Men’s fashion is evolving. Fast. Fashion week events devoted solely to men’s fashion will soon commence; from London, Milan to Paris. For those who are dedicated to looking their best, in such event or even in everyday life,  there are innovative ideas and styles, with on-trend tailoring, shades and patterns to complement any wardrobe. For formal functions, there is the three-piece suit.

The three-piece suit for men, complete with tie, will always be a staple of men’s formal wear. Most people find the three piece suit suggestive of power, intelligence and importance. Internationally popular TV programs and films often portray their main characters wearing suits, series such as Criminal Minds, NCIS, Bones, and CSI which showcase the uppermost in science, technology and law enforcement use the emotive nature of a well tailored suit to highlight the powerful, trustworthy or intellectual nature of their characters. Talkshow hosts, news readers and TV presenters have always sported expensive suits for the same reason.

This season Duchamp’s collection is dominated by three pieces suits and features modern slimline tailoring, flat front trousers and kissing buttons on the cuffs. Teamed with a luxury tie and crisp shirt, the outfit is likely to project professionalism, confidence, intelligence and trustworthiness.

As is natural, most men aspire to improve their life in some way, whether through promotion, impressing a future partner, getting a new job, or just gaining the respect of their colleagues or peers. Investing in the right suit can be as important as passing exams or developing skills, and should be seriously considered.

Summer is here! At least it feels like it here in the Philippines. Soon the whole northern hemisphere will be officially under the spell of the Summer sun. Start building your wardrobe now in preparation for the sunshine – especially if you’re off on holiday early on in the season.

With spring/summer fashions starting to filter into the shops, it’s easy to pick up all that you need to build a summer capsule wardrobe. Ramp it up for the summer with some chino shorts, tees and summer shoes – but which style and designs to choose?

Chino Shorts

Chinos are a big trend, and chino shorts are set to overtake classic denim for spring/summer 2013. You’ll find simple chino shorts in navy at George for just £10 – ideal for wearing with nautical trend breton stripe tops or a crisp white polo shirt for a preppy look. Or, for something a bit different, choose chino shorts in berry, which will pair perfectly with grey.

Graphic Tees

The graphic tee is a big trend story this year, but choose muted designs rather than brights. The South Dean Street collection at George has some great casual designs, in navy, grey, black, off white and muted ‘spice’. Add some cool hoodies and sweaters to enable you to wear your summer wardrobe early – grey marl and faded purple are good colour choices. You’ll also find easy pull-over or zip up tops ideal for summer evenings.

Boat Shoes

The boat shoe is big news this year, and provides the perfect alternative to sandals which, let’s face it, aren’t the most flattering look on a man. Wear casual leather boat shoes in navy or tan with navy chino shorts and a polo shirt for a stylish look that will work for day and night.

Swim Shorts

If you’re off on holiday then you’ll need a pair of new swim shorts. Stripes are the obvious choice for swimwear this year. Go for navy and white for a nautical look or choose zesty lime if brights are more your thing. Whether you’re a short shorts man or a bermuda style kinda guy, as long as you steer clear of the speedos, you’re sure to look great on the beach or round the pool.

Don’t let summer creep up on you. Start investing in the latest new season styles and you’ll have an amazing wardrobe to choose from when the sun finally shows its face.

Images from ASDA.COM

Boots are a staple shoe in any fashionista’s wardrobe, possibly because of their extreme versatility. From the rugged country style look to boots boasting an equestrian air, the choices are endless.

Boots are ideal for the chilly weather – they keep the feet warm while complementing a stylish ensemble. They can even also make summer dresses and skirts that little bit more wearable on cooler days. When worn with skinny jeans, they add a certain polish to an otherwise low-key outfit, enabling them to work for both day and night.

Of course, these are just two examples of the multiple ways to wear them and the following guide will help you get to grips with getting the most out of your footwear.

Over-the-knee boots

Over-the-knee boots are the ideal option throughout the winter months. For best results, pair with statement skinny jeans, trench coats or alternatively, for a more casual style, wear them tucked away under bootleg trousers.

High heeled boots

As well as flat boots, high-heeled variants are extremely popular for 2013. Wear with both full skirts and fitted numbers; allowing the hem to finish below the top of the boot when wearing a wider skirt and just above the hem when wearing fitted attire.

Contemporary boots

Ankle boots with a chunky heel, such as rocket dog boots, have the power to create a contemporary twist. Opt for a fur-trimmed boots for the winter months and team with skinny jeans. When the sun begins to shine, swap the fur trim for the ‘of-the-moment’ studded style. A lower cut boasts a flattering style whilst the more solid heel makes them great walking shoes.

Flat boots

Flat equestrian boots can be worn throughout the day. They are easy to pull on and off, and despite showcasing a more casual look, their leather make-up stills allows for an edge of sophistication – for the ultimate in riding style, team them with jodhpurs or high-waisted leggings.

Coco Chanel once said, ““Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

At 1:14 on a fine Wednesday near Kuching, with a view north to the South China Sea, I am writing this short piece. The horizon where sea meets sky forms a gentle arc that is so wide that it cannot be taken in one glance. The lapping of the waves and the caress of the breeze is tranquility itself. The mountain behind seemingly touches the few white buds of clouds under the warm blue sky.

The skyscrapers of The Big Apple are engaging, encouraging one to gaze upward in wonder at every opportunity. New York flights from Singapore may be long and tiring; it is half a world away. But once I set my feet in The Big Apple, I feel high-spirited. It’s dynamism is compelling, just as its tall buildings.

The New Palace in Sanssouci Park, Potsdam Germany speaks poetically. Domes, gilded eagles, statues and figures adorn the palace. It’s Prussian architecture is absolutely majestic as befits its creator, Frederick the Great.

It is a marvelous experience that for the past year I have been able to travel and to be inspired not just by clothes, but also with nature and human creations.

Images via Instagram.

We stayed at Shinta Mani while we were in Siem Reap. The newly invigorated upscale boutique is designed by Bill Bensley, one of Architectural Digest’s Top 100 Architects and Interior Designers. This classy boutique houses 39 contemporary guest rooms and public spaces inspired by the ancient Khmer temples of Angkor Wat, a magnificent structure found in the city of Siem Reap. Each guest room is complete with modern facilities and minimal interiors, complemented with artwork showcasing Angkor Wat.

Shinta Mani’s amenities include Kroya, a restaurant which provides diners a selection of modern interpretation of classic Khmer cuisine, Benley’s Bar and The Pool Bar which serve a variety of drinks and snacks, Shinta Mani Spa that offers both traditional Khmer healing rituals and modern therapies and Blackboard, a room for business meetings and small conferences.

Shinta Mani is located at the junction of Oum Khun and 14th Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is close to temple complex, Old Market, cafes, bars and the riverfront.

This boutique hotel is also the platform for the realization of one of the goals of The Shinta Mani Foundation, a charitable organization founded by the owner of the hotel, which is to provide education to selected students. Classes are held at The Development Center located within the establishment.

Thank you to the friendly and helpful staff and management of the Shinta Mani hotel for the great accommodation. I highly recommend the hotel to travelers to Siem Reap.

Styling : Don Protasio
Clothes from Spring/Summer collection of Don Protasio ( except pink maxi dress )
Model : Srey Pov

Watch a short film featuring Shinta Mani hotel below: