I'm going to simplify this week's blog I think. A little less cars, projects, ventures, travelling etc and actually get back to the core of vogue.co.uk and that is fashion. Next week I can talk about my new contracts and also my new venture over in NYC that still no one has guessed correctly yet (I told you wouldn't get it). To be honest when I tell people what the idea is, I am looked at with a raised eyebrow and quizzical "you what?"
Anyway, simplifying this week's blog just means a lot more images and less writing. I thought I'd show you my favourite pieces I have bought for my winter collection, that I believe would also make excellent present ideas for the gentlemen in your lives. Throughout the year I look for items that are uniquely different, be it with the quality, the brand, or the price. I love to find little pieces that no one else has or has even thought about. To me, individuality is so important as it's just so easy to follow each other...

COACH
The Bleeker Legacy leather weekend tote
I have to say I'***ightly obsessed with man bags and luggage. I think it's something to do with picturing the bags in the back of the classic 190sl when it's finished. The colour and quality of the leather on this weekend bag is so sublime that it's the example of the leather I want on the upholstery in the Meredes I have given to the restorer.

The Bowery quilted leather jacket
A classic style, stunning leather jacket - something Steve McQueen or James Dean would be proud to be seen in. I have been looking for a quilted leather jacket for a long time and this one is truly stunning.

UNITED COLOURS OF BENETTON
Suede fur-lined boots
It's a really great winter collection this year. I have quite a few pieces, however these fake fur-lined half boots are certainly going to keep me warm over the winter months. I haven't stopped wearing them since I got them.

Knitted iPad cover/holder
I absolutely adore this for the iPad. It looks like it won't only be my feet being kept warm this winter.

LAUNER
Calf-leather credit-card wallet
Don't get me wrong, I like Mulberry, but it is just so popular now. Launer is a company that has a 50-year heritage of British craftsmanship. The quality is truly stunning and of course they have the pride of holding the Queen's warrant. I had my initials printed on the outside to make it that little bit more individual. Every Launer item also comes beautifully packaged.

MARKS & SPENCER
As well as shooting the next Collezione collection next week, I am currently helping to edit the men's section of the M&S magazine. Whilst putting looks and styles together the other day for one of the edits I truly was astonished not only by the style and design of the items but actually of the cost. I am a true believer that you don't ever need to spend so much money on designer clothing when this kind of quality is available on the British high street so cheaply. The two items that stood out for me were:
Camel cashmere double-breasted overcoat
Simply beautiful. It is very much like the brown double-breasted item I wore last year, but that wasn't cashmere. I like cashmere and I am having the coat taken in by a tailor for a more fitted style.

Autograph leather brogues
Considering some brogues can go for up to £400, this pair is just £75. M&S actually have a more expensive pair from the Savile Row collection but personally, I prefer these.

YVES SAINT LAURENT
Long chunky-knit wool belted cardigan
Ok, so I indulged a little with this purchase, but I literally haven't stopped wearing it, either casually with a pair of jeans or instead of a blazer over shirt, tie and trousers.

ROMI TOPI
Shoe-shine box
I have told you about the Burlington Arcade where I get my shoes shined and the wonderful Romi who owns this buiness. Not only does he look after my shoes, he also acts as my therapist! We have become great friends. Romi knows that I am obsessed with men having good shoes and even though this may not be possible, to look after ones shoes and shine them is hugely important. Well now, men do not have an excuse. Romi sent me this shoe shine box as part of his Top Shine product collection. His moto? "You can tell a man by his shoes". Too right Romi, I couldn't agree more.