Style Flavors

Berluti Double Je

2009-07-04T03:16:07Z

I have a wish list and Berluti shoes are way high on that list. They are desirable and lust-worthy and not to mention, instantly classic. Well, now it seems like Berluti accessories are the lastest addtion to the list.

I stopped in my tracks when I saw this gorgeous briefcase. Everything about it spoke to me. From its clean lines to its sleek exterior, its details and its polished frame. I love the two different flap closure on this piece; on one side is a single closure while on the other is the a double closure - what a visceral way to organize your daily necessities.

The removable shoulder strap adds convenience for when you need both hands for errands while the rolled leather handles provides a sturdy tool that will stand the test of time, sweaty palms and rough handling.

Take this everywhere with you - the office, the airport, weekend trips, work trips. The shirt holder inside ensures you arrive at your destination looking presentable. Imagine showing up at a sleepover with this - what luxury!

The construction like every Berluti shoe is meticulous and careful. The stitching and the polish of the leather is exquisite. This is a piece that you will own for decades. It comes in two colors, black and brown. Both handsome but my vote is for the brown.

Get the Brown or Black version for US$4500 at Barneys.

KZO Central Denim Pants in Indigo

2009-07-03T03:50:29Z

I am still not done with my search for new jeans. So far I've only acquired 2 new pairs of jeans which is not even half the quantity I gave away. So the search goes on. My latest pair is one from Blue Cult that I came across by accident. After some nip/tucking done by my alteration guy, my latest pair looks like it was just made for me.

I do wish it was easier to buy jeans but my frame does not make it off-the-rack friendly. But if you don't have my problem, take a look at this pair.

I am loving the deep shade of Indigo, this would serve you well for work or play. Dressed up or down. The slim fitting cut will not work for every body type but for those looking for a pair that fits narrower, this is one to check out.

I am loving the clean lines and the simple yet effective white contrast on the back pocket. No unnecessary logos, plaques, brand stamps. Just a visible white line of clean that I really appreciate.

The darting through the inner thigh ensures this fits well throughout the leg while the extra fabric at the front pockets make it easier and more convenient to reach your belongings. This attention to detail and the needs of everyday consumers is something I think all designers should follow.

Made from raw Selvage Denim, this not only looks good but is also hardy. Get this for US$240 at Blackbird.

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Moisturizer SPF 16

2009-07-02T03:13:51Z

Summer is in full force and I can really feel the heat, the scorching sun and the humidity from where I am. Just take today for instance - I was out about town dashing from point to point, trying to complete my list of errands while the sun was out and unbearably so.

I met a friend for dinner after and she asked me if I was out lying by the pool today. I told her no and she said I'm glowing but my face is a tad red and tan. And this was when I had SPF on; imagine if I didn't. I would probably have looked like I just got back from my beach vacation.

So SPF during the day is a must and I find slapping another layer of sunblock on my face just is a layer too much so I like having a day moisturizer with SPF. That said, I picked up this moisturizer when I was in Hong Kong and I have been using this for the past couple of weeks.

Its creamy texture goes on easily onto your skin to instantly hydrate. The sun spots and post-acne marks I've got began fading after 2 weeks of usage. My complexion looked more even and radiant. Its brightening powder ensures you get a fresh, glowly complexion everyday no matter the weather.

Its light fresh scent doesn't hurt either. What I like most is how comforting this feels on my skin and my brighter skin as a result.

Get the Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Moisturizer SPF 16 75ml/2.5oz for US$57 at Strawberry.net.

Corpus White/Midnight Pullover

2009-07-01T06:17:02Z

When I was younger, I envied those blessed with height - the ones that can take a loose fitting shirt and wear it with such cool, collected nonchalance like they just got out of bed and didn't have a care in the world.

I tried doing that and all I end up looking is smaller and shorter. As I grew older, I realized that height doesn't do much for me, it's not something I hold in any regard. What I envied back then was the ability to look so effortless.

I still don't have that ability but I know what works for me and my body type and I try very hard. It helps a lot of times if what you're wearing gives the vibe of nonchalance and breezy outlook. Like this Summer friendly piece.

This henley-style shirt has all the trappings of a Summer essential. I love the blue colored middle panel and how it contrasts and lends an air of lightness that reminds of me cool Summer nights and days on a yacht.

