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The first part of our 2015 Style Directory is ready for you to try on for size in our latest issue. Visit the finest factories, meet some daring new designers and perhaps pull on a new pair of socks – as well as admiring all the usual immaculately groomed Monocle content. [Available online.](https://monocle.com/shop/magazine/other/issue-83/)

Cannes may be best known for its film festival but for those in the property business the city is famous for one event: Mipim. One of the world’s biggest property fairs, it draws a mix of developers, civic leaders and architects. Here are five key themes from this year’s show.

This year’s biennial ISH in Frankfurt centred around the theme “comfort meets technology” and showcased everything from groundbreaking taps and tubs to smart home features, renewable energy and air-conditioning technologies. Over 2,400 international exhibitors presented their innovations across 10 halls proving that good design can lead to a green future.

From spicing up your lettercraft to adding class to your condiment cupboard, plus timeless additions to your kitchen, wardrobe and workspace, here are this month’s most covetable commodities from issue 81 of Monocle.

For many older people in Japan work isn’t just a way to keep busy but also a source of happiness and wellbeing. From a 71-year-old barber to a 100-year-old café owner, Monocle visits Japan’s elderly who are showing little sign of letting up.

With an exhibition of his artwork of war-torn Afghanistan opening at the Imperial War Museum North, artist and illustrator George Butler received a visit from Monocle films. His ink-and watercolour scenes bring a new depth to reportage more often the preserve of combat photographers.

As their cutesy, cartoon profiles – and fanbases – continue to soar, Japan's cuddly collection of corporate mascots has come to inhabit a central part of the nation's identity. We meet these celebrated creations and the people who bring them to life.

In a competitive world driven by technological advances, some artisan producers are staying resilient and challenging the mass-produced industry. Monocle films visits entrepreneurs in Istanbul, Cape Town and Mallorca who champion the art of craft.

Our March issue focuses on all things Nippon: Japan's foreign ministry, craft capitals, media might, fashion heroes and Olympic odyssey. Oh, and we've thrown in a cartoon robot cat for good measure - [now available online.](https://monocle.com/shop/magazine/other/issue-81/)

Be it an airport lounge or a cinema, feeling at ease is hugely dependent on your surroundings. Monocle films meet with the design experts crafting the warmest welcomes.