Montblanc redefines the Meisterstück Collection

Long lauded for its artisanal skills and distinctive finishes, Montblanc, the rightly-renowned German maker of luxury watches, writing implements and accessories, has given its iconic Meisterstück Collection a sweeping all-leather overhaul this season.

MST Classic, 2022

Inspired by the classic Meisterstück writing instrument, the updated line sees an array of beautifully crafted leather goods accented in motifs drawn from that very design. Think nib-shaped zip pulls in vintage palladium, the emblazoning of its ’20s-era Mont Blanc mountain graphics across pouches, and even nib-shaped leather detailing etched across sundry bag handles and straps.

Montblanc Redefining the Meisterstück Collection leather bag pouch wallet and accessories (2)
Meisterstück Long Wallet, Meisterstück Pocket, Meisterstück Key Pouch

Typified by more contemporary, rounder silhouettes burnished in a new, luxuriously soft deep-black leather, the new Meisterstück creations run the gamut from larger bags such as the Neo Tote and Duffle to medium-sized Portfolios and Pouches. Among the assortment of smaller offerings – all available in the buyer’s choice of Montblanc black, red or blue – are such useful designs as Wallets, Card holders and Key Pouches.

 Montblanc-Redefining-the-Meisterstück-Collection-leather-bag-pouch-wallet-and-accessories
Meisterstück Duffle

Imbued with that sense of timeless elegance that has made Montblanc so beloved the world over, you can rest assured that each of the multitudinous pieces in this attractive new luxury leather collection effortlessly blends beautiful form with the utmost functionality.

 

For more information, please visit www.montblanc.com

Ultra-chic men’s shoes every gentleman should own this summer

Whether you’re dressing to kill or just looking to strut in comfort, there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to designer men’s shoes. 

Offering the best of comfort and design from this season’s summer footwear, Gafencu has picked out five ultra-chic men’s shoes to shop this summer. 

gafencu chic mens shoes tom ford
Image courtesy of Farfetch

1. Edgar Lace-up Brogues
Tom Ford
Any well dressed man would know that a pair or two of brogues — the oh so sophisticated low block heel — is staple of any gentleman’s wardrobe. And these Edgar brogues by American designer Tom Ford, are the perfect example for a pair of must-haves. Constructed with durable 100 percent leather and perforated detailing throughout the body and curvatures, this pair makes for an ultra-chic and modern choice. 

Get it here.

gafencu chic mens shoes berluti
Image courtesy of Mr. Porter

2. Lorenzo Scritto Venezia Leather Loafers
BERLUTI
Looking to perfect a day-to-night look? These tonal blue Lorenzo loafers by French luxury house Berluti makes for versatile accoutrements that pair well with either trousers or khakis. Crafted in Blake construction with Venezia calf leather uppers and linings, as well as rubber-tipped soles, its design was made for comfort, flexibility and lightweight wear.

It’s aesthetic also features intricately detailed and etched with ‘Scritto’ calligraphy that was inspired by 18th-century French manuscript for an elegant touch. 

Get it here.

gafencu chic mens shoes maganni
Image courtesy of Harrods

3. Crocodile Derby 
MAGNANNI
Elevate your outfit with the utmost style and sophistication, thanks to these crocodile derby shoes by Spanish family-owned Magnanni. Crafted from smooth, polished leather and genuine crocodile skin, hand-finished with traditional techniques that reflect more than six decades of craftsmanship, these lace-up shoes exude a sumptuous appeal that can be worn with anything from tailored trousers to casual chinos. 

Get it here.

 

gafencu chic mens shoes brunello cucinelli
Image courtesy of Brunello Cucinelli

4. Cordovan Derby 
Brunello Cucinelli
Adding a modern twist to the iconic style of derby shoes, Italian luxury house Brunello Cucinelli presents the Cordovan derby in Cognac. Constructed with special Goodyear technique for absolute comfort and durability and made from 100 percent leather and lightweight rubber sole, the charming facets of this boot-styled laced men’s shoes don’t end there.

Its slight colour gradient across this upper shape elevates the classic but common polished look of fine leather, giving way for a touch of modern appeal. 

Get it here.

gafencu chic mens shoes john lobb
Image courtesy of Mr. Porter

5. Lopez Suede Penny Loafers
JOHN LOBB
Designed to withstand the seasons, London-based luxury label John Lobb has put out its Lopez loafers, an undeniably comfortable pair of suede penny loafers that were expertly handcrafted from supple suede calf leather in the linings and soles.  Designed for all day comfort, this pair makes the perfect companion to build any look whether you’re going for business causal or taking a stroll out in the sun. The model comes in four colours: Navy, Olive Green, Brown and Dark Brown. 

 Get it here.

Genesis of a bag: D’Auchel’s bespoke bags take shape in front of your eyes

What is your take on bags? Do you think of them as accessories or fashion statements or just utility items? Well, it’s time to think again, as premium French handbag brand D’AUCHEL makes them an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In a world where everything becomes ‘oh-so-last-season’ in a jiffy, D’AUCHEL’s handbags are eternal, classic, 100% handmade and crafted from top-quality leather.

In an atelier adjoining the showroom, skilled artisans painstakingly produce their labour of love; from cutting to stitching to putting the final touches, each step takes extreme diligence and it may take around two weeks to have the finished product in your hand.

While this is far longer than an average bag-buying experience, it’s worth the wait for a completely bespoke bag that will cater to your specific requirements in a way that an off-the-shelf bag never will.

Olivier Dauchez, the brand’s CEO, explains, “This is not a shop, but a showroom. The models displayed here are not for sale. Clients can choose a model and request modifications to it in terms of size, colour, material, extra zippers, pockets and so on.”

As is eminently clear, D’AUCHEL bags are not for everyone. But, those who prefer discreet luxury over OTT extravagance, do pay a visit to the maison and atelier tucked away in a corner of Central. But remember, it’s strictly by appointment only.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay