For those who can (and want) to get something ‘designer’, we’ve got croc and leather cases from Tod’s (due out in November 2010) that will doubles up as a stand, Monogram Canvas and Damier Graphite cases from Louis Vuitton (SGD570 each), and a neoprene case from Gucci that will retail for SGD320.

For those who whose pockets aren’t as deep (or simply refuse to spend so much on a case), here are my favourites from Incase. First up, the Incase Neoprene Slip Sleeve Plus which actually comes with an additional stand. Retailing for USD39.95, the neoprene case which comes in 2 colours (Grey or Black) ensures your iPad is snug and safe at all times.

Then there’s the Incase Convertible Book Jacket (USD59.95) which kinda resembles a Moleskin journal. Flip it open, slot it in and it will even double up as a stand for your iPad. And yes, Incase does ship internationally.

Last but not least, here’s the Vers iPad Shellcase that comes in different types of wood including cherry, walnut and bamboo. Retailing for USD79.95 each, it’s definitely a case with a difference.

Images: Apple, Gucci, Incase, Louis Vuitton, Tod’s & Vers

Here are my picks from some upcoming F/W10 collections.

From Burberry Prorsum, the versatile indigo wash denim shirt (USD275) that will look good under a trench coat, a bomber jacket and yes, a smart slim-cut blazer (shown above). Fortunately (or not), this particular shirt will not be available in Singapore. In other words, get it online instead.

Anything Dr. Denim. What’s not to love? Especially since now that they are available at both Very Wooooderland (ION Orchard) and TANGS Orchard.

I’m also a sucker for anything in a check/plaid/madras print. And at just SGD59, I really need to check out the upcoming F/W10 collection from adidas SLVR.

Besides clothes, I’m also a fragrance junkie. Favourites now include Chloé’s Capucine, Dior Higher and 2 Man by Comme des Garçons. And hopefully after tomorrow night, I won’t mind smelling like Clive Owen as well, the face for the newly launched Bulgari Man. Or smelling him, for that matter.

Images: adidas SLVR, Bulgari, Burberry & Dr. Denim

This is what I know. The project is located at 55 Blair Road (in Singapore) and it is a restored shophouse. The architects in charge of this project were Ong & Ong Pte Ltd with the interior design done by YPS.

And when I grow up, I know I want to live in a house like this. Because we all should dream a little dream.

Images: Derek Swalwell, Arch Daily

In Taipei I got him the Loewe Anagram Portfolio (shown above) which isn’t even available in Singapore. Proving to be a really snug fit, I can also use the portfolio on its own given the fact that it has many slots and pockets on the inside.

From the States he also now has the Incase AnOther + Colette Sleeve that’s designed by Gareth Pugh. I’m a sucker for limited editions, and having the gorgeous quilted interior at just USD79.95 makes it even more worthwhile.

But that’s not all I’ve got.

Yesterday I picked up the Cote et Ciel Diver Sleeve in Toffy Brown as well from Cumulus. Retailing for SGD60, it is a really snug neoprene case that protects Mike from the all possible bumps and bruises. I also got it because Mike and the diver sleeve will fit nicely within the Louis Vuitton Mongram Canvas Poche Documents (SGD815) that I got in Singapore before my Taipei trip. I didn’t get their computer sleeve because like the Loewe portfolio, I can also use the Poche Documents on its own whenever Mike is having an off day.

So without further ado, here’s are Mike’s ‘outfits’ from the top to bottom: the Cote et Ciel Diver Sleeve in Toffy Brown, the Incase AnOther + Colette Sleeve, the Loewe Anagram Portfolio and last but not least, the Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Poche Documents.

So tell me, which of the 4 do you like the most?

Images: Bagaholicboy, Incase & Loewe

Everyone’s doing it. From the Italians to the French, from the British to the Americans, everything’s coming up leopard for F/W10. Like it or hate it, this is one trend that has grown roots all over the place and will be around for some time to come. Take the French for example. Dior has 3 pairs of leopard footwear in their pre-fall collection, including this pair of heels. YSL’s take? A full collection of leopard pieces, including this purse in black and white.

Italians Prada and Gucci are also following suit with their interpretations of the leopard print. Prada takes the popular Canape and gives it a full leopard treatment, while Gucci did a classic frame bag trimmed with lots of dark brown leather.

You would at least expect the British to be more staid and proper, but no that didn’t happen with Mulberry. May I present the iconic Bayswater in degradé leopard haircalf; their definitive hero product for F/W10.

Last but not least, we’ve got an onyx ring with round brilliant diamonds (SGD1463) from the Goldheart Mode collection. Sure it may not be exactly in a leopard motif, but there is certainly something very animalistic about it. Grrr…

Images: Dior, Goldheart, Gucci, Mulberry, Prada & YSL

Sure there are mid-range departmental stores too, but they offer mostly the same brands you can find back in Singapore. In other words, don’t bother.

So when I stumbled onto an enclave of local independent labels just across the road from where I’m staying you could say I struck gold.

One of them is called Wam, a stark all-white duplex boutique along Zhongshan North Road. I don’t know what was nicer, the décor and all its quirky touches (you can say it’s almost ‘Margielic’), or that apparel was clean, minimalist and surprisingly affordable. Best deal I’ve got all trip so far in Taipei? A full-length wool trench coat from Wam for just SGD60. It was on special clearance and I grabbed it in a heartbeat telling myself I could definitely wear it when I head to Paris later in the year.

We ended spending just under SGD500 for 7 pieces, including my other steal of the day, an olive bomber jacket with a fleece collar for just SGD99. Boo got the other 5 (yes, he is in Taipei with me, having flown up to join me on Friday).

