Tortoise Sunglasses

Posted on April 29, 2012 by OPUMO

Here in the UK we have more need for raincoats at the moment than sunglasses but hopefully sunglasses will get back to the top of our wish lists fairly soon. 2012 is certainly the year of the tortoise sunglass and here is the Opumo.com pick…

Han Kjobenhavn | Wolfgang Tortoise Sunglasses

The Wolfgang Tortoise Sunglasses are expertly crafted with a handmade frame and high quality Carl Zeiss lenses. Exceptional attention to detail and Danish design are a perfect combination.

Han Kjobenhavn | Wolfgang Army Sunglasses

The classic wayfarer sunglasses style with a thick army tortoise finish is slick and retro while still looking fresh & modern.

Han Kjobenhavn | Tortoise Doc Sunglasses

Round framed sunglasses, handmade in Denmark. No words needed – just look at them!!

Hentsch Man | Pheonix Tortoise Sunglasses

These over-sized and square shaped sunglasses frames are slightly reminiscent of the 1980s. All glasses are hand-crafted in Italy in such a small family-run atelier that they describe them as ‘ Home made in Italy’.

Contego Eyewear | The Kipling Tortoise Sunglasses

Named after the Rudyard Kipling who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature 1907 ”in consideration of the power of observation, originality of imagination, virility of ideas and remarkable talent for narration which characterize the creations of this world-famous author”. These amazing tortoise sunglasses are an Opumo.com bestseller – easy to see why…

Contego Eyewear | Hemingway Dark Tortoise Sunglasses

The Nobel Prize in Literature 1954 was awarded to Ernest Hemingway “for his mastery of the art of narrative, most recently demonstrated in The Old Man and the Sea, and for the influence that he has exerted on contemporary style”.

Handcrafted acetate frames incorporate UV protective CR39 lenses that significantly reduce the glare from reflective surfaces and have a high resistance to abrasion. Both temples are embellished with a stainless steel Contego™ umbrella logo and two Contego™ drops on the front of each frame…

New In | TWOTHIRDS | Surf Inspired Street Wear

Posted on April 29, 2012 by OPUMO

TWOTHIRDS was established in 2010 in San Sebastian, the heart of the Basque Country. The founders started a surf inspired street label to be set apart from the rest. Transcending the boundaries of street and sports apparel, TWOTHIRDS is quickly becoming a lifestyle brand, free from passing trends.

Opumo.com is proud to be showcasing the recently released Saco Duffel Bag. Made from 100% recycled fishing nets, this bag is one of the many shining examples of this brand’s creative, ocean-conscious merchandise.

With a tough, leather gripped handle, a sheath for your books or laptop, and thick white cotton sailing ropes for tying off, the bag is not only practical but it looks particularly distinguished, doubling as either the perfect gym bag or overnight holdall.

In addition their fine range of cotton canvas D-ring belts with a splash of colour fit perfectly with a pair of well fitted chinos or shorts in the summer. All available at Opumo.com now.

OPUMO | SPRING SALE

Posted on April 24, 2012 by OPUMO

Mismo | Luxury Scandinavian Accessories

Posted on April 23, 2012 by OPUMO

Mismo continuously presents clean lines and premium materials across their bag collection and we strongly believe every man should procure, and lovingly cherish, a Mismo bag or accessory in their lifetime.

Mismo effortlessly harmonises functionality and detail with durability and versatility. Only the finest leather and heavy canvas, the two key materials, constitute the backbone of Mismo design. Attention to detail and the inability to compromise on quality, results in timeless classics across their entire collection.

In the past year Mismo have also broadened their accessory lines to include a number of natural leather products. The minimally styled products bare the Mismo stamp on one side and we anticipate the natural leather can only look better as, over time, regular use will build up a unique patina.

Mismo’s collection includes weekend bags (holdalls), briefcases, wash bags, iphone cases, document cases, shoppers, totes and wallets

Opumo.com caught up with Mismo’s founder and CEO Adam Alexander Bach for a remarkably informative interview:

Opumo: Who is behind Mismo?

Adam Alexander Bach: Myself Adam Alexander Bach and my partner Rikke Overgaard. The first seed to the company was planted in 2003 where we met at Buisness School. We launched the first products in December 2006.

Opumo: What is the philosophy behind Mismo

Adam Alexander Bach: Mismo represents straightforward, functional and durable design that showcases only what is strictly necessary – nothing more, nothing less. Behind our products is the philosophy that real luxury arises from the choices made – about what to subtract, and what should remain. The tactile qualities of the materials, and in the synergy created between aesthetics and function. We call it “refined classics for a vibrant lifestyle”.

Opumo: What is Mismo’s attitude to design?

Adam Alexander Bach: Keep it simple. It’s not only an attitude to design but something we try to implement in every aspect of the company. It shouldn’t become too complicated – doing what you like. The big advantage of working with premium materials, being vegetable tanned full-grain leather or our Italian canvas and nylon, is that the materials themselves are so distinc and exclusive. Our job as designers is merely to try not to disturb things too much to allow for the materials to speak their own language. In our world great design equals longevity. What makes a “classic” is that the product is able to stand the test of time in terms durability and aesthetics. That calls for a product which is solid crafted from materials that will age beautifully in a design that will also be relevant when picked up by the next generation.

Opumo: What does being from Denmark add to Mismo?

Adam Alexander Bach: Well, I guess you could say that the Scandinavian minimalism and functionalism that Mismo is an example of, is something that runs in our blood. We’ve grown up surrounded by architecture and furniture design from the fifties and sixties hailing these principles. Well acclaimed Danish designers like Poul Kjærholm, Arne Jacobsen and Poul Henningsen have all had a big influence in the way our generation approaches design. Furthermore we’re a country surrounded by water and both Rikke and I have lived most of our life very close by the sea. Therefore we have always drawn inspiration from the life and colour palette surrounding the sea.

Opumo: How do the materials you use influence the products you make?

Adam Alexander Bach: As described above the materials are a major part of everything we create. Not only in terms of design but also when it comes to the construction. We try to build our designs around the strengths and capabilities of the different materials we use. Rigid full-grain leather and soft cotton canvas calls for different constructions. The material is always the starting point for a new design.

Wallets | The Guide | Opumo.com

Posted on April 19, 2012 by OPUMO

There is no doubting that a wallet is one of the most important things that a man can own. I mean, aside from while at the gym or in the shower, how many times a day is your wallet more than say, two feet away?

In fact, your wallet will probably be with you in all of life’s most important situations and on top of this man-wallet proximity, you generally only ever have one wallet at any one time.

What all of this means is that choosing a wallet is very important and there are a few rules to abide by… Do your research, treat the purchase as an investment decision and know how a wallet suits your personality.

The Minimalist:

Coins? No! Receipts? Never! With just a few cards and some crisply folded notes the Minimalist’s enemy is bulk and the disorganised chaos that comes with it. Alongside the benefit of an uncluttered, essentials only wallet, the minimalist also never has to worry about the bulge of a bulky wallet distorting the shape of finely cut suit.

Bellroy: The micro sleeve card holder wallet holds just enough cards (business or credit cards). There’s a slot on the front and back for your most frequently accessed cards (or notes), and a pull-tab to get to the rest. Keeps bulk to an absolute minimum.

Pull tab for your main card storage
Premium vegetable tanned cow leather cardholder
Size: 10cm X 7cm (holds 6+ cards)

The Hoarder:

The Hoarder fills his leather wallet with anything that will fit including bank cards, store cards, receipts, business cards, photos, coins, cash and even foreign cash. Well, you just never know when you might need it, eh?

Mismo: The zip wallet, a modern classic. Inside pocket for coins, separate compartments for bills, notes and 6 slits for credit cards. Crafted in the finest vegetable tanned full-grain leather, this wallet is bound to look better and better over the years.

Full-grain vegetable tanned cow leather custom-developed for Mismo.
12 cm height x 2 cm width x 10 cm length

The Indecisive:

So, receipts can be useful, it’s not your fault you pick up a fair few business cards and you’d rather the store cards were with you than anywhere near the wife but you still want to reduce bulk? Indecisive perhaps but not unachievable…

Bellroy Take Out Wallet. Full size portfolio leather wallet that lets you organise your daily life. Day to day, the Take Out Wallet lives in your bag. But when you feel like traveling lighter, the middle section pops out, folds in half, and fits in your jeans or suit.

The Blender:

Anyone who has dropped a phone knows the importance of a phone case but alongside a wallet you are running the risk of your pockets becoming overcrowded. The solution? Combine the two…

Landmarks & Lions Atherton Tan Leather Iphone Case: Luxuriously soft lambskin leather case with protective interior wool felt lining for the iPhone 4S/4/3.Leather: tan lambskin leather

Fabric: white wool felt
Exterior: 1 card slot
Size: 5″H x 3″L/12.7cm H x 7.6cm “L
Origin: handmade in the USA

The Traveller:

There is a lot to remember before you board an aeroplane including local money, foreign money, bank cards, business cards, boarding pass, and passport. It all needs to be organised and accessible too – rummaging around for your passport at the front of the boarding queue wins a man no friends…

Bellroy Travel Wallet in Cocoa Leather: The perfect passport wallet. Fit all your travel documents in your pocket. Designated passport sleeve, then your tickets & boarding passes fold without creasing, letting you keep everything close and secure. Sections for passport, tickets & notes, 4 quick access card slots (+ 2 extra slots), Micro travel pen with refills, Size: 13.5 X 9.4cm (holds 8+ cards)

The Artist:

Although the shape and functionality of the Artist’s wallet is important; it’s a handmade uniqueness that really drives their wallet choice. A desire to have something that stands out while innovatively fulfilling its purpose and is like no other wallet in the world!

Maxx & Unicorn Brown Cow Leather Bifold Wallet, one of Brooklyn’s most talked about new accessories designers. Each wallet is hand-crafted from a single piece of leather and Handmade in Brooklyn, New York. Every wallet features the 50′s inspired dueling pistol design embossed at lower right hand corner.

New In | Landmarks & Lions | Handmade in the U.S.A.

Posted on April 14, 2012 by OPUMO

Now available at Opumo.com - Fine wallets / card holders and iPhone cases from Landmarks & Lions.

Canyon Crosby, who founded Landmarks & Lions in 2010, was inspired by the world of design and architecture. Minnesota based Landmarks & Lions reveals a strong bond between originality and tradition with its fantastic use of fine materials and vibrant colour, wether it be the rich coloured cotton canvas wallet interiors or the fine yellow stitching, creating unmistakable detail in every piece.

Craftsmanship, functional design and creativity are at the heart of the Landmarks & Lions name. Style and innovation, clean and structured lines, sophistication and unique character define Landmarks & Lions, making them a truly unique element of your daily artillery.

Specializing in handmade accessories for men and women, the range of products includes iPhone cases, wallets and card holders with each item designed and crafted in the USA.

Shop the collection now at Opumo.com.

New In | Hentsch Man | Timeless Sunglasses

Posted on April 9, 2012 by OPUMO

Opumo.com is proud to be showcasing fine eyewear from the increasingly successful London based brand, Hentsch Man.

With incredible attention to detail, Hentsch Man was launched four years ago when its founders Alexia and Max failed in their quest to find the perfect white shirt. Their initial line was promptly snapped up by discerning men also sharing the same desire.

In Summer 2011, the brand introduced a new series of sunglasses, including the Pheonix and Bobby, all of which are hand made in a small family run workshop in Italy.

‘Our values can be seen in the quality of our materials and production. We keep all manufacturing in Europe as we believe in its superior quality and reliability. All our fabrics and raw materials come from Italy, Portugal and Spain. We like to think that, even in the smallest way, we are contributing to the continuation of a European manufacturing heritage.’

Shop now at Opumo.com

World’s Top 10 Rooftop Bars

Posted on April 7, 2012 by OPUMO

Why settle for a ground floor bar when you can sip cocktails staring down at the bright lights of some of the most beautiful cities in the world. As cities become more and more built up the trend for adorning rooftops with fashionable drinking spots is set to continue. With so many choices Opumo.com has put together its own worldwide Top 10!

1. Sirocco, Bangkok, Thailand

With 360 degree views of Bangkok’s majestic skyline, Sirocco, is perched on the 64^th floor of the 5 star Lebua at State Tower Hotel. The calm and serene atmosphere makes a welcome change from the hustle of the hectic streets below. Watch, the sunset sipping impressive cocktails followed by a romantic dinner under a starry sky.

