My Shopping Conquest #43

Balenciaga Bianco/Gris Suede And Leather Giant Coin Purse (SOLD)
(Reveal from 'Balenciaga Fever Strikes This Festive Holiday!')

I am on a Balenciaga craze ever since I came back from London. After missing out on the chance to buy the Argent Weekender, I have been kicking myself over it. Why did I let the opportunity slip thru my hands like that...I had it in my palms, trying it in front of the mirror and secretly liking it more and more. I did not know the love grew to this proportion that it actually outgrew my love for my YSL Men's Besace bag. Yikes. Fate.

So to make it up till I find my next 'weekender lov'e...I ended up in Balenciaga's Hilton Hotel Boutique and found this cute Balenciaga Bianco/Gris Suede And Leather Giant Coin Purse which was, ahem...in grey. I am in this grey phrase now. So anything grey catches my eye. Balenciaga classic designs seldom goes on sale. So with a fantastic discount in tow, I knew I wanted it. I did not get it the first time I saw it last Friday. But I returned the following Sunday and bagged this. This would match up perfectly with my upcoming Balenciaga Weekender purchase...I knew it is going to have to be soon. I am lusting for that bag for a few months now! It's time to welcome the weekender to my 'little bag family'!

This roomy coin purse, too big for just coins, can be used to hold my spare cards, digital camera or mobile phone. There is even a small zip exterior pockets to hold spare change or something. Lots of uses to keep me organised. I also love the signature pewter coloured studs and hardware. I am aware such a light coloured suede gets dirty easily. There is a brown version which was equally nice, but since I am on a grey 'frenzy', I stuck to my original love, grey. My first purchase at an actual Balenciaga boutique:-P

(To be honest, I wish I can also get the brown one. I am tempted.)

Je t'aime Balenciaga!

Retail price: SGD $569. Where to buy: Balenciaga Boutique at Hilton Hotel

My Bag Collection #40 (SOLD)

Miu Miu Lux Black Distressed Leather Gathered Top Tote (SOLD)

Since Fall Winter sales season is upon us again, I thought to do some flashback on items that I have bought last Spring Summer sale season. This is to prevent 'severe backlog' and I will then never be able to catch up on documenting my bag collection.

So presenting my 40th bag collection post, the gender bending and chic Miu Miu Lux Black Distressed Leather Gathered Top Tote. (Have blog about it here before, but not a dedicated post.) Not your typical man bag styles but nonetheless can be worked by a guy if carried and matched the right way:-) Namely, 'bragging' to say I can work it. Hahaha. (Oops. I hear rotten eggs coming my way already. Yikes! This bag better be waterproof!)

There are a few reasons why I bought this bag. First was the gorgeous black polished (hence the Lux description) distressed leather that is both easy maintenance and yet high glam, rock chic factor. I love the natural veining and creasing all over the bag. Next is the use of shinny gold hardware that makes the bag perfect for a night out. I also got attracted to the shape of the bag. It's in a 'balloon' shape, like a sac but with a thin detachable shoulder strap and a gathered top opening. Somehow, I feel this looks like a fisherman's sac when slung across the shoulders. And fisherman is a guy:-P Okay, I am post rationalising why I buy this bag.. To be honest, I dun care that this is a ladies bag. I just like it. This is good enough reason why I spend money for it:-)

Have taken it out for a spin and got praises for it. I am waiting for the next chance to take it out for a spin again! I wonder what the 'queue number' is for this bag now:-) Hehe

Bought this during last 2008 Spring Summer's Miu Miu sale.

