Tag Archives: couture

Culture, Fashion

Custom “Made in Italy”

As an American who has worked in the world of retail and fashion for most of my career, it was top on my list to explore, discover and purchase all the incredible “couture” I could find during my 3 months living abroad. My first week alone, I can recall walking…or rather, sprinting on a serious mission to find my new fashion mecca for something unique and oh so french.  Sadly, I was rather disappointed to find most of the boutiques were of the brands I’m already well versed in.  Not that I was disappointed to find the original Goyard, or strolling along streets that housed Dior, Kenzo, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, and the like.  Though I was hoping to find my very own treasure trove.

After weeks in Paris doing my own “research” and coming up empty handed.  Ok, that’s not entirely true, as I was still scoring some incredible fashion-obviously.  I was not finding the Made In France finds I had hoped for.

So, before heading to the U.S., I went to Italy now completely determined to find something custom and rare throughout my tour-de-Italia!  Off to Florence, I went.  I mean, this is after all, the home to some of the top world renown brands that put Italian fashion on the map!  Although I did manage to find a few boutiques that offered Made In Italy labels, it wasn’t what I had dreamed up on my hunt. In addition to the fashion houses that call Florence home, you can also find the Gucci Museum as well as the Salvatore Ferragamo museum, which I personally LOVED.  It housed years of collections from the most glorious, gorgeous shoes a girl could dream of!  Needless to say, I was able to get my dose of fashion while in Florence, even if I didn’t find a new collection of “collectables” along the way.  Thankfully, however, I made up for my minimal shopping by consuming as much glorious pasta and vino I could get my hands on.  So much for shopping, time for a new Italian indulgence!

We travel to experience something new.  To experience new culture.  To enjoy a new viewpoint in life.  To FIND ITALIAN CLOTHING.  Luckily, I experienced new culture, appreciated the historic beauty and essence of Italy, though I came up empty handed in regards to discovering some new Haute Couture.  For me, it’s about exploring and discovering not only the local flavor and certainly the fashion.  Guess that means I’ll just simply have to be back again soon to Do it Again!  Ciao for now Couture…

Fashion, Travel

A day of Iconic history and fashion…then again, it IS Paris.

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Yesterday, I had an overload of stunning handbags, as I went to the original Goyard boutique on Rue St. Honore, as well as a visit to Rue Cambon, to the original and mind blowing Chanel store (which just also happens to be where Coco herself resided, and now also houses Karl Lagerfeld’s office on the 3rd floor)  Talk about feeling the love for Chanel!

I decided after living in Paris for close to 3 months, it was time to indulge.  And indulge I did.  My original intent was to finally purchase the signature Goyard tote as a sweet souvenir to return home with.  However, I instead treated myself to a little something at Chanel and topped it off with a little champs in-store, to officially celebrate this fine day.  There’s something truly special to the service offered in these boutiques.  No wonder people come back for more, as you’re truly queen for the day.  Or at the very least, while splurging!

Spending time at the original Chanel store offers more than beautiful couture, it offers a rich history into one of the most prestigious brands in the world.  Knowing Coco spent time here, diligently deliberating over every detail to ensure the highest quality and fashion is enough to inspire any fashionista.  Every detail in ensuring the most welcoming visit to the store, even includes fitting rooms that just may happen to be larger than your petite hotel room!  Along with a gorgeous Chanel robe to sport, in between fittings, of course.  Hands down, the entire experience is simply, Tres chic!

After having the chance to spend an afternoon with some of the best brands in Paris and certainly some of the best shopping offered on Rue St. Honore, it was time to give thanks for enjoying some incredible materialistic finds by spending some time at the historic La Madeleine.  La Madeleine is a historic Catholic church located nearby in the 8th arrondissement.  Luckily, I stumbled in just as service was starting.  Being there to hear the prayers and hymns in french was a unique and powerful experience in itself.  No better way to finish the day, than to be able to indulge in some of the best of Paris, through Couture,  then wrapping up the day by experiencing one of the most historic monuments in Parisian history.  An iconic day all in all.  Bon soir, my sweet Pareeeee!

 

 

Fashion

PFW…Paris Fashion Week 2015- street side fashion

Since I’m fortunate enough to live in this fabulous city during the most incredible time of year- Fall fashion, a girl simply must check out all the insanity that is Paris Fashion Week!

So, my favorite “Scot” and I went on an adventure to see what we could scope out.  And it certainly did not disappoint.  Other than the Fashion.  HUH?  How is that?  It’s fashion week!

