SINGLETONMEETSHORSLEY

When you want to drop a bomb in a bomber. One man. Miko Spinelli!

by horsley owen Posted on April 25, 2013

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So it was never going to have anything to do with any World War was it ? Nor a Lancaster bomber for that matter, even though saying that, this brand in my opinion has a similar impact to what a Avro Lancaster would have had on the public back in the 1940’s.
The main man behind these ornate bomber jackets is none other than Miko Spinelli, a London based Fashion and Music artist. Unfortunately can you, the reader, refrain from any comments asking in regards to his music because to be truthful, now I don’t know whether its the fact I work full time, drink far to much, or am just plain stupid but I have no idea or knowledge of his music. Only fashion!!

His approach to design makes everything in his collection a strong fashion statement, not to mention a jaw dropping product. It appeals to all fashion lovers, if your thinking about heading down the pub and having everyone look at you then these are definitely something you want to consider. Not for the faint hearted, yet all the more reason to wear one and truly express your uniqueness.

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The designer Miko Spinelli carefully picks an array of exceptionally well decorated fabrics. The fit has been said to be contemporary making each and every piece unique in its own right. Putting on something like this is more like wearing art instead of just a jacket. Fashion at it’s best!

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Now getting your hands on one, that isn’t the simplest affair. I know I know, after seeing a few of his pieces you want one! It doesn’t actually state wait time as far as I’m aware but it’s certainly no next day delivery. Respectively, a massive shame. Last but not least, price, coming in at a healthy £325 for a older design and slightly more basic fabric then moving swiftly upwards to £450 for their latest fabrics! A small price to pay for a truly mind blowing item of clothing.

They do hats to match readers, at a more reasonable £29, you’ve got to start your Miko Spinelli collection somewhere right ?

Miko Spinelli strongly feels the arts as a mean to inspire and better our world.

Posted in Fashion | Leave a comment

Baume & Mercier – Elégant, clasic et pas seulement un joli visage, et ce n’est pas moi, je fais référence à!

by singleton jack Posted on April 14, 2013

Well, that’s a long time since I’ve put my secondary school French into use. I thought, as they speak the lingo in Switzerland, why not. I think i got it right. And it’s true. Baume & Mercier watches aren’t just stunning to look at, their darn good time pieces too. This one cast before you the, Classima 10037, is as good as they come. Swiss made, 18K rose gold and with one of Florida’s finest Alligators for the leather bracelet, nothing says masculinity as much as this example.

Perfect douche bag quote: “I’m wearing £2ks worth of one of the most exclusive watch brands in Europe and a beast that has conquered the Jurassic period and still ruling the world, for the minute anyway”. (Perhaps don’t say that to any PETA members any time soon though!)

This next one takes my eye, the Hampton 10033. Just look at it. I’ve got thin wrists, so I wouldn’t want to slap a huge face on them and look like I could be walking around with “Big Ben”. The shape is complementary to not only my wrists but, exquisite to analyse.

Perfect douche bag quote: “What’s the time you say? Time you got a watch. Hang on, no, it won’t be as good as mine, don’t bother”.

And finally, I thought I better mention this one. The Capeland 10006. Christ there’s a lot going on there. What’s that a Tachymeter? A Flyback function as well, that’s handy. I don’t even know what a Telemeter is, but I’m sure it’s worthwhile. There’s so much going on with its face, it looks reminiscent of Jodie Marsh,(Google her if in doubt) but, all the while, its money.

Perfect douche bag quote: “Hmmm, yeah, right, exactly. So, what do you think of my watch anyway? I did show you didn’t I but, seeing as your here, lets go over it again…”

Images all courtesy of Baume & Mercier, and Jodie, no hard feelings!

Posted in Accessories, Fashion, Watches | Tagged Baume & Mercier, capeland, classic, Classima, douche bag, elegant, geneva, hampton, Quality, swiss, Timepiece, Vintage, Watch | Leave a comment

Get one of these under you belt, or is that on your trousers?- Andersons Belts

by singleton jack Posted on April 1, 2013

Ok, I’ll keep it short and sweet. Need a belt? Worried you may be losing weight or gaining some pounds in no time? Concerned in buying an expensive, designer belt but, see that you’ll only wear it a handful of times? I have an answer. Or so to speak Anderson’s do.