Retail price: SGD $1990. Where to buy: Miu Miu Boutique at Paragon

My Shopping Conquest #26

D&G 'Teddy Bear' Gold Necklace
(Reveal from 'Weekend isn't weekend without bringing back a shopping bag')

It has been a chain of weekends that I have been spending money on all sorts of things. Though I keep telling myself that I must stop this 'trend' of shopping, it seems like my 'male shopaholic' test results did hold some truth and each weekend I have an urge to 'reward' myself with a purchase, be it big or small. 2 weekends ago was an advance birthday gift of my Louis Vuitton Monogramouflage Treillis bag, then Mini Lin Key And Change Holder and of course, this past weekend, I totally refrain from splurging on anything. It seems fate has it otherwise. I was tempted again at D&G and this is what I end up with. Fortunately, the damage was minimal and I was in a way, happy that I got this, since I find it so cute and adorable:-P The more I see it, the more I fancy it:-)

The object of my affection is none other than, this sweet D&G 'Teddy Bear' Gold Necklace! Totally bling with gold chain and an ultra cute Teddy Bear pendant. Gold screw studs adorn the arms and legs of dear Teddy, giving it a somewhat punk and rock look. Originally from the Spring Summer 2008 D&G collection, I hesitated for a while to buy this necklace as I would feel silly to pay full price for past season items. But the SAs reassured me that jewellery collections are never on sale. There may be an occasional promotion for the jewellery pieces but not full on end of season sale prices for them. And in a way, I agree, jewellery knows no seasons and trends. It's either you like it or do not. I like the teddy bear design. There nice detailings such as engraving of the brand name on the Teddy pendant and also markings on the necklace hook. The rectangular chain design is also unique. Hence after a walk about Orchard Road (my way for pondering over purchase and avoiding impulsive buying), I went back to D&G at Forum Shopping Mall and brought the necklace home:-) But not before my 'Bangkok Dangerous' movie:-) which was great action!

Retail price: SGD $280. Where to buy: D&G Boutique at Forum Shopping Mall

My MANy Bags Trendspotting #09

Nice And Easy With Cardigan, Shirt and Shorts

Hey I have that pair of Zara checkered shorts! I blogged about the white and blue version here before. So cool, I have not seen any pics of the shorts being worn before. When mixed with navy blue cardigan and a light blue shirt, the red checkered shorts adds a gorgeous splash of colour! All 3 items make a great combination! Easy to pull off and perfect for Singapore's erratic rainy and hot weather these past few days.

Exploit the shorts look as much as you can before the summer trend is over. Anyways, Singapore is all year round summer. So this look stays relevant throughout the year here. I love shorts!

This cute guy from NYC, named Ian wears:
1) Cardigan - J. Crew
2) Shorts - Zara
3) Shirt - H & M

Goes to show, you dun have to always wear designer pieces to be chic!
BTW, I wish I had thighs like his!:-P What do you guys think of this ensemble?

Source: www.altamiranyc.blogspot.com

My Shoe Collection #33

Jil Sander Navy Canvas Lace-ups

As the saying goes, 'A pair of shoe a day, makes me smiley and happy always'. Okay, okay, I invented that myself:-P But it sure does come true each time I acquired a pair of shoe. Yesterday while making my weekly 'pilgrimage' to the 'divine temple' of shopping, Club 21 Mens, I chanced upon this pair of blue navy canvas lace-ups by Jil Sander. I wanted to try on the sockless look with lace-ups instead of sneakers which I usually do. It's a 'formal-casual' thingy with shorts and tees that I want to get into. So this pair of lace-ups fits my requirement and it's my last chance to enjoy sale merchandise before the sale ends this weekend.

From the spring summer 2008 collection and at 50% discount, I thought I could 'experiment' with this shoe and see if the look works for me. I find black shoes too formal and stark, hence navy will be a good alternative. Cross my fingers for the sockless lace-up look to work for me!

I was contemplating between this Jil Sander pair and a navy leather ck Calvin Klein version. Seeing that I find that pair of leather shoe at every ck Calvin Klein store in Singapore, I decided against it. I dun want to be seen wearing the same shoe with the 'whole world'. At least Singapore, I mean. The price difference for the 2 options is SGD$50. So paying an extra SGD$50 for more exclusivity is worth every penny in my books. Plus, Jil Sander is a first line brand, unlike ck Calvin Klein which is a sub brand of its namesake. (I am seriously doing some post rationalisation to tell myself I made the right choice, which I did!:-)

