppy look.

With unique names associated with each models unique style, they will ultimately grab people’s attention, wherever you go, which is why Nixon is the brand of choice for men that want to be noticed.

With regards to the host of extreme sports stars that lend their name to Nixon, this is testament to their practicality, as they are so well constructed that you can wear them while attempting a double kick-flip, and not have to worry about it. This is what adds to Nixon’s attraction, the fact that when you buy one, you won’t have to replace it for quite a while.

Their style is so timeless, excuse the pun, it won’t go out of style, if at all, for quite some time, and coupled with their practicality and affordability, you should really see the purchase of a Nixon as a venture into the world of quality timepieces, which would be a welcome addition to the wardrobe of any man.

Nixon Watches are available directly from Nixon, or through online retailers such as BlackLeaf, Urban Chaos and Psyche.


CL

The Ben Sherman Shirt

Ben Sherman is one of the UK's leading contemporary street-wear fashion lines. It's line of shirts (and other clothing) has a very clear 1960's English twist! Indeed Ben Sherman's claim to fame is as the definitive shirt for supporters of the classic modernist youth of 1960's Britain...

In 1963, Ben Sherman started making shirts from a small factory in Brighton and the button-down Ben Sherman shirt instantly became a fashion essential for the fashion focused mods who gathered at all-night clubs throughout the 1960s.

Ben Sherman was founded by Arthur Sugarman, a Jew who was born in Brighton in 1925. He immigrated to the United States in 1946 and changed his nationality to American. He also changed his name to Ben Sherman (to hide his Jewish identity), and returned to Brighton where he bought a shirt factory. He was inspired by the smart styling of the Ivy League colleges that he witnessed during his time in the States, and success quickly came as his Ben Sherman shirts sold across Europe and the US. Indeed the Ben Sherman Oxford shirt, with button-down collar and back-pleat soon gained cult status!

Ben Sherman cult began as the shirts were adopted by the youth movements of the day, none more so than the scooter-riding mods. Without "the shirt" one was considered a second rate mod, but with a Ben Sherman shirt, one had instant "cool" appeal. As the 60's continued, the mods became the skinheads and rockers. Less focus was placed on fashion but the basic elements remained...three-button suits, Ben Sherman shirts, Sta-Prest trousers and Levi's jeans.

Leading rock groups such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who and The Kinks all embedded Ben Sherman as a leading name in 1960s fashion, both in the UK and worldwide, yetd even today the company's line are adopted by all the great bands that form today's Brit influenced global music invasion, especially 1990s fashion conscious bands such as Blur and Oasis.

For this new generation of rockers, Ben Sherman still represents the epitome of style and attitude. Indeed Ben Sherman state "classic designs are mixed with the styles and attitude surrounding society pursuits presenting a world of colour and class and a collection of true British heritage".

Ben Sherman has developed into a complete lifestyle brand and dominates the men's branded apparel market as one of the largest brands in the UK. Collections include shirts, jeans, t-shirts, shoes, suits, jackets, and accessories such as wallets, hats, sunglasses, bags, watches, and grooming products.

MFB

Man Bag? You’re having a laugh, mate.

Gone are the days of only women carrying bags to complement outfits. Now, in this new age of fashion, men’s bags are masculine and are a welcome addition to any outfit.
With the following bags mixed and matched with the appropriate outfit, you really can’t go wrong.

The Messenger Bag

Worn throughout history by, yes you’ve guessed it, Messengers, these updated bags based on the classic Messenger style are still hung from the shoulder, but with the chic associated with Urban Fashion.
This laid back style has a classic flair, but complement with a leather version, and you definitely add that extra pinch of style to any outfit.

The Briefcase

Throughout the test of time, briefcases have been the most widely accepted ‘man bag’.
These days however, the sharp box shape has gone, with classic elements such s buckles, and the leather exterior staying to make this a welcome addition to any man’s wardrobe.

The Camera Bag

Gone are the days of looking like a tourist wandering around somewhere new, with a map glued to your hands. The new style of camera bag is a brilliant way of discreetly lugging around your belongings. Simple, but with a lot of function, they can be worn across the shoulder or over it and add a touch of masculinity to any casual outfit.

