February 2013 ~ A La Male

Vertu Launches Latest "TI" Handset

Vertu is the undeniable leader in the luxury mobile phone market and their new "TI" handset is their latest offering. This Android-powered smartphone features the typically luxurious assets that include a sturdy but lightweight titanium case, leather accents and a sapphire crystal that is virtually scratch-proof.

The brand's contemporary style remains signature here with an almost unfathomably slick exterior featuring exposed screws and polished metal. Tech specs include a 1.7 GHz processor, 8MP camera and a 64GB internal memory. Other swanky perks [beyond Vertu's own concierge service] is the Vertu Certainty data protection - perfect for high-flyers carrying sensitive information as well as Vertu Life - personally tailored information, articles and benefits. The price tag? A mere €7,900.

For further information please visit - http://www.vertu.com/

Posted in Launch, Lifestyle, Luxury, News, Vertu | No comments

Baume et Mercier Clifton Timepiece Range

By A La Male on 08:45

Recently we had a gander and a playabout with the Clifton range from Baume et Mercier - pioneers in Swiss timepieces. These ultimately classic but superbly crafted watches are inspired by the "Golden Fifties" where this luxury market really took shape. These stunning and [ironically] timeless watches are rife with luxurious detail - such as the "moon phase" detail which you can see in the focal style below.

The automatic technology can also be seen through the [sapphire] looking glass behind the face of the watch - another fantastic detail that's both cool and doesn't come short of some colourful screws. Basically this is a god of the luxury watch world and with price-tags that go far into the 4 figure arena we certainly see the word investment flash up.

For further information please visit - http://www.baume-et-mercier.com/

Posted in Baume et Mercier, Feature, Lifestyle, Luxury, Watches | No comments

Bentley to Launch First Fragrance - 'Bentley for Men'

By A La Male on 04:51

The luxurious world of Bentley is soon to reveal its latest endeavour - their first fragrance for men. As you would expect it's as effortless in class as the brand's motors yet there's a surprisingly wallet-friendly price tag attached to it. The range of products [set to launch in April in select perfumeries and department stores] consists of two fragrances - a classic version priced at €59/60ml and €79/100ml as well as an intense version [our recommendation] priced at €87/100ml.

The range also includes an aftershave balm [pictured left] and a hair & body shampoo - but our attention is solely fixed on the Eau de Toilettes. At the press launch we were talked [and smelled] through the key ingredients which include classic leather, black pepper and our favourite - rum. Better start getting the hints out there for any April birthday's.

For further information please visit - http://www.bentleymotors.com/

Posted in Bentley, Fragrance, Grooming, Launch, Lifestyle, Luxury, News | No comments

Crombie Spring/Summer 13 Collection

By A La Male on 08:49

We love a bit of understated luxury and that's precisely why we're giving a big thumbs up to the new Spring/Summer line from Crombie. The brand has a history spanning over two centuries so it's safe to say that they at least know a thing or two about the luxury menswear market. As well as a full collection of ready-to-wear apparel, Crombie also offer a made-to-measure service.

After checking out the brand's latest lookbook [images above and left] we pulled out some specific items that took our fancy - a great outfit for the seasonal change featuring the essential waterproof and a bit of cashmere knitwear. There's some great preppy pieces in the collection as well as some perfectly dapper suits from £695.

For further information and to shop online please visit - http://www.crombie.co.uk/

Posted in Bespoke, Crombie, Fashion, Feature, Lookbook, Luxury, SS13 | No comments

Harrods Menswear Spring/Summer 13: Just In

By A La Male on 07:56

We took a quick look at the new Spring/Summer arrivals in the Harrods Menswear department - this brief peruse naturally turned into a lengthy wishlist. However there were some clear favourites to be found - a little on the casual side in this instance - but there are some great versatile pieces in the mix.

The selection below is the perfect smart/casual date option, because we must remember that our other halves are probably still in Valentine's mode - hence the sneaky bottle of Moét Rosé Imperial. As well as the top picks below there are also new arrivals from the likes of Moncler, Balmain, Hackett and Corneliani [scarf pictured left: £129]. Marni is also one of the latest brands to join the department store so be sure to check out that collection too.

For further information and to shop online please visit - http://www.harrods.com/

Posted in Balmain, Corneliani, Fashion, Feature, Hackett, Harrods, Luxury, Marni, Moncler, SS13 | No comments

Christian Louboutin Launches 'Tattoos to Measure'

By A La Male on 07:08

Flamboyant footwear brand Christian Louboutin have just launched their new endeavour: 'Tattoos to Measure'. This bespoke service allows clients to customize their own shoes with their own designs or 'tattoos'. Customers can select from a range of pre-designed patterns that are fully customizable with different colours, beads and even the odd Swarovski crystal if your pocket could stretch to it.

There is a lot of Asian influence in the designs that were seen at the launch such as dragons [left] and Koi carps [below]. The whole process from consultation, design and manufacturing takes approximately 3 months and with a 4 figure price-tag it's not for everyone but hey this is luxury and it's an undeniably impressive project. Plus you gotta love a fish on a shoe.