This pair of lace-ups features a round toe design and a raw pale coloured wood sole and heel. Made from navy coloured canvas with leather trimmings along the edges and fully lined with leather on the insides. The minimal design is classic and non trend driven. It's special and unique in a subtle way thru the unconventional use of materials. Because the shoe is long in shape, I had to wear a size down. Well, I did not have a choice anyway, what's left in the store was this smaller size. But it fits perfect! Somehow the fates decreed that I should own this pair of shoe. A real life 'Cinderella' story?:-P

Retail price: SGD $799. Where to buy: Club 21 Mens at Four Seasons Hotel

My Shopping Conquest #15

Kris Van Assche Black Bow Tie Long Sleeve Shirt

Here you go, the reveal from my sunday purchase!

It seems dandy chic is in this fall season. Lots of designers are offering sartorial styles, but they are more relaxed than restrictive and conservative. Lanvin, Dior Homme, Bottega Veneta and Miharaya Suhiro are good examples of dandy chic. More than ever, dressing up is dressing down. guys want to look elegant and stylish and not just in tees and jeans all the time.

I was surprise that I was able to find something during spring summer season sales that can transcend into next season's dandy chic trend. This is a great thing to happen, to be able to buy into the trends of next season at discounted prices:-) and 50% off as well!:-)

So here I am, with my new Kris Van Assche Black Bow Tie Long Sleeve Shirt:-) I know I have put Kris down for his creative reins over Dior Homme. I am not a fan of his Dior. But his own namesake label is a different story. His ideas fits the direction of his own label better and they feel more natural for his label than Dior Homme. Modern dandy and classicism do resonate well with his label.

Back to my shirt...:-P this fine piece of tailoring is a dear to behold. The most interesting aspect of the design is the little removable bow tie that slots into an opening at the neck area. You are in way being sartorial and formal with a bow tie, but not exactly wearing the actual piece of formal neckwear. Very unique and quirky in a way. Clever idea to dress formal without being too formal. Beyond this interesting feature is the exceptional cut of the shirt. Slim fitting with fabulous pleated details along the 2 sides on the back of the shirt. I love my back view for once after wearing this shirt.

To be honest, when I saw this shirt, it felt very Lanvin as well since Lanvin has been doing bow tie looks for a while now:-P Lanvin is synonymous with easy dandy styles and bow ties are abundant for fall winter 2008 looks. Check out that large bow Lanvin t-shirt! (although it is not a bow tie) I love it. (Bryanboy got this gift, worth Euro $519, from www.luisaviaroma.com.) How generous and thoughtful of them!) However, I dun see myself wearing it. I rather stick with my Kris Van Assche shirt. It's cute but smart and more my style. Comes in white as well if black colour is not your cup of tea.

Pricing wise, this shirt is expensive. I still have to pay SGD$410 after a 50% markdown. Sundays should never be spent shopping:-P

Source: Model pic from www.gettyone.com. Lanvin Bow Tee from www.luisaviaroma.com

Retail price: SGD $819. Where to buy: Club 21 Mens at Four Seasons Hotel

My Bag Collection #34

Bally Dober Leather Travel Bag (SOLD)

If you want quality leather bags, Bally is always a name you can count on. Their craftsmanship and leather quality is always superb. And these days, with the appointment of Brian Atwood (whose own label offering ladies accessories is hot!), Bally has been getting some much needed design boost for their accessories and bags range.

I got this lovely Bally Dober Leather Travel Bag during the recent end of season sale. Bags can all look pretty and nice, but at the end of the day, being able to fulfill its function as a user friendly bag is crucial. This tote style bag comes with multiple pockets and compartments which is a joy to use. You can really get organised! The thing that sold me to this bag was the top 'button closure' opening, but it has a interior middle zip compartment for added security to keep the important items. The sides can be used to hold my laptop snugly and the exterior front and 2 side pockets will serve a good purpose to keep all the less used belongings such as my mini umbrella and keys:-)

The leather is also of exceptional quality, grained and in a beautiful dark chocolate brown hue. The hardware is given a vintage finish and adds character to the bag. Of course, the Bally dog tag reinforces the masculine look of the bag, it 'empowers' you!:-)

At 30% off plus 10% extra during Takashimaya's promotion weekend (I paid SGD $1320.48), I can't help but surrender my credit card to this bag temptation.

