COOL It Now [Michael Bastian Spring 2011]

Michael Bastian has quickly become one of my favorite menswear designers. His individual pieces are great on their own, but his styling is pitch perfect. I love a look that stands out without trying too hard and Bastian's designs do just that. There is such a sense of ease and balance in his collections. He spruces up a grey suit with a bright yellow belt and pairs a navy pinstripe jacket with a hot pink shirt. Underneath the mohair suits, muted leopard prints, and shocking shades of yellow, orange and pink, is something, I dare say, practical. Bastian does a stellar job of translating high impact fashion trends to everyday street wearability. 

Spring Break [Orlebar Brown x Alan Aldridge]

HIt the beach or pool in style with one of these provocative trunks by Orlebar Brown. The photographer turned designer specializes in fitted yet comfortable swimwear for men. Try one of these pieces featuring some interesting images from artist Alan Aldridge for a unique, eye-catching option for those beach bum days. Now for some sunscreen.

Don't Be Cruel [Versace Spring 2011]

With a new menswear designer at the helm, Versace looks to the 80's for a rocked out Spring 2011 menswear collection. The pants are cropped, the jackets are snug, and the palette is largely monochromatic. The overall look is sleek and almost understated; the collection was more about the fit than anything else. But the house's signature over-the-top energy was still present, courtesy of a few silver brocade suit pieces and some leather fringe. Some things never change.

ROYAL Flush [Stubbs & Wootton]

Linen and velvet slippers have long been classics in the shoe arena. They have mad a recent resurgence thanks mostly in part to Kanye West, who has been rumored to be in talks to do a capsule collection for Stubbs & Wootton. After the success of his shoe collections for Nike and Louis Vuitton, I'm sure this next venture will be huge. If you want to get an idea of what his shoes may potentially look like, check out Stubbs & Wootton website. They even have a bespoke section where you can design your own pair. Check out my designs below. 

Throw It in the BAG! [Gucci]

Gucci gives us all a lesson in craftsmanship with this large leather holdall. With woven top handles, exposed stitching at the side seams, plush suede lining and an intricate basket weave detail, this bag is the perfect companion for the seasoned traveller. 

Vroom, Vroom [DSQUARED2]

What better way to zoom into spring, than with this tan leather biker jacket from DSQUARED2. This slim fitting take on a classic is sure to be a wardrobe staple this season. 

21st Century Boy [BUCKLER Spring 2011]

In 2001, Andrew Buckler launched his menswear collection with a very simple idea. As the label's website reads, Buckler sought to "disregard the monotony" and "evade the uniformity" that "plagued menswear." And while this idea is hardly as original as Buckler's press office would have us believe, the label has largely accomplished the original mission. Taking classic tailored silhouettes as the starting point, each collection brings a welcomed feeling of comfort and ease that is missing from many a suit-filled collection. Not to devalue suits; Buckler also has a few cleanly tailored options, but let's just say these aren't your father's suits. 

Throw It In the BAG [Lanvin]

The team at Lanvin gives us all a lesson in luxury with this large chocolate crocodile tote. Trimmed in silk and lined with satin, the luxurious feel continues with patent leather handles that feature the house's signature grosgrain ribbon and embossed metal charm. The overall result is sleek, even understated, but the $25,000+ price is sure to cause an outrage.