Spring Accessories: Seasonal must-have items to add to your collection

With the long-awaited arrival of spring finally here, discerning fashionistas can look forward to revamping their collections to inject a welcome seasonal flourish. To help get you started, we’ve curated a selection of sophisticated spring accessories to add an unmistakable flair to any occasion.

 Spring Accessories from leading luxury brands

Mythic Pens
For nearly five years now, the luxury German accessories company Montblanc has released an annual collection in honour of oriental culture. This year, the brand celebrates Eastern beliefs through three limited-edition pens – The Rat Limited Edition 512, which pays homage to the zodiac animal of the year, and the Vermillion Dragon Edition 8 and the Vermillion Dragon Edition 88, with both featuring stunning carvings of the mythological creature. The collection also comes complete with a glass bottle of golden colour ink and a notebook in gold Saffiano leather.

Spring Accessories from Montblanc

Ace Cases
For this Spring 2020 season, the high-end luxury travel and lifestyle accessories brand Tumi has focused on creativity and practicality in its line of bags and suitcases. Combining luxury and innovation, TUMI’s new seasonal offerings also include the 19 Degree Aluminum collection available in two colors – blush and bright lime. With the corners curved in perfect angle, these travel cases are both functional and stylish.

 Spring Accessories from TUMI

Luxury Luggage
The European luxury house Byredo has perennially committed itself to producing the best in fashion and this is more than evident in its latest leather collection. By using a variety of different leathers in the collection, the brand effortlessly showcases its take on classic craftsmanship. A high point here is the Blueprint Bag, made of contrasting calfskin and lambskin and complete with silver or gold brass hardware straps. Available in a range of colours, including black, white, blue, yellow and more, the bag comes in two sizes – mini and medium.

Spring Accessories from Byredo

Focal Points
The German manufacturer Leica Camera AG has launched three new takes on its range of M lenses. These include the APO-Summicron-M 75 f/2 ASPH in silver, which is perfect for clicking portraits, and the limited-editions Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH and APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH in olive green. With markings in red and white on these olive-green lenses and red and black on the anodised silver lens, good clarity is said to be ensured in every item.

Spring Accessories from Leica

Blue for You
With America’s Pantone announcing ‘classic blue’ as the 2020 colour of the year, luxury label Il Bisonte’s selection of blue bags represents a style statement quite in keeping with this thrilling trend. From crossbody bags to wallets, there is a huge selection on offer, with something here for every taste. If you prefer something edgy and bold, then keep a particular look out for the Ciprea in leather – a revolutionary round-shaped bag.

Spring Accessories from Il Bisonte

From suitcases to backpacks, here are the season’s hottest travel accessories

It’s always a challenge to find just the right piece of travel bags to suit your specific excursion-based needs. Thankfully, some of the world’s leading luxury travel accessories brands have created a whole array of variously-specced designs to ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Travel Accessories - Tumi

First up is Tumi, the American luxury travel accessories brand, who is celebrating the very notion of enlightenment, while also looking to incorporate a yet-greater understanding of travellers’ needs into its new TUMI V4 collection. Building on the brand’s commitment to provide users with worry-free venturing-forth, its suitcases are said to offer supreme durability, while being both lightweight and expandable. Those looking for an easy pick-up at baggage claim may want to opt for the TUMI V4 Expandable 4 Wheel Carry On in Collage Floral, as its singular design can be spotted from well across the hall.

Travel Accessories - Bally

Focussing on the changing seasons and the onset of perfect hiking weather, meanwhile, Swiss luxury fashion house Bally has set out to give utilitarian, technical hiking bags a much-needed makeover by way of its fresh and unconventional Elevate collection. Distinguishing the range are the Ewer shoulder bag and Elston backpack, both featuring jacquard grey nylon-lining pouches, while vintage explorer’s map of Mount Everest are emblazoned on their outer shells with the brand’s motif in vulcanised rubber. Made to be durable, the Italian-manufactured bags are highly resistant to dirt and stains, making them ideal companions for any intrepid adventurer.