The henley-style button placket is a throwback to the casualness of Summer and the desire to wear as little as possible. This is effortless - just throw it on, roll up the sleeves, slap SPF on and you're good to go.

Get this for US$174 at Oak.

Rag And Bone 1701 Hughes Chino

2009-06-30T03:23:47Z

I've been through my tailored pants phase and right now, I really would like to get into a Chinos phase. I've been wanting to acquire more chinos for the longest time but never got the chance to because of my slim and small frame, I just don't fit into the off-the-racks chinos; which is a shame.

And plus, I don't know if I could tailor make chinos. It seems like a reasonable thing to be able to do; if pants can be made, I don't see why they can't make chinos. I have to make some phone calls and see if it's possible.

If I was of the right frame and size, I would go for this pair of Chinos by Rag & Bone. The clean lines and the classic khaki color makes this a pair that you would wear for years and years. The slim silhouette is modern and current and the detail on this pair is an added bonus.

I am digging the metal hook on the zip fly - the visible double studs add a dash of cool when worn belt-less. The button tab on the right back pocket gives variety and a more secure way to hold your wallet.

Wear this with chukkas, sneakers or leather shoes. Dress it up or down. Whatever it is, it's perfect for the upcoming Summer months.

Get this for US$299 at Blackbird.

SK-II Facial Treatment Mask

2009-06-29T06:40:12Z

There are moments in my life where I feel like retreating to the solace of my apartment and shunning the outside world. Moments where I sit and vacillate and prioritize. Moments when getting out of bed everyday seems like a chore. For these moments and then more stressful periods, my skin freaks out and develops a personality of its own.

I get zits, increased oiliness, brown spots and fine lines. And they all appear slowly but surely overnight everynight. I needed to douse my skin in some intensive care and I went out and bought a box of this mask.

Containing a high concentration of SK-II's patented Pitera, this rich, intensive masks works deep to restore skin's balance, stimulate cell renewal while boosting hydration levels to give skin a glow.

I store my masks in the fridge and I pop one on my face weekly or whenever I am stressed or have to fly back and forth countries. My skin is restored, my spots lightened, my fine lines smoothed and I get this natural radiance that doesn't go unnoticed.

And it's not just for when you're stressed, I know many people and I am one of them - who use this after a day of sun and sea sports to get their skin back to tip-top condition. Those who even fall asleep with it, swear the next morning that their skin glows with health. I've never fall asleep with a mask on but I can tell you that this is certainly a keeper - for both good and bad days.

Get the SK II Facial Treatment Mask (10 sheets) for US$114 at Strawberry.net.

Thrifty Flavors: Spitfire Maximum Respect Sunglasses

2009-06-28T03:43:18Z

Summer is officially here and it's that time of the year where your sunglasses are perpetually on your face. I'll be spending some Summer time in Bali and checking out Laos. So I know I will need my shades.

Good shades are a must but just because a piece is expensive doesn't make it good. Full spectrum UV protection are a prerequisite and the rest is just up to individual preferences. That said, you can't go wrong with an aviator shape.

This pair is hitting all the right spots - I am liking its classic aviator shape and the visible external lens clips that look like small studs from far; lending an edgy vibe to this pair.

The all-black design is universal and will go with everything. Be it your work outfit, summer party outfit or weekend outfit. And the best thing about this? It's steal of a price - at US$35, this is a Thrifty Flavors worthy buy!

Get the Spitfire Maximum Respect Sunglasses for US$35 at Tobi.

Sky Shuttle: Hong Kong To Macau

2009-06-27T03:29:12Z

I love traveling and flying in general and that said, I have always wanted to ride on a helicopter but I never got the chance until 2 weekends ago when I was in Hong Kong. I forgot about my desire to ride on a helicopter until my sister who lives in Bali mentioned that one could get a helicopter shuttle from the airport to the Aman Resort where David and Victoria Beckham once vacationed.

This reminded me of my desire to ride on a helicopter and I told my other sister of said desire and she said I could do so in Hong Kong and what do you know, it so happened I was going to be in Hong Kong that weekend so the rest is desire history.

Sky Shuttle operates 54 flights a day, with flight departing every 30 minutes between the Macau Maritime Terminal and the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal. Hours of service are from 09:00 to 22:59 daily. Each flight takes just 16 minutes but it was the best 16 minutes of 2009 for me.