Yes, since 1966 they’ve been supplying hand made, premium belts that not only look good but, can see you through 3 different waist sizes, should you eat a little too much or get that liposuction you desperately wanted (don’t worry, I’m not referring to you!).

So, what are you? A 34″ waist usually? Buy yourself a 36″ waist. Reason? The woven textile strap is adjustable to 2″ down from that size and 2″ up from that. Simply fix in place with the steel buckle and there you go. At £60 RRP each, these are at a fairly reasonable price and come in many colours and styles to choose from. Considering these could last most of your lifetime, maybe it’s worth not worrying about your waist band for a little while.

Posted in Accessories, Fashion, Menswear | Tagged accessories, Andersons, Belt, cool, Fashion, italy, Menswear, palma | Leave a comment

Trainers are in this summer, but let’s step out of the box a little. Get it? Step.

by horsley owen Posted on March 24, 2013

I would never begin to disagree with current trends, peoples views, or try and say this is better than that, or that is better than this. No denying trainers are certainly ‘in’ this summer and there’ll be a nice statement granted. With great releases from Nike, Adidas, Puma and so on it leaves you, the customer, plenty to choose from. Be sure to check out all the vintage range releases from most of the big names, these will certainly keep you looking fresh.
Anyway the picture above is a pair of loafers right? Yes of course it is, and why might you ask? I don’t know about you but for an example I’m going to a wedding this summer and I will not be turning up in a pair of limited edition nike air max 1 pattas however nice they may be. It doesn’t just need to be a wedding either to rock such stylish footwear!

Such footwear is completely in my opinion underestimated, people think a shoe like that is far to smart for a trip to the shops or not the kind to turn up to the beach in, now let me tell you, thats where your extremely wrong, this is by far something you need to be doing what with tailored shorts being a big hit for 2013 and short sleeve shirts exceptionally on the rise, pair all of that with a loafer and i’d have to say your pretty much on your way to looking like a stylish and sophisticated bloke and you’ll definitely stand out from all your other friends wearing lets not forget, good old deck shoes.
What with there being plenty of style’s to choose from on the market your left spoilt for choice, I’d personally say the classic leather design is more evening than day wear and certainly what’s in for this summer is suede, now all thats left for you to decide is price and colour.
The right pair wont come cheap, take the Grenson Marcel seen above retailing at a healthy £180 and can be purchased direct from them. I’ll say one thing, you get what you pay for!

Next a little bit lower down the budget is the Hudson Tyskatu coming in at a much more affordable £85.
Then finally at the bottom of the price range is a pair exclusive to TOPMAN and its the House of Hounds ‘Alfred’. Plenty of colour selection and at £65 they’ll hardly break the bank but I’d be surprised if they lasted longer than a summer!

So there you have it, a nice selection of rather stylish loafers to keep you looking smart throughout the summer. You’d be nothing more than a fool if you passed this look up for 2013! You can thank me later when your getting more looks than Pamela Anderson in a bathing suit.

Posted in Fashion, Footwear, Menswear, Retro/Vintage, Tips | Tagged 2013, Fashion, Footwear, Geezer, Getting it right, Menswear, Suede, Vintage | Leave a comment

Have you started reinventing your Spring/Summer Wardrobe yet? Maybe nows a good time to, with some of these sizzling pieces.

by singleton jack Posted on March 8, 2013

Its rather depressing to think that were still months away from a bit of sun. Glorious sunshine on the beach, long evening BBQ’s and the smell of a freshly cut lawn drifting effortlessly everywhere you walk. Christ, who am I kidding??! As I speak to you now its near on torrential rain, miserably grey and theres a distinct smell of mum’s beef stew filling the house. No doubt, this is whats going to stay till mid September, I’m sure of it.

Sure, none of this you probably relate to but, most of you Yanks have all the best of the weather and us pasty Brits resent that. We spend hundreds, if not thousands, filling our wardrobes with the best spring/summer pieces. Chino shorts, nautical tees and polos, preppy sunglasses, deck shoes and espadrilles, the list goes on. The fact is, we won’t wear these more than a handful of times at best, if we can’t get away, because of blighty’s awful, unpredictable forecasts.