The Tote

Another approach to the classic briefcase, the Tote is based on an artisan’s bag, but with a stylish, basic design and leather exterior.
The long handle gives an edge of differentiation and masculinity to any work wear.

The Holdall

Big bulky luggage? Who needs it! Sleek, stylish holdalls have updated this style by refining the appearance and keeping with a predominantly leather feel. This refined look can add a practical tote to any look.
The Newsboy

EXTRA EXTRA! Read all about it!
Synonymous with casual wear, the retro Newsboy Bag is slightly different to the Messenger Bag by being slightly more casual with it’s canvas exterior.
This type of bag is perfect for the style savvy student lugging around those all important text books while making a perfect fashion statement.

All these bags are available over the glorius medium known as the internet, with key designers such as Man-Bag, and Paul Smith catching our eye.

For a collection of men's bags at KJ Beckett, click here.

MFB

Nudie Jeans

Let’s face it; jeans are not a fashion trend, but more a necessity in any wardrobe.
Put your hands up if you don’t own a pair of jeans? Ah, no hands! Exactly!

Nudie Jeans have recognised this and have started to create jeans that don’t just offer the ‘latest cuts and styles’ but exclude the usual mediocre, every day feeling you get when wearing them.



Practicality is always a major factor when choosing a garment of clothing, and as a result, Nudie Jeans’ manufacturing quality means that you can abuse them week after week with them still looking good.

Longevity is also addressed by Nudie Jeans with their collections ever expanding season by season as the brand becomes more popular and as a result UK Retailers such as ASOS have picked up on the cult following of Nudie Jeans and jumped on the bandwagon, with more and more retailers doing the same and offering their jeans for the fashion conscious masses.



As with any pair of jeans, if you choose the right cut, wash and style you’ll be laughing like a Clown at a Carnival with how they make you look stylish.
So whether it’s the ‘indie-ness’ of the Slim Jim, or the casual look of Regular Ralf, Nudie Jeans will have you looking good for any occasion.

MFB

Tokyo Scarves

Even though Winter is on its way out into fashionable Spring, it’s still rather nippy outside.

This, however, is more familiar to the weather experienced in Japan at this time of year, where January and February are the coldest months of the year.

But do not despair! Tokyoites (a fancy word for people who live in Tokyo) have embraced this cold weather, and have seen it as an opportunity for yet more stylish coordination by adding scarves to their outfits.

Luxury fibres and interesting textures, available in a multitude of colours and feels are the current ‘Do’s’ in scarf fashion.

‘Don’ts’ are psychedelic stripes and the abstract paisley designs more accustomed to Tom Baker Dr. Who costumes.

For an added touch of class to keeping Jack Frost at bay, the most stylish Tokyoites are seen in long and wide scarves draped luxuriously over themselves, adding a touch of flair to a plain winter coat.

Tomorrowland

Worn by young salary men in inner city suits, these two-toned, tassel designs in super soft fabric add extravagance to normal office wear.





Uniqlo

Uniqlo is a Japanese retailer engrossed in providing high quality at low prices, with their popular, thick textured scarves looking perfect with a casual parka.



Paul Smith

The well known, classy Paul Smith enjoys a unique cult following in Japan, and his scarves are no exception, with their extra long, striped scarves giving any Tokyoite a touch of British class.





Swagger

Known as the Japanese version of the popular hip hop clothing label Rocawear, their scarf range can normally be seen around the necks of the laid back trend setters in Shibuya, where anything hip goes.




Xlarge

Another Western brand followed loyally by Tokyoites is L.A based Xlarge. Their hounds tooth printed scarves are a must for wearing either to work or for weekend wear.



With fashion like this, it almost seems a shame for Spring to be on its way to liven us up.


MFB

Upcoming Designers: Four of the Best

With fashion trends changing like the weather, designers are constantly leaving their mark on men’s fashion by bringing something new to the fashion table.

Below are ‘Four of the Best’ who’s talents ensure that their clothing will be worn for season’s to come, whilst instantly pulling them up the fashion ranks.

Michael Bastian

Five years as fashion director for Bergdorf Goodman under his belt and a wealth of design inspiration has placed Michael Bastian in this upcoming list.

