Eye on the Buy: Lori Hirshleifer Reporting from Front Row at Chanel Fall 2010 Show

Mar 9, 2010

I happen to be into fashion, but whether you are or not, it doesn’t get any more exciting than a Chanel runway show at the Grand Palais on Avenue Winston Churchill in Paris.  There’s this buzz in the air, this excitement that you can feel, as if all of fashion week is waiting for this event.  You know something incredible is going to happen.  The Palais quickly fills with guests, editors, celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Vanessa Paradis, and anyone lucky enough to have gotten an invitation, this collection’s invitation showing off a large polar bear on its front.  I found my place, honored to be seated in the front row next to Burt Tansky, President and CEO of the Neiman Marcus Group

The show’s starting.  Here goes: 

45 minutes fly by.  You know you’ve witnessed creative genius.   It’s so cool to be a part of it.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Milan Wrap Up

Mar 9, 2010

Lori Hirshleifer just wrapped up previewing the Fall collections in Milan, and we have the rundown of what you’ll be loving come cooler weather:

Missoni:  Designer Angela Missoni rooted her show in a universal tribal spirit.  The looks for this collection were inspired by global influences, but managed to remain every bit Missoni in heritage.  A wrap skirt could almost be a tartan kilt, and a big, slouchy blanket coat could almost be a Masai warrior’s wrap.  With each look, however, Missoni took the generations behind her down the runway, and combined family history with new world motifs in a spectacularly new twist that has a comfortable and familiar feel.

Versace:  With the fashion world abuzz that calming down and pulling back is the overriding theme of the season, Versace took her own spin on the zeitgeist.   The collection features impeccable tailoring in an oh-so-sexy way with fitted leathers that exuded a soft strength.  Mighty were the femme fatales who strutted the runway with a toned down confidence.   Though the industry chit chat emphasizes discretion, minimalism and pragmatic daywear for the coming season, you won’t get away with too much of that when it comes to Versace.

Dolce & Gabbana:  A return to its roots was the higher calling this season for Dolce & Gabbana, who referred to this collection as their heritage collection.  As the fashion world continues its soul-searching this year, many are looking to re-anchor themselves in the fundamental core values each brand was built on.  And Dolce & Gabbana are no exception.  This season the designers focused on their signature leopard, lace, knits and florals in a simple yet moving way.  They know how to make their classics great, and reminded us all why we fell in love with the duo in the first place.

Versus:  In a genius move, Christopher Kane’s appointment to Versus has injected the secondary line with a vigor and youthfulness that has all signs pointing to one of the best collections for Fall.  In its second season under Kane, this comeback brand is chock full of perfect cocktail dresses and flirty separates that are reminiscent of Gianni Versace in his heyday.  We particularly love the “cupcake” skirt!

Aquilano. Raimondi:  Tommaso Aquilano and Roberto Raimondi channeled Marisa Berenson and Marina Schiano, jetsetters around Rome in the seventies, to create a fabulous collection that is the highlight of the season.  With a deft hand, they were able to make rich clothes that are at the same time young and fresh.  The fabrications and design are beautiful and timeless, and a new take on what every woman will want come Fall.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Milan – A Fashionable City

Mar 8, 2010

Milan wasn’t always the hub of Italian fashion, nor was it always where Fashion Week took place, as it does now.

Italian fashion was actually born in Florence.  Artistocrat Giovani Battista Giorgini organized the first “fashion parade” in 1951 in his living room to attract the attention of some American buyers traveling from the Paris collections and visiting Tuscany on the way home.  The first “fashion parade” was a great success, and the following year it moved to the legendary Sala Bianca at Palazzo Pitti in Florence, where designers presented their creations and affirmed Italy as an important contributor to global fashion.

Shortly after, the Italian movie industry based in Rome attracted many Hollywood actors and actresses, and Italian designers started creating dresses for American film stars.  As a result, the fashion capital of Italy subsequently split into two cities, having centers in both Florence and Rome.  Roman designers such as Micol, Emilio Schubert and Giovanna Gattinoni gained popularity, and began dressing icons such as Sofia Loren.