Aside from the breathtaking view and the exhilarating feel of being so high up in the air, the helicopter ride was surprisingly smooth and it did feel a tad more 'real' than flying in an airplane. You get the occasional air bumps and the loud propeller noise but it was all good and so much fun.

And plus, it was really fabulous to fly to Macau via helicopter just for some shopping and lunch. I live for new adventures and experience this was certainly one of them. And the good thing is, it won't cost you an arm for this ride. At $2,300HKD (approx US$300), it is definitely worth it.

For more information, head to Sky Shuttle's website.

Lancome NeuroWhite X3 Whitening Spot Eraser

2009-06-26T06:04:53Z

When I was in my teens, all I really cared about skin-wise was getting rid of my teenage acne and maintaining a deep tan. So I would be as aggressive as my skin allowed when it came to acne treatments and sun bathe every chance I get.

Now that I am older and wiser (thankfully), what I care about has changed too, now I deal with sun spots, new moles and post-inflammatory spots. I don't spend as much time under the sun as I used to and the zits don't occupy my whole entire face anymore.

It was at the beginning of this year that I realized just how many new brown spots I've acquired - either from time spent in the sun or left behind by zits. I went out in search of products that would help get rid of those complexion dulling spots.

This spot eraser was one of the products that ended up in my shopping cart. I've been using this for 1 month now and I can say that I am quite pleased with the results. As with most skin products, it takes time to work but within a matter of weeks, I saw a lightening of my spots and a more even tone surrounding those spots.

After 1 month of daily usage, I saw a gradual fading of those pesky spots and a general correction of my skin tone. The post-acne marks fade quicker than the sun spots but an overall visible improvement is what I got and that is something my wiser, older self is always grateful for.

Get the Lancome NeuroWhite X3 Whitening Spot Eraser 30ml/1oz for US$88.50 at Strawberry.net.

Chronicles Of Never Double Front Tee

2009-06-25T03:01:57Z

Simple, plain tees are an essential in every wardrobe. They pull double duty - you can dress them up or down, with blazers or shorts, leather shoes or flip-flops. They are easy to throw on for those low-maintanence, less tedious weekend.

That said, it will help if your tee shirt comes with its own unique sliver of detail that takes the work out of bothering to add detail or a personal stamp. I like the simple, easy double neckline detail. It speaks without needing to try too hard.

This would look great with jeans, shorts, tailored pants. Dressed up or down. The viscose fabric makes this soft, stretchy and comfortable. Like a good tee shirt should. I see myself in this and now the next question is, navy or black?

Get the Navy and Black version for US$98 at Blackbird.

Dolce & Gabbana Organza-Trim Poplin Shirt

2009-06-24T03:34:17Z

I have this CK Calvin Klein shirt that I forgot I bought and had a couple of weeks ago. I wore it out one day and sent it to the dry cleaner's the next day. When I got my shirt back; to my horror - the collar, cuffs, underarms were all yellow. I thought the shirt the shirt was a lost cause and I set out to buy another white shirt to replace that. I found a great one at Emporio Armani with contrast trims.

Which leads to the realization that I have a thing for trims. I think they are an easy, clean way to provide color and detail while maintaining an appreciated subtlety. Which explains why I am drawn to this shirt.

The black organza trim on this white cotton shirt packs a quiet hit of punch and detail that will work with both work and play situations. A classic contrast that will not go out of style, this is a sure-fire way to inject some detail to a regular work shirt and pants combo.

I am also digging the white second button that stands out among the sea of grey-striped buttons. Another sliver of detail that brings a sleekness to this shirt.

Get this for US$495 at Bergdorf Goodman.

Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunblock Lotion, SPF 60

2009-06-23T08:55:20Z

Summer is officially here and frankly, with everything that happened in the economy and all the uncertainty, having a season where people are generally happier and the mood in the air is relatively lighter and relaxed is much needed.

For all the Summer trips that you guys will be taking, packing sunblock should be one of your prerequisites. And at the end of the day, it's really not just because UV rays cause wrinkles and brown spots but also because it's the smart thing to do for your health and quality of life.

I have sensitive skin and whenever the climate changes or when I am stressed, my skin show the first signs of my body's reaction to my surroundings and my state of mind. So some of my usual products will start stinging and burning and that includes my regular sunblock.

As such, I was in the market for something really gentle and simple and what better place to look than the baby section? I picked this up at the store when I was having a reaction to my Banana Boat sunblock and its made-for-baby formula was just what I needed.