Sirocco Accessories Suggestion

The J Panther Luggage Tan Aviator is a wonderful oiled and stained black U.S. grain leather messenger bag. It has two removable straps and a removable passport pocket. The Aviator comfortably accommodates the Apple iPad, the Amazon Kindle, and other similarly-sized tablet devices. The perfect day bag/ travel bag.

2. Rooftop Bar, Melbourne, Australia

Music, cinema & sunny boozing with unparalleled views of Melbourne’s skyline gets the Rooftop Bar the number two spot on our list. A truly relaxing drinking spot.

Rooftop Bar Accessories Suggestion

The Kipling Translucent Red Sunglasses are beautifully handcrafted with lenses that significantly reduce the glare from reflective surfaces and have a high resistance to abrasion. Both temples are embellished with a stainless steel Contego™ umbrella logo and two Contego™ drops on the front of each frame.

3. Boundary Rooftop, London, UK

Given that the UK only usually enjoys about 3 weeks of sunshine a year it seems sensible that when it isn’t raining you should spend as much time outside as possible! Having said that Boundary has invested in some pretty serious heating to cope with British weather. Boundary includes a large bar with seating arranged around an open fireplace, a 48-seat grill restaurant and a garden designed by Nicola Lesbirel boasting a panoramic view from Canary Wharf, round to the City’s Gherkin and Barbican, and back again to the rooftops and spires of East London.

Boundary Rooftop Accessories Suggestion

Handmade in Italy this Berg & Berg Silk Knit Tie is a real chic summer classic! A classic knitted silk tie in 100% Italian silk. We believe 6cm is the perfect width for a knitted tie: quite slim, but without that skinny tie look. Norwegian brand Berg & Berg was Berg & Berg was founded by Karin and Mathias in 2009 offering ties, pocket squares and scarves in true Scandinavian Style.

4. Captain’s Bar, Shanghai, China

With awe-inspiring views of the Huangpu River and Pudong skyline Captain’s Bar proves that a world class bar does not have to be attached to a world class hotel. In fact in this case it is quite the opposite as Captain’s Bar is attached to a youth hostel which is great for the young vibe and great mix of travellers and locals. Helps keep the prices down too…

Captain Bar Accessories Suggestion

Colombian brand Hasso are true masters of their craft. Their artisan workforce have many decades experience and create each piece one at a time. Hard-wearing and timeless, the Vega Rucksack will prove to be a handsome upgrade for any look. Crafted with the finest materials, it will age with a natural flair and will be an ideal travel companion while at Captain’s Bar.

5. Sands SkyPark, Singapore

This new 3-acre tropical oasis perched on top of the three hotel towers at the Marina Bay Sands. The awesome offer 250 trees, a colossal observation deck and an infinity swimming pool. For the drinkers amongst us don’t worry as mixed in with all of the amenities are plenty of restaurants and bars with spectacular views of the South China Sea, Marina Bay and the jaw dropping Singapore skyline.

Sands SkyPark Accessories Suggestion

Lounge by the pool at the SkyPark with this Mismo Army Green Canvas MS Leisure Tote, a casual yet very stylish tote bag with adjustable handles. Shorten the handles to carry it firmly by hand or adjust them by their brass buckles to full length and shoulder carry it. Features an inside zip pocket, opposite two open pockets.

6. Top of the Strand, New York, USA

With a skyline as famous as New York’s rooftop bars are obviously a huge feature and has prompted a lot of debate as to what bar should feature in this list. It was close but given the views of the iconic Empire State Building The Strand hotel’s bar on the 21st floor has our vote. The bar describes itself as ‘an urban oasis among the concrete buildings of the garment district, offering visitors an opportunity to relax and take in the stunning skyline views of New York City’.

Top of the Strand Accessories Suggestion

The Hard Graft Heritage Phone Fold Wallet offers all that is best about a slick wallet, phone case and stylish accessory all in one. Holding your phone, a couple of credit cards and banknotes – this protective case is all you need for a night out on the town.