So, how can I encourage my Anglo brothers and sisters to invest in new pieces for this year? I sure am making it hard to sell so far. Well, look at these pieces we’ve carefully selected below. All new for spring/summer 2013, all versatile in their look, whether thats at home or abroad.

Lets start from the top to bottom.

ILLESTEVA – LEONARD ROUND-FRAME ACETATE SUNGLASSES

Lets face it, round sunglasses never go out of fashion. Since the early 1900’s, young American preppy’s have embraced them for their simplistic design, but remarkable style. Look at these shown above. “Beautiful” in one word. A massive investment and will last as long as you do.

COMMES DES GARÇONS – T164 BLACK STRIPE T-SHIRT

Again, the “Nautical” theme is continuously on trend. Classic stripes tees have always attracted the young fashionista and why not? They go with anything and offer a visually contrasting image to whats usually a boring palette of colour around. Get one now if you already haven’t.

OLIVER SPENCER – SKINNY SHAKESPEARE RED SHORTS

Chino shorts, which I mentioned earlier, are another thing definitely on trend. Simply, these are slim fitting, cotton shorts which are substantially better then baggy cargo shorts. They look smart but also, are incredibly variable. Team these with sneakers, deck shoes, polo shirts or tees, the choice is yours.

REEBOK – ERS 2000 WHITE AND ROYAL TRAINERS

Reebok is name you guys know more about then us limey’s considering we brought it to you,in the first place! They’re experts in fashionable activewear and take a look at these beauty’s they have on offer. Different from the usual New Balance sneaker seen everywhere but, just as cool, these are a unique, retro inspired running shoe and are ultra “chic” for this summer.

So there you go. That’s enough to get anyone in the mood for the sun. And don’t worry about us, we’re happy for one day of the sun this year. Just any excuse to wear shorts.

Posted in Fashion, Footwear, Menswear, Shorts, Streetwear, Sunglasses, Tips | Tagged anorak, bbq, beach, brits, Comme des garcons, hot, illesteva, Menswear, nautical, oliver spencer, preppy, rain, reebok ers, sneaker, spring, Summer, sunny, Trainers, uk, Usa, yanks | Leave a comment

Most of us have never been told to ‘Abandon ship’. There’s a first time for everything, right?

by horsley owen Posted on March 1, 2013

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First off, you can forget about your lifejacket, Im not trying to take you sailing, let alone make you jump overboard (your safe for now). Nor am i trying to make some kind of post in relation with the deceased Titanic or better still, not one, but all of The Pirates Of The Caribbean movies. Im trying to introduce you to a Glasgow based streetwear brand thats on the rise and believe me its rising fast. Welcome…….Abandon Ship Apparel.

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Gone are the days you have to be going skateboarding four times a week to be seen wearing clothing like this, streetwear clothing has become a distinctive style of street fashion and has become ever more popular around the world over the last few years. Abandon Ship Apparel couldn’t have picked a better time to jump on the bandwagon, since forming in the start of 2011 they have quickly become one of the bigger names in UK streetwear clothing. Their super clean image, funky designs and carefree attitude have really got them nailing most, if not all of their products.

Anything you could want to wear these guys have it, whether its a t-shirt, beanie, sweater or little accessory for example such as bamboo sunglasses or socks (great christmas present from mum) they wont let you down. Newer releases grace their website in the means of completely crazy, completely “don’t give a f**k” Kitten leggings (see below). Now I don’t know many men myself that would slip these on but to all of you that would, including you guys Abandon Ship we have nothing but respect. Follow the link to the right >
to get straight onto the online store now.
I haven’t featured any pictures but when you log onto the store, which come on we all know your going to be sure to check out their DIEHIPSTERS t-shirt, a personal favourite of mine. Hint hint Abandon Ship, Im a size large.

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One last thing, if you guys love social networking then get liking, get following Abandon Ship Apparel they’ll be sure to keep you entertained throughout the day. Instagram at its best, these guys are updating with new products and funny images daily! It’ll get you through that long day at work no problem, even if your boss is a complete asshole.

I think that’ll do for now, I don’t need to educate you any more in the topic I’ll be bloody wiping your arse for you next! Prices are great and free shipping within the UK, how can you possibly go wrong and for all you yanks don’t miss out! They ship WORLDWIDE.