(BTW, this is my best photography attempt for my bags:-P Lots of photoshopping involved but it does the trick!:-P)

Retail price: SGD $2096. Where to buy: Bally Boutique at Takashimaya

My Shoe Collection #32

Lanvin Suede And Copper Metallic Leather Dock Shoe

Yes, I have it! Yes I finally own it! This is the ultimate shoe that I have been lusting for the whole spring summer 2008 season. But the high prices of the shoe puts my shopping impulse on hold. At last, my wait is over and I was lucky enough to be able to get this shoe at 50% discount during Club 21's 50% sale this weekend. I was not willing to pay full price and not even 30% as it still costs a leg and arm..but at half price, I knew this shoe is definitely headed to my shoe closet!

I was ecstatic when I first saw this pair of beautiful and interesting dock shoes from Lanvin. The style is very much a classic, 'conservative' dock shoe design but now with Lucas Ossendrijver and Albar Elbaz ingenious spin, this shoe becomes hip, quirky and very relevant now! Geek chic? It's one of the defining shoe trends lately using patent metallic leather accents. Handmade in Italy, the shoe features copper tone metallic patent leather and the softest suede ever. A wooden low heel adds elegance to the shoe. Perfect for shorts and summer looks. It even goes well with pants.

I chose this dock shoe over the patent lace-ups as metallic leather creases very badly after a few wears. I know my metallic leather well considering how I suffered a bad experience with my Jil Sander Copper Metallic Leather Bag. So this dock shoe's metallic leather parts are not on high stress areas such as bends on your foot. Therefore no worries about the metallic leather creasing or cracking like an old women's face.

My patience truly paid off:-) I enjoyed a hefty savings and a brilliant pair of shoe:-) I love 50% sales and Club 21! I paid only SGD $720 for this pair of shoe. Madeline at Club 21 mens is truly a dear. She always helps me to hold items I like.:-)

(Lastly, pardon my hairy legs...oops. Hahaha...why on earth does hair grow so much on my legs! Yikes!)

(Source: Model pics from www.menstyle.com)

Retail price: SGD $1439. Where to buy: Club 21 Mens at Four Seasons Hotel

My Shoe Collection #31

Comme Des Garcon Silver Print Canvas Trainers

Today while heading to Club 21 Mens at Four Seasons Hotel to pick up my alteration for my Raf Simons jacket, I cannot help but pick up a new pair of shoe by Comme Des Garcon.:-) I have blogged about this shoe previously and now I finally own it. I am surprised at such a good price and in such a nice design, sizes are still available after 2 weeks of sale. I got a pair of size 41 and that was a new pair instead of the one on display. And I notice, there were still other sizes left should you have bigger feet.:-)

Happily I bag this pair of shoe after I tried it on. It just looks cool. Being a pair of white shoe, it is amazingly easy to match and wear anytime of the day. The silver print also adds some sparkle and glamour for an interesting night out too. One interesting design feature that I notice which was interesting to me, was the design of the shoe flap. It is unlike that of your normal shoe. This pair of Comme Des Garcon shoes was designed so the shoe flap slips in place along slots created on both sides beneath the shoe lace holes. That means the flap will hold its place when you wear it on your feet, will not get easily tangled up or moved around (which I dislike). Pretty sweet idea I must say.

On a last note, I had the left side of the pair I was buying exchanged with the one from the display pair (only one side of the shoe was displayed, so fortunately the display pair's left side was in the storeroom with minimum number of people trying it on). Reason being, the sides were a bit crushed and I was not happy about the condition.:-P I can be picky sometimes.