The end of 60’s and, in particular the year 1968 was a period of social revolution and protest against the political system, which started in France and moved rapidly to Italy. Women started fighting for equal rights and, for the first time, they started wearing trousers. Elio Fiorucci took advantage of this situation and promoted jeans for women to wear, opening his shop in San Babila square in Milan.

Milan soon became the new capital of prêt-à-porter and the big textile industries started employing talented designers to give a distinctive touch to their creations. In 1973, a young designer called Gianni Versace started designing patterns for a brand called “Genny” while another young designer, Giorgio Armani, designed his first creations for a similar textile group.

There was one incident, however, that cemented the move of fashion from Florence and Rome to present day Milan, and launched the first fashion presentation in this capital.  It was an accident involving Missoni fashion house in 1967. Just minutes before presenting their show at the Sala Bianca of Palazzo Pitti, in Florence, Ottavio and Rosita Missoni noticed that the lingerie worn by the models was unsuitable for the light lamè dresses.  However, it was too late to change anything and the models walked down the catwalk with their lingerie showing. Editors and buyers applauded the bold idea promoted by Missoni, but due to the lingerie controversy, the following year Missoni was not invited to take part in the show.  Missoni decided to present their creations anyway, choosing a Milanese swimming pool as their setting. The success was enormous and the popularity they achieved convinced the other Italian designers to abandon the Florentine Sala Bianca in Palazzo Pitti and move their collections to Milan.

A few years later, in 1975, the Italian Camera della Moda, presented its first official calendar of fashion shows and Milan celebrated its success. In 1978 about 51 collections were shown over 6 days including many Italian brands such as Missoni, Fendi, Genny, Mario Valentino, Enrico Coveri, Mila Schon, Roberta di Camerino and Laura Biagiotti.

And this, in short, was how Milan Fashion Week was born.  Stay tuned to get the full report tomorrow for the best new styles for next season, with runway reports from the Hirshleifer buying team.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Today’s brain Teaser…

Mar 5, 2010

.

And now for today’s brain teaser.  What do Gittman Vintage, Levi’s, Rag & Bone, and Band of Outsiders have in common?  It’s the urban, light-hearted, NYC forward-and-retro-at-the-same-time feel that these collections share, the fact that they’re all made in the USA and that they’re brought together at Hirshleifers ETC.  Each of these collections is easy to wear and understated but the constants include high quality fabric, classic construction and good fit with a handmade feel.  Rag & Bone’s spring 2010 collection harks back to its roots, revisiting the brand’s focus on the functionality of American work wear spun with a British hand-made twist.  Layered knits and loose fitting trousers create a tension with the narrow jackets.  And then there’s Band of Outsiders with its school-boy jackets, blazers, button-down shirts, ties worn slightly off-kilter, and “this is not a polo shirt” polos in great colors.  Easy, not sloppy.  Updated with subtle tweaks.  Gittman Vintage also pays tribute to its past through the reinterpretation of some of its old fabrics, chock full of retro details like original double-track stitching, chalk buttons, box pleats and the original Gittman Bros. label.  Washed solids, striped oxfords, antique seersucker, cotton madras, all button-down.  And then Levi’s Vintage.  The heart and soul of the Levi’s brand, these recreated original iconic jeans are made using the same techniques from days past.  Only available in 20 stores and made in the good-old USA, you’re not going to find Levi’s Vintage in any of their stores.  To complete the look, check out our selection of Florsheim by Duckie Brown’s classic wing-tips and suede plain-toe, styles your dad might have worn but this time around done in eye-popping turquoise, banana yellow, and slate.

So, the theme for the day is old with a new twist, understated but making a statement, wearable but stylish.  And it’s these seemingly inconsistent elements that are not inconsistent at all, but instead make for a strong integrated men’s statement at Hirshleifers.  Come check it out.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Loving Levi’s!

Mar 4, 2010

With such an institutional name behind the label, you know that a pair of Levi’s will be timeless classics.

The best part?  Levi’s has expanded beyond just jeans, and their new collection features a full offering of shirts and tee’s that are the perfect build to your spring wardrobe.

