East Eats West

‘Green’ Hells Angels

More and more people living in cities do not own a car anymore as they prefer public transport. At the forefront of this trend is Zurich with its amazing public transport system. With the decline of car-ownership more and more people rely on bicycles. Sometimes this leads to a confrontation between trams, cars and bicycles and all participants dream of a peaceful co-existence. Well, once a year this dream comes true when gentleman and ladies mount their classic bicycles and cruise in style through Zurich. And it is only on this day when car drivers stop and smile at the bicyclists. One lady asked me if this was a wedding (no, the Gentlemen’s Run). Another teenager commented that we were like ‘green’ Hells Angels. Why not?

http://gentlemensreport.nzz.ch/club/category-1-3/

‘Artisans contemporain’ made in France

 Most fashionistas around the world share one common dream: to own a Hermès Birkin bag one day. What makes them such a sought-after item, with waiting list of months if not years, is probably a mystery to most men. And so I never paid great attention to Hermès besides their iconic silk ties and shawls. However, this has changed profoundly with Hermès’ newest road show in which they presented various craftsmen, ranging from a saddle maker to a leather specialist who does gloves or handbags. So this event was clearly a must for any Birkin bag lover. Not only that. What really struck me was the fact that everything, from gloves to handbags to silk shawls, was made by hand. Only after I watched a short movie about their various craftsmen and craftswomen did it strike me how much work goes into every single item produced by Hermès. In the movie various craftspeople emphasize one single thing: their passion for their craft. From young to old, from the jewelry maker to the handbag maker and from loyal employees with 33 years of service to young apprentices, everyone is incredibly proud of their craftsmanship. In that sense the documentary was truly inspirational. It showed people who get up every morning not only to make a living but to produce a product of beauty. It was touching.

Abeler & Bro leather goods and much more

Where would you buy a quality leather weekend bag? If your answer is at any of the mega luxury brands I have an alternative for you. Abeler & Bro, a husband and wife team, have been selling their own leather goods under their own name in Zurich for almost ten years. The products are made in Italy under the supervision of the wife who is Italian. Not only do they produce beautiful leather and canvas weekend bags but also a wide range of leather accessories and blankets and shawls made from Cashmere, baby camel and other luxurious materials. However, Abeler & Bros true skills lie in the making of customized traveling leather accessories and products for vintage cars.

Website: www.abelerbro.com

Ballerinas of all colors

A simple idea, wonderful colors, a web shop and happy women. This is the short summary of the Swiss web start-up Pink Inside. The concept is as simple as brilliant: offer three types of ballerina shoes in a wide selection of bright colors. And sell them online at a decent price. Currently Pink Inside operates a pop-up shop in Zurich. Check them out!

www.pinkinside.ch