At a great price of SGD $188 (30% discount), and really comfortable. Also comes in black with silver prints as well:-)

Retail price: SGD $269. Where to buy: Club 21 Mens at Four Seasons Hotel

My Bag Collection #33

YSL Odeon Jeans Fabric and Suede Tote (SOLD)

On Friday night while I was purchasing my YSL bracelets, a bag caught my eye because of the nonchalant, effortless chic that is so Yves Saint Laurent and french. Based on the runway looks for cruise 2009 and spring summer 2009, the collections presented by Stefano Pilati was that of clothes that is non contrived and looks like they were favourite pieces that has been worn and loved by the wearer time and time again. I was very attracted by this thought of style.

At first, when I laid eyes on this YSL Odeon Tote, I was not impressed as it lacked shelf appeal and looked a bit messed up. But while I was waiting to be served for the bracelets, I took every bag on the shelf and have a try. Trying is free anyways.:-) This is what makes shopping fun eh? (Perhaps, 'fun' really does have a price. One that will mean depleting my bank account further. So maybe not too much 'fun' next time. Hahaha.)

To my pleasant surprise, this Odeon Tote bag suddenly becomes very attractive when carried. The grey hues and the mix of jeans material with suede juxtapose with matt brass hardware makes for a understated and yet stunning combination. This bag is perfect representation of effortless chic. It's like your favourite bag that accompanies you for many years, a bag that earned more character thru each year you used it. The simple and subtle YSL branding is also not overbearing and looks just right to not look like a last minute deisgn thought. Everything was very well thought of. Although I did not buy the bag immediately, secretly in my mind, I have already made up the decision to buy it. Nonetheless, I want to sleep over it to avoid impulse buying and by the next morning, I was very sure that I really liked it.

At 50% discount (I paid SGD $520), I happily brought the bag home. This will be one bag I can use for travel, throwing around daily while looking very french chic along the way.:-P

Retail price: SGD $1040. Where to buy: YSL Boutique at Paragon

The Material Boy #111

Lanvin White and Grey Nylon Hi-Tops

For guys who find the metallic coloured Lanvin Hi-tops a bit too much to bear, fret not, Lanvin does have more subdued colours with their coveted sneaker range! This grey and white nylon hi-top is similar to the copper coloured captoe version but in a different colour scheme. Still chic and stylish...one of the most sought after shoes for spring summer 2008. Better grab the chance to own it before the season ends.

Now on sale at www.aloharag.com. They do ship international!:-)

Retail price: US$399 (markdown from US$665). Where to buy: www.aloharag.com

The Material Boy #110

Martin Margiela Leather Lace-Ups

You might be wondering why I am recommending another pair of lace-ups. It seems all lace-ups are more or less the same. But hold that thought for the time being...have a look at this pair by Martin Margiela. The leather flap where the laces are, wraps all around the shoe which is unseen of. What an interesting reinterpretation of a classic design:-) One of a kind and yet aesthetically beautiful. It is this sort of little quirky take on a classic design which sets things apart.:-) And I believe Martin Margiela has done well with this pair of lace-ups. I especially like the white leather version, which is so french riveria and playboy chic. But for the more classic types, the dark grey version works great as well.

Now on sale at www.aloharag.com with a 40% discount!

I am a Margiela fan now!

Retail price: US$447 (markdown from US$745). Where to buy: www.aloharag.com

Gender Bender #24

YSL Large Overseas Tote in Brown Deer Skin

Today I was in YSL Paragon again. Their 50% markdown for selected items are just too hard to resist. I have been eyeing on a nice YSL jeans fabric and suede tote bag so I just had to go back to check it out. While in store, I took the opportunity to check out some of the ladies range, checking if there will be any bags that might be suitable for guys. YSL bags such as Muse and Downtown bag have been welcomed by the male gender as man bags and I have seen quite a number of stylish guys toting those bags around.

Well, my 'bag radar' did not fail me today. I found another stunning YSL bag that works well for guys because of the huge size and design. This time the spotlight is on the YSL Large Overseas Tote, featuring a 'drawstring' style opening, but with a chunky brass chain and lock instead. Made of soft deer skin and comes in basic hues of brown and black, this huge full leather bag looks robust and yet interesting for a man to carry despite it being a ladies bag. The dark colours definitely makes it look unisex. The chunky chain fastening the bag can be adjusted so you can expand the opening of the bag which helps to make the bag more 'tote like' for guys.

