Expio, a genuine trailblazing men’s clothing brand standing at the forefront of pioneering materials and manufacturing processes, pushing the boundaries of what’s attainable in performance apparel.

Founded by Ben Mears in 2020 and with 20+ years of creative apparel experience. He has worked for companies such as YSL, Tommy Hilfiger, and North Sails in Italy. He has an extensive tailoring background and his comprehensive performance sportswear knowledge and passion for sustainability form the pillars of Expio.

Alongside Expio, Ben works on regenerative, traceable and accountability projects for several international businesses. Ben has completed business sustainability management training with the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Sustainable Leadership.

By fusing style, sustainability, and innovation, Expio creates performance clothing that empowers individuals to make conscious choices without compromising on quality. Through pioneering materials and manufacturing processes, Expio aims to set new industry standards and lead the menswear revolution towards a more sustainable and responsible future.

Expio is setting new industry benchmarks with its pioneering use of materials that not only enhance performance, but also prioritize sustainability. By harnessing the power of bio-nylon derived from castor beans and Optim Performance wool developed in collaboration with The Woolmark, the brand crafts outerwear that strikes the balance between comfort, durability, and environmental consciousness.

One of the key differentiators of Expio is its revolutionary manufacturing process , or the Stitch-less Stealth welding technique, as they like to call it. This innovative approach not only enhances the durability and waterproof capabilities of the clothing but also eliminates the need for traditional stitching, reducing material waste and resource consumption. Expio is the first and only brand to use this new technology, ushering in a new era of manufacturing.

“Our aim is to design uncompromising garments that encompass style, performance, and sustainability. These garments are crafted with a conscious understanding of the importance of sustainability while also being able to withstand the elements at the highest level. Not only are they physically durable but also emotionally resilient.” said founder, Ben Mears. 

Expio’s mission extends far beyond the confines of fashion. The brand aims to rebalance the clothing industry’s impact on the world by creating performance clothing that is both exceptional and conscientious. Through mindful decision-making and a deep understanding of social and environmental issues, Expio hopes to make a lasting positive impact on the planet.

Iconic skateboarding brand Santa Cruz turns 50th this year, making them one of the longest standing, consistently running skate brand globally. Known for their Screaming Hand design and Classic Dot designed by the legendary Jim Phillips.

The brand have been an inspiration throughout fashion, streetwear and skateboarding since 1973!!!!

Santa Cruz Skateboards has been an industry-leading manufacture of board sports lifestyle products for 50 years. Established in 1973, Santa Cruz defined a generation with eye-popping graphic and innovative products that continue to resonate with tastemakers, professional riders and younger generations. Their graphics are some of the most iconic in skateboard history. Santa Cruz is Mecca for skate and surf culture and they’ve been here to define the look and feel of these sports since the beginning.

Captured by the brand slogan, ‘From the beginning, til the end,’ and the special 50th edition of Jim Phillip’s screaming hand, this momentous anniversary revisits the core of the brand which is planted in the foundations of skate culture. Throughout the years, Santa Cruz has championed riders such as Eric Dressen and Steve Alba who have designed and reworked iconic artworks that are still best sellers today. Being central to the skate community, Santa Cruz has continually provided a platform to both well-known and emerging artists; this year we have worked with Shepard Fairy (OBEY GIANT) and Jeremy Fish to name a few. Whilst celebrating the past, Santa Cruz also looks ahead to another 50 years of supporting skateboarding through innovation and creativity.

Alongside seasonal versions of the iconic Classic Dot and Screaming Hand Santa Cruz welcomes back legendary team riders Christian Hosoi and Micke Alba with reissues of their most sort after graphics. Well known for strong illustrative graphics Santa Cruz’ European apparel line also offers a complimentary cut and sew collection of elevated skate wear consisting of heavy weight shirting, knitwear, jackets and the must have baggy denim.

A new study has revealed that Kapali Çarşı, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey, is the most Instagrammable shopping destination in the world.

Cross-border shopping platform Ubuy Hong Kong analyzed Instagram hashtags for selected shopping destinations worldwide to find which are the most Insta-worthy. Hashtags for the shopping destinations were included if they were considered to contain a sufficient proportion of posts related to the shopping areas of each destination.

1. Kapali Çarşı (Grand Bazaar), Turkey – 3,152,548 Instagram posts

Kapali Çarşı is the most Instagrammable shopping destination worldwide, with 3,152,548 Instagram posts that include its hashtags. Also known as the Grand Bazaar, Kapali Çarşı is located in Istanbul, within the city walls, and covers 61 covered streets with over 4,000 shops. Originally built by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in 1455 following his conquest of Constantinople, now Istanbul, Kapali Çarşı expanded in the following centuries to become one of the largest covered markets in the world.

