Womenswear / Global
Go for bold
Bright days are here at last so it’s time to make a statement. Pastels and block colours are all you need to stand out – and stay smart.
Styling: Kyoko Tamoto
Model: Jessica Evans
Hair and make-up: Sam Basham
L MONOCLE
All aboard
Designed to keep going in all weather, this new driverless bus might not be fast (at least, not yet) but it’s certainly fun.Making tracks
Two Germans are on a mission to heal the rifts that are threatening to split Europe – and they believe that free international train travel for all European 18-year-olds is the way to do it. So far the scheme is proving a hit.Throwing signs
Like any language, signing changes with the times – and that incorporates updates to include the latest obscenities and drug references. Monocle put its hands up for a lesson in lyrics at a Texas gig.My cabinet
The president of the Rhode Island School of Design sketches out the make-up of her tight team.Cosy corner
The star of ‘Deutschland 83’ reveals that acting is just a side hustle – his first love is music.
Civil service
It’s a valued institution but its reputation has been under fire: Monocle explores the complex role of the Guardia Civil.Politics Briefing
Surely Vladimir Putin’s grip on power won’t last forever? We meet the activists preparing for Russia’s future.Eastern promise
In our new feature we’re heading to one nation per month to look at the ideas, practices and customs that are worth exporting. First up, Japan – policymakers take note.Are we nearly there yet?
While electric vehicles have been around for a while, they’ve never stolen the spotlight – until now. Monocle visits the Geneva International Motor Show and a smart charging point company in Finland to see if this could finally be the year they enter the fast lane.Tidy profits
Decent design has always prioritised better materials, using less and making things that are worth keeping. We profile three firms selling sustainability, storage and a sense of order that’s made to order.Tall stories
Are you sitting comfortably? It’s time for Monocle’s annual property survey, where we start with five distinguished developments.Judging a book by its cover
Is it the cardinal sin? Not according to those who design the jackets that catch your eye in the bookshop. We meet them to find out why – when it comes to selecting reading material – it should be love at first sight.Star turn
Abstract artist Frank Stella had his first Moma retrospective 50 years ago. We caught up with him as he prepared to show his latest colourful work, partly inspired by his smoking habit.Repeat after me
An inspiring school with high ideals created a space in which its pupils could foster their own creativity. No wonder so many of its alumni have become designers.Ideas on tap
Good sense is winning out over pointless technology in the world of bathroom design.Off the grid
A fearless Mexican city is drawing comparisons to the world’s most exciting design hubs. We meet its key figures.Sweet spots
Melbourne’s mid-century milk bars are being reimagined by a new breed of entrepreneur. Who fancies a shake?Staying in step
Tokyo is one of the world’s most fashionable cities – why does its fashion week lack global clout?Domestic bliss
Luxury fashion in Mexico used to be European – but rising womenswear stars are redressing the balance.Sitting pretty
As furniture shop Living Edge opens in Western Australia, we took a first look at its new space.Refined retreat
An old family pile, stripped back to reveal its former glory, starts a new chapter as a hotel.
Politics briefing
A cabinet reshuffle in Peru and how environmentalism could shake up the EU elections.Diplomacy Briefing
Press freedom comes under the spotlight and the UK’s ambassador to Switzerland tells all.Defence Briefing
Airbus gets a much-needed military order while Canada’s navy searches for more seamen (and women).Cities Briefing
Athens’ outgoing mayor shares advice for his successor and Montréal’s shops start talking the talk.Business Briefing
Venezuelans in Madrid, the future of duty-free shopping and a spinning start-up in Mexico.Food & Drink Briefing
Our favourite food finds, from German cookbooks to a top new Toronto table.Fashion Briefing
A Tuscan menswear designer opens up shop, plus our favourite watch finds from Baselworld.Travel Briefing
Read on for the latest hotel openings and travel news from around the globe. First up we head to LA for a smart stay in an art deco building that’s been given a new lease of life.
The Ten
The days are getting longer and festival season is almost upon us. So take the initiative: head out to a sculpture park in Spain, a five-hour play in Melbourne or Venice’s Biennale with the help of our indispensible guide to the best films, series, art, books and exhibitions on offer this month.True colours
A residents-funded revamp of a magnificent modernist tower block has given it the kiss of life – and attracted an array of creatives.Spring bulbs
Our collection of the best lamps and lights to brighten up your life, indoors and out.
Easy does it
Comfort trumps all in the heat. These light and loose layers will keep you cool whatever summer throws at you.Go for bold
Bright days are here at last so it’s time to make a statement. Pastels and block colours are all you need to stand out – and stay smart.
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