7. AER, Mumbai, India

The best views in Mumbai from this remarkable lounge on the 34th floor of the Four Season’s Mumbai. Slightly odd menu perhaps… pizzas, sushi, Mediterranean and Asian but it is more than made up for by the relaxed atmosphere and awesome happy hour cocktail menu!

AER, Mumbai Accessories Suggestion

These are the very popular RT “Elephant” cufflinks are rhodium plated metal, for a beautiful, non-tarnishing and highly polished finished with blue fibre optic glass ball ends. These cufflinks come with the branded easy to use whale-tail backing and trademark RT logo lasered on the back.

8. SkyLounge, Atlanta, USA

The Glenn Hotel is home to SkyLounge, the first rooftop bar in Atlanta. Sip handcrafted cocktails, served against a backdrop of the city skyline at a bar described by the owners as a place “where the energy is even higher than the streets below and the outlook is always better.” Hotel guests get special treatment, with exclusive priority entrance to the bar. A must-try is the Mexican Mule, a liberating concoction of tequila, ginger beer, agave syrup, lime and mint.

SkyLounge Accessories Suggestion

These Royalties Torsads Patterned Red/ Black Socks are handmade in Paris. They add a stylish finishing touch to any evening outfit and are guaranteed to win you friends amongst the locals with their Atlanta Falcons colours…

9. The Penthouse, Madrid, Spain

The Penthouse is owned by Rande Gerber, Cindy Crawford’s husband. It’s positioned on the roof of Hotel ME Madrid Reina Victoria, in Plaza Santa Ana, and has awesome views of central Madrid. Get here for happy hour, because although it’s open till 3am, the line to get in is unreal after midnight. Frequented by Madrid’s chic fashion crowd so dress to kill.

The Penthouse Accessories Suggestion

Han Kjobenhavn sunglasses draw their inspiration from timeless design. Simple, innovative and aesthetically beautiful elements. The Wolfgang Tortoise Sunglasses, inspired by the likes of Moscot, Persol and Ray Ban, are an expertly crafted, rounded shape frame with high quality Carl Zeiss lenses and exceptional attention to detail.

10. Condesa DF Rooftop Bar, Mexico City, Mexico

This is an astounding bar. The Condesa DF is a must see when in Mexico City. Attached to a super-chic hotel the bar is a rooftop paradise. Sample the extensive cocktail menu as the sun goes down over Mexico City.

Condesa DF Rooftop Bar Accessories Suggestion

These cylinder shaped multi-tiered steel cufflinks from Alice Made This with a branded ‘a’ on the inside disc. These cufflinks come with a branded box and dust cloth. To brighten clean with a polishing cloth, soap and water. Rather like the Condesa DF Rooftop Bar, these cufflinks are inventive, playful, simple and exclusive…

New In | Royalties | Parisiens Passionate about Socks

Posted on April 4, 2012 by OPUMO

We were extremely excited when stumbling upon Paris’ own Royalties Socks in a little tucked away section of (Capsule) Show Paris earlier this year. Royalties Socks, designed in Paris and Made in France, bring a fresh outlook to a classic accessory.

The Royalties style combines French savoir-faire and quality with a lively collegiate style. With a variety of styles, including graphic ribbing, plain, or mixed with fluorescent yarns, Royalties innovate while remaining classic creating a modern mix of novelty and tradition.

Exclusively available in the UK on Opumo.com.

New In | Kiel James Patrick | Belts

Posted on April 4, 2012 by OPUMO

In the Autumn of 2011, while touring America in search of local exciting brands to bring back to the UK, we stumbled upon Kiel James Patrick, a Rhode Island based accessories brand who specialise in hand made belts and bracelets.

From humble roots as a personal hobby, and selling out inventory at craft shows throughout New England, the Kiel James Patrick brand maintains its commitment to solid construction with everything from the buttons to each individual stitch, Kiel James Patrick products are 100% USA Made.

As you can see we particularly fell in love with their range of Crossfix Sailing Belts which, with summer around the corner, are a great way to add a splash of colour to any outfit. The braided rope belt is completely hand-crafted in Rhode Island using the highest quality vegetable tanned leather and hand knotted nautical cord you can get your hands on.

Opumo.com is excited to be the UK’s exclusive stockist of Kiel James Patrick.