The Modern Mr. Dandy

Definition: A refined man conscious of sartorial sensibilities, refined language and leisurely hobbies, pursuing these debonair qualities with the appearance of nonchalance in a cult of self. Be stylish, be cool, be Mr. Dandy. Based in Singapore. Contact me at [email protected] _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Join me at Bloglovin! _____________________________________________________ Independent Fashion Bloggers

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Dandy Fashion #06 - Goodbye Colour Blocking, Hello Prints!

Casual yet luxurious, I'm digging the various prints used for the collection! Most of the time, prints tend to either make you look fashion forward, flamboyant or just plain tacky. Seldom do you see the use of elegant prints for such an understated collection fit for the modern dapper gentlemen, stylish but not too fashion forward. But in the case of James Long's Spring Summer 2012 Collection, everything just seems so easy and casual without being over the top, even with print-on-print pairings. I for one am bidding color blocking goodbye and saying hello to prints in 2012! Optimistically approved by,

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All I wanna be is 'Skinny' Fit

Skinny Fit As a skinny tall guy who never seems to get fat (Yes, I can already hear people cursing at my complaint), I have over the years accepted my small lengthy frame and made it work. So while the guys flaunt their manly 'blown-up' chest and beautifully sculpted abs, I'm contented with my lean frame that I just wish was a little more muscular. All I wanna be is Skinny Fit. And below is what I call the 'Fit' Fit. 'Fit' Fit Credit: Conquistador Spring Summer 2012 Anorexically approved by,

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Backstreet Boys are back, Miu Miu style!

Kudos to Another Magazine for this wonderful illustration of the Miu Miu Spring / Summer 2012 Runway show that had me chuckling nonstop like a kid on sugar high. Before you knew it, I was subconsciously humming to the familiar tune that was unquestionably one of the biggest hits in the 90s. And yes, it feels like just yesterday that I spent an hour in front of the mirror perfecting the 'center parting' (otherwise commonly known as the curtain hairstyle) that had to be straight, flat, and symmetrically equally on both sides. I always knew the 90s will make a comeback, I just didn't expect it to be so soon. And by Miuccia Prada no lest. Nostalgically approved by,

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The Very Best of Versace for H&M Campaign Video I love you girl, but every time I look at Donatella, she still scares me a little. Whimsical, quirky and hinging a little on freaky, but I kinda like the eccentricity of it. Lanvin x H&M's campaign video still wins hands down though. Skeptically approved by,

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Victoria's Secret 2011/2012 Fashion Show

The headline "Adam Levine kisses girlfriend, Anne V at the end of the catwalk" greets me when I google for Victoria's Secret 2011/2012 in an attempt to catch up with some fashion news I've been missing out now.

From what I've seen on Youtube so far, I'm definitely psyched to catch the entire runway show on 29 November when it airs on CBS. 

Come on now, spread those wings and fly, angels!

Sexily approved by,

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Versace x H&M: Should I or Should I Not?

"Everyone needs a pink suit right, I mean who doesn't!", exclaimed my friend. That was her first reaction when she set eyes on the Versace x H&M Collection in the newspapers today. And I wondered, would I really want a pink suit if it wasn't because it's labelled "Versace x H&M"? 

For me, I actually did. In fact, I was practically scouring the web for the puurfect pink suit to adorn for my friend's wedding, but the impracticality of it pulled me away in the end. That said, I'm pretty sure many have their eyes on this gorgeous hot pink suit simply because of its label and before this, it never crossed their minds that 'Hey, a pink suit's actually quite dapper!'  With that comes the phenomenal where you are swamped by a cloud of 'pink people' (no pun intended) on the streets of Singapore all donned in this same suit just because it's Versace x H&M. 

That is one huge reason why I'm resisting really hard not to fall prey to temptation even though I really adore this monochromatic graphic shirt. Seeing the number of tweets and FB statuses going "OMG, this is love!!", "I'm soo gonna get this" just makes me wonder if I'm the only one afraid of being caught wearing the same thing as three other guys on the streets. 

Then again, these are some really exquisite apparels with Versace's signature style and design aesthetics. Has Versace x H&M convinced you enough to get your hands on the collection knowing that the chances of meeting someone with the same apparel is as high as 75%? Or is your strategy going to be just buying the not so iconic/recognizable yet sleek pieces from the collection?

Well, I definitely have yet decided mine. 

Practically approved by,

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Can someone say Meeeoooww?!! Brown Eyed Girls releases new music video - Sixth Sense, and I have to say, they have matured so much since their last hit single, Abracadabra. Sexier, raunchier and fiercer than ever! 