Travel Accessories - Loewe

Also ushering in the autumn season is Loewe, the premium purveyor of luxury Spanish leather goods, which has opted to welcome the cooler weather with a great outdoors-themed, eminently male collection. As the second instalment of the brand’s Eye/LOEWE/Nature collection, it’s safe to expect vibrant colours, patterns and vivid prints. The real standout here, though, is the Hiking Boot Yellow Multitone, crafted from calfskin leather, that strikes a balance between the soft and the sturdy. It would also be a sin to overlook the collection’s Convertible Orange backpack, which features a five-sided top panel in canvas with webbing and calfskin details.

Presents for Pappa: Father’s Day gift guide 2019

With Father’s Day falling on 16 June, you still have plenty of time to track down a gift or two for dad. Here at Gafencu, we know all too well that dads have a reputation of being a bit more difficult to shop for than mom, and so, we’ve made it easier for you with our father’s day gift guide.

Tassels

Known for being the quintessential male accessory, it’s hard to go wrong with a tie – especially if that tie comes from E.Marinella the 105-year old Italian necktie company from Naples, Italy. With over one-hundred years of craftsmanship going into these extraordinary handmade ties, dad will surely be delighted with the silk fabrics which are on offer in an assortment of unique and colourful designs.  www.tassels.com.hk

Hydrogen

Those looking to impress their dad on Father’s Day would be well advised to check out luxury sportswear brand Hydrogen’s Hole In One golf collection. The range’s sporty, lightweight, breathable and wrinkle-resistant materials are said to ensure that pop’s swing is amply enhanced, while he remains reassuringly snug within a Hydrogen Golf Long-Sleeve top that comes contoured to his body shape. Fashioned from thermo-regulating fabric, this is the ideal greenwear for golf grandees. www.hydrogen.it 

Salvatore Ferragamo

Guaranteed to give dad a modern and sophisticated look, especially when he goes in for the dinner cheque, is the bi-fold wallet courtesy of Salvatore Ferragamo. Made with hammered leather, the wallet is given a near three-dimensional look thanks to its thick grain. With a double compartment including document pockets and multiple card slots, this wallet won’t only help dad look good, it’ll keep him organized. www.ferragamo.com

Piaget

Anyone looking to go the extra mile with gift-giving this Father’s Day may want to opt for this dad-approved Altiplano Ultimate Automatic Watch from Piaget. This 41mm timepiece comes in 18K white gold casing, with a black off-centre dial and black alligator-skin strap, and is one of the thinnest self-winding watches in the entire world. www.int.piaget.com

Hugo BOSS

Meanwhile, for the truly contemporary chap, why not seek out the BOSS BOTTLED Infinite from Boss, the ultimate German luxury brand. In addition to gifting any man the alluring aroma of sparkling mandarin, cinnamon and lavender, this rich scent also boasts notes of sandalwood, while blending harmoniously touch with the skin. As the first fragrance to benefit from diamond technology, dad can remain scentsational from the office, to the golf course and on even to when it’s time for bed. www.hugoboss.com

Montblanc

If dad is one to dismiss the more recent adage that the art of letter writing is past its day, you’ll be wise to check out German luxury brand Montblanc‘s Meisterstück Le Petit Prince Solitaire Doué Midsize Ballpoint Pen. The pen is not only a superb writing instrument but has also been designed to pay homage to the sweet story of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, a story which reminds its reader to consider life through the eyes of a child. A beautiful way, indeed, to show dad that he’s an inspiration, no matter your age. www.montblanc.com

TUMI

Help dad maintain a classic look during his travels, but with just a touch of flash, with TUMI‘s Alpha Bravo Reno Kit in Grey Highlands Print. The Reno kit has been designed with an on-the-go dad in mind and is the perfect little travel bag from home all the way to the hotel. Equipped with an antibacterial lining, you’ll be ensuring dad comes home off the plane germ-free. www.tumi-hk.com

 

 

Luxury choice: Our top five Christmas gift ideas for men

Most women have that one man in their lives for whom it’s almost impossible to pick the right gift. But, dear ladies, if you’re racking your brains for that elusive perfect gift for your man, fret no more, as we have for you our top five Christmas gift ideas for men, all but guaranteed to please even the most fastidious of gentlemen.

