Philip Sparks

Sometimes it takes an engaging idea to inspire a designer to conceive of a collection that will make wearers want to buy several pieces, if not all of them. For designer Philip Sparks, his concept of a chic petty thief is one that creates a lot of covetable items for Fall/Winter 2008.

Pieces can be interchanged and worn from morning to night. Whether it’s a cardigan or vest worn over a shirt with a collar with a twist, or a suit with sharp details, it’s all there.

Coats are luxurious in cashmere and wool. Both long and shorter styles were seen in greys and creams - perfect for any occasion, but ideal for those special nights out on the town.

Fabrics range from tweeds to leathers with a good dash of beaver fur mixed in to keep warm when the temperatures drop. Who doesn’t want a pair of fur gloves in winter?

With the tailoring leaning more towards the traditional, there are some contemporary frills seen in the cut of some of a tuxedo with braided trim, leaner jackets and fuller pants.

Overall, Sparks creates a style of a common criminal that a man won’t have to resort to robbing a bank in order to look just as good as the models on the catwalk.

For more information, visit www.philipsparks.com.

Arcoino coin bank

A penny saved is a penny earned. But, what do you do with all of those pennies? Put them in coin bank, of course!


The Arcoino coin bank from Umbra can make saving your pennies more stylish. Designed by Matt Carr, this polished aluminum seems to grow out of the surface on which it rests. A perfect addition to any office, the smooth and sleek design wouldn’t feel out of place on a desk of a business professional.

For more information, visit www.umbra.com.