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This had me laughing my guts out throughout the entire minute. It might be stupid, but Lanvin sure scored when it comes to having me remember this campaign vid. I can't get it out of my head now.

Hilariously approved by, P.S: Please support and like my facebook page @ Mister Dandy. 

Much appreciated! 

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Fashion, a repercussion of Narcissism?

That was the first question that popped into my head when I saw this intriguing editorial spread by VMAN. What are we trying to prove when we adorn our favourite outfits and brave the harsh realities outside the four walls we call home?

Is it really just about making first impressions, or is it your way of loving yourself and showcasing that love to others? And if so, how much love it too much? Or is there even such a thing as loving yourself too much? What say you?

Check out the rest of the spread below. I especially love the close-up shot of model Jon Kortajarena in tears. Simple but intense. Now that's what I call modelling.

Narcissistically approved by, P.S: Please support and like my facebook page @ Mister Dandy. 

Much appreciated! 

(Credit: VMAN)

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Josh Harnett, you have been missed!

While we content ourselves with the blossoming of young hollywood actors from Dakota Fanning, Robert Pattinson to Daniel Radcliffe); and stellar performances by seasoned actors the likes of George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Leonardo Dicaprio and Johnny Depp, I can't help but miss a certain actor who felt out of the radar over the past few years.

No he ain't dead.

I'm talking about the sexy vegan whom I once swooned over - Josh Harnett.

You can imagine my surprise when I laid eyes on the September issue of Corduroy magazine, whose cover featured Josh Harnett looking as dandy as ever. Granted he does look like he put on a few pounds, but in my opinion, no harm was done to his boyish charms and captivating small eyes.

As much as fashion is about pushing boundaries and taking risks, I do appreciate dressing down in t-shirts and jeans on a casual day out. But of course, without any 'additional help', one is left with his innate personality and appearance to make a good first impression.

I know I sound curt, but it's reality. But if you look anything like Josh Harnett, then you have abso-fuckin-lutely nothin' to worrry about! Enjoy the wonderful editorial spread photographed by Peter Ash Lee and styled by Adrianne Tunney.

You can also read the interview with Josh Harnett at The Fashionisto.

Innocently approved by, P.S: Please support and like my facebook page @ Mister Dandy. 

Much appreciated! 

Credit: Corduroy Magazine / The Fashionisto.

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Understanding the Fashion / Culture of the Lil' Red Dot Folks

It was definitely my honor when the guys at Lilreddotfolks approached me to discussed about a possible feature on their fashion blog that showcases the "everyday folks rocking their personal styles" in the Lil' Red Dot nation we call Singapore.

Short of sounding a little snobbish, I do believe that "Style transcends labels and no amount of luxury goods can ever replace it!" I might not be the most stylish individual in town, but I'm pretty sure you would agree that piling on labels doesn't equate to style.

You can read more about the interview at Lilreddotfolks.

Now, whoever says Lilreddotfolks (ala SIngaporeans) only understand flip-flops and board shorts? But I have to agree, sometimes the weather is so ridiculously hot/humid that even I find it cumbersome to dress up only to end up soaked in sweat. 

(Credit: Lilreddotfolks)

Honorably approved by,

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Fred Perry Autumn Winter 2011 Origami Blank Canvas Collection - Sartorial Essentials with a Twist

Though polo tees aren't my first priority when it comes to selecting / pairing my outfits lately, I got to give Fred Perry credit for its Autumn Winter 2011 Origami Blank Canvas Collection that had me do a double take when I laid eyes on it. 

Apart from the obvious influences of Japanese origami - from the cherry blossoms, polka dots to the traditional Japanese fan, I'm actually more intrigued about the way the polo tees seem to frame one's shoulder to make it look broader and wider. For someone who has ridiculously narrow shoulders, I would do anything for broader looking shoulders! 

Still kinda into the whole floral craze right now, it's no surprise I'm lusting over the blue floral shirt. But of the two polos, I would definitely go for the one with the traditional Japanese fan print! Polka dots are too overrated, doncha think?

Selfishly approved by,

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DSquared2 Resort 2012 Menswear Collection

Having fell off the grid over the past two weeks where my fashion cravings were substituted with daily doses of tv dramas, what greets me when I check back in is DSquared2's Resort 2012 Menswear collection.

Though not a brand I usually embrace given my quirky fashion preferences, the opulent use of colour fused with DSquared2's rugged chic style appealed to the innate masculinity I never knew I possessed. But of course, I'm not about to start stocking up on cargo pants and bomber jackets.