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Posted in Accessories, Fashion, Menswear, Streetwear, Tips | Tagged 2013, abandonship apparel, casual, Fashion, Modern wardrobe, Must have, Quality, Skinny, Streetwear, Style, the look, Trends | Leave a comment

You’ll need big balls to pull these off, yet a pair small enough to keep them hidden! 80’s Nylon. Shorter than short….

by horsley owen Posted on February 24, 2013

Now before you all start moaning I’m not claiming these to be the must have shorts of summer 2013. No far from it, granted there not for everyone and yes I’d say it takes a certain type of person to wear them. You’ve got to have balls, now it’s all well and true sitting at a computer and saying this and I mean circumstances are probably helped by the fact I’m on my third, ‘healthy’ glass of red, but isn’t that what life’s all about, drinking ? Of course not but if it helps you to think you’ll be drinking whilst wearing these on a hot summers day then great, you’ll do it and be making a bold statement at the same time. Perfect!

So……the pair you see featured above are indeed a classic, Adidas Glanz shorts! I’ll be surprised if you don’t know them, let me tell you something, your old man probably wore a pair for physical education at school, not to mention they were seen worldwide on the legs of famous football teams and tennis players along with a few other brands such as Ellesse, Sergio Tacchini and Fila. I wouldn’t be one to say no to any of these brands this summer, yes it’s sportswear so what might you ask makes them, In my opinion, cool ? When I sit down with someone who shares the same love for fashion as I do there is always a topic that comes up, vintage and retro. Something that most fashion guru’s will agree on, it’s cool and it always will be, ok I’m not saying everything old is cool but pieces that date back with history such as the adidas glanz shorts, paisley print for example and asics tigers are all famous in there own right, thus creating a statement when worn.

Ellesse Tortoreto Shorts in Yellow/White

Now you’ve seen them for yourself I’ll let you do the deciding. They wont be for everywhere they wont be for everyday and they certainly wont be for everyone, but they’ll be that BBQ with the lads this summer, maybe it’s a holiday or just a simple lunch in your local pub garden! All places that in my opinion are right at home for a short short like these, don’t forget they are incredibly short so don’t be concerned when you see more of you upper thigh in public than ever before.

Posted in Fashion, Menswear, Retro/Vintage, Shorts, Tips | Tagged 80s, Adidas, classic, Fashion, Geezer, oldschool, Retro/Vintage, Shorts, Style, Vintage | Leave a comment

We promised you a feature, and seeing as its London Fashion Week, it’s time you put your best foot forward

by singleton jack Posted on February 17, 2013

Yes, yes, yes. We know It’s now London Fashion Week and we haven’t yet posted anything about any of the latest pieces showcased, and yes, we’re doing another Chelsea Boot post but, i promised Mr. Horsley I was going to do this post. And in fairness, the show is pretty much all Womens fashion anyway, something were not concentrating on, at least not now.

It’s seems rather coincidental that indeed, both the boots in question and this weeks fashion show, forebear the name of one of the worlds most stylish cities. A city paying homage to true style and sophistication to its inhabitants and lending that to the rest of the globe, the
“Gentlemen” image was born in London. And the vision you have of the typical “Englishman” is bowler hat, waistcoat, suit, tie and the smartest Oxford shoes. Well, we can freshen up the footwear first at least.

Loake, a name with no need for introduction, have hit the nail on the head with their latest styles this season. If you were to take a brief look on their home page now, you’d come across a rather nice selection of footwear including: the “Thirsk” and the “Bayswater” boots. Both lovingly made in Blighty with the finest leather, these are here to change your perception of “Smart” shoes. The “Thirsk” is right at home being a part of a suit ensemble as it is with denim. Same going with the “Bayswater“, these wouldn’t look out of place being worn to the office or out with your nearest and dearest. Take a look at them, your sure to agree.

And finally, here’s a fantastic Instagram pic I found, courtesy of a lucky blogger at the London Fashion Show. Looks bloody marvellous!

The “Thirsk” and The “Bayswater” can be found on Loake’s website.

