The SLMan Hot List: December
THE BOOK
Carbone
Assouline’s latest hits bookshelves on 12th December. The XL hardback is focused on legendary New York restaurant Carbone, known for its fusion of art, music and Italian-American cuisine. Ten years since opening, it’s a destination that always draws a crowd, lighting up historic Thompson Street each night with the warm red glow of its neon sign. The book offers exclusive recipes, untold stories and wanderlust-filled photography, alongside interviews with founders Mario Carbone, Jeff Zalaznick and Rich Torrisi.
Visit Assouline.com
THE KNIT
Sunspel X WM Brown Project
Need a new knit? Sunspel has worked with Matt Hranek of the WM Brown Project to create the perfect Aran roll-neck sweater. It’s made with Geelong lambswool spun by one of Scotland’s oldest spinners on the banks of Loch Leven. The final piece is then knitted by specialists in Dumfriesshire using machines that can achieve the patterned design, before it is hand-linked and steamed. Finally, the sweater is washed in naturally soft Scottish water, which loosens the fibres, transforming them from being tough and stiff – like Gran used to make – to soft and smooth.
Visit Sunspel.com
THE COLLECTION
KA YO_Prototype X End
Swedish retailer KA YO has launched its inaugural in-house collection exclusively at End Clothing. Known for its innovation in outdoor, running and trail gear, KA YO has garnered a reputation for delivering high-performance, sustainable pieces since its launch in 2021. Drawing inspiration from the rugged beauty of Nordic landscapes and the resilience of the Solaris grape, its debut collection brings together avant-garde aesthetics, all-weather durability and uncompromising performance designed for the modern adventurer. The KA YO_Prototype range includes fleeces, insulation vests, shell jackets, caps and camping essentials, such as an enamel mug and water bottle.
Visit EndClothing.com
THE COLLAB
Guinness X JW Anderson
You don’t need us to tell you that Guinness is enjoying something of a moment. Now you can show off your love of the black stuff with an item from the new capsule by JW Anderson. The collection features two limited-edition t-shirts, a sweatshirt and – our pick – a knitted jumper, where pearl-effect jersey has been embroidered to recreate the creamy Guinness head.
Visit JWAnderson.com
@JW_ANDERSON
THE AUDIO KIT
Fred Perry X Ruark Audio
Renowned British brand Ruark Audio has created a limited-edition set of speakers with Fred Perry. For the one-off drop, Ruark’s award-winning MR1 Bluetooth speakers have been redesigned, taking inspiration from Fred Perry’s signature black and champagne polo shirt. The speaker grills are covered in the piqué fabric of the polo shirt and are completed with the champagne laurel wreath embroidery. The backplate, finished in complementary hues, features dual branding and gold-rimmed hardware.
Visit FredPerry.com
THE LUGGAGE
Carl Friedrik
Carl Friedrik’s new luggage colour, Arctic Grey, adds a contemporary edge to its Hybrid collection. The new shade is complemented by cognac-coloured, vegetable-tanned leather detailing. Featuring two long-standing styles – the Carry-On X (43L) and The Check-In (69L) – the Hybrid collection is for those who appreciate a sleek, minimalist and understated aesthetic. The launch is the first of multiple new luggage colours that Carl Friedrik will continue to introduce across its Hybrid and Core collections in 2025. Check it out in person at the brand’s slick new Piccadilly flagship.
Visit CarlFriedrik.com
THE SCENT
Royal Mayfair
On 10th December, Creed will revive a much-treasured favourite from its archives. Royal Mayfair is a bright, invigorating fragrance that is opulent, fresh and quintessentially British, drawing inspiration from Scottish Highland pine along with energising eucalyptus, zesty orange and bergamot. The scent is finished with Creed’s signature notes of ambroxan, cedar wood and musk, adding a touch of warmth that works well for this time of year.
Visit CreedFragrances.com
THE DESTINATION
Paul Smith X Claridge’s
This year, Claridge’s Christmas tree has been designed by a longtime friend of the hotel, Sir Paul Smith. After teasing this genius trailer, the installation was unveiled by Sir Paul in the hotel lobby last week. Visitors can expect a traditional 19ft Christmas tree decorated with 100 bespoke birdhouses, all with a playful Paul Smith twist – look for roofs decorated in playing cards, postage stamps and dice. It’s just the thing to stop in and admire before nipping into the Fumoir Bar for a Christmas shopping pitstop.
Visit Claridges.co.uk
THE TRIP
Belmond Britannic Explorer
If 2025 is going to be a year you tick something off your bucket list, you might be pleased to hear about Belmond’s Britannic Explorer. The first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, it will launch in July, heralding a new era of exceptional slow travel. It will mix timeless rail heritage with contemporary British food, with fine dining experiences designed by renowned chef Simon Rogan. There will also be an on-board wellness suite. The train will depart from London, offering three-night journeys with a choice of three routes: Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales.
Visit Belmond.com
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