So basically I knew about it weeeeeeks ago (ahead of the rest of ‘em “style” journalists out there) but was not allowed to say a word because organizer Dr. Frank Cintamani had begged me to keep my mouth shut (I was privy because I’m cool that way): The lineup for the inaugural Men’s Fashion Week (Mar 30-Apr 3) has just been announced, with commercial headliners including Hugo Boss (opening night), Etro, Versace, Canali and Shanghai Tang (closing night) showing alongside more unexpected labels such as Japanese streetwear mavens A Bathing Ape and Dresscamp. More brands will be revealed over the next couple of weeks (I hear Prada might come on board if overseas management gives the green light), but judging from the lineup, it’s going to be a fun hodgepodge of a show (Frank is also trying to incorporate live musical acts into some of the presentations); stay tuned for updates over the next few weeks.
Other menswear related news: Louis Vuitton has just revealed its Men’s Spring/Summer 2011 worldwide advertising campaign, featuring Pan-Asian model Godfrey Gao as the “face,” as well as its signature bag for the season, the Elvis Damier Graphie bag (nothing to do with the king of rock ‘n’ roll though). Now I’m not such a bag man, but this baby comes with exquisite back cotton lining, leather trimming, silver finishing and lots of storage space for laptops and files—perfect for all fast-paced PMEBs. Also, it comes only in classic black. Hold on to your horses though, the bag won’t drop until March (so we suggest you start saving up now), just in time for Men’s Fashion Week.
Style, however, is not all about clothes or accessories these days. For those who entertain at home a lot, the latest Absolut Vodka 72 Bian is a must. The limited-edition bottle is designed by contemporary Chinese artist Gao Yu and features a hip, modern interpretation of the Monkey King motif. Only 72 bottles will be available in Singapore (I happen to have one of the 72, naturally) and will be released on Jan 26, 7pm at fabrika at klapsons The Boutique Hotel. These collectibles are priceless, literally, as they’re not for sale, but are complimentary when you purchase two bottles of regular Absolut Vodka at the venue. Mark your calendars now.