Christmas gift

First up is TUMI, the American luxury travel accessories brand which has just introduced its Holiday collection, with the most eye-catching luggage surely being the stylish 19 Degree suitcase in two catchy colours – festive ember and gunmetal grey. Nuanced yet bold in equal measure, they pair perfectly with the modern globetrotter.

For entrepreneurs and businessmen for whom work extends beyond nine to six, furniture brand TREE has brought a new work station Hemingway to enhance your office space. Made from solid teak, this compact office companion features multiple drawers and handle-less design to give you enough storage without compromising on aesthetics. 

Christmas gift

Meanwhile, Italian men’s grooming brand Selvedge Grooming has expanded its line with a new range of eau de toilettes. Available in two distinctive fragrances – the spicy Toscano and the musky Selvetico – they offer a refreshing take on masculinity, a much-needed accessory in any gentleman’s wardrobe.     

Christmas gift

French champagne brand Perrier-Jouët is all geared up to add more sparkles to your Christmas party with its new Tokyo Grand Brut limited edition in a especially designed box that embraces the unique beauty of The Land of the Rising Sun and the maison’s own savoir-faire. The true highlight, however, is the bottle encased within – blended from around 50 different crus, the Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut is bestowed with a harmonious palate of fresh flowers, yellow fruit and subtle hints of vanilla.

Christmas gift

For the tipple-loving gentleman, there’s even more on offer. French home accessories brand Christofle has revealed a limited-edition wineware set called Graphik especially for the holiday season. Constituting what can be the ideal Christmas gift for colleagues or friends, the set includes a sparkly crystal whisky decanter, two whisky glasses and two coasters from the K + T Collection – a great gift for those who enjoy a happy hour at home. Cheers!

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Top 10 luxury designer bags and briefcases for men

Top 10 luxury designer bags and briefcases for men

Before we jump in and take a look at some of the best luxury designer bags and briefcases for men, lets ask ourselves, where did the humble briefcase originate from?

Dating back to the first century, leather bags have long been the bag of choice for men. Business, for one, has always required a bag and while the briefcase has remained a strong contender for centuries, they were originally used as a necessity rather than a luxury. 

The earliest known example was a loculus, a leather document pouch, used by the ancient Romans. Today, this is otherwise known as the briefcase. Made from single hide and fastened with a metal ring and leather straps, the pouch often had no interior pockets and was used for carrying important documents by men of the elite, such as lawyers or doctors.

Top 10 luxury designer bags and briefcases for men 

As the popularity of the briefcase remained consistent, the trend spread to men of all classes in the 50s and 60s when square, boxed briefcases were pushed out of style in favour of slim and sophisticated black leather bags. Over the years, as books were replaced with ipads and documents with laptops, the briefcase evolved into a much slimmer design. 

In today’s age, a briefcase is no longer restricted to a black leather bag but more of an expression of your personality.  A variety of materials are used as well as different colours and designs, paying careful attention to practicality, comfort and of course, style.

From Prada’s slim and sophisticated crocodile leather briefcase to Gucci‘s quirky Bee Star messenger bag, our roundup of luxury designer bags and briefcases for men will inspire you to reinvent your work attire. 

 

Text: Hira Desai

Images courtesy of:

Bottega Veneta
Burberry
Fendi
Gucci
Hermes
Prada
Tom Ford
Tumi
Versace
Valentino

Father’s Day festivities: Gifting and dining ideas for daddy dearest

Father’s Day is almost upon us, and while we think that just one designated day is not enough to show the love we have for the most special man in our lives, it’s also true that Father’s Day provides a perfect opportunity to shower daddy dearest with gifts and pamper him silly on this special occasion. But before you zero in on a gifting and dining option, check out our round-up:

To gift:

TUMI Alpha Bravo collection

Available in different colours to suit your dad’s personal style statement, the iconic Alpha Bravo collection has long been any jetsetter’s favourite accessory. Featuring luminescent reflective silver that pops to life under bright lights, the Alpha Bravo is a versatile collection that easily transitions between your dad’s days at the office, nights out in town and everywhere in between.