Not only does this offer ample broad spectrum protection, this also is water-proof, sweat proof, oil free and hypoallergenic. My skin's sensitivity to my previous sun block was a thing of the past and this has become one of my staples.

Perfect for delicate skin and for really sensitive individuals. If it's safe enough for a baby, it's safe enough for us adults. This natural formula goes on easily and I like not having to worry about forgetting to reapply when I sweat or when I decide to take a dip in the water.

And the best thing about this? It's extremely friendly-on-the-wallet price. Get the Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunblock Lotion, SPF 60+ (3 fl oz (88 ml) for US$10.99 at Drugstore.com.

Gucci Black Knotted Loafers

2009-06-22T02:09:12Z

We're in the midst of a recession and there is no better time to look for bargains. If you're out shopping for something; you might as well get it at the lowest possible price. Sale seasons are a great time for good bargains. Search well and you might be rewarded with a loot worth shouting about.

Loafers are evergreen and they go with pants, shorts, jeans. Which is why this pair from Gucci really caught my eye. Its simple, clean aesthetic is something I appreciate. No loud, ostentatious Gucci stamps or logos. Just visible stitching and a wonderful knotted detail across the middle vamp. Simple, classic and quiet.

I really like the knotted detail - it adds a dash of silver charm to this piece. The wooden heel adds a contrast that will look great dressed up or down. A handsome piece that will give you mileage for years to come.

Get this for ~~US$497~~ US$282 at Matches.

Thrifty Flavors: J. Fold Reverb Wallet

2009-06-21T11:25:49Z

I love lime green; I've found that it always spoke to me in one way or another. It is bright, eye catching, uncommon with a touch of loudness. Back when I was in junior high, I had a lime green money case. The Acrylic kind that you sling around your neck. I loved it and used it until it broke.

I haven't seen a lime green case like that ever since but this wallet caught my eye with its eye-popping lime green interior. The tiny oval, uniform cutouts reveal the bright interior giving this wallet both a hit of detail and color at the same time. It lends a modern edge to this leather piece.

The perforations on the middle interior add to the overall detail while the 8 card slots ensure ample space for all your essentials. I like how fresh this looks and its inexpensive price is a hit of fresh air too.

Get this for US$60 at Tobi.

Union J (Hong Kong)

2009-06-20T08:03:13Z

Located centrally at the bustling Lan Kwai Fong area, Union J is a chic establishment with a focus on New American cusine. What exactly is New American cusine? It's basically taking staples of American cuisine - like steak, chicken breast, sour dough bread and giving it all a little modern spin.

The open space concept gives an airy but yet rather intimate vibe. You see people walking and hear them talking but it's done in a way that won't distract you from your dinner guests.

I was taken to Union J on a Saturday night and aside from the great location, it was also a good start to the long night of partying. There were 4 of us and we each got appetizers, mains and desserts. The service was quick, efficient and prompt and our orders all arrived at the same time (which surprisingly, doesn't happen as often as it should).

My squid salad was fresh but it wasn't very special taste wise. I was expecting more of a kick. My dinner guests had the salmon starter and the steak tartare; both getting thumbs up.
We all had the rib-eye which safe to say, was the best dish of the night. A rather generous cut that was perfectly cooked and served with a side of duck-fat fries and Bearnaise mousse. That steak left me wanting more and so did the simple freshly baked sourdough bread. I am a huge fan of sourdough and the sourdough at Union J hit a spot. I could have gone for another plate of bread but I was sure that I would have to finish it on my own.

Dessert was satisfying - 3 of us had the 70% chocolate cake with salted pistachio ice cream. This chocolate cake with a liquid center synced harmoniously with the salted pistachio. A play with flavors - both sweet and salty and a play with texture and temperature - both warm and cold was appreciated all all of us.

Since only 3 of us ordered dessert, the staff brought over 2 scoops of berry-cheesecake ice cream served in a Chinese takeaway box for the calorie-concious member of our dinner group (he didn't have much of the ice cream but let's just say that there were other interested parties that made sure it didn't go to waste). It was a nice touch that showed how observant they were and we left with the feeling that it won't be our last time here.

1/F, California Tower, 30 D'Aguilar St., Central
Phone: +8522537-2368, Email: union.j@elite-concepts.com
Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-10:30pm, Sat 6pm-10:30pm