Whether it’s a faded plaid or a denim button down, these men’s shirts can be worn by your favorite guy.  They can also be the perfect top for you!  Throw one over your bikini’s this summer while at the beach or at the pool for an alternative cool cover-up.

Stop by Hirshleifers before these items sell out!

COMMENTS   |   Share

The Real Rodarte

Mar 3, 2010

Kate and Laura Mulleavy, the sisters and designing team behind the cult label Rodarte, are well known for their theatrical runway looks each season.

Only five years old, the label is already a permanent collection of both the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Fashion Institute of Technology Museum in New York.  That’s quite impressive for such a young brand, but it’s no surprise given how gifted and talented these visionary designers are.

Given Rodarte’s typically extravagant look, it’s been the question on every fan’s mind – when will they create looks that are truly wearable?  We couldn’t be more excited to present Rodarte’s newest looks, available at Hirshleifers now.  From mini dresses to skirts and knit cardigans, Rodarte has created truly exquisite pieces that have every bit of glamour that their runway collections hold, with the ease of wearability for every day events.

Find these and other styles at Hirshleifer’s now.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Taking Time!

Mar 2, 2010

When it comes to men’s watches, bigger is better.   The new art of telling time is a bold statement, with a large face and substantial dials.

Whether it’s Nixon, Tsovet or Welder, Hirshleifers carries the best men’s watches that will update your man’s look in a moment.

But these watches are not just for the men.  Ladies have been sporting the larger faces as well, and the white ceramic Nixon piece is the perfect arm candy when paired with a sporty dress and a serious tan this summer.

Before you know it, spring will be here, and bare arms will be exposed.  Get your new watch now before the warm weather strikes!

COMMENTS   |   Share

So Stella!

Mar 1, 2010

Stella McCartney, daughter of legendary Beatle Paul McCartney and wife Linda, has come into her own as a fully fledged fashion designer.  Having honed her craft in tailoring at Central St. Martins College of Art in London and on Savile Row, she has created a collection of womenswear that is the crux of stylish women’s wardrobes the world over.  Fans include the likes of Kate Moss, Liv Tyler and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Stella, the mother of three and inspired by “real” women like her own mum, knows about balancing a glamorous life with one of work and motherhood.  Her realistic vision of her clothing doesn’t mean that it will be worn head-to-toe.  Instead, she has a modern take on dressing, and sees her pieces as ways to build a closet.  Each piece can stand on its own, and can be worn layered with a tank top from The Row, jeans from Rag & Bone or a jacket from Chanel.

Her Spring 2010 collection is the epitome of this philosophy.  Her skinny pant is just as comfortable but much more versatile than a legging – the waist is built like a proper pant, so it can be worn with a top tucked in or out.   Her white pantsuit comprises of two easy piece that can be worn together or separately, and her menswear inspired jacket worn with sleeves rolled up is the perfect topper for jeans and a t-shirt.  And don’t forget her chunky knits, which can be worn over a dress before spring or with a tank top and shorts come cool summer nights.

Find these and other Stella styles at Hirshleifers now!

COMMENTS   |   Share

Frank Castagna, Visionary in our Midst

Feb 26, 2010

I can count on one hand the true visionaries I’ve been fortunate to come into contact with – the unique individual who can bring people together around a shared purpose and motivate  them to reach for the stars.  I’m talking about the person who can connect with others, who understands their needs and makes them feel integral to the whole, who sets forth his agenda through persuasion rather than coercion, who is accessible and available, who leads through example, and who takes responsibility for mistakes and willingly and without fear charts a new better course .  I think of George Washington, that brilliant leader who rallied people around his sense of decency and vision, and who never expected more from his troops than he himself was willing to give.

So, it is a distinct honor to know and be able to work with modern day visionary, Frank Castagna, owner of Americana Manhasset and Wheatley Plaza shopping centers.  But Mr. Castagna is far more than the owner of these two incredible properties.  He is the one who has conceived and built them, store by store, turning a dream into some of the most prestigious properties in the country.