(On a side note, I have to also point out that the overseas bag having significant amounts hardware could overwhelm you if you cannot pull off the look. The gold contrasted against the dark leather colour is very outstanding. So you must try the bag to see if it works for you. Personally, I tried it for myself and hence I love it. Perhaps, I have a more flamboyant style. :-P)

Now going at 50% discount, it is even more tempting to buy this bag (and the oversize muse and downtown bag as well!). If only I have not splurge on 4 bags this sale season, I would snap it up in an instant.:-p I am now a huge fan of YSL, french chic is effortless and elegant. I love it.

Retail price: SGD $3400. Where to buy: YSL Boutique at Paragon

My Shopping Conquest #13

Paul And Joe 'Tiger Tooth, Monkey Skull, Mineral Shell' Necklace

Sale time is the best time to stock up on jewellery. Necklaces and bracelets are like finishing touches that could enhance a look. With my new acquisition of the Dries Van Noten military duffel bag, I wanted to complete the safari look with a necklace that looks like it was formed by pieces and trinkets found on expeditions. This Paul and Joe necklace perfectly sums up the style. Made of 3 trinkets on a silver chain, a 'tiger tooth, a 'Monkey Skull' and a mineral stone-like seashell, it is interesting and have a strong sense of explorer chic.

At 37% off (I paid SGD $188), I knew I had to buy it. I only commited to the purchase after taking some time over lunch to ponder the decision. So I know I did not make an impulsive buy.

Retail price: SGD $299. Where to buy: Club 21 Men at Four Seasons Hotel

My Shopping Conquest #12

YSL Bracelets

In a matter of a week, I acquired 3 YSL bracelets. Not that I plan to purchase so many bracelets at one go...but it all started with my hunt for one. I had wanted a simple leather bracelet which I can wear daily and had a subtle, elegant style. My first thought was to head to YSL. French chic and elegance embodies the brand and I was sure I can find something suitable.

So last Sunday (22 June 08), I decided to make a trip to YSL store at Paragon. I spotted some leather bracelets that fit my requirement. In the end, I shortlisted the choice to 2. One was a brown leather lace knotted design (which was on 30% discount off $270 at $189) while the other was of a woven leather style (a classic design which is not on sale, the SA told me it was $150, but later found out it was cheaper). I was contemplating, I love both. I was trying on different sizes and took my time to decide. I had a really beautiful and friendly sales advisor attending to me so I was not pressured at all to make a hasty decision. She suggested to me what her preference was, that of the knotted design. At first, I agreed to her recommendation and was almost going to pay for the bracelet, but at the last moment, something struck me and I asked to try the woven version again. It seems deep down inside I found the woven version resonating with me better. After the second try, I was fully sure I like the woven version better and hence decided to buy that. Surprisingly, the SA told me she quoted me the wrong price and it was cheaper at $110. What a good price!

This is how I bag the first YSL bracelet.

Today after work, I decided to go check out the knotted leather bracelet again. I have been thinking about it the past week and I knew I had to get it. There was a grey version which I thought could be unique. I had suspected that further markdowns of 40% could take place for YSL and Gucci. My shopping instincts was was right! Selected merchandise was indeed marked down at not 40% but 50%! More than I expected:-) I felt such a relieve that I did not buy the knotted bracelet at 30% few days back. I would be so upset.

Anyways, I tried on the grey version. But it came with silver hardware which is not really outstanding. Furthermore, my skin colour is too close in terms of shade as contrasted against the grey leather. It seems lost on my wrist. Not as outstanding as the dark brown version I originally tried the past Sunday. My choice was clear. Dark brown is the colour. And at such a good price of 50% markdown, I just could not pass up on bargain. Such a good buy. Since most YSL bracelets in store are on further markdowns, I tried on a unisex chunky silver charm bracelet as well. At only $155 out of original $310, it was also a good buy. I really like the graffiti style 'YSL' branded charm. Although the heart charm looks a bit girlish and becomes busy together with the graffiti charm, I thought to improvise and convinced myself I can remove the heart charm if I were to wear it. The SA on hearing my idea, further reinforced that I can turn the heart charm into a pendant for a necklace. What a brilliant suggestion. What more could I say, except to bag it as well.:-P