His precedence is to design clothing that appeals to men’s usual day to day wear, but with an added dash of flair. The look incorporates classic American design, but with extra panache giving men of today impeccably tailored suits, lavish knitwear, sophisticated trench coats and other outerwear.

Ozwald Boateng

Ozwald Boateng is a self styled modernist designing fashion for the male that wants innovation tailoring. A self described ‘bespoke couture’; Ozwald is responsible for bringing Savile Row to the new generation. Clients of this classically refined look include Will Smith, Jaime Foxx, Samuel L. Jackson and Keanu Reeves among others.

The look combines sophistication with lavish fabrics and plush colours which provides that essential amount of flamboyance to any man’s wardrobe.




Keanan Duffty

While sophistication and elegance are an appreciated element to any garment, a Rock and Roll ‘edge’ is equally as important when it comes to men’s fashion.

Keanan Duffty brings this ‘edge’ to anything he creates on his KD Collection, and has provided the eccentric edginess since 1999 to celebrities such as Justin Timberlake, Steven Dorff, The Sex Pistols and David Bowie among many others.

This alternative look involves cutting edge designs, unconventional fabrics and British iconography which bring out the chaotic, hotel room smashing Rock Star inside all of us.



Tim Hamilton

Tim Hamilton’s mission is to bring the ‘American aesthetic’ back to men’s fashion. Conservative items are given the ‘Americana’ look by adding modern flair that only Tim Hamilton could administer. The look incorporates masculine ‘Preppy-ness’ and offers a back to basics take on men’s fashion.

Garments include polo’s, cardigans and denim, and provide a new level of fashion for the Preppy-Dressed male of today.

MFB

Mika the "face" of Paul Smith SS07

The UK's "next big thing"; Mika, is the new face of Paul Smith! But who is Mika...

Well, classically trained musician Mika (pronounced Meeka), 23 years old from Beirut but London based, is making waves with his orchestral and poppy tunes that have smashed onto the UK music scence!

Mika's debut single Grace Kelly received heavy radio airplay in late 2006 and was the most frequently played song on BBC Radio 2 in early 2007, plus the artist was named "best new talent" in the BBC's Sound of 2007 music poll.

Check out Mika's space on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/mikamyspace

Paul Smith’s latest advertising campaign for SS07 sees the continuation of the theme of ‘real’ people from the AW06 campaign. As a consequence it focuses on individuality with c. 20 'real' people including Mika shot by photographer Julian Broad. Other people included a member of the band All American Rejects.

Check out the SS07 collection of Paul Smith clothing and accessories for men at http://www.paulsmith.co.uk/

MFB

Duchamp Spring Summer 07 Collection Launched!

A Men's Fashion Blog favourite, the new Duchamp range is out now! Following the opening of the long awaited Duchamp "flagship" store in November 2006, the Duchamp Spring Summer 2007 collection has now been launched at the aforementioned store in Regent Street.

For those of you that don’t know, Duchamp is a London-based company with a worldwide reputation for vibrant luxurious clothing accessories for men. Its most recognisable products include a vast collection of colourful enamel cufflinks and brilliantly-hued woven silk ties! UK residents will know Duchamp ties from seeing Jon Snow (on the Channel 4 news) who was a devotee of vibrantly coloured Duchamp ties.

As bold as ever, Duchamp's Spring/Summer 2007 accessories collection has the instantly recognisable colourful impact that the label is so widely known for! However it also embraces a slightly quieter sophistication to make the designer range more accessible to the less adventurous fashionable male.

Duchamp's range of woven silk ties include the regular Paisley design, Harlequin diamond patterns, and an interesting "overblown herringbone" design. The usual hexagons, spots, stripes, and of course florals can also be seen.

Spring/Summer 2007 collection adds to the established, brilliantly coloured enamels and gemstone-based cufflinks, with new styles that include a selection of rhodium and gold-plated, diamond-cut cufflinks. Coloured Swarovski crystal cufflinks add a touch of "bling"...

The usual scarves, shirts, socks and bow ties can also be seen, in what could be considered their best collection yet.

We welcome responses from readers who have viewed the new season. Check out some of the designs at http://www.duchamp.co.uk/collection/index.html.

MFB