When you meet Mr. Castagna, you are struck by how gentle and humble he is, more comfortable deflecting attention and praise onto those around him than accepting it for himself.  His understated demeanor hides his curiosity, intelligence, and unbridled energy.  This quiet man is one of action, and in fact, is rarely seen without his characteristic pin of a frog that he wears prominently on his lapel, a visible reminder to hopping.  Keep looking ahead and keep moving.  Know where you’ve come from, but never ever stand still.  Challenges and obstacles are met with calmness, as if they are old friends that visit from time to time.  Without obstacles, there is no growth.  Without challenge, there is no incentive to do things differently.  His confidence under fire, his determination and his energy, are an inspiration.

On a weekend day, you can see Mr. Castagna heading to his office bearing The New York Times, Crains, Women’s Wear Daily, Vogue, The Wall Street Journal, and a handful of other journals and periodicals.  And come Monday, you can be sure to receive a copy of an article with a personal note, advising of a trend, a new collection, a potential peril, or just a humorous anecdote.

Philanthropy is his calling, and he uses his position at the center to insure that all of his stores give back in meaningful ways.  This gentle man is a genius – in his informed management style, in his ability to keep his eye on the ball, in his kindness and humanity, in his energy and sheer unstoppability.  Indeed, Frank Castagna is a visionary in our midst, and I am incredibly fortunate to be in the presence of such an inspired and brilliant leader.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Classic Never Looked So Cool

Feb 25, 2010

Hirshleifers is excited to present ROUGE COCO Hydrating Crème Lip Colour from Chanel.

Chanel is well known for bringing back the classics and making them impossibly chic again, from the quilted 2.55 purse to the boucle jacket.  And lipstick is the newest throwback that we know will be an instant, must-have hit.

According to Peter Philips, Global Creative Director for Chanel Makeup, a whole generation of women was raised on lip gloss, noting some don’t even know how to apply lipstick.  ROUGE COCO is the answer – one quick swipe offers glamour, ease and a new look that will inevitably become as timeless as Mademoiselle Chanel herself.

The old-school metal tube (no plastic here!) in shades like Legende and Ruban Rose has an incredibly smooth texture that feels more like a glossy sheer, but the strong pigments hold serious color and won’t require any fussy dabbing or blotting.

The old is new again, and this lipstick will fit perfectly into the special slot created in the 2.55 bag, designed in 1955 and perfectly relevant today for your favorite ROUGE COCO color.

Find these and other colors available now at Hirshleifers.

COMMENTS   |   Share

The Main Event

Feb 24, 2010

Selecting the right event attire can often feel overwhelming — so many choices, with so little time to see them all.  That’s where Shari comes in.  Manager of eveningwear at Hirshleifers, she’s the absolute go-to for events large and small, the eveningwear sage whose advice has kept women calm, collected and perfectly attired for the events in their lives. 

As Shari tells it, there are mainly three different types of clients in search of the perfect evening dress.  There’s the mother of a bar or bat mitzvah child, a younger woman with a body that she generally likes to show off and a fashion forward take on how to do it.  For her, Shari would recommend the luxe Alexander McQueen cobalt blue silk chiffon empire waisted gown.  Flattering, youthful and sexy, it doesn’t get much better than this.  Or, the Kaufman Franco bronze silk chiffon gown with jewel detail in the front and halter neckline, another great option.  

The mother of a bride or groom generally looks for understated elegance.  Shari would show her the fabulous Monique Lhuillier ultra light ball gown in white chiffon with a delicate tracery of black threading throughout and a black belt around the waist.  The layering makes for a light airy ethereal elegant feel.  Don’t overlook our gowns from Reem Acra or Andrew Gn. 

And if you’re to be a guest at a black tie event, you have much to choose from.  Shari likes to go dressy cocktail ala Herve Leger’s body-hugging sexy silhouette in black and white, or with J. Mendel’s short cocktail dress in citron with payettes that shimmer.  Sexy, easy to wear, need I say more?  And finally Rodarte chimes in with a black and gold sequined cocktail dress with delicate pinked sheer neckline. 

So, if an evening event is in your future, don’t fear.  Shari is available to answer all your questions and help you into the perfect dress avec trimmings.  The rest of the evening is up to you.

COMMENTS   |   Share

J. Mendel Fall 2010

Feb 23, 2010

Ryan McGinley’s powerful and vibrant images of nature in his Moonmilk series were the inspiration for J. Mendel’s Fall 2010 collection.

