TOPMAN Elastic Cuff Carrot-/Arc-Fit Jeans

Perhaps, like us, you have found yourself loving the pegged denim look. Maybe (also like us) you've folded, rolled and re-folded and re-rolled your jeans seven thousand times and are still unable to achieve the chic, hip look you are after. You, too, may have resigned yourself to the sad fact that this might be one trend you'd be unable to embrace (although not for lack of trying). Enter the Topman elastic cuff jeans.


One of Summer's key looks in denim, carrot- and arc-fit jeans are the natural successor to the skinny-fit, offering a twist and a directional silhouette to a menswear staple. Usually worn a bit low on the crotch, these tighter-on-the-ankles jeans are further given a special outline by the elastic cuffs.


No one wears it better. The impeccably stylish Pelayo Diaz Zapico (or should we say Prince Pelayo, of katelovesme) totally inhabits his Topman elastic cuff jeans.

Happy Earth Day

Have you hugged a tree today? It's good for you. Except maybe do it at ground level.
Also, technically, bamboo is a grass, not a true wood. Oh well, Happy Earth Day!

[Image: Photographed in Sri Lanka by Franceso Veronesi (Italy)]

NEW ARRIVALS - 21 April (Thursday)

Breaking news: NEW ARRIVALS have come to wondermomo and Whoop! in a showcase that solemnly swears to impact the style scene, the nation, the globe, and the milky way.

Adam by Adam Lippes, Catherine Malandrino, DVF, Helmut Lang, Givenchy, Stefanel, Seventy Two Changes (designed by Mandopop diva Jolin Tsai, with the backing of Ken Erman aka CEO and co-founder of Gwen Stefani’s L.A.M.B.), Theyskens Theory (design-genius Olivier Theyskens joins forces with New York label Theory), under.ligne by Doo.Ri, Vera Wang, Tory Burch handbags and wallets (irresistible in their varied styles, materials and sizes), Ash Italia ladies footwear, AllSaints Spitalfields Men, Lacoste Men, Thom Browne (the reigning superstar of tailored menswear), Timberland Boot Company and more… are all here to help you take your first step into the new season.

See? Not all news is bad news.
Hope to see you soon :-)

[Image: Dennis Stone, Rex Features]

New Brand Alert! THEYSKENS' THEORY

Olivier Theyskens (the Belgian-born "dark angel of Paris fashion") shot to stardom at 21 when Madonna wore his epic coat-dress to the 1998 Oscars. After stints at Rochas and Nina Ricci (wildly acclaimed but didn't stick - the “demicouture” pieces were too pricey), the designer at long last reemerged to unveil a capsule collection for Theory, the massively successful, quintessential working-woman label that’s never had a designer personality spearheading it - and he just might finally have found his footing.
"My vision was to make a wardrobe of cool clothes to wear if I was a cool girl", is how Theyskens describes Theyskens' Theory. Living up to the hype, the designer has delivered a parade that contains practically all those pieces you have searched for, but probably rarely found: work-appropriate clothes with that cool, contemporary, comfortable and sexy factor.

Pieces from Theyskens’ Theory primarily use premium fabrics and display a clear knack for sharp, imaginative tailoring. The collection also retails for over 20% more than Theory’s main collection (still a fraction of what his designs once went for at Rochas and Nina Ricci), but it’s been such a sublime hit --customers reportedly blew through the Spring delivery at Bloomingdale's-- that Theyskens has now been appointed artistic director of the entire company.


Theyskens’ urbane take on the blouse features a notched back collar - a technique which gives the piece a unique shrugged shape. Worn with a demure camisole, there's nothing more posh. Then push up the tapered sleeves and loosely tuck in over skinny combat, denim or smartly tailored trousers. (RRP US$285)

Bags worth snatching: New from TORY BURCH

We could rave and rave about Tory Burch’s delightfully stylish and very attainable bags that strike a perfect balance between fashion-forward and everyday trendy but we won’t (although we kinda just did). Instead we’ll just focus on these awesome new arrivals:-

• Tory Burch Robinson Saffiano Tote [RRP US$495 (small) & US$550 (large)]
Inspired by her parents, Reva and Buddy Robinson, who enjoyed travelling, Tory Burch created the Robinson collection. Made from saffiano leather (a diagonal scratching pattern with a look that is obtained through a printing process of the calf leather, done before final polishing), Robinson designs refrain from ostentatious and focus on nuance and craftsmanship instead.
Classic, roomy, and extremely adaptable both at home or on the road, the gorgeous Robinson Saffiano tote will look amazing with any outfit. Small or large, the Robinson tote is your ultimate everyday carryall.


• Tory Burch Robinson Shoulder bag (RRP US$375)
Also constructed from rich saffiano leather, defined by textural crosshatching, the beautifully made Robinson shoulder bag is classically styled for a timeless look and opens to reveal ample pockets for organising essentials. The uncomplicated look certainly makes it perfect for work.


• Tory Burch Synthetic Straw Shoulder Bag (RRP US$350)
This season, natural materials such as straw, raffia, and canvas were seen all over the runways. Crafted from woven synthetic straw and trimmed with coloured leather, providing stylish textural contrast, Tory Burch reimagines the normally casual straw into something you can actually bring to business meetings or corporate events. In light nude shade, this bag can be paired with clothing of practically any colour.


