Friday, May 14th, 2010 | Accessories, Fashion, Haute Press, Los Angeles, Paris

Perrin Paris: What’s Old Is New Again

By Samantha

The Perrin Paris house dates back to 1893, and the brand re-launched in 2006, offering up their timeless contemporary collection of handbags, gloves and leather accessories, which the brand was always known for. The collection marries classic styling with modern design and uses the finest quality leather with top craftsmanship and dedication to absolute perfection in each piece. Recently, the house invested in its own manufacturing plant build in accordance with the latest standards, and in full compliance with environmental codes, bringing its niche in the leather industry back with a bang.

The Perrin house has been passed down from generations, always paying the closest attention to the quality of every piece that comes out of their store. “We wish to offer women a luxurious product, no matter the lifestyle,” explains Michel Perrin, the fourth generation representative of the marque. “Whether they are worn during the day or during a soiree, our bags reveal a woman’s attitude while enhancing her natural elegance. For a woman who knows her style, what is unique about it…and about herself.” Michel and Sally (his wife) met in the US over 20 years ago, and splitting their time between Los Angeles and Paris with their children, were key in the re-launch of the iconic brand which boasts products for men and women who have an appreciation for luxury at its finest, with an aesthetic of timeless elegance.

Sally Perrin is the perfect embodiment of the Perrin Paris customer, as she evokes natural elegance and beauty. She found success in launching a Paris-based French antiques business which sold to American customers. She now serves as the brand’s creative director, as she has given new life to the brand with her knowledge of fashion trends and love of classic items. Michel, a success in the software industry, grew up in the shadow of the family’s glove production plant. He launched his career in the US before returning to his roots to revive the Perrin Paris brand with the same expertise that the house has experiences for generations. He brings his French lifestyle to the brand, keeping the house standard with its old traditions, offering people a taste of French elegance through the house’s fantastic leather pieces.

At La Maison Perrin, Michel and his brother Henri work with passion and respect for tradition and the Perrin savoir-faire, keeping the old and using it to revitalize the house. In 2006, the brother’s collection debuted with classic French fashion design that encompasses a knowledge of French Haute Couture with a more contemporary vibe.

Each piece from Perrin Paris is made by hand, and the attention to detail and the finest quality is evident in each bag, pair of gloves or accessory. The newest silhouettes are modern, yet evoke an old-school sophistication in the goods which are sure to last you a lifetime. In the tradition of the company, they are bags that one can pass onto their children and through the generations. Perrin Paris is a brand that denotes luxurious style. Each piece is stunning, and the attention to details in each piece makes them of-the-moment funky yet ultimately classic, withstanding trends as a piece you will have forever. Even a newly born old school brand never goes out of style.

Perrin Paris bags are available online at Perrin Paris and the styles shown here retail from $326 to $879. Los Angeles locals can also visit their Beverly Hills boutique, which is a wondrous location housing their fine leather goods.    





Wednesday, May 12th, 2010 | Accessories, Haute Press, New York, News, TopPictures

Nooka Zub Zirc Collection Launches In Time For Summer

By Samantha

Nooka is a super fun brand based out of New York. Nooka is a contraction of “New Yorker” with a traditional NYC accent. This reflects the creator, Matthew Waldman’s, love of his hometown and home of Nooka, Inc. The ‘noo’ conveys innovation and a fresh outlook. Nooka is definitely a fresh brand chock full of funky watches and awesome accessories. Watches is their first foray into the market, but there will definitely be more fabulous wares to come, including sunnies.

For Spring 2010, just in time for summer, Nooka has launched their Zub Zirc collection of watches in fun neon colors. These watches definitely make a statement, and are technologically chic. The watches feature an alarm and a case with a band, they are also water resistant, making them a true summertime staple. All of the zub watches feature a mineral crystal lens for a clearer and more scratch resistant display. They are available in passion fruit pink, mango orange, midday blue and jungle sky green. The names of the colors certainly do the watches justice, and already get me in the mood for rocking some neon on my wrist. The watch is also available in black and white, for a more conservative, everyday kind of look.

Nooka has also launched the Rubber Asset Organizer ‘AO’ Wallet in a variety of neon shades. The wallet will hold all of your essentials, and keep you looking stylish, bright and glam-tech savvy. Throw your watch on your wrist, your wallet in your bag, and you are good to go for summertime.