The colors and textured of these photos provided the groundwork for a collection rich in textured metallic tweeds, dyed silver fox vests, molten red satin face silk mousseline and contoured jacquard.

These elements of nature give an immediate sense of organic luxury, where even the “the inside of these garment is as luxurious as the outside.”

Such attention paid to the interdependence of nature and art can only produce the most magnificent results, as they did here in this season’s newest looks.  Our ties to the earth and all its glorious beauty is not forgotten by Mendel, and instead, utilized in such a way to create a magnificent blend of fashion and luxury.

Find these and other styles at Hirshleifers.

COMMENTS   |   Share

The Finer Things…

Feb 22, 2010

Many often consider countries like France and Italy the founding fathers of fashion, but one must not forget that American history is richly steeped in centuries of well-heeled figures.

New York has come into its own as a fashion capital when compared to Paris or Milan, but the White House was the original head of state in this department.

George Washington was born to a wealthy family in Virginia, and from a young age was aware of the place fine clothes occupied in high society.  Not unlike Carrie Bradshaw, our first president spent most of the earnings from his first job following the latest fashions.

Prior to the Revolution, Washington ordered most of his clothing from London tailors.  He was keen on fit, and was known to complain that his breeches were too short or too tight.

And though it was popular at the time for men to engage in some dandyism, Washington preferred the more classic and conservative styles.  This silk and velvet embroidered jacket with matching waistcoat, made in London between 1760 and 1770, would have been worn by Washington on formal occasions.  It appears to be in excellent condition and retains all of its original buttons, and was considered a fine piece of luxury at the time.

So when you find yourself hesitating to buy that latest pair of Christian Louboutin’s, just remember, the first leader of this great country would have not thought twice!

Stop by Hirshleifers, and enjoy one of our countries earliest pastimes – shopping!

COMMENTS   |   Share

Annie Fensterstock – Jewelry by Design

Feb 19, 2010

Annie Fensterstock eludes neat and easy categorization because she is and does so many different things.  She’s a young woman proficient in the technique of ancient goldsmithing, an inspired jewelry designer and craftsman, an artist who paints, sketches and has a design in mind for everything she sees or thinks about, a mother of two young girls with a boy very much impending, and the wife of business partner and indie film producer, Mike Romero.  Her black sketchbooks – she has about 35 of them from the last 20 years or so – contain her quick renderings of clothing, houses, jewelry and just about anything that attracts her attention.  They speak to her keen eye and to her fundamental connection to the world through art.  There is art in her blood, figuratively and literally; indeed, her grandmother was the famous Margit Beck, cubist and famous abstract expressionist painter known, among other things, for her aerial landscapes.  Annie grew up seeing, feeling and ultimately learning art in Margit’s studio.  Her mother, as well, is an artist.

For the last five years, Annie has been designing, creating and selling her own collection of handmade jewels under her own name.  Art and travel are her source of inspiration.  Using no molds, wax carvings or castings, her jewelry is entirely hand fabricated, working from solid metal, creating every link of every chain by hand.  Her pieces are made in 18 karat or 22 karat yellow or white gold and platinum.  She favors diamonds that are unusual in color and sapphires of hot pinks and moody blues.

Every piece is one of a kind, and indeed, so is Annie.  No pretense, no affectation – just Annie doing what comes naturally and what she loves to do.  Pure and steadfast as the gold she smiths.  Hirshleifers is proud to carry her collection of fine jewelry.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Front Row Seats

Feb 18, 2010

If you can’t get a front row ticket to a fashion show this season, the next best thing is the runway report live from Americana Manhasset.  Reporting up-to-the-minute on shows such Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan, Catherine Malandrino and Rag & Bone,  these runway reviews keep you abreast of some of the best new looks for coming down the runway for Fall.

Whether its Thom Browne’s decorative racoon tails, Alexander Wang’s cool girl looks or Jason Wu’s menswear inspired pieces, your first peak at the designers newest collections are available for a limited time only!  The runway report will only be featured during Fashion Weeks in New York, Milan and Paris.