• Tory Burch Straw Tory Tote (RRP US$250)
Laid-back glamour is the style buzzword of the hugely popular ‘Tory’ tote, now also given the straw treatment. Whether on an alfresco workday lunch or a weekend getaway, this straw tote with upscale detailing has a lovely breezy vibe.


• Tory Burch Zebraheads Tory Tote (RRP US$225)
Here Tory Burch goes just a tad wild with a zebrahead pattern to invigorate her signature ‘Tory’ tote. Bohemian-chic and fun, this roomy tote holds everything from your iPad to gossip magazines :-)

New Brand Alert! VELOUR of Sweden

Finally rising out from under Stockholm's shadow, Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, is now creating its own buzz thanks to a recent slew of emerging designers. Velour, in particular, is blazing the way.
The Velour story began when Per Andersson opened Nostalgi, a retail store which shared a courtyard with a local music studio. Nostalgi attracted musicians, models and photographers, all of whom fell for Andersson’s uncommon selection of never-worn vintage - initially taken from the leftover dead-stock from his grandmother’s RTW store (which had closed in the mid-80s after 50 years of business). Nostagi's creative customers eventually inspired the Velour team to take the step towards designing their own stuff; and the first Velour collection was launched in 2005.

Integral to the Velour brand is the cotton shirt (RRP US$135), which focuses on great fit and beautiful details, e.g., a tight collar, decorative back cuts, Velour-exclusive fabrics. The look is traditional, yet completely here-and-now. Come and discover this refreshing young brand while it’s still a bit of a menswear secret!


Velour boutiques definitely have the whole ‘fashion/design’ thing down pat:-


Wearable basics are the calling card of Velour’s collection:-

SHANGHAI TANG Miao Silk-Crepe Dress

Luxury fashion-lifestyle brand Shanghai Tang goes beyond mandarin collars and qipaos. Each season, the label takes its inspiration from a different aspect of China's rich culture. For their SS 2011 collection, the focus is on the Miao, an ethnic minority that lives predominantly in the hills around Southern China. This elegant streamlined silk crepe dress with pleating delight, for example, makes a subtle but noticeable reference to the pleated skirts often worn by Miao women.
Serious enough for workdays and -with some beads and an interesting belt- edgy enough for that wine-and-cheese gathering or dinner party.
*(Available in classic black and youthful amethyst.)
(RRP US$625)

DIESEL Men's Swim Shorts & Trunks

How long has it been since you got new swimwear? If you’re still using your Speedo from 8 years ago cause it’s, well, “still in great shape”, it’s probably time for a poolside upgrade :-)

This Summer, it’s all about the ’70s, short-length swim shorts. From the Diesel swimwear collection, these short swim trunks with “Diesel Ind. 1978” printed across the back also feature a double waistband (i.e., a floating underwear waistband sitting above the waistband of the actual shorts), which gives the illusion of the very popular look of -heh heh- your underwear peeking out. Throw on these trunks and enjoy the sun!


Or if you prefer hitting the pool/beach with minimalist style, these Diesel swim shorts with just a logo accenting the left hem are simple yet just as ready to take you on all kinds of wet and wild adventures.


Also, coming soon: Underwear from the Diesel 'Fresh and Bright' collection. Not too long in the leg, comfy, and very supportive where it counts, these close-fitting men’s trunks come in darker shades as well as colours yummier than rainbow sherbet ice cream :-D

ELIZABETH AND JAMES Linen "Paper Bag" Skirt

Cute and powder-hued, this paper bag silhouette skirt from Elizabeth and James -which comes with a belt- takes the bore out of your weekend chores! Works swell with either a simple tucked-in tank, or a more formal silk blouse. (We especially love the multiple pockets - ideal for storing your mobile phone and other necessities!)
(RRP US$265)

HELMUT LANG "Scar" Back Tank

Featuring clean lines, an interesting texture, and a seamed "scar" back detail, this cowl-front tank is the perfect example of Helmut Lang’s cool aesthetic. Wear with your micro shorts or fave jeans to cool out in hot weather, or layer under a cropped jacket in the freezing cold office.
(RRP US$185)

BCBG MAX AZRIA Metallic Shorts

Scintillating fabric lends youthful, eye-catching glamour to these BCBGMaxAzria shorts. Think of this event-appropriate piece as a fun alternative to a tailored skirt or trouser - picture it paired with haute heels, and any of these three: a luxe tank, a bold blazer, or a chambray button-down. And bits of silver jewellery, too :-)

This season, on and off the runway, metallic shorts make a hot and sexy summertime item.

ASH (Italy) Denim Platform Pumps

We don't need a new trend to be reminded of how much we love our jeans. But given this season has revealed a whole new affinity for denim accessories, we thought these towering heels in distressed denim from ASH of Italy is a fantastic new way to stay on top of the trend. The 4 ¼” heel is made comfortable by the inch-high hidden platform in the front and the great angle of the shoe. Pair them with everything - from your favorite LBD to skinny jeans - for a fashionably look that will wow 'em!
(RRP US$165)

This season, denim rules in the form of shoes, bags, playsuits, jewellery and iPad sleeves, all showing that mixing it up is never a bad thing.