LUXE-BOUGHT-OUT

FENDI's new book defines "Made in Italy"

2010-11-18T23:18:00.001+01:00

Next week Fendi boutiques worldwide will have something new on their shelves--a 200 page directory on Italian craftsmanship. Fendi's CEO, Michael Burke, believes that showing the diversity of hand-made Italian products provides a broader context in which to talk about the luxury brands know-how. Burke also also states a very important factor I discovered while studying in Florence this past year, "Craftsmanship is only relevant if its connected to whats going to happen in the future." I'm very intrigued by this book theme, not to mention, its roster of fabulous artisans, bottegas, and notorious design houses that have made Italy such a culturally and fashionably significant country!!

"You come to realize that in creating the volume, Fendi meant to pour into it all Italian cultural and artistic uniqueness by including small and bigger names and companies, which irrespective of their size, are all equally important to the country and the preservation of its traditions."-VOGUE.IT

Buy The Whispered Directory of Craftsmanship next week for $54 in select bookstores and Fendi Boutiques worldwide.

OBSESSED: Limelight Marketplace

2010-11-12T03:24:00.002+01:00

Limelight Marketplace is a church-turned-nightclub-turned luxury mall, which looks a lot like something straight out of Londontwon. I happened to stumble upon this concept store on my cupcake search through Flatiron today and quickly fell in love. I wish I could have stayed and perused longer--lord knows my taste buds and shopping addiction were tempting me. Check out their website and become obsessed too!

LANVIN+H&M-NOVEMBER 20th

2010-11-02T16:08:00.003+01:00

This made my week. Cannot wait to grab some of these pieces November 20th-- it's going to be a wild day for fashionistas in NYC!!

NEW LOVE-Chanel Le Vernis Riva

2010-10-26T14:34:00.000+02:00

Chanel Cruise collection of nail polishes reminds me why I began to collect polish! The new Riva hits select stores November 15th! This will be perfect for Christmas on the beach in Pine Cay!

HERMES-NEW COMPANY. NEW SHAREHOLDERS

2010-10-26T04:38:00.006+02:00

Luxury powerhouse LVMH recently bought up 14% of Parisan leather house responsible for the famous "Birkin" and "Kelly" bags. Hermes joins luxury elites like Fendi, Celine, Givenchy among others who have caught LVMH's interest. The purchase led Hermes International stocks to reach historic heights, with a trade up of 14% in shares today. LVMH traded up 3.5%. The purchase has lots of people asking questions. We will see if this is another potential buy out--hopefully one that keeps Hermes the family business that we all love!

Other changes to Hermes include its launch of SHANG XIA in September 2010. Chinese designer Ms. Qiong Er has set up the SHANG XIA company in Shanghia to create a 21st century brand from the best of traditional Chinese and other Asian craftsmanship and design. Focusing on the home, the collections include furniture, decorative objects, accessories, garments and an extended experience of tea. It will be interesting to see how this move works for Hermes. Will the Asian market accept SHANG XIA?

Source: WSJ.com

BEST FALL BAG--REED KRAKOFF!

2010-10-22T17:22:00.002+02:00

American designer, Reed Krakoff, has out done himself with his "Boxer" tote. I am OBSESSED! The Boxer is an updated take on the ever-classic Hermes Birkin, with a little bit of structured rockstar edge added in! The former Ralph Lauren and Coach designer debuted his own line last spring for F/W 2010, and is already being copied in ZARA boutiques internationally. Reed is definitely one to watch and snag--if you can!

Check out Reed Krakoff here

NEW LOVE- RUTHIE DAVIS

2010-10-16T02:41:00.002+02:00

I recently discovered the kick-ass, femme fatale shoe designer, Ruthie Davis. Her Robot shoe below was at the forefront of Dennis Basso's SS 2011 show at NYFW. It turns out this high heeled maven had a history in the shoe industry long before her own launch in 2006. Ruthie Davis has been at the helm of Reebok and Tommy Hilfiger, as well as being responsible for the international fashion success of UGG Australia. Check out a couple of her designs below--and good luck, ALL of her styles are difficult to come by. Check out her website for videos, celeb favorites, and all things RUTHIE!

Burberry- OFF THE RUNWAY!!