The philosophy behind Nooka is to create functional products with a futuristic approach. Nooka aims to be a universal language, speaking to its consumer, and making the super technologically advanced accessible for the fashionable gal in a fantastic forum of accessories.

The Zub Zirc watches retail for $130 and the ‘AO’ Wallet retails for $35 at Nooka. These collections from Nooka are an instant way to add some color to your wardrobe.

Saturday, May 8th, 2010 | Fab Events

Rebecca Minkoff Sample Sale | NYC

By Faith

Thursday, April 1st, 2010 | Accessories, Paris, Style

Owen & Savary: Customizable Leather Cuffs & Accessories

By Gaetane

Indulgent –In one word, this would be how the Owen & Savary brand can be summarized.  A brand is not just a label, a brand encompasses an idea, a concept and all endeavors of are reflective of the brand’s unified vision.  Having had the opportunity to meet with Kira Owen of Owen & Savary, we discussed at length the eponymous brand founded on the basis of artisan craftsmanship and originality shared with her business partner Valérie Savary.  Their leather cuffs symbolize their idea of customizable wares composed of the finest hides ranging from ostrich, alligator & python.

Meticulous construction and fine selection of skins to choose from reinforce the novelty and allure of creating a personalized cuff.  With an innovative & unique clasp exclusive to the brand, the personalized touch is taken a step further.

A profound passion for leather and innate creative abilities sustain this union.  The duo’s cosmicmeeting while living in South Africa facilitated their creative collaboration.  Other sources of inspiration include a lingering frustration in “not finding cuffs to fit my naturally small wrist” says Owen.   At its inception, the brand consisted solely of leather cuffs; current manifestations of their product line include clutch purses, chokers and headbands.

An ethically and socially responsible enterprise, Owen & Savary’s manufacturing of leather products exclusively remains conscientious to not threaten endangered species.   More information about the brand’s distinct product line can be found on http://www.owensavary.com/.  You may customize as well as purchase pre-designed cuffs on www.shopjenesaisquoi.com/en/.

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010 | Accessories, Haute Press, News, Shop

Accessory Mavens are Indulging in Shashi

By Samantha

In Fall of 2009, design duo Danna Kobo and and Yuvi Alpert teamed up to create a line of bracelets inspired by love, luck and friendship. Being a true bracelet lover myself, I instantly fell in love with these gorgeous silk woven cord beauties in a stunning assortment of colors. The bracelets are brought to life by sparkling stones that add an instant glam vibe to any look. They also come with pyramid detailing that gives off a more edgy, rocker feel.

Shashi is available in single or double-row designs, with stones that are plated in either white, yellow, rose or gold gold. Meant to be layered, each consumer can create her own story with the colors and shining stones on her wrist. For a more classic look, you can opt for a simple black double row bracelet. Or go super funky with a pile of bracelet in matching colors. For a boho look, mix and match your colors and stones for a tie-dye effect on your wrist that has tons of fabulous flair. Whatever you want to convey, Shashi lets you do it in style.

Being such new designers, it was quite an honor, and a testament to their design skill that Kobo and Alpert were recently honored by the CFDA as winners of their new Fashion Incubator Program, as one of twelve finalists. They may be designing bracelets now, but we are sure that we are going to see way more accessories come our way from the designers, whose talent in accessory design appears effortlessly sophisticated with innovative design.

Celebrity fans of Shashi include Halle Berry, Rihanna, Lindsay Lohan and Whitney Port. The line retails for $60 to $85, and is available online at ShopBop.

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 | Fashion, News, Shop, Style

Fashion + Art Unite with Prismera Design

By Faith

The Fashion and Art Worlds have always been attached at the hip. Fashion designers are considered “artists” just the same and for Fashion Weeks all across the globe, many collaborate with gallery spaces to showcase their designs.

Laura Su’s roots are based in art, as she graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Illustration. Though embarking on Prismera Design, her jewelry and accessories line, painting has always been near and dear to her heart and an inspiration for her collections: “Watercolor is a medium that I’ve loved since art school and painting these lovely girls has allowed me to continue embracing color in a different way while designing my line of jewelry.”

Su has just released her second series of fashion illustration prints comprised of five designs: Scarlet, Cadmium Yellow, Emerald, Cobalt, and Coral. Each is printed on slightly textured 100% cotton rag paper and the inks are professionally archived. The prints come in sizes 5″ x 7″ and 11″ x 14″, as well as sets of three for both sizes. Prices range from $20-$55 and frames are available as well.

