Bag It Up
The perfect gift for him (or her), Danier’s distressed leather weekender has your next cottage getaway written all over it. Check out the contrasting textured bands with rivet detail and note the adjustable shoulder strap for maximum comfort. ($249, danier.com)
Love Bug
Toronto-based handbag designer Sarah Shell has a degree in biology. Studying what makes the opposite sex tick did her well because her line, 442 McAdam, is reflective of what the modern man needs to get from point A to B. Canadian-made from zipper to zipper, these bags build on her experience working for luxury brands like Gucci. Expect nothing but top quality with Italian Pigskin that creates timeless appeal. ($490, 442mcadam.com)
Minimal Masterpiece
Ken Chow as a visual artist before he decided to jump ship and jump into fashion design. His Krane bags have a stark minimalism that makes his creations more about construction and quality rather than just another overpriced bag. This duffle, in soft but durable washed leather, is ideal for any man navigating the urban jungle. ($805,kranedesign.com)
Call of Duty
“Assault jewellery” is the most under-rated trend for 2011. Confused? Don’t be. Stock up on necklaces or knuckle rings with classic battle weapons: knives, guns, swords – the battlefield’s the limit. We love the Blade Runner and Silver Bullet pendants by Soos Rocks. These stainless steel statement pieces are the perfect gift for the fashion-forward male. But don’t fight him for it: war is never the answer. (starting at $45, soosrocks.com)
The X Factor
Australian line Tori XO is a mix of beach finds washed up onto shore and Parisian flea market bargains that create spectacular styles (by hand) crafted from sterling silver. We adore this chain-linked necklace that leaves one thing to be desired: one of your very own. ($650, torixo.com)
Bang On
Bracelets, bangles, cuffs – whatever you call them, we want you to wear them. Mixing colours and textures creates visually-popping accent pieces that will make your little back dress look a little less basic. These enamel bangles by Hermès are the spring staple with a slick, finished texture. Top them off with Erin Tracy’s sea-inspired silver and acrylic bracelets and you’ve got a perfect 10. (starting at $70, erintracydesigns.com; $275 hermes.com)
Wrist Worthy
In the watch world, ceramic is the metal of the moment. Enter Rado, the Swiss brand that’s introducing the next evolution of the luxury timepiece. Our favourites include the Sintra Multifunction, and r5.5 chronograph, both made with high-tech ceramics, sapphire crystal, and featuring a Quartz movement. They are perfect entry-level, envy-inducing luxury buys. (starting at $2,900, rado.com)
From North Carolina, The Bernhardt Watch Company’s Binnacle Anchor looks as good by the lake as it does at the office. Limited to 500 pieces, indulge in exclusivity with a heavy stainless steel case and bracelet and a scratchproof sapphire crystal bezel. It’s also water-resistance up to 200m thanks to a screwed-down crown and case-back. The ultra-dependable Japanese automatic movement winds itself on your wrist, removing the need for a battery — the future is about simplicity. ($199, bernhardtwatch.com)