2010-09-29T17:59:00.000+02:00

The time has finally arrived where you can act like a buyer and receive catwalk looks just weeks after Fashion Week! Since most of us didn't get the special invite to Burberry's "Retail Theater" last week, my go to luxe retailer is helping us out!

Luisa Via Roma presents Burberry Prorsum pre-order today!! What are you wanting??

New LOVE- McQueen Boots

2010-09-29T11:14:00.000+02:00

COLA LIGHT GOES LUXE

2010-09-29T00:42:00.008+02:00

Italian designers for Milan Fashion Week S/S 2010

When I first arrived to Florence, I thought it was normal to be served a Diet Coke in a Missoni decorated bottle---I was, however, in Italia, land of fabulous fashion and 3 euro Coke's. I quickly learned that this was not the norm, yet, a very generous collaboration called "Tribute to Fashion". Donatella Versace, Marni's Consuelo Castiglioni, Angela Missoni and Alberta Ferretti are some of the designers who lent their talents to the soft drink bottles. The all-female team came up with the designs to help raise money for the Milan for Abruzzo charity project. An earthquake hit the region last year and the charity helped young women from the area find scholarships.

Gianfranco Ferre

This year, for the second edition of "Tribute to Fashion", Tommaso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi, Creative Directors of Gianfranco Ferré, drew inspiration from four of the house's signatures: a rich croc texture, an Obi belt, a white silk shirt, and the brand’s identifying symbol: the Signature Pin - all of which celebrate the famous Contour bottle. Ferragamo and Armani Jeans also participated in this years installment for MIlan Fashion Week. Most bottles are available at La Rinascente department stores-- in Italia only--sorry!!

Karl Lagerfield

STYLE ICON-Anna Dello Russo

2010-09-28T13:04:00.001+02:00

Italia native, Anna Dello Russo, has been on the fashion radar for quite some time now. Her long history--more than 15 years-- as fashion director at both Vogue Italia and L'Uomo Vogue landed her as Fashion Editor-at-Large at Vogue Nippon. This fashion icon often receives first dibs on runway pieces and pulls them off perfectly! While some shy away from being eccentric and wearing the "not-so-wearable" catwalk pieces, ADR embraces being different and truly having a style all her own! I just adore her!!

LUXE FOR LESS-Louis Vuitton | Madewell

2010-09-20T23:10:00.005+02:00

I have loved this scarf ever since American artist, Stephen Sprouse, designed it for LV last Fall. Can you tell the difference between the much more budget friendly--Madewell version-- and the original Celeb favorite??

LV Cashmere/Silk Stole 2010- $715-$1400

Madewell F/W 2010 Two-Tone Cheetah Scarf-$50

Animal Instincts- VALENTINO

2010-09-20T19:01:00.001+02:00

Don't want to fall too hard for the leopard trend this season?? Rest assured--I absolutely adore this Valentino handbag I stumbled upon on NeimanMarcus.com. It makes the perfect statement of edgy glamour goddess, without overdoing it! So please, ladies, put that leopard leotard away and stick to hinting a trend, not exuding it...

Valentino- Aphrodite Leopard Print Shopper

OBSESSED WITH: GEORGINA GOODMAN

2010-09-13T22:24:00.001+02:00

Few people have ever heard of young, yet very successful, shoe maven, Georgina Goodman. So, unless you are an Editor, Head Buyer or Lady Gaga, chances are this post will be your first encounter with the eccentric designer.

Georgina Goodman for Alexander McQueen SS 2010

Most people aren't even aware Georgina Goodman is responsible for the sky high "Armadillo" shoes that the late Alexander McQueen premiered just one year ago in his iconic S/S 2010 collection. I must say I was an outsider to Mrs. Goodman's individual line until stumbling upon it at MICAM in Milan this past Spring. Ever since then, I have fallen in love with her more practical, easy wearing, yet unique designs--and even her kick-ass philosophy. Hire ME!!

Georgina's philosophy has always been straightforward; Be Consistent, Be Clear, Be Who We Really Are and most importantly; Be In Love. This philosophy is expressed in everything Georgina Goodman, even down to placing the words ‘Made in Love' on the sole of every shoe.

Her flagship on Old Bond Street is every shoe lovers dream in itself (and the youngest designer on the block I might add)!! Below are some of my favorite designs from Georgina Goodman's latest collection--they may be pricey, but the excellent craftsmanship, exclusivity and wearability will leave you feeling satisfied for years to come!