2. Namdaemun Market, South Korea – 2,308,415 Instagram posts

Namdaemun Market is the second most Instagrammable shopping destination in the world, with 2,308,415 Instagram posts featuring its hashtag. Originally established in 1414, Namdaemun market in Seoul, South Korea, is one of the oldest markets in Korea, experiencing numerous waves of reconstruction and modernization throughout the centuries. The bustling market has around 5,200 stores and is the largest traditional market in Korea. This wide range of stores offers everything from food to decorations.

3. Starfield COEX Mall, South Korea – 2,182,063 Instagram posts

The third most Instagrammable shopping destination worldwide is Starfield COEX Mall, with 2,182,063 Instagram posts. Also located in Seoul, Starfield COEX Mall is the world’s largest underground mall, covering an area of roughly 154,000 square meters (1,660,000 square feet), 144,000 square meters (1,550,000 sq ft) of which is underground. The mall hosts various shops, restaurants, and entertainment, including the famous Byeolmadang (Starfield) Library. COEX comes from combining the CO from ‘convention centers’ with the EX from ‘exhibition halls.’

Starfield COEX mall is in the heart of Seoul’s downtown Gangnam district, so you will be sure to see plenty of revellers enjoying the festivities.

4. Covent Garden, United Kingdom – 1,719,602 Instagram posts

With 1,719,602 Instagram posts using its hashtag, Covent Garden is the fourth most Instagrammable shopping destination worldwide. Located in London, Covent Garden was originally a 17th-century fruit and vegetable market. The famous market building was constructed in 1830, with further construction around it added in later years. Today’s Covent Garden is a lively tourist destination with a variety of cafes, pubs, shops, entertainment, and the Apple Market craft market. Covent Garden always embraces the Holiday spirit.

5. Gwangjang Market, South Korea – 1,498,492 Instagram posts

In fifth is Gwangjang Market, with 1,498,492 Instagram posts that include its hashtags. Also in Seoul, Gwangjang Market was the first permanent market in Korea. It is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, hosting over 5,000 shops and providing a variety of goods and food for shoppers.

6.Macy’s Herald Square, United States – 1,420,519 Instagram posts

At sixth is Macy’s Herald Square, with 1,420,519 Instagram posts that include its hashtags. Located in New York, Macy’s Herald Square store is the flagship Macy’s department store and headquarters of Macy’s, Inc. Macy’s is renowned for its events, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and its annual Christmas displays in its windows on Broadway.

Macy’s Broadway entrance faces 6th Avenue across Herald Square, which is part of the parade route of New York City’s  Annual Halloween  & Christmas Parades. 

7. İstinye Park, Turkey – 1,223,065 Instagram posts

Sitting seventh for the most Instagrammable shopping destination worldwide is İstinye Park, with 1,223,065 posts that include its hashtags. Found in Istanbul, İstinye Park offers shoppers a wide selection of stores, entertainment, and food in both indoor and open-air sections. İstinye Park boasts a traditional Turkish food bazaar that provides both traditional and modern flavours.

8. Siam Paragon, Thailand – 1,065,588 Instagram posts

With 1,065,588 Instagram posts featuring its hashtags, Siam Paragon is the eighth most Instagrammable shopping destination worldwide. Situated in Bangkok, Siam Paragon is one of the largest malls in Thailand. It hosts a wide range of shops and restaurants, as well as a plethora of entertainment options, including the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World aquarium.

9. Oxford Street, United Kingdom – 980,319 Instagram posts

In ninth for the most Instagrammable shopping destination worldwide is Oxford Street, with 980,319 Instagram posts that include its hashtags. World-renowned as a center of shopping, Oxford Street is located in London, and is the busiest shopping street in Europe. Running between Tottenham Court Road and Marble Arch in London’s West End, Oxford Street hosts many flagship stores and offers visitors a wide range of shops and services.

10. Taipei 101, Taiwan – 858,646 Instagram posts

Rounding out the top ten most Instagrammable shopping destinations worldwide is Taipei 101 with 858,646 Instagram posts. Located in Taipei, Taiwan, Taipei 101 was the tallest skyscraper in the world when constructed in 2004 and was the first to exceed 500 meters (1,640 feet). The building hosts numerous restaurants, cafes, and stores across numerous levels, plus observation decks to admire the view.