And speaking of Boo, a few streets down we found a homely and eclectic lifestyle store/eatery called Booday. We ended up having the best meal we had in Taiwan so far; made up of simple and delicious home-cooked fare.

Another notable mention is ‘0416, an adorable tee/stationery shop just down the road from Wam. We spent a good half hour going through everything and ended up getting illustrated notebooks as gifts and souvenirs. Tomorrow after a morning tour of the National Palace Museum we’re planning to head on back to the area again and have another thorough look, but at the rate it’s going, it’s very likely we’ll be coming back to Taipei very very soon.

Images: Bagaholicboy

A third (and perhaps the most important) highlight for me was the seeing the pieces close-up and realising that they could be worn in our local context (ie. Singapore’s hot and humid tropical weather). Pants with ruffled waist lines and rope belts, shorts and swimming trunks with drawstring pulls make a lot of sense in a country where it can be scorching one minute and wet the other.

Sure beats bermudas and flip-flops (which I am also personally guilty of) anytime.

Images: Dolce & Gabbana

The post also covers a particular ring from Goldheart I’m pretty enamoured with; a 3-piece set comprising a band each of yellow, white and rose gold set with brilliant round diamonds. And as versatile as the rings are, they will be able to complement a wardrobe that’s primarily nude or camel as well for a start (but I’m pretty sure you already knew that).

First up, Valentino’s softly sweet nude two-piece number from the Fall-Winter 2010 Valentino Womens collection. Designers Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri brought back much of Valentino’s DNA in this collection, one that’s replete with gentle ruffles, swatches of lace and Valentino’s signature colour: red.

Next, Diane von Furstenburg’s one-piece blush-coloured outfit that resembles something out of a ballerina’s closet. I like.

And last but not least (and perhaps the most wearable outfit of the 3), Hannah MacGibbon’s take on the whole 70’s look that’s reminiscent of Charlie’s Angels complete with full lustrous hair.

And while we’re on the topic of gorgeous camel-coloured pieces for F/W10, how about this lovely pair of drawstring leather handbags, a classic shape that’s gradually making a comeback as well? Also from Chloé, I’d expect them to be high on many a woman’s wish list.

But back to the ring. As versatile and gorgeous as it is, it will only set you back by a mere SGD1030 for a set of 3, leaving you with lots left for other accessories like bags and shoes.

Images: Goldheart & Style
This is a special courtesy of Goldheart

Why, a spanking new case for it of course.

And seeing how I will be using the MacBook when I’m out and about in town or when I’m travelling overseas, I’m also looking for a case that’s lightweight, easy to use and fashionable, of course.

I haven’t done all that much research yet, but a few favourites have surfaced. Take for example the Incase AnOther + Colette Sleeve that’s designed by Gareth Pugh. Retailing for just USD79.95 (now that’s really affordable), this limited edition 13″ sleeve features a quilted cushioned interior and durable form-fitting construction.

Another option by Incase would be this: the Incase Neoprene Sleeve Plus (USD39.95) that comes in a wide variety of colours including Purple (shown above). And now for the good news, Incase does ship internationally as well. Just drop them an email with your order and they’ll get back to you with the shipping charges before the transaction is confirmed.

Another option that’s really cute is the one from Marc by Marc Jacobs. Available now for purchase at stores in Mandarin Gallery and Ngee Ann City, they come in dual sizes along with 2 different designs. And if I recall correctly, the larger of the 2 retails at just SGD150 each.

Mulberry actually launched a sub-collection last year focusing on cases and bags for Apple products, and one that I liked (and still do actually) is the Mulberry Bayswater Sleeve 13″ in Blue. Retailing for GBP350 online, it is also the only piece so far in this line-up to be made of leather. I’m not very sure if you can get it locally though you can always order it online instead.

And last but not least we’ve got Louis Vuitton. Ever since my last update way back in May 2009 they have launched new variations, including another in Damier Graphite (shown above) and Damier Geant. Available in 2 sizes (13″ and 15″) at SGD1000 and SGD1070 respectively, all 3 (including Monogram Canvas and Damier Ebene are currently available at ION Orchard). What I like about them is the fact that they come with a protective foam-lined interior that’s embossed with LV’s insignia, which is a nice touch. The one in Damier Geant also comes in 2 sizes but is a little bit more expensive at SGD1040 and SGD1110 respectively.

Now folks, here’s my big question for you. Which one should I get?

Images: Apple, Incase, Marc by Marc Jacobs & Mulberry

Nowadays you can walk into any designer brand and you’ll be greeted with a full children’s section, selling everything from baby Ralph Lauren polo tees to cotton Burberry trench coats with the design adapted right off the runway.

In the bag department, one could get their daughter the Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Mini HL (SGD635), originally intended as a really, really tiny bag for an adult. Thing is, I’ve never actually seen any of these on an adult as yet, but I am seeing it more and more on kids along Orchard Road lately.

And because it is World Cup season, you can even pick up little flip flops in support of Dad’s favourite team from the Havaianas Team Kids collection. Besides Italy, you can also pick up Brazil and England (and a smattering of other countries) at SGD29.90 for the little one. Adorable, aren’t they?

So it will come as no surprise as well when I tell you Gucci will also be launching a full collection for children which will debut early next year. Conceived by Frida Giannini (pun intended), the collection will be pieces for both boys and girls from the time they are born till they are 8 years old. Besides apparel, your little Princess will look chic with sunglasses, shoes and other accessories that will be available as well.

The kids do really have it all these days, don’t they?

Images: Burberry, Gucci, Havaianas & Louis Vuitton