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Soft central

Monocle's third annual Soft Power Survey is an attempt to push the debate on where soft power comes from and how to use it. With current shifts in the global power balance, never has it been more relevant.
Better together

You don’t have to do it all alone. Make sure you know who to call whether you are running for re-election, rebuilding your city or rethinking your retail business in 2013.
Rock the Basra

Iraq has plans to build a shipping route that’s a cheaper alternative to the Suez Canal, starting with a port just south of Basra. It’s the biggest project ever undertaken by Iraq but will the war-ravaged city’s residents benefit?
Future lab

Global leaders may be lacking in ambition but that hasn’t stopped us doing the heavy lifting for them. Monocle presents 10 grand projects that would make a big difference.
Starting again

Spain’s economic woes are creating a spirited entrepreneurial culture in its capital. We meet the people turning their fortunes around and revitalising neighbourhoods in the process, and speak to the mayor about the new business initiatives.
Pole star

The small community of Kirkenes is set to witness big changes as global warming opens up the Arctic. Can it cope with the influx of businesses keen to take advantage of its position on the Northern Sea Route?
Theatre of life

In a prime location in the heart of Munich there is a building for retired actors, artists and journalists who have their rents subsidised by a foundation that made its money in the circus. A good portfolio helps win you admission.
Cinema Paradise

When it comes to a Friday night out at the movies, we’ll be booking our seats in Bangkok, Singapore and Tokyo. Now pass the Peranakan menu and a blanket.
Old style

Within the monolithic UN Headquarters there’s a chamber that is being restored to its former retro glory. It was originally designed by the Danish architect Finn Juhl and now, in a brave move, it’s being put back to exactly how it was in 1953.
Office party

The largest of its kind, Orgatec is a biannual trade fair that draws office furniture manufacturers from around the globe to the outskirts of Köln. It’s a chance for the industry’s largest names to showcase the office of the future.
Eager weavers

Cebu is the manufacturing base for many high-end international furniture brands but it’s only recently gaining the recognition it deserves for its skilled craftsmanship. Meet the people boosting the city’s reputation and supporting local talent.
Home from home

Following the success of our Hong Kong shop and bureau set up, we’ve replicated the concept in Toronto’s Little Italy – only it’s 20 times the size.

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D

Cabin attire / Global

Boarding school

Commercial flying is always that little bit more enjoyable when you’re surrounded by passengers who cut a neat and well accessorised dash down the aisle. Monocle settles in for a two-hour continental flight.

Edited by: Takeharu Sato

Photography: Mark Sanders

Glasses by Persol, cardigan by Macphee, shirt dress by Muji, bracelets by Hermès, watch by Cartier

Glasses by Oliver Peoples, jacket by Trussardi, shirt by Windsor, trousers by Incotex

Jacket by Louis Vuitton, shirt by Hilditch & Key, trousers by Incotex Cinquetasche, watch by Cartier, bag by Porter x 1205

Glasses by Prada, jacket by Barena, shirt by Hilditch & Key, watch by Patek Philippe

Glasses by Oliver Peoples, shirt and jumpsuit by 1205, suitcase by Rimowa, bracelet by Louis Vuitton, ring by Karen Walker

Jacket by ts(s), shirt by Camoshita United Arrows from Trunk, trousers by Incotex, headphones by aiaiai

Glasses by Claire Goldsmith, jacket by Strellson, waistcoat by Post O’alls, shirt by Glanshirt

Glasses by Persol, cardigan by Zanone, shirt by Blue Work from Tomorrowland, jeans by J.Crew

Glasses by Claire Goldsmith, scarf by Hermès, jacket by Caruso, passport case by Smythson

Glasses by Oliver Peoples, jacket by Trussardi, shirt by Windsor

Jacket by Woolrich John Rich & Bros, shirt by Gitman Vintage, belt by Strellson, trousers by Boss Selection, watch by Louis Vuitton

Dress by Galerie Vie, clutch bag by Trussardi, ring by Louis Vuitton

Glasses by Chanel, earrings by Bottega Veneta, cardigan by Des Prés, shirt by Trussardi

Eye mask by Otis Batterbee, dress by Galerie Vie

Luggage by Louis Vuitton, trousers by Incotex, slippers by Muji

Jacket by Caruso, shirt by Glanshirt, watch by Louis Vuitton

Glasses by Chanel, earrings and necklace by Tiffany, shirt by Closed, waistcoat by Zanone, skirt by Hermès, bag by Tod’s

Cape by Galerie Vie, shirt by Hermès, skirt by Muji, tights by Falke

Make up: Lyz Marsden

Hair: Oliver de Almeida Waqued

Models: Emma Champtaloup, Natalya, Dafne, Charis, Olga Pavlova, Tony Helskens, Ryan Lovelock, Helge, Michael Camiloto

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