Check in daily to get your full report, now at Americana Manhasset.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Just the Right Jewels

Feb 17, 2010

We at Hirshleifers pride ourselves on sourcing some of the best new designer talent available, and we just fell in love with Annie Fensterstock’s gold and jeweled pieces.

Annie’s blend of ancient goldsmithing techniques and modern aesthetic results in a decidedly unique design that is distinctly different from many jewelry collections that exist today.

The rugged hammered finish is met with delicate placement of precious stones and gems, and it is this combination that makes each piece a study of art.

Be the first to find these and other styles by Annie at Hirshleifers now.

COMMENTS   |   Share

The Shoe Report

Feb 16, 2010

No one is as reliable when it comes to shoes as Gina, Hirshleifers very own Shoe Manager.  Gina has seen the best of the best shoes roll in each season, before they get scooped up by the savviest of shoppers.

That’s why we thought you needed to hear directly from her before they are long gone.  We asked Gina for her top picks for spring, and here they are… (drumroll, please):

Miu Miu this season brings so much to our girls.  For an evening pick it’s a bronze metallic platform sandal with a crystal encrusted heel!  I also love the studded and jewelry flat for day!  It’s fantastic and fun, and bring extra sparkle to any look for day!”

Balenciaga this season is awesome, because of the sexy slingback peeptoe bootie or the ballet flats in muted soft spring colors!”

YSL is such an important designer to have as part of your spring shoe wardrobe, because no one does a platform high sandal like Yves St. Laurent.  The beige platform is the perfect example.”

Christian Louboutin’s double platform strappy crisscross suede lavender and pink sandal is an incredible shoe that makes you wish spring was here already.”

Well, there you go – You heard it here first.  There’s no denying that the first warm wave of spring is best met with an open toe shoe, and Gina’s picks are the perfect way to get a head start on the season.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Alexander McQueen

Feb 15, 2010

The world of fashion lost one it’s most influential and talented designers last week: Alexander McQueenHirshleifers was devastated to learn of the death of this immensely gifted individual, and our thoughts are with his family at this time.

Born in 1969 in London to Scottish taxi driver Ronald and social science teacher Joy, Lee Alexander McQueen served an apprenticeship early in his career with Savile Row tailors where he learned his craft.

After a period of time working for designers abroad, McQueen returned to London and received his masters degree in fashion design at London’s most prestigious fashion school, Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design.  His graduation collection was bought in it’s entirely by influential fashion stylist Isabella Blow.  It was Blow’s early faith in his vision that launched his career.

McQueen was one of the youngest designers to achieve the title “British Designer of the Year,” and was named International Designer of the Year by the CFDA.  McQueen’s company was acquired by Gucci Group in 2000, and under Gucci’s management McQueen’s brand continued to grow and inspire with outstanding collections each season.

This accomplished designer will be remembered for his inspiration, his creativity, his passion and most of all, undeniable contribution to the world of fashion.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Marooned in Milan…

Feb 11, 2010

Eye on the Buy/News from Fashion’s Front Lines

I know you probably think a weekend buying trip to Milan and Paris to write Versace and then Chanel is positively glamorous.  I used to think so too – until I started doing it.  Even when the weather cooperates – which is certainly not the word I would use to describe the foot of messy snow that closed Milan’s two airports and shuttered the city this past weekend, leaving even David Beckham on the outside unable to get in – the trip is a whirlwind of writing appointments punctuated by meals that might have been memorable but for the fact that I’m generally too exhausted to remember them.

The glamorous version is this.  Reading material in hand, you take a relaxing late-Friday afternoon flight from JFK into Milano’s Linate Airport.  You breakfast Saturday morning at the luxurious Four Seasons, which will invigorate you for your day’s writing appointment at Versace’s chic Via Gesu palazzo.  After breezing through the appointment, you enjoy the sensuous sights and sounds of Milan as you make your way back to Linate, read your way over to Paris where you dine elegantly and sleep soundly before heading to write Chanel the next day.

