Mandarin Gallery Blog

Gone are the days where we can throw everything into a beat-up old trolley and expect to survive travel. With the ever-changing luggage regulations at the airports and your growing awareness that your backpacking days are over, the kind of travel accessories you choose to buy has become an important decision to make.

Ever mindful of the modern stylish traveller’s needs, Tumi presented a comprehensive Fall 2011 collection, where innovation meets indulgence. With seven ranges for women and four ranges for men, from lifestyle options to travel essentials, there is something for everyone who has ever been hit by wanderlust. Bringing together the rich, earthy colours of autumn, expect relaxed day bags, polished accessories and classic favourites.

For Men
When it comes to travel, there is nothing more classic than the suitcase. And you will be hard-pressed to find something as understatedly handsome as this trio from the Bedford collection. In addition to these utterly covetable hard cases, look out for the luxurious details and impeccable craftsmanship on each and every leather-trimmed piece in the collection.

Beautifully minimalist and refreshingly unadorned, the Kaden collection is perfect for the boy about town. Designed for modern living, these all leather day bags have clean, contemporary silhouettes and come in versatile Asphalt and Tan tones that work with all modes of dress. A surprising addition is the leather backpack, a simple and gorgeous essential every modern man will find functional in their day-to-day lives.

For Women
The ultra-lightweight and versatile Voyageur collection is a godsend for lone female travellers. Now available in two new colours, Port and Eucalyptus, you may also opt for a multi-coloured printed version that is strikingly attractive. Consisting of practical pieces like a small carry-on trolley, a roomy tote and a convertible backpack (for hands-free moments), packing light has never been easier.

Tumi has traditionally been known more for its luggage than for its small leather goods. However, with the expanded Seurat collection, a prim and polished accessories line, that may be about to change. Adding Eucalyptus, Fog, Coffee and a multi-coloured print to the palette, these ladylike wallets and travel clutches are much too pretty to pass up.

The Tumi Fall 2011 collection will be available at #01-16, Mandarin Gallery from end July 2011

You may have gotten your love of fashion from your mother but your well-dressed father was probably the one who taught you the value of quality and classic style. If your dad has impeccable taste and a penchant for the finer things in life, getting him a gift for Father’s Day can be a daunting task. A good rule to go by will be to hunt for something that is practical, well-made and aesthetically pleasing all at once. We assure you that the items on this gift guide ticked every one of the above boxes – they are perfect for the discerning older gentleman who likes his lifestyle with just a touch of luxury.

Bodum Chambord French Press
For true blue coffee lovers, 3-in-1 instant coffee satchets will never do. At the same time, modern coffee machines with too many buttons can also be off-putting for those who prefer a simple brew. This is where the classic French press coffee pot comes in – and Bodum’s Chambord is a true original that was designed in the 1950s. Still produced with the same flawless craftsmanship, the Chambord is the simplest way of brewing an excellent cup of coffee. The 0.35L makes three cups and is small enough to bring along on a trip.

The Bodum Chambord French Press (SGD58) is available at Jones the Grocer, #04-21/23, Mandarin Gallery

Tumi Vapor International Carry-On
The Tumi Vapor International Carry-On is a good-looking piece of cabin luggage that will make packing less of a chore. In addition to its sleek, ultra-modern design, it offers the protection of a sturdy hardside case that is surprisingly lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. Available in 5 colours, including an eye-catching city print, it is a high performing travel essential that will not cramp your style. Ideal for frequent travellers, the Tumi Vapor collection is a Travel + Leisure 2011 Design Award Winner for Best Luggage.

The Tumi Vapor International Carry-On now retails at SGD600 after a 25% discount at #01-16, Mandarin Gallery

Montblanc Meisterstück Atelier Snakeskin Wallet
While the exotic finish on this Montblanc Meisterstück Atelier wallet may intimidate a lesser man, it will definitely appeal to connoisseurs of luxury who like the occasional indulgence in decadence. Handcrafted by experienced artisans in Florence, the range boasts of impeccable workmanship. The original, beautifully vivid pattern of lustrous python skin makes these true investment classics.