Georgina Goodman F/W 2010

I love anything bronze because it is a color that goes well with anything in your closet. Goodman's signature striped sole also adds that perfect hint of edginess.

Georgina Goodman "Made in Mayfair"

Georgina's "Made in Mayfair" line takes last springs essential, the clog, to a whole new level-- and I adore it, especially the cut-out bootie on the right!!

See these styles and more here.

BACK TO BASICS- Chloe' F/W 2010

2010-09-13T17:02:00.002+02:00

There is something about the way a leather bag looks better after a little wear and tear. This Chloe' bag is vegetable tanned calfskin which ages beautifully, and best of all--there are NO logos, or clutter!! I love a bag that stands alone, yet tells a story. I am dying to get my hands on this amazing new Chloe' creation. This bag, and Chloe' itself, exudes the type of understated elegance that will NEVER go out of style. Find this bag and other Chloe' staples here.

Chloe' Aurore Top Handle

Chloe' Aurore- Side View

Also available in the colors below

NYFW PART ONE

2010-09-12T21:56:00.004+02:00

New York Fashion Week has revealed some pretty clear trends for Spring 2011. Geometry, color, transparency and neutrals are all big players among the designers this season. I have kept tabs this weekend and posted some of my favorite looks below. There are obviously more fabulous shows over the next couple days-- like Marc Jacobs, The Row, Donna Karan, and Preen, which can be viewed by a live stream provided by Stylelist.com, M.A.C. Cosmetics and Milk Studios!!

Top Loves:

Geometric halters by Nicholas K

Eccentric suitings by Peter Som

Nicholas K

Peter Som

Prabal Gurung

Jason Wu

Charlotte Ronson

Band Of Outsiders

Images from Style.com

Burberry gets TECHNICAL

2010-09-11T17:29:00.002+02:00

Burberry's "Retail Theater"- September 21, 2010

Burberry's "Retail Theater" takes fashion shows to a whole new level. I have previously mentioned my frustration with eyeing fur coats and wool sweaters on display in the steamy months of summer. Thanks to Burberry, the fashion world is getting a little closer to solving this problem. Burberry's, Christopher Bailey, introduces the concept of direct-to-consumer runway shows, which now gives the public almost the same access as some of the world’s top editors and buyers when it comes to seeing next season’s collections.

Burberry will host live streaming iPad parties, and yes, iPad's are provided, at 25 stores worldwide where lucky individuals can purchase items literally off the runway! The items are shipped within 7 weeks compared to the normal lead time of 3-6 months!! If your invitation to Burberry's event gets lost in the mail, don't fret, items will be available via their website as well!

Talk about fast fashion! Not only is the British house bringing its collection to loyal customers more quickly, but people can now also decide for themselves what they want to hang in their closets rather than be at the mercy of buyers and retailers -- as well as have items that otherwise may not have been produced.

I love that the industry is embracing technology and real-time communication so well. With style.com and bloggers showing a design houses every move, adaptation is inevitable. We all know how hard it is to wait for that to die for piece for nearly 6 months--well, now we can have it!!

Read more about "Retail Theater" here
Image property of Burberry

LUXE FOR LESS-ZARA'S SEPTEMBER LOOKBOOK

2010-09-11T15:26:00.000+02:00

ZARA gets you and your wallet in the mood for Fall with their September Lookbook showcasing chunky knits, camel-tone capes, and fabulous outerwear. This fast-fashion powerhouse looks more like high-end chic--and I'm loving it!!

Images courtesy of ZARA

MORE FABULOUS COLLABORATIONS

2010-09-10T17:15:00.009+02:00

It's safe to say that most of us are becoming obsessed with the fabulous collaborations that have entered the fashion world over the last few years. I am very excited to point out the much anticipated Alber Elbaz' Lanvin collection for H&M debuting November 23!!

"I think I loved the idea that H&M was going luxury,

rather than Lanvin was going public."- Alber Elbaz

Gap also recently announced that House of Valentino will be introducing a capsule collection to premiere in the European market celebrating the US mogul's arrival in Italy. Valentino creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli stated,

"In this way, Valentino and Gap synthesize the current trend of combining luxury with basics."