A spokesperson for Ubuy Hong Kong commented:

“Istanbul is world-renowned for its culture and commerce, stemming from its deep roots in history as one of the great cities of antiquity. It has been the crossroads of trade between Europe and Asia for millennia, and this legendary past is reflected in the choice on offer for shoppers in the present.

“Everything from bustling street markets to modern shopping malls, there is something for every taste, especially for those who like to show what they get up to on Instagram.

“Kapali Çarşı, the Grand Bazaar, ranks as the top shopping destination for Instagram users, and it’s easy to see why. Found in the walled city of Istanbul, its ancient architecture and bustling streets provide visitors plenty to take in while browsing the wide variety of wares. With so much to see, there’s plenty of opportunities to get that perfect Instagram snap.”

Urban adventure means uncharted territory, a boundless curiosity for the city around you. Explore your city anew with advanced technical apparel purpose built for urban adventure with The North Face UE.

Through countless encounters with your favourite city, you move with its movements, its character is reflected in you. Navigating side streets and blending into crowds, a boundless curiosity for the city around you. Finding the secrets hidden behind the landmarks, waking up with the alarm and chasing sunsets.

Crafted by guest designers this season are Yuzuki, founder and chief designer of FLOAT and YUZUKI, and Kazuki Kuraishi, founder of THE FOURNESS. They worked with The North Face APAC design team to bring the new collection to life. Their style mixes street and urban outdoor elements to create dramatic pieces re-imagined garments inspired by archival technical pieces to create a definitive moment for this season.

Forming innovative, forward-thinking fashion staples, The North Face UE is a labour of love designed to unite and empower. Each designer brought their unique opinion of urban street style to the table. Re-imagine the garments that express the performance world of The North Face. Reflecting the evolution of exploration in city spaces around the world.

The North Face UE collection contains a tech romantic design reshaping the icons with 3D a-shapes for women and a reimagined vintage TNF jacket for men that plays with The North Face ratios through fleece fabric blocking. Highlights include the layering down jacket, patchwork crew and the casual pants in classic black for women. For men the highlights alongside the jacket are the fleece jacket and casual pants in vintage style.

Wherever the adventure takes you, it’s never the destination but the dialogue with the city that matters. The North Face UE collection enables explorers to find that connection to their environment, in both the natural and urban worlds.

James Clark, Technical Training Manager at Wiser – makers of smart home heating – reveals the common mistakes homeowners are making when it comes to saving on energy usage and bills,

revealing the common mistakes homeowners are making when it comes to reducing energy bills. 

Leaving your heating on low all day

“A lot of people think that leaving your heating on low all day can help save energy and money, however, this isn’t necessarily true. In some instances (for example in a large house with underfloor heating and a heat pump system) it may be cheaper to have your heating on low all day; but what we do know from research is for many UK homes, having the heating on only when you need it is the best way to reduce your energy costs.”

Not investing in smart heating

“Upgrading from basic thermostat controls to a smart heating system, such as Wiser, can help you to save money on your annual energy bills. With Wiser, you could have the heating on in bedrooms and bathrooms for the first hour of the day, then simply swap it to the home office and lounge for the afternoon via your phone. In fact, by switching to a smart heating system, you can save up to 30% on your annual energy bills. 

A smart multi-room heating system is a great long-term investment that will save you both energy and money, by only heating the rooms you choose, at the times you decide.”

Opting for non-energy efficient appliances  

“Research shows that swapping your old kitchen appliances for energy-saving models could save you hundreds of pounds per year, so when it comes to replacing or upgrading your appliances, make sure you take into consideration their energy efficiency credentials. The easiest way to compare different models is to look at the energy-efficiency rating label.”

Not balancing your heating system 

“A balanced heating system is a much more energy efficient one – by balancing your radiators you’re making sure that hot water from your boiler is reaching all of them. By simply asking your heating engineer to lower the flow temperature to around 55ºC and balance the heating system, you could significantly reduce your energy bills.”

Opting for high temperatures

“Often, many of us use higher temperatures than we need around the home, most commonly for our heating and washing. By dropping the temperature of your average cycle down to 40ºC, 30ºC, or even 20ºC depending on your machine, you can make serious savings. You needn’t worry about your clothes being properly clean; modern detergents and softeners wash clothes effectively at a lower temperature. I would also suggest turning your thermostat down by just 1ºC – you’ll likely not notice a difference in temperature, and this small change can make a big difference to the amount of energy you use, while saving you money off your energy bills.”