Tutorial: Denim Care & Tips

Here we have an interesting feature episode on denim by Put This On, which includes extremely valuable tips on denim care as well as a few basic guidelines on codes of dressing for men. This is one of the few rare clips available online that has a focus on men's fashion. It's released as "episode one", which probably means that there should be more to come. Let's hope for episode two.

Oh Men, you should really watch this.

Tutorial: Smart Casual Dress Guide for Men

I'm not really complaining, but seriously, there's still some room for improvement in the dressing of men I view on the streets. Before you start getting me wrong, let me clarify that the average fashion sense in the local gents has indeed inclined over the years (we don't spot pointed combs sneaking out of the blue denim straight-cut jeans' back-pockets now, do we?). Even upon saying that, the traditional in-built instinct of donning on a polo top with a pair of jeans and covered shoes in most when someone announced a smart casual dress code to adhere to, seems to be getting on the nerves of fashion. It doesn't have to be heavy jeans all the way, which most locals seem to have no problems with even in the intense heat of tropical summer climate throughout the year. Light-material chinos and khaki pants are some of the variety in options our men might consider adopting. For a smarter look that is even good for your dress-down Fridays, opt for slim fit cuts in place of those baggy versions. That way, you'd appear to be THE guy whom the ladies would do anything to have a drink next to you at the bar later at night while the rest of the gang of guys with polos and jeans can sit down and envy their night away while pondering what really went wrong.

Here's a quick video guide from GQ on easy smart casual dressing ideas for men with pieces from H&M and Gap. You may drop the cotton jacket if you like, in the context of the local "you siao ah?!" society acceptance policy of men donning jackets and suits other than for formal, business and wedding purposes.

Tutorial: Tips on Getting Jet-Set

School holidays are coming, while the heat and humidity are both set to stay for the coming summer months. So what do you do? You travel. You get out of your comfort (or rather discomfort due to the intense heat) zone and plan for a nice holiday abroad. Nobody says a good vacation has to be one that's two weeks long at some far-away exotic destination, it's all about good planning and meaningful activities. A nice getaway over the weekend sounds nothing less than what a simple man (or lady) deserves and desires for.

So you go ahead and plan, arrange and purchase tickets and hotel reservations (check). You will source for travel insurance just to feel that sense of security amidst the impending global flu outbreak (check). You will pack all your necessities and gear nicely and neatly into a sizable travel luggage bag while maintaining style with lightweight convenience overseas (Hmm...I'm not too sure about that).

Fret not, here's some tips from Men Style on getting jet-set for that dream vacation that you'v sought so desperately after:

Tutorial: Valentine's Dining Choice

Valentine's Day is so excruciatingly close now, we hope most of you have confirmed your plans already. For those of you who are still dumbstruck without any plan in hand, bless you. However, do fret not as we've some interesting ideas for your consideration:

Mount Faber

Love is in the air, so there's no better place than to immerse yourself in the fresh atmosphere all the way at the top of Mount Faber! The Jewel Box has five distinct dining locations that are mostly alfresco to allow one to take in the surrounding breathtaking magnific scenery as well as to allow a vibrant nightscape lighting to be a backdrop for cosy evening dinners. Coming 14th February, The Jewel Box has special Valentine's Day packages available at all the five dining spots that boast gem-inspired menus from oriental to western. It is also the only place where it snows on Valentine's Day with a specially arranged Romantic 'Snow' Show! Do place your booking now to enjoy a picturesque sunset, grandeur gastronomy and a romantic night of passion over cocktails!

Rochester Park

Tired of over-bustling Dempsey Road? Try Rochester Park this year with serenity and intimacy greeting you at great dining spots that are converted from ex-colonial apartments. Boasting both al-fresco and indoor seating, make your pick from so many well-ambienced houses. In our opinion, One Rochester has a cosy decor and ambience that is inviting and upbeat. This Valentine's, One Rochester offers an exquisite dinner set for the standard couples as well as a sexy Garden itinerary that involves chocolate and champagne! Don't forget to drive there for convenience, and don't worry, your parking woes will be settled by the valet service provided.

