Sales Alert: Christian Louboutin, Tods, Theory, Tibi...

Christian Louboutin:

If you read this blog, you already know what these are.  Not to get your hopes up, but this sale is by invitation only.  If you have contacts, USE THEM.  If not, you can try and show up and hope for a lull in shoppers, or a kind doorperson...

When: Monday, May 14th through Friday, May 18th, 2012

Where: 306 W. 38th St. (bet. 8th and 9th Ave.)

Tibi: 

Amy Smilovic's collection started when she was an ex-pat in Asia during her husband's relocation.  Success with stores there led to demand back in the U.S.  She brings her multiple generations of art and creativity to this popular label.

When: Tuesday, May 15th - May 17th, 2012

Where: Happy Monkey Studio, 348 West 36th Street

Tod's and Hogan

Ok, so if you didn't make it to Louboutin, don't fret.  Luxury Italian shoes can still be found at a rocking price.  Men's and womens boots, shoes and hanbags are up for grabs starting at $89 (original prices up to $685).  

When: Thursday, May 17th - May 20th, 2012 

Where: 407 West 13th Street (btwn 9th Ave and Washington) 

Theory:
Utilitarian chic for the city girl, or New York's fashionista uniform...
When: Wednesday, May 16 - 20th, 2012
Where: 261 West 36th Street (btwn. 7th and 8th ave)

Read more >>

Italian Designers Promote the Artisan Movement

Why do you pay the big bucks for a designer item? It's not simply for the name is it? I would hope the educated consumer is purchasing their luxury piece for the work and quality too.

Gucci launched its Artisan Corner program last week, bringing their skilled leather craftspeople to their boutiques. The campaign was launched as a tour in stores of several cities, where VIP clients are able to order a customized bag with their initials embossed and an interior plaque listing the date of the event.

Dolce & Gabbana paid tribute to all of the artisans of their team during their recent fashion show. The show opened with images of their workers smiling out to the audience projected onto the big screen. The presentation also showed a video of the designers in a flurry of sketchpads with the seamstresses, tailors and patternmakers.

Domenico Dolce noted "Tailoring and craftsmanship are assets that belong to us and to Italy. From this point of view, we are very patriotic." Of course, the collection that followed on the runway showcased the final product of impeccably tailored jackets, lace and sheath dresses.

Read more >>