Maz Shoes

As comfy as my trusty Toms shoes are, they certainly aren't built for walking over seven miles a day in. So my feet were relieved when I discovered Maz shoes in Brazil's beachtown playground of Buzios. Lightweight and comfy, these sneaker-looking shoes bare an uncanny resemblance to Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 trainers, which I wore to death when I had a pair back in the day. The range of colours are vast, and the baby shoes are particularly adorable. A great alternative to Havaianas for tired feet.

Osklen making waves

Having recently spent some time in Brazil, I became acquainted with some of the country's hottest fashion labels while in Rio de Janeiro. In a city where Cariocas rarely see a day below 20 degrees, it would be unfair to say the fashion is directed purely by beachwear. Of course, the city is leading in sexy and stylish beachwear - there's Banco de Areia swimwear for fashion conscious women, and Redley surfwear, for men and women, with a streetwear slant - but it was the luxury sportswear brand, Osklen, that really stood out.

Starting life as a mere winter sportswear brand, Osklen has expanded to include surfwear, ready-to-wear collections for women, and a lifestyle fashion line based on "surf-inspired aesthetics" and an "environmental focus".

Orthopaedic physician Oskar Metsavaht, who founded Osklen and also designs for the label, is reportedly in talks with Brazilian flip flop giant Havaianas about a "controlling interest" in the brand.

 

 Osklen Royal Black SS12 Collection

Monki magic

Swedish label Cheap Monday recently opened their flagship UK store in London's Carnaby Street. I went along to check it out - not to buy one of their trademark skinnies, however, as long-gone are the days when my derriere would allow me to slip in to a pair of those. But while there, my attention was drawn to the Monki store next door. Cheap Monday's younger, more quirky sister label, Monki offers affordable fashion inside this uniquely designed shop front. Don't be surprised if you spend a while browsing in there and come out empty-handed though as the Monki experience is as much about appreciating the creative interiors as it is the products.

Can You Feel It? (feat. Guilty Simpson & Fatima)

Can You Feel It? (feat. Guilty Simpson & Fatima)

Yuna: Live Your Life

 

Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna Zarai describes her music as a "cross between Mary Poppins and Coldplay". In spite of her reference to Coldplay, I'm glad I gave this songstress's tunes a chance as not only does she have a darn good voice, but her talents have also been recognised by Pharrell who's produced this track. Known for her trademark turban-style head gear, Yuna also runs her own fashion label.

Take a walk on the wild side

 There's no need to wait for spring to step out in my Zebra-print Hi-tops

DefSound in my ears

Loving everything about this video...the threads, the tune and the vinyl collection