Sentosa

Escape to one of the islands this Valentine's for romance by the sea! Fine sandy beaches, clear blue sea and a beautiful night ahead of you and your gorgeous date. Enjoy the day at Sentosa with its various attractions such as the Sky Tower and Skyride before ending it with a fine dinner by the sea. Be pampered by extravagant cuisine from restaurants like Braise and iL Lido as you refuel the physical day with delicate gastronomic fares. For the adventurous and financially well-endowed, you might want to end the night with intense passion at any of the hotel resorts found along the beach!

Have a Happy Valentine's Day! Enjoy!

Tutorial: Christmas Surprises!

We're just less than two weeks away before Santa comes riding with his favourite reindeers to distribute gifts. It's the festive season of giving and sharing! While most of us are already done with the arduous task of gift hunting, some are still wrecking their minds over what to give. For those of you who belong to the later category, you're in luck as MSR is going to be your personal shopper by sharing festive gift suggestions. Redemption is still not too late for you.

Scentimental Christmas

Christmas parties are just around the corner, you can help your loved ones to attend theirs in mesmerizing and fatally alluring scents. Nothing beats an unforgettable first impression when you meet someone at a party.

For Him: Prada Infusion d'Homme

Designed closely resembling the Prada Infusion d'Iris, this unique soapy scent is great for an overall clean feel with a light touch of florals and woody undertone. The nose behind this fragrance wanted the Infusion d'Homme men to smell as if they have used their girlfriends' soap to shower. Now this should be a safe, sophisticated yet intriguing choice for the well-groomed gentlemen who need their ladies feeling comfortable and assured with them over drinks.

(From $99 for 50ml)

For Her: Nina Ricci's L'Air du Temps

Sometimes you can judge one by its appearance, especially when it comes in an exquisite twin dove capped bottle! Nina Ricci's iconic L'Air du Temps should be a fine choice for this festive season as this youthful floral spicy fragrance will serve to instill a seductive sense of mystery within those who are able to get within your intimate scent zone. Get all pursuing men to chase after your scent trail this Christmas.

($137 for 100ml)

Gadgetry Christmas

Who goes around without a single device in hand these days? From the basic cellphones to the entertaining PSPs, you can't go too far wrong as there's definitely something for everyone this Christmas!

For Him: Apple Ipod Touch

With the highly-acclaimed multi-touch graphical user interface and powered by strong WiFi capabilities, this sleek device is no longer just a basic music player. In fact, the options are almost endless with all the 'app' widgets available. Ranging from Google Maps to Lonely Planet's Audio Phrasebook, this is probably the only dream gadget that men will ever require, less a phone and a camera that is. (No, we're not going with the iPhone as we don't think it is feasible)

(From $388 for 8GB model)




For Her: Philips LUXE Player

For the refined executive ladies who like class, simplicity and style. This jewel bodied player not only allows one to indulge in music, but also to engage in cellphone calls upon Bluetooth pairing. It can also double as a nice looking brooch that can be easily clipped onto outfits to provide for that extra boost of elegance. Best deal about this player is its humble price tag, now who says you can't buy class and style for less?


(from $139 for 2GB)



Theatrical Christmas

Film loving people always find a second life in the movies they watch, where they obtain new inspirations and meanings in life. Why not influence those who matter to you with your special choice of DVD movie this Christmas?

For Him: The Dark Knight

Possibly one of the best superhero film with a superb script this year, how can one ever miss the dandy Batpod that Batman commands and the convincing acting prowess that earned the late Heath Ledger a Golden Globe nomination recently as The Joker? Get your loved ones spiced up with this DVD for this will be one of the top DVDs to own this year. The night is darkest just before the dawn of Christmas.


($59.90 for 2-Disc DVD with Collector's Mask)

For Her: Mamma Mia!

A film presentation of the classic musical Mamma Mia!, this will bring utmost happiness to all with every one's favourite Abba tracks such as "Dancing Queen", "Voulez-Vous" and "Money, Money, Money" vocally performed by the cast! With the exception of Pierce Brosnan's singing, you should enjoy every single bit of the recent Golden Globe nominated Best Musical of the Year! Bring joy to those who receive this DVD from you, and they will thank you for the music!


(from $29.90 for DVD box set)

Tutorial: Nip the Heat

WORDS MUHU SON DESIGN/EDITORIAL MUHU SON