Visit www.prismeradesign.com to purchase.




Tuesday, February 9th, 2010 | Accessories, Holiday Gift Guide, Shop

Lust vs. Must: Valentine's Accessories

By Samantha

Red, pink and hearts everywhere, Valentine’s Day is upon us. Now, the biggest question remains, what to wear for a hot date (or ladies) night out. One thing is for sure, whether it is for your hubby or potential prospects, you will want to look your best.

While some opt for a night of wining and dining, others spend the night in a more casual setting with a loved one. Single ladies, Valentine’s Day is one of the prime nights to go man-hunting, as all the taken dudes are out with their chicks. Whatever you decide to wear (don’t worry, we will cover that later), accessories are key to spruce up any outfit and create a look that will leave your man, and all other men, drooling. Valentine’s Day provides a great excuse to go shopping, however, some ladies don’t want to spend their entire paycheck on accessories for the night. But never fear, there are an array of options to lust after, and many that are easily attainable, and definite must-haves.

When it comes to a handbag for Valentine’s Day, cute and girly is always acceptable. This Judith Leiber “Heart n’ Soul” miniaudiere is definitely a lust-have item. When it comes to the chic-est handbags, Judith Leiber is definitely the go-to designer. She creates such funky pieces that remain elegant and classy, and are forever shimmering and glitzy. However, Judith Leiber is not in the budget of many fashionistas, but that doesn’t mean you have to look any less dazzling. Clara Kasavina makes an adorable heart shaped clutch, the Amore, in metallic silver, which is uber glam and definitely something fabulous to grab onto for your big night out.

Judith Leiber “Heart n’ Soul” Miniaudiere $2,195 Judith Leiber

Clara Kasavina “Amore” Clutch $420 Clara Kasavina

One of the key pieces to any ensemble is shoes. For Valentine’s Day, there is no reason why you can’t go super glam with extra shine, after all, you definitely want to catch your lover (or future lover’s) eye. Christian Louboutin’s “Glitter” Pump in hot pink has been making strides on red carpets everywhere. That famous red sole couples with hot pink tonal glitter is the ultimate lust-have for glamour gals everywhere. However, if you are a bit over red soles, or just don’t want to spend your money in one place, there is one heck of a fabulous must-have looming. Patricia Field, the woman behind Sex and the City, has super hot “Bordello” Hot Pink Glitter Platform Pumps for sale on her site, made by Pleaser. Now, these shoes are the epitome of “F-Me” shoes, and it doesn’t really matter what you are wearing when you are accessorizing with these.

Christian Louboutin “Glitter” Pump $595 Bergdorf Goodman

Patricia Field “Bordello” Hot Pink Glitter Platform Pumps by Pleaser $88 Patricia Field

Once the handbag and shoes are taken care of, it is onto jewels to complete the ensemble. There are so many options when it comes to Valentine’s Day worthy gems full of love, hearts and a ton of sparkle. Chanel’s Plexi and Metal Bangles are lust-worthy whether it is Valentine’s Day or not. The set of 3 bangles are black, gold and white and feature hearts with arrows. So cute, and so much fun! The alternative, is an adorable bracelet from TopShop. Their “Love on Beads” bracelet won’t hurt your wallet, even if you buy three of them, to complete a Chanel-worthy look.

Chanel Plexi and Metal Bangles Price Available Upon Request Chanel

TopShop “Love on Beads” Bracelet $15 TopShop

And remember, it is entirely acceptable to print this out and post in on your special someone’s medicine cabinet, just for gift ideas, and a brief nudging reminder.

Thursday, February 4th, 2010 | Accessories, Haute Press, Sample Sale, Shop

Samantha Thavasa Valentine's Day Sale

By Jessica

Samantha Thavasa Valentine’s Day Sale

Up to 40% off Accessories

Dates: February 4th- 14th

Website: www.samanthathavasausa.com

Quantities of sale items are limited.

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 | Accessories, Beauty, Celebs, Fashion, Haute Press, News, Philanthropy

The Fashion Community Gives Back to Haiti

By Jessica

Compassion will always be in style. That’s why in an effort to lend a helping hand to Haiti, several retailers have donated proceeds of their sales and designed special edition Haiti-inspired pieces. Here is a list of brands that are dedicating their efforts, time and monies to Haiti earthquake relief. From a Ralph Lauren Haiti Relief Polo shirt to a Unique Vintage umbrella, these pieces will make you look and feel good all at the same time.

