More than a decade ago, Helmut Lang worked his magic on denim trousers, turning admirers of his minimalist style on to the attractions of indigo cotton twill. Since then, labels such as Prada and Dior have brought out their own versions. Despite the couture endorsement, however, denim is still a no-no in the boardroom. We might be seeing a change in that soon.

Just this Spring/Summer season past, Jil Sander created a mini-sensation on the runways with its sharply cut denim suit. Aigner’s most recent collection features denim trousers as part of its jacket-and-tie ensembles. Prada’s tailored denim blazer is the picture of restrained urbanity. Denim is taking a step up on the style ladder; here are a few tips on how to wear it with panache.

Keep it low key
A little discretion never goes astray when it comes to denim. It’s probably not a good idea to overload on the heavy fabric, especially in the tropics, where dressing for comfort is paramount.

Go dark
Deeper shades instantly look more polished than faded hues. Leave the distressed denim for casual weekends and the acid-washed in the ‘80s.

Cutting it close
The right cut makes a difference. Slim trousers with a higher waist look more put together and give you a strongly delineated outline. Pick jackets with slight shoulder padding and close fit.

Accessorise right
With accessories such as tapered dress shoes and a sleek belt, denim can make a strong showing both in and out of the office. Carry it with confidence on your next Casual Friday, and be prepared to fend off compliments. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Drawing inspiration from the sinuous form of the serpent, Bulgari presents a new sparkling assortment of accessories that slide around wrists and fingers in links of gold, pave diamonds, onyx and mother of pearl.

The Serpenti collection plays on the variety of forms suggested by the snake, transforming its sinuous body into wrap-around bracelets, rings and jewel-watches.

The new range will be available from September onwards with the prices starting from $5,650 for a ring to $128,000 for a two-coil full diamond white gold watch.

Among the jewellers who successfully reintroduced the serpent motif in the 20th century, Bulgari was the first to adapt it to a wristwatch. Indeed, from the late 1940s onward, its serpentiform bracelet-watches became a signature of Bulgari production and signalled the beginning of its success in the field of fine watchmaking.

The snake motif has adorned the limbs of beautiful women since the ancient Greeks and is traditionally believed to offer talisman-like powers to its wearer. So perhaps its time to make like Cleopatra (without the unfortunate demise) and get your hands on one of these sleek pieces.

It’s a good time to visit auctions and start your collection of art, watches or wine. Tang Wen Li of auction house Christie’s tells us why.

What we are currently seeing in our auctions worldwide is that
great works or rare items have a consistent demand. It is a buyer’s market today, and many of our collectors are finding it to be a great time to buy. Speculators have by and large dropped out as a result of the global economic backdrop and there’s less speculative pressure on prices — which is great news for buyers and collectors.

Further, it’s important to note that collectors in this market are being very selective.  While they may be buying fewer objects, they buy top quality and they are not afraid to spend commensurate dollars to acquire them.

Our specialists have brought many rare and fresh items to the market, including extremely rare Chinese relics from the Kangxi period, Chateau Lafite-Rothschild Vintage 1982, a Patek Philippe Reference 5078 and Impressionist paintings. It’s a case where we are seeing more quality than quantity. That said, it doesn’t necessarily mean people are selling their collections to raise funds to weather the financial crisis. We have seen individuals, museums and institutions selling pieces to make space for new collections or exhibitions.
The most important advice I can pass along is to buy what you like and do your homework. Go to galleries, museums and auction-exhibitions, speak with specialists and review prices. These will arm you with knowledge to help you feel confident and comfortable with your purchase.