The Meisterstück Atelier collection retails from SGD1080 to SGD1380 at Montblanc, #01-01, Mandarin Gallery

When it comes to bags, we all love our leather. Luxurious, supple and soft, it will always have a place in our hearts. Yet, there will be days when we feel like dressing down or just need something more practical that we can be a little rough with. This is where the ever user-friendly casual bags come in. Stain and water-resistant nylon and machine-washable canvas are perfect materials for such bags. Whether you are going to the gym or heading out for brunch and shopping after, these roomy carriers will serve you well. With their bright colours and quirky prints, they are also visually arresting eye candies that will sit very prettily on your arm (or shoulder). Going back to basics can be very stylish indeed.

Tumi Voyageur
The Tumi Voyageur range is a great for both travel and daily use. Made of lightweight but durable nylon, these bags come with just the right number of compartments to appease our OCD tendencies. Despite its numerous interior and exterior pockets, silhouettes remain sleek and modern without any sign of bulk. The quinessential shopper has everything you will want in an everyday shopper. Bright and cheery, it comes with sturdy leather carry handles and trim.

The Voyageur range can be found at Tumi, #01-16, Mandarin Gallery

Stella McCartney X Adidas Pack Away Bag
The Stella McCartney X Adidas collection may be one of the best designer collaborations to date and the Pack Away Bag (SGD89) from the latest collection is proof of its continuing appeal. A mid-sized nylon tote that is simple and understated, it folds up easily into a fraction of its size and fits nicely into an adorable owl pouch. Slip it into your handbag and pop it out for use whenever and wherever you may need it, be it to hold your shopping loot, gym gear or beach essentials.

The Pack Away Bag is available in red and blue at Adidas, #03-13, Mandarin Gallery

Marc by Marc Jacobs 10th Anniversary Canvas Tote
Has it only been a decade since Marc by Marc Jacobs first started delighting us with its wonderfully cute and youthful offerings? To celebrate 10 years of never growing older, MBMJ launched a limited edition capsule collection earlier in the year to reward fans for their unwavering support. In the midst of this retrospective collection of best-loved pieces from the cult label, you will find these fun canvas totes (SGD230) that proudly declare that ‘Marc by Marc Jacobs Is Ten!’ in a child-like scrawl.

Grab your MBMJ 10^th Anniversary totes at Marc by Marc Jacobs, #01-11, Mandarin Gallery

The Natas Travel Fair was held last weekend and you may have bagged yourself an incredible travel deal to a wonderful, far-flung location. While you are looking forward to your trip, why not give some thought to what you should be putting into your suitcase? Packing smart is about sieving out the frills and sticking to the essentials (although necessity is often subjective). Whether you are a music junkie or a foodie with a voracious appetite, these items will serve you well wherever you go.

For Boys
Apple Magic Mouse (from Green Light, SGD98)
A wireless mouse is a must-have for surfing on the go, be it at the airport or the local Starbucks – and no other looks as stunningly beautiful as Apple’s Magic Mouse with its shiny multi-touch surface.

Tumi Toiletries Case (from Tumi, SGD320)
Forget flimsy, unsightly zip-lock bags. This handsome toiletries bag from Tumi is made of practical, waterproof nylon so feel free to leave it next to the sink. It comes with a handy hook and clear plastic compartments for easy viewing of its contents.

Samsonite Convertible Travel Comfort Pillow (from Samsonite, SGD80)
Tired of uncomfortable, Economy Class plane rides? Bring along this well-designed travel pillow the next time you board and you will be sleeping soundly from take-off to touch-down. You can even adjust its shape and firmness with the drawstring pulls!

For Girls
X-Mini Hello Kitty Capsule Speakers (from Green Light, SGD79)
The X-Mini capsule speakers won the coveted reddot design award in 2008 with its innovative design that promises ‘sound beyond size’. It now comes in an ultra-cute, limited edition Hello Kitty version, which is perfect for pumping out your favourite tracks as you sit with a cocktail next to the pool.

Eat Me: The Journal (from .woodwould.., SGD30)
For the food-obsessed who travel to eat, this food journal is an absolute must to keep track of dining experiences, food memories and even beloved recipes. A hardy vinyl cover keeps it safe from food stains and wine spills.

Bvlgari sunglasses (from OJO Optometry, SGD850)
Round, over-sized sunglasses bestow their wearer with an instant glamour. Whether you are heading for a sultry beach vacation or a fast-paced city retreat, channel your inner Audrey Hepburn with these retro cream shades from Bvlgari!