1-Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren has joined forces with the United Way to create the Haiti Relief Polo Shirt. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the Haiti Relief Polo Shirt will be donated to the United Way Worldwide Disaster Fund, an organization that is providing aid to the traumatized nation. Shop Ralph Lauren.

2-The CFDA

The CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) designers have created a $25 “Fashion for Haiti” Men’s and Women’s T-shirt, which benefits the Clinton Bush Haiti fund. “The tragedy in Haiti has affected everyone and most of us individually have given money for relief,” said Diane von Furstenberg, CFDA president. “However, I think it is now important to send a message and create a channel for funding from fashion as an industry.” The shirt will be manufactured by Theory. Shop CFDA and the following retailers starting February 12: Carolina Herrera, Devi Kroell, Diane von Furstenberg, Donna Karan International, Elie Tahari, Foley + Corinna, Generra, Giuseppe Zanotti, Intermix, Manolo Blahnik, Nanette Lepore, Ralphlauren.com, Rugby.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, Scoop, Tory Burch, Tracy Reese, Trina Turk and Zero + Maria Cornejo.

3–Alexis Bittar

Alexis Bittar donated 100 percent of sales from the online store to Haiti relief last week, from Monday, January 18th to Friday, January 22nd. The proceeds were donated to Catholic Relief Services for Haiti Relief, which gives 93% of its donations directly to the cause.

4-Diesel

Renzo Rosso (the founder and president of Diesel clothing) donated $250,000 to Yele Haiti, the foundation started by Grammy-award winning musician Wyclef Jean.  Renzo says, “I was deeply moved by the horrible tragedy in Haiti. I wanted to do something for the people and support the important work that Wyclef and his foundation have done and are doing for the island nation.”

That’s not all. Rosso’s heart has always been with helping the disadvantaged and that’s why he founded the Only the Brave Foundation in 2008, a non-profit aimed to empower and mobilize youth to end poverty. His donation to Yele Haiti will add up to another pledge to start an Only The Brave/ Yéle Haiti music studio in Cité Soleil, with the goal to use music and video production as a tool for social development.

5-Tracy Reese

Accomplished designer, Tracy Reese, was so deeply touched and moved by the human response to the Haiti crisis that she donated 10% of all the proceeds from the Tracy Reese boutique in Manhattan to American Red Cross during the weekend of January 15th.  You can still make a donation directly to the American Red Cross here.

6-Lindsay Lohan’s 6126 Collection

Lindsay Lohan’s  6126 Collection is donating 100% of all the proceeds from the Fame Leggings by 6126 to Save the Children, an organization that is conducting emergency relief distributions in Haiti on a daily basis. The Fame legging comes in Metallic silver and retails for $90 but is $65 for a limited time only. Shop 6126 Collection.

“It is truly horrible what has happened to the people and children in Haiti,” said Lindsay Lohan. “I believe every company should do their part to help by donating what they can.  Please help us do our part for the Children of Haiti by purchasing this 6126 legging.”

7-Bond No. 9

From January 14th until February 14th, 10% of the proceeds of the sale of Bond No.9’s Scent of Peace will go to the American Red Cross to assist Haitian communities impacted by the earthquake and provide immediate relief. Shop Bond No.9. Bond No. 9 Scent of Peace is also available in one of four NYC Bond No. 9 stores and Saks Fifth Avenue.

8-Studio Number One

Studio Number One (founded by Shepard Fairey) designed a special edition t-shirt to support relief in Haiti. 100% of the $15 retail price will be donated to the U.S. Fund for Unicef. Shop Café Press.

9-Unique Vintage

Unique Vintage is donating 20% of sales from their uberchic umbrella collection to the American Red Cross from now until the end of January. The umbrellas are $25 each. Shop Unique Vintage.

10-Play Cloths

In an effort to help Haiti, Play Cloths has redesigned their popular Jack T-Shirt with the Haitian flag. The shirt retails for $38 and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Wyclef Jean’s organization, Yele, which is providing immediate relief to devastated Haitian communities. Shop Street Level.

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 | Accessories, Fab Events, New York, News, Shop

Mateo Bijoux Trunk Show – NYC

By Jessica