August 2nd, 2010

Prada Distressed Saffiano Satchel

by Nicolas

I am on the lookout for a document holder. For those days where I need to rush to meetings but don’t want to lug around my day bag. I already know what I will get – a Balenciaga piece, naturally. But it still is fun to shop and look around. This satchel from the Prada Fall 2010 collection caught my eye.

Its stiff, study shape gives this a load of character that is further enhanced by the distressed leather. It adds a bold, classic charm to the piece. The shape is also not one that you would associate when you think of a satchel. Its thin and long frame gives you ample space for your files and documents. You can’t store your whole life in this bag but it’s really not what this is for. This is for days when you want to only bring the essentials.

Get this Prada Distressed Saffiano Satchel for US$2035 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

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July 30th, 2010

Prada Striped Silk Coin Purse

by Nicolas

There are certain moments in time when I know I don’t need something but because it looks great and is functional and is friendly on the wallet, I find myself very tempted to just buy it. This very moment in time happened when I saw this cute silk coin purse.

I don’t fancy coins and I try to get rid of them as quickly as I can. I use the coin pocket on my jeans or the back pocket o my pants to store my coins. And that has worked fine for me all these years but I am so compelled to buy this coin purse – I’ll use it for something else besides storing coins.

The silk fabric is luxurious while the stripes add a pop of detail and color that stands out in a very charming way. It’s just a fun piece to have. I know what I can use this for – to store my credit card receipts. That’s a great use for this piece, don’t you think? But then again, I tear and throw almost all my receipts as soon I get them…

I will cut all the bullshit and just admit that I want this; just because. Get this Prada Striped Silk Coin Purse for US$80 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

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September 11th, 2009

Prada Wayfarer Sunglasses

by Nicolas

Prada Wayfarer Sunglasses

Prada Wayfarer Sunglasses side
When it comes to sunglasses, I like them simple. No embellishments, no splattering of logos. They should function as they are supposed to and look good doing so.

This wayfarer pair from Prada has my vote. The wayfarer design is classic and timeless and will look right with everything in your wardrobe. The solid frame and thin temples give this a sleek feel.

I am digging the quiet Prada stamp – nothing fancy, just simple and unassuming. The dark grey gradient lenses provide some external visibility of your eyes so you maintain an adequate dose of mystery.

Get this for US$235 at Barneys.

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September 4th, 2009

Prada Vitello Metal Old Billfold

by Nicolas

Prada Vitello Metal Old Billfold

Prada Vitello Metal Old Billfold details
I know I have mentioned my love for studs a bunch of times here. That doesn’t mean I jump on any studded item. Prada’s upcoming Fall collection is a centerfold for studs and I applaud the vision and the direction the design house is going in but there are bound to be a few hit and misses. Take this wallet for example.

I love studs but this is just an overkill. It’s too much of a good thing and it doesn’t look stylish or forward at all. In fact, it reminds me of what a cowboy in the mid-west would carry. It looks tacky and so out of sync with the aesthetic that it is trying to portray.

And what is up with the Prada label at the right bottom of the wallet? It stands out but not in a good way. Showy yet without much substance. And really, honestly, it is pieces like these that the counterfeiters will produce in large quantities. Expect to see a replica of this on the streets of Bangkok, Kuta, Shanghai, Jakarta in 5,4,3,2,1………

Find this for US$350 at Barneys.   

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April 24th, 2009

Prada Deerskin Pleat Front Messenger

by Nicolas

Prada Deerskin Pleat Front Messenger detailPrada Deerskin Pleat Front Messenger

Prada Deerskin Pleat Front Messenger length
I have been looking for another everyday bag one and off these past couple of weeks. My favorite Marni one needs to be taken in and cleaned and have its handles fixed. I was a little disappointed in the quality of it; I am a fan of Marni and I expected more. I am very hard on my things but I think the true test of a item is how it withstands daily pressure and bumps.

I digress. So I was just browsing for a new piece to call mine when I found this handsome messenger. I think this would make a good addition to any wardrobe – the brown shade is universal and with its handy size; this makes for a useful companion both for work and travel.

What caught my eye was the pleat detail on the front of the messenger. It give volume and a classic touch of detail that is quiet and masculine. I like how the Prada logo is stamped – subtle and soft, just the way I like it.

The external zip pocket makes for easy access to your daily essentials while the deerskin leather and brass stone hardware will look better with age. This is one that you will be using for years and years.

Get this for US$1000 at Bluefly.  

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April 6th, 2009

Prada Glacee Messenger Bag

by Nicolas

Prada Glacee Messenger Bag
Prada Glacee Messenger Bag side
Prada Glacee Messenger Bag shoulder strap
Prada Glacee Messenger black

I’ve always loved the look of messenger bags; especially leather ones. They are the classic version of a man-bag, not as trendy as a tote but still stylish and fully function. I always get a rude shock when I see men in suits and formal office wear with backpacks that have seen better days. There is no point wearing a crisp shirt, sharp shoes, fancy cuff links and then slinging a backpack like it was high school all over again. It instantly kills your whole look so dump the backpack and invest in a handsome, sturdy messenger bag for hands-free mobility.

I am digging this piece from Prada. The dark brown shade is a good-looker that will compliment most outfits. A great alternative to black and yet classic enough to last you years and years.I am also loving the rich brown contrast on the black version of this piece – a messenger version of the briefcase that I had my sights on. Both shades are gorgeous and utilitarian. What a combo!

The flap pocket with adjustable strap is the only detail on this piece but it’s all that is needed. The belt makes for a steadfast statement - simple, fuss-free and quiet. I am loving how there is no big logos or blatant labels; instead, the Prada brand is stamped subtlety but surely, complimenting the clean lines of this messenger.

The adjustable and removable shoulder strap provides another option/use for this piece – remove the strap and this messenger becomes an attache of sorts. So if you want to spruce things up a little, use this as a nifty document holder. Gotta love versatility.

The great thing about this piece is that it will look better with age – with a vintage feel and look to it. This is a keeper.

Get the brown version for US$1350 at Barneys and the black one for US$1000 at Bluefly.

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March 7th, 2009

Prada Leather Briefcase

by Nicolas

Prada Leather Briefcase
Prada Leather Briefcase sideThis briefcase has my name written all over it. Handsome, stylish, sturdy and classic. All the positive trappings of something to covet. This would be one piece that will last you years and years.

The soft leather will only get better with age increasing the appeal of this gorgeous briefcase. Take it to work, on vacations, even on short weekend sleepovers, why should a briefcase only contain documents? The leather lined interior with two zipper pocket and two open compartments will ensure ample space for your laptop, daily necessities or change of clothes.

I am loving the dark brown belt buckle straps that contrast flawlessly against the black leather while the push lock closure makes for easy access to your belongings. The ruched effect from the buckle straps lends a charming vibe to this already desirable piece.

The only thing missing is a shoulder strap but that’s something I can easily overlook. Get this for US$2072 at Bluefly.

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