Reality.  With an alert level at orange, JFK has definitely lost some of its allure.  Second, it’s hard to appreciate the sights and sounds of Milan when you’re driving to and from the airport in white-out conditions.  Third, since a kindle has to be turned off until flying altitude is reached, it’s utterly useless when you’re marooned for hours on the runway waiting for the blizzard to momentarily subside so that you can take off.  In fact, it only adds extra weight to your snow-wilted Chanel caviar maxi.  Fourth, try to ignore the question that keeps popping into your mind about how much time after deicing you have before the plane should be airborne.  And finally, let’s be clear on this one – a blizzard has troubling affects on Brazilian-straightened hair.

But there’s always good to balance things out.  Versace’s collection is based on the continued use of mixed media – stretch wool and Japanese jersey against leather or ribbed details.  Brushed gold metal details frame fabrics and couture tulle and other fabrics finish jackets and dresses.  Knitwear is important.  The silk prints of the season – Ceramic Garden and Winter Paradise (how fitting) – both drawing inspiration from the iconic prints of Gianni Versace are great.

And Chanel presents yet another strong collection.  Knits are an important element.  Rich tweeds abound, some woven loose to feel like knit.  Quilting is also a collection element, and the use of greys and silvers creates an understated subtle feel.  Long envelope jacket silhouettes are prominent throughout the collection.  In addition to wool, cashmere and faux fur, there is an amazing cool vintagy-feeling leather that is pretty irresistible.  Look for the Karl bag.  You won’t be disappointed.

So, that’s all the news from fashion’s front lines.  Until the next installment of Eye on the Buy, I am signing off.  Affectionately and Humorously Yours, Lori Hirshleifer Sills.

COMMENTS   |   Share

Valentine’s Day is Just Around the Corner…

Feb 11, 2010

Not to put too fine a point on it, but the big day will be here before you know it, and we know that frantic last minute shopping is the last thing you need to make the holiday more special!

So don’t wait another second – hurry now to find the coolest shades from The Row that she’ll just love, or brand new belts  from Ronald Pineau that are the perfect blend of rocker chic.  A sporty tote by Sissi Rossi could do the trick.   Travel books by Tashen for cities like Paris and London are the perfect getaway without spending the big bucks, or better yet, get something for you both with this home warming scent by Antica Farmacista.

Whatever it is you are looking for, we’re sure you’ll find what you need at Hirshleifer’s ETC.  Check it out now before the weekend rush!

Sissi Rossi’s soft nappa leather tote with large safety pin closure, zipper pocket and leather handles ($585.00) is  available for PURCHASE ONLINE! 

COMMENTS   |   Share

A Band of Outsiders

Feb 10, 2010

Ohio-born Scott Sternberg began his career as an agent at famed Los Angeles talent agency CAA, but the Ari Gold lifestyle wasn’t for him.

In 2004, Sternberg launched a collection of button-down shirts and narrow ties, and has steadily expanded his offerings to create a full men’s line.  In 2009, Sternberg was named menswear designer of the year by CFDA, and has quite the celebrity following for his style of French New Wave meets classic Americana.  From Beck to Jason Schwartzman to Kanye West, the hippest of the LA crowd has been seen wearing Band of Outsiders, many of which can be seen in his blog.

An interesting new series on the Band of Outsiders’ site is a photographic essay on homes in Los Angeles.  The vintage appeal of these images reflects the unique artistic spin this brand offers, and its cheeky take on modern life.

For more styles available, check out Hirshleifers now.

COMMENTS   |   Share

For the Gents…

Feb 9, 2010

We know it’s hard to find that perfect gift for your man – there are only so many sports memorabilia you can succumb to in a lifetime.

Some of the best gifts are those that keep your guy in mind – his penchant for losing track of hair appointments can be taken care of in a jiffy with this leather bound metal studded planner by Olivia Harris.  Or given his newly discovered fondness for bands like The Kills, skinny ties and ankle boots like these by Rag & Bone will keep him hipper than any Lower East Side hipster.

Find these and other gifts, like Gitman Bros. Vintage shirts and Comme des Garcons cologne before time runs out.  Available at Hirshleifers now.

Olivia Harris soft leather notebook in black or white with silver studs ($200.00) is  available for PURCHASE ONLINE! 

COMMENTS   |   Share