And this is the story of how I got my 2nd and 3rd YSL bracelet, all in less than a week:-)

Retail price:
1) Brown Woven Leather Bracelet - SGD $110
2) Dark Brown Single Knotted Leather Bracelet - SGD $135 (50% off SGD $270)
3) Silver Talisman Bracelet - SGD $155 (50% off SGD $310)

Where to buy: YSL Boutique at Paragon

My Bag Collection #32

Dries Van Noten Canvas Duffel Bag With Adjustable Leather Shoulder Straps

I think Club 21 hearts me very much. With the recent sale, I spent a small fortune which they will love me for it:-(. I must be crazy to spend this much money in these uncertain times of price inflation everywhere. But what's done cannot be undone, I tell myself it's going to be 'shopping drought' for at least 2 months:-P Wonder how true will that hold up to. hahaha.

Anyways here's my latest acquisition for the 'sale shopping' spree. A lovely, macho canvas duffel bag by Dries Van Noten! I was not expecting to find anything interesting from this designer as I think his style is always too ethnic inspired for me. But to my surprise, when I first lay eyes on this bag on the shop window, I find myself attracted to it. I have passed by the Dries Van Noten shop at Hilton hotel many times, each time thinking this is a nice bag but never made an attempt to try out the bag in real. But during sale time, it's a different matter. Who knows what good bargains I could get, so I will 'sniff' into every 'good buy' I can find when it comes to sale time. The bag will not escape my bag radar:-P

My friend and I was making our 2nd round of shopping at Blackjack last Thursday and afterwards, we went to Marni to check out bags for her. We walked past the Dries Van Noten store (next door to Marni) and there it was again, the mannequin holding the lovely duffel bag. My friend went into the store to show me a bag she was interested in and of course I took the chance to check out the store as well. I would never have entered the store alone as this is a women's boutique. Kinda weird. Nevertheless I happily followed, which was a 'wrong' move cos' some mysterious force made me asked the sales lady to let me check out the duffel bag. While trying it in front of the mirror, my heart was pulsating with excitement. The bag looked so right in many ways, oversized and masculine with strong hints of military and explorer style. I love it instantly! It reminded me of the YSL downtown in military canvas. Since I cannot own that, this will be a great alternative!

I knew I wanted the bag but I was worried about spending too much money. I was hoping the bag would cost an arm or leg (considering Dries Van Noten is an A-line brand) and then I can convinced myself it is way too much to spend on the bag. But to my surprise again, the bag is at an unbelievably good price, especially after the 37% discount. It looked like a $2000 dollar bag. But in the end, I paid only SGD $818, which is a bargain for Dries Van Noten. I only hesitate for a moment and almost instantly told the sweet sales lady, "BAG IT for me!" :-P

This is the story of how I 'broke' my bank account and added this lovely bag to my collection.:-P

There are so many things about this bag that I like. First is the olive drab colour (i love military styles!), followed by the 'flight jacket' looking leather handles that runs around the bag. This is a unique way to design a handle for a bag. Thirdly, I am a fan of the used, 'I just came back from exploring Africa' design. How colonial explorer style! Very charming. Lastly, I adore the adjustable handles that can turn it into shoulder or sling bag. If you have a slim enough body frame, you can even carry it like a backpack as shown in the runway pic (although it's a different bag there, but I tried it. It works:-P)

What more can you ask of a bag. 3 styles to work it and lots of attention to details. Even the zipper pull tabs are wrapped in the same canvas fabric and there's a branded mini leather-flap pouch inside the bag that is handy for mobile phones.

All in all, I think I made the right decision to 'suffer' a little deprivation from shopping for the next few months. Getting this bag is a right decision:-P There is immense pleasure in owning this bag.

Retail price: SGD $1299. Where to buy: Dries Van Noten Boutique at Hilton Hotel