In addition to the Milan Flagship store, the collection will also be available from Gap's London flagship on Oxford Street, Dover Street Market and Colette in Paris this November!! It's going to be a good year fashion people!

FASHION'S NIGHT OUT 2010

2010-09-09T19:52:00.003+02:00

It's that time of year again, where fashion people come together around the globe to literally- shop for a cause. Last year I was fortunate enough to spend my first week as a NYC resident at the inaugural FNO, now I am spending it in Milano!! Two nights, spanning every time zone, one love--FASHION! Go out and have fun--I know I will, plus the industry needs us...

Nicholas Kirkwood X Keith Haring

2010-09-09T13:23:00.009+02:00

Any avid shoe lover + art lover, like myself, would KILL to have a pair of Nicholas Kirkwood's new line inspired by 1980's modern artist, Keith Haring. Kirkwood's 12 piece line debuts in February next year, but the famed British shoe god was recently in Hong Kong presenting the line in his first exclusive retail space. The collection of Haring-inspired shoes showcases the late American artist and activist's most classic works, including Haring’s "Radiant Baby" as a wedge heel--LOVE!!

Interview with Nicholas Kirkwood here

NEW LOVE- MIU MIU leather studded bag

2010-09-09T13:06:00.009+02:00

Find this fabulous bag and other accessories at Miu Miu boutiques or online at Net-A-Porter.com

TUCKER X TARGET

2010-09-09T12:47:00.009+02:00

Its no secret that fast fashion houses have increased sales and awareness by implementing designer collaborations.

Target's designer collaborations always hit the right spot. With past designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Rodarte, Thakoon, and Alexander McQueen, Target is pioneering the concept of luxe brands for a fraction of the price. Tucker x Target debuts this month, and we could expect nothing less than the bright, vibrate prints that Tucker is famous for. Check out a few looks from the Tucker x Target Lookbook below. I have been awaiting this combo since February, and its finally on racks September 12!!

Images courtesy of Nitrolicious.com

V Magazine- The New York Issue

2010-09-02T13:16:00.005+02:00

The New York Issue not only boasts design GOD, Marc Jacobs, and pop GODDESS, Lady Gaga, but also entails an Artist Series. Local NYC artists, Nate Lowman, Spencer Sweeney, Dan Colen and Aaron Young, customized limited edition V covers. Some are not available on newstands and contain exclusive content. You can purchase the limited edition covers here.

Nate Lowman

Dan Colen (on Newstands)

Spencer Sweeney

Aaron Young (on Newstands)

ASIAN INVASION

2010-08-10T23:56:00.001+02:00

Its no secret that China is quickly becoming the luxury capital of the world. As mentioned in previous posts, most high-end design houses have openly moved production further east. But most brands aren’t so straightforward. To please customers looking for the “Made in Italy” label, several luxury companies now have their goods made in Italy by illegal Chinese laborers. Today, the Tuscan town of Prato, just outside of Florence and long the center for leather-goods production for brands like Gucci and Prada, has the second-largest population of Chinese in Europe, after Paris. More than half of the 4,200 factories in Prato are owned by Chinese entrepreneurs, some of whom pay their Chinese workers as little as two Euros ($3) an hour.

Now that Italian labor costs have sky rocketed, and the Y generation seems less than enthusiastic to pick up century-old artisan skills, more and more companies are making the switch. But the big question still remains-- Do we really care where our product is made?

A lot of what our course is about is where luxury is going. Yes, it is possible to create the same quality garment, footwear, or leather bag in China. And some might even say the products come out better. The Japanese and Chinese have always been the most picky luxury consumers. Louis Vuitton even claims to have switched primarily to machine-made goods due to the high return carried out in the Far East. To these customers, a mistake common to hand-made goods is unexceptable, thus machine is preferred.

L2 2010-NYU-Stern

Did you know that Chanel Hawaii is the largest grossing Chanel? That Ferragamo is opening 10 stores this year alone in China? That, most suprisingly, Hermes is launching a new brand, Shang Xia, opening September 2010?

Here are a couple examples of luxury companies catering to the far eastern client.

Chanel's 2010 Shanghai Collection

Xue Song For Salvatore Ferragamo

Louis Vuitton SS 2011

To find out more about vastly growing asian luxury industry, I recommend reading "The Cult of the Luxury Brand- Inside Asia's Love Affair with Luxury".