Armand de Brignac flute glass set

In time for Father’s Day, Armand de Brignac has released a new limited-edition gift set, including a bottle of Armand de Brignac Brut Gold (750ml), alongside two Armand de Brignac crystal champagne flute glasses. Conceptualised by Philippe Jamesse, the head sommelier at two-Michelin-star restaurant Les Crayères, the tulip-shaped flutes are shaped to best bring out the flavours and aroma of Armand de Brignac Champagnes. Direct orders at: www.adb-asia.com

Emporio Armani Father’s Day collection

Ahead of Father’s Day this year, Emporio Armani brings a range of signature pieces, including ready-to-wear items and accessories for fashion-forward fathers. From structured suits to well-fitted trousers, from jaunty shoes to casual t-shirts, there’s something for all fathers, no matter what their individual style is.

Check out the collection at:
1/F & 2/F Chater House, No. 11 Chater Road, Central
Shop 227, Level 2, Pacific Place, No. 88 Queensway, Admiralty
Shop G103A, No.23 Canton Road, Harbour City, Kowloon
Shop 6W542, Terminal 1, West Hall, HK International Airport, Lantau Island

To dine:

Gaucho

Treat your beloved dad to a sumptuous meal at Gaucho’s this Father’s Day. Chef Saruulgerel Eggi-Enkh-Amgalan cooks up a delectable storm for brunch, paying tribute to the diverse culinary traditions of Argentina. From succulent free-range beef, mouth-watering ceviches and other Argentinean classics to free-flow desserts, Father’s Day at Gaucho is expected to be a very satisfying affair.

Address: 5th floor, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road, Central
Tel: +852 2386 8090
Email: reservations@gauchorestaurants.com

Gaia Ristorante

Go Italian this Father’s Day with Gaia’s special brunch menu. Choose from a wide selection of appetisers and seafood from the buffet or creamy soup before progressing to meatier options like beef lasagna or roasted suckling pig. Those looking for white proteins can opt for grouper fish or free-range eggs.

Address: 181 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan
Tel: +852 2167 8200
Email: contactus@gaiagroup.com.hk

Rech by Alain Ducasse

Spend a relaxing Father’s Day over a French seafood lunch at InterContinental’s 1-Michelin star restaurant Rech by Alain Ducasse. Offering a 5-course set menu comprising a seafood sampler, choice of appetisers, main course and dessert, and Rech’s famous Camembert, the menu ensures a fulfilling experience for even the most discerning of dads. For children, the restaurant also offers a separate 3-course menu with choices of starters, main course and dessert, plus free-flowing drinks to keep your tiny tot happy and engaged as well.

Address: InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon
Tel: +852 2721 1211
Email: hongkong@ihg.com

Bread Street Kitchen and Bar

Nothing spells gourmet better than Gordon Ramsey’s dishes, and that is exactly what is on offer at Bread Street Kitchen and Bar this Father’s Day weekend. Treat your father to the king of all dishes, Gordon Ramsey’s classic preparation of Beef Wellington. Also on offer are British classic brunch favourites, alongside a traditional Sunday roast, meaning there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Address: LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Central
Tel: +852  2230 1800

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Last-minute gift ideas for Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is fast approaching. If you’ve not yet had time to plan something special, don’t fret. We have rounded up some last-minute gift ideas that will show your Mum some much-deserved love. 

Pamper time at I-Spa, Intercontinental Hong Kong

Gift your Mother with the “Spring Delight – Perfectly Pampered”  Experience at I-Spa, inclusive of a 1 hour and 45 minute treatment (“Muscle Rejuvenation Back Massage” followed by an ESSE Bespoke Facial) and a set Cantonese lunch at the hotel’s 2-Michelin star Yan Toh Heen.  Relaxation and rejuvenation finished off with a spot of lunch is sure to make your Mum feel a million dollars. 