Check out the dandy pieces I think is the perfect concoction of ruggedness + fashion from DSquared2's Resort 2012 Menswear Collection. Pay special attention to the gorgeous multi-hued jacket and incredibly sexy short shorts. On second thought, the sleek vest and shirt combo paired with a cargo shorts is absolutely dapper!

Dazedly approved by,

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(Credit: F.Tape)

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I never fail to be amazed at how some individuals find time to maintain an insightful blog amidst a busy work schedule. I for one am swarmed with work, school and trying to have a decent social life outside of all that.

For now, I content myself with new tunes by 2NE1 to perk myself up.  

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Dandy Fashion #05 - Play it cool or Risk it All. (Part 2/2)

Continued from previous entry..."four rather underrated labels have come to my attention with their unique takes on the modern dandy..."

I played it cool in PART ONE of this two-part entry with contemporary and slightly quirky classics by Surface to Air and Jonathan Saunders' Spring Summer 2012 Collection. If you are one who doesn't play by Fashion 101s and/or know no gender boundaries, now it's time to risk it all and live on the edge with avant garde apparels by SixLee and Juun J. 

Part Two: Fashion Deconstructed

From oddly stylish half-cut suits to what looks like one-quarter of a sweater stitched to a sharp checkered suit, Six Lee's imagination runs amok as he fuses the whimsical flair of one's unconscious state of mind (dreams) into the sensibility of the real world. 

The must-have of the collection? I would pick the sleeveless suit. Not only is it the most practical of the lot (given the ridiculous heat waves during summer), it's one that is edgy yet incredibly sleek and doesn't look too far-fetched. 

With his models seemingly stepping out from a time machine, Juun J impresses with his futuristic vision fused with a tinge of inspiration from the 70s. From the crafty cape-like vest and lopsided U-shaped shirt; right down to the pentagon-shaped footwear, I admit this is not a style many can handle.

One might end up like a clown with just one tiny mistake in the entire outfit, much like my Harry Potter inspired ensemble. But if you are up for it, ready yourself to be the centre of attention because I'm pretty damn sure you will be. At least in the Singapore context. 

Riskily approved by,

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Dandy Fashion #05 - Play it cool or Risk it All. (Part 1/2)

Having written about the classic 60s suits by Banana Republic, bold work attires of neon hues and fashion forward interpretations of the dapper gentlemen's sartorial style by the likes of Acne, Givenchy and Vivienne Westwood for Spring Summer 2012, four rather underrated labels have come to my attention with their unique takes on the modern dandy. 

In this two-part entry, we have on one extreme two contemporary labels that offer chic and elegant apparels albeit with a modern twist; while on the other, two innovative labels that pushes the limits with edgy and unconventional garbs for the bona fide fashionista. 

Part One: The Contemporary Dandy

Exuding a casual and laid-back vibe, Surface To Air's Spring Summer 2012 collection finds inspiration in the relaxation and tranquility of summer days. From earthy khaki-brown hues to pops of orange, red and blue, the collection offers a wide variation of apparels that can see through the day from work to leisure. For a man who loves to keep it simple, you have your answer.

On the other hand, if you are man who is up for some quirky twists to the classic shirt and pants combo you adorn everyday, try Jonathan Saunders' Spring Summer 2012 Collection. Live a little and embrace bold prints toned down by its muted hues and clean tailored lines. I for one am digging the half-gradient shirts and especially the neon-blue suit.

Stay tuned for the second-half of this two-part entry.

Contemporarily approved by,

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The day Harry Potter prevailed against darkness...

Pardon me for vanishing into thin air for the past couple of days. Work and school has been taking a toil on me, and all I felt like doing every night was to cuddle in bed, watch re-runs of 'Charmed' and sleep for 10 hours straight. Now that I'm feeling much better, let's get down to it and catch up with the fast-moving fashion industry that churns out apparels faster than we can buy them.

In lieu of Harry Potter's worldwide premiere today (GMT+), here's a glimpse of what went down in my office on our 'Theme Fridays' for the month of July. Since it's not Halloween and it was a work day afterall, we settled on a realistic theme - 'Hogwarts School of Fashion', where magic meets fashion!

Here's a full frontal shot of my entire outfit. And yes, a pair of black boots or brogues would have been much better. On that note, I need to stock up on more shoes, shoes, shoes!

Magically approved by, P.S: Please support and like my facebook page @ Mister Dandy.  Much appreciated!