In this new series, we ask folks to highlight splurge-worthy perks that they’d absolutely wish to indulge in. This week, Stuart Musgrave, Founder of Bon Vivant (BNVVT) quality bags, shares with us his Lust List
I’m no monk, but I would like to think most of things I want are experiences over possessions. It’s not because I am particularly enlightened; it’s just that it is a lot easier to pick up and go when you are carrying a backpack and treasured memories, compared to putting all your things in storage, or moving house! I’ve tried to include a little bit of both in my Lust List.
1. A summer in Kythira, Greece
I’ve been lucky enough to spend a small amount of time in Greece and went to Italy last year and loved it. There is something about that part of the world that just resonates with me. I haven’t been to Kythira (pictured above) yet, but many friends have and told me of its treasures. To spend a summer on its rugged landscape, surrounded by azure blue water, would be a dream come true. Taking the time to explore, integrate, read, swim, drink and most importantly, eat!
Find out more about Kythira here.
2. A train ride along the Silk Road
I’ve always been interested in Central Asia, it has been a focal point of human history since well… history. One of the best and most interesting ways to see it is by combining the Trans-Caspian Railway and the Turkestan-Siberia Railway. It is the blending of Europe, Eurasia, Arabia, Russia, China – where empires have been forged, lost, and forged again. It is also a place where Christianity meets Islam, with Zoroastrianism and Buddhism thrown in for good measure. The Romans, Persians, Mongols, Macedonians, Ottomans, and Soviets all came and went, leaving behind and taking with them a piece of history – a place as rich in natural beauty as it is diverse. The trip would take in a lot of the ‘stan countries (like Uzbekistan), and I think would be a great place for stories new and old.
Find out more about Silk Road railway routes here.
3. The Bon-Vivants Companion (or How to Mix Drinks)
I’m a sucker for history and nostalgia, and love to think about where a book has been, who has owned it, and the stories other than the story within that it could tell – so a first edition of How to Mix Drinks or The Bon-Vivants Companion would be pretty special. First published in 1862 and written by Jerry thomas, one of the world’s first mixologists, the book contains over 600 recipes as well as amazing etchings of the various creations. It is probably the most famous bartenders’ and cocktail book of all time, and it was the first real cocktail book ever published in the United States.
You can order The Bon-Vivants Companion here.
4. An original work of Agung Prabowo
I have had the pleasure of meeting Agung on a couple of occassions and have a few of his prints; he has exhibited at the Mizuma Gallery in Singapore. For me, I love the techniques he uses to create his art, choosing to painstakingly cut each multiple-layered piece before printing. I also love the feelings that he creates by using symbology to create a larger image. I would love to have one of his bigger pieces on my wall!
You can view the artworks of Agung on his Instagram feed.
5. A Porsche
The Porsche 911 has always been my dream car – it combines luxury, performance and simplicity, but most importantly, reliability (well, at least I hear they are). It’s a sports car without all the frustrations of a sports car (except the bootspace). If I had to choose, I would go for a ’72 Porsche 911 T/R Gruppe – 2.7L Carrera RS Spec in a Sepia Brown.
You can find out more about Porsche dealerships in Singapore here.
6. A pair of Church’s Loafers
With the right pair of shoes, you can go anywhere. We have recently started a range of shoes and this has been a huge learning experience to the nuance and skill that is involved in shoe-making. Church’s are an institution; they are a classic handmade shoe with a Goodyear-welted sole that will last a lifetime. They’re the perfect travel companion, and Pierce Brosnan wore them when he was playing 007 – GoldenEye is one of my favourites!
View Church’s catalogue here.
7. A Wooden Runabout
These wooden boats are the epitome of my lusts. Nostalgic, classic, effortless style with a sense of adventure. When I think of these boats, I picture the Riviera, Capri, The Kennedy’s. They are a thing of beauty, impeccably crafted, designed to be passed through generations – what more can I say! The only tough thing would be to choose between a Riva (made in Italy) and a Hacker (made in the US)
Find out more about these boats here.
This Lust List was put together by Stuart Musgrave.
After leaving behind a career in finance, travelling, some soul-searching and recognising an empty niche, Stu has channelled his personal aesthetic into a growing collection of hardy, beautiful, functional and affordable leather bags, accessories and now shoes. Bon Vivant – literally, “one who lives well” in French – is aimed at like-minded souls keen on some adventure with a bit of style.
You can find Stuart Musgrave and his BNVVT booth at the upcoming Boutiques Fair!