For further information and I-Spa appointments: (852) 2721 1211, hkghc.spa@ihg.com

Last-minute gift ideas for Mother's Day

TUMI’s timeless gifts 

For Mother’s Day, TUMI delivers its world-class travel, business and lifestyle essentials to take care of all your mother’s on-the-go needs. Combining an elegant style with high functionality, the TUMI range of travel cases, day bags and accessories are a great way to treat your mother on this special day. This season, TUMI combines the classic shades of blue with bold patterns to suit different styles and personalities. Available across a range of premium styles, choose from a selection of limited editions and seasonal products from the Voyageur women’s collection. What’s more, shoppers can enjoy the complimentary monogramming service in-store to personalize luggage tags and patches with your mum’s initials. 

For more information visit: www.tumi.com 

Mikimoto’s pearls of love

Pearls symbolise health, purity, and happiness and can be gifted with meaningful wishes of perfection, wealth and peace. Presenting a series of Japanese Akoya Pearl Pendant and South Sea Pearl Jewelleries for Mother’s day, MIKIMOTO’s Bloom Collection allows children to pass meaningful blessings to their beloved mums with a gift of timeless elegance.

For more information visit: www.mikimoto.com.hk

Last-minute gift ideas for Mother's Day

Exotic Delvaux handbags

As we move full swing into the Summer season, why not add a pop of colour to your mums wardrobe? With breathtaking patterns, intense pigments and dynamic prints, Delavaux’s Spring-Summer leather goods collection is a pure embodiment of beautiful Africa. Beautifully blended with subtle statements of modern Western Art, this ambitious collection – complete with various lines – is a stunning infusion of influences. 

For more information visit: www.delvaux.com 

Last-minute gift ideas for Mother's Day - Delvauxs exotic bags

Along with a gift, why not surprise your Mum to a special dinner or family brunch? For more ideas, check out our guide to the Top places to dine with your Mum this Mother’s Day.

Perfecting the journey with TUMI’s Spring Summer 2018 collection

Premium travel and lifestyle brand TUMI has just launched its new collection for Spring/Summer 2018, inspired by the landscapes and creative energy of California. To celebrate the occasion, they set up a TUMI House, recreating a beautiful beach house in sunny California, right in the middle of the Atrium at the ifc mall from 18 to 21 January.  

There’s something for every traveller in the new TUMI Spring/Summer 2018 assortment. We particularly loved the Alpha Bravo, Mariella and Merge collections.

We caught up with Victor Sanz, TUMI’s Creative Director, and Adam Hershman, GM of TUMI Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau to talk more about the inspiration and creative process behind the collection.  Check out TUMI’s  Spring Summer 2018 collection as well in our video.

Tumi wheels out its 2017 spring/summer travel collection

Tumi’s latest collection of travel pieces for the refined traveller is inspired by the vibrant colours, rich colonial-era architecture and culture of Havana, Cuba.

The 2017 spring/summer collection from the world-class manufacturer of suitcases and bags features backpacks, briefcases, duffels, phone cases and much more.

Tumi has also redesigned its Alpha Bravo business and day bags for its spring/summer collection. The bags are now available in the existing Hickory colour, along with a new Galaxy Print and Reflective Material options, inspired by the Cuban countryside.

Tumi’s V3 bags are constructed from a multi-layer polycarbonate shell, which allows for resistance to cold impact cracking and corner crushing, while the V3 cases are carry-on and check-in pieces. They come in classic black and a range of colorful hues and prints, evoking the flora and fauna of Havana, including Banana Leaf Print, Magenta, Pacific Blue and Blue Print.

Check out more of Tumi’s 2017 spring/summer collection in the video.

New age luggage is just the ticket for business, pleasure travellers

0228660D 19D Polycarbonate (Price from $5,690 - $6,690)

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, 19 Degree – the latest bespoke aluminum luggage collection from Tumi – is just the ticket. This unique range features a reinforced frame design, with two snap closures for carry-on bags and three snap closures for check-in bags.

This light-yet-sturdy collection comes in a wide selection of carry-on and check-in sizes, all with secure TSA locks. So whether you are travelling light or setting off on a long-haul flight, the 19 Degree is a perfect fit.

www.tumi.com