Posted in Footwear, Menswear | Tagged 2013, bayswater, black, boot, brown, Chelsea, leather, loake, london fashion week, our promise, spring, Winter | Leave a comment

There’s SW3, there’s Chelsea F.C. hell there’s Made In Chelsea but what about the beloved boot itself?

by horsley owen Posted on February 9, 2013

London, or more to the point the area we all know as Chelsea has very little to do with the piece of footwear in question, the only thing they share is indeed the same name. So for those of you who know a small bit about what i’m going on about probably are forty plus, no Im pulling your leg but for that slightly, and I do mean slightly, older generation you may be thinking the Grand National isn’t for a few months yet so what is this all about? and christ if you don’t know what the Grand National is then just stop reading all together.

The tight-fitting, ankle-high Chelsea Boot was originally associated with horse riding, that probably has something to do with why I mentioned the Grand National. They were considered an element of the 1960’s mod scene and really became a fashionable piece of footwear to be seen in. Ok so were not going through another mod era but my god these really are something for the shoe rack this winter, the forthcoming spring and in my opinion their timeless their classic their not going anywhere soon.

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The pair you see above are a personal favourite of mine, made by none other than BEN SHERMAN. They feature a more retro design and this particular style is seen more on band members and within the more ‘indie’ style of fashion. They’re seriously cool and paired up with some skinny jeans, shirt and blazer I don’t really think you can go wrong. Your certainly looking a lot fresher than Joe Blogs in his Topman loafers which we all know will be worn to death. A singletonmeetshorsley top tip for extra fashion scene points would be to scrap the shirt this winter and combine this outfit with a pastel coloured roll neck. The Chelsea Boots seen above can be purchased now direct from BEN SHERMAN.

hickstead

If you don’t fancy trying to be the Beatle you never were and your after something more classic, more traditional, then maybe the english made brand Loake is more to your fancy. I know these are a personal favourite of my colleague Jack Singleton and this blog should give him every reason to make a purchase as soon as he’s finished reading. Full review coming next week ayy Jack? More suited with a straight leg blue jean respectively, but don’t let that put you off if you really like these. It’s a bold statement at that pairing these with some skinny’s but undoubtedly a seriously smart, to the point look. Again these can be found direct from the manufacture Loake at a very reasonable price for full leather inside and out quality.

P.S. For any reader which is wondering why my posts are, well how can we put this, non existent perhaps since we enter the new year it’s because I’m currently on a mountain in Switzerland snowboarding daily. Full Blogging will resume come april, here’s a photo to leave you with!

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Posted in Fashion, Footwear, Menswear, Outerwear, Tips | Tagged 60s, ben sherman, boots, Chelsea, classic, Footwear, Geezer, hjf, loake, Menswear, Retro/Vintage, Style, Vintage | Leave a comment

Ayyy! The Fonz would be proud. The Leather Jackets where it’s at!

by singleton jack Posted on February 3, 2013

Why is it, that a single piece of clothing can give such a stereotypical image to the untrained eye? That seems to be the case with leather jackets nowadays. People either suspect you’re a hoodlum, a Harley Davidson biker, a failing 70’s rock star or a cow hide fetish fan, the list of cliche’s could go on quite frankly. To some extent you can believe that, having seen most of those said persons, but without a shadow of a doubt, Leather jackets are one of the biggest investment pieces you can add to your wardrobe right now.

There’s many examples and variations on the leather jacket and that certainly gives a large array of looks this year. This seasons styles to consider would definitely be; Motorcycle Jackets, like our idols The Fonz or Marlon Brando in The Wild One and Flight Jackets as modelled by the cast of Top Gun and Bane in The Dark Knight Rises. We love the simple combo of a classic leather jacket, white tee, slim navy denim and immaculate leather boots or brogues to match. Its timeless and the look speaks for itself. Check out these examples all show cased and stocked by MR PORTER. We especially love the Schott Flight jacket, top, and the Burberry Brit just above. Another example to consider if you’re watching your wallet, is the Levi’s Vintage 1930’s Leather number, below, crafted perfectly to replicate the very first examples made by the denim giants.

Posted in Coats, Fashion, Jackets, Menswear, Outerwear, Tips | Tagged 60s, 70s, Ayyy, biker, Burberry, happy days, leather jackets, levis, Menswear, mr porter, oldschool, Retro/Vintage, schott, The Fonz, Vintage | Leave a comment