Sure, you always see postings from Fashion Week as to the “street side fashion” and it’s always outrageous and something to note.  Though this truly was baffling to see some of the ensembles that some seemed to “throw together” for some of the best events of the week.

We went to the Grand Palais to check out those going in and out of Barbara Bui.  This was my take from it- stunning models, leaving post-show, that still looked quite chic.  Though what about those who were in attendance.  I saw a woman with gold confetti fringe that was appalling to say the least, to a guy wearing a white tee, white jeans and a Robin hood hat.  WHAT?  You had a seat in a FASHION SHOW.  And not just any fashion show- A top global brand!!

We followed up this show by heading to The Academie des Beaux Arts in Saint Germain where LANVIN was showing in hopes of spotting some much better and stylish wears.  Here we were sure that true fashionistas and the well dressed would be.  YET AGAIN, highly disappointed.  Honestly, it appeared as though most were pulling together a few items from their closet and throwing it on.  No incredible outfits that were in attendance.   And this is for one of the best fashion iconic brands in Paris!!

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Luckily, we spotted the ever-fabulous Anna Wintour coming into the event and Anna Della Rosso, the also incredibly stylish fashionista from Vogue who looked simply stunning.  Though other than that…it was truly a hodgepodge of so called fashion.

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I am fully aware that the Hipster vibe seems to be the fashion of today and to represent a look that is much more downplayed.  Or the fact that many are trying to get some lovin’ from “street side fashion” though to me, Fashion Week, is a time to pull out ALL Stops!  Time to dress your best, to pay homage to the brand you’re attending and wear something, dare I say, Fashionable?  As for what is fashion forward, street chic or simply ridiculous….I’ll let you decide!

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Fashion

Les Vendanges en Avenue Montaigne!!

Calling all Fashionistas, Mesdames et Messieurs!   A special evening, hosted by some of the best brands across the world, right here in Paris.

This is thee night, the night to discover all the new collections, from some of the best fashion houses….all on one street, Avenue Montaigne.  And this little American In Paris, just happened to be one of the lucky ones to enjoy this incredible soiree last Thursday.

It’s a night where some of the top global brands open their doors to showcase some of their best,  most luxurious items in-store.  All while serving up some of the tastiest treats, wine and of course, not to be missed toasting a glass…or two of the finest Champagne!

Our destination for the night was Salvatore Ferragamo.  I know, I know…I’m in Paris, though we decided to give our love to the Italians for this special occasion.

The red carpet was rolled out in it’s entirety to all those in attendance.  And this is certainly not a party to be missed!  I happened to fall in love many times this evening with several of the incredible pieces Ferragamo had on display and also those being modeled from the lovely ladies walking about the boutique.

From the finest leather accessories and shoes, to the wine and the macaroons, this evening will go down as one of the best nights in Paris, thus far.  Gracie Mille, Ferragamo for your phenomenal Italian hospitality right here in Paris!!

Here’s a taste of the evening and even a brief cameo from yours truly:

More information on Les Vendanges: http://www.avenuemontaigneguide.com/les-vendanges-jeudi-10-septembre-2015/

A special thanks to the incredible photographer, Emmanuel Doumic, for capturing some of our fun on this spectacular evening!

Fashion

All STOCKED up!

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I’ve worked in the “World of Retail” for most of my career- starting in my teens, working on the floor of Ann Taylor outlet and moving up the chain for many years, to becoming Director of Marketing and Business Development for one of the most profitable shopping centers in the United States.  So, I’ve seen it all for decades…and understand costs, value and the like, for domestic and global brands alike.  Therefore, I KNOW how to shop…and since I do it so frequently, it’s imperative I know how to score a good deal.  Especially now, as I’m living in Paris for a few months and need to maximize my Dollar…or Euro, as it were.

When I arrived in Paris during the summer months, many of the retailers were closing out their summer collection and there were deals to be found.  However, I knew there were even better finds to be had, pending I did my research.  I quickly learned about Stock stores, which are what we call Outlets in the States.  Outlet stores, which offer highly discounted items from previous seasons and/or remaining items from collections, are a great way to get your hands on some of your favorite brands, at a fraction of the price.

Besides, we’re not talking about your average brand outlets, we’re talking Sandro, Maje and Zadig & Voltaire!  Phenomenal brands….and hey, I AM IN PARIS!  Zadig & Voltaire & Sandro are located in the Marais.  Luckily, I just so happen to live down the street from the Maje stock stores.  So, now when it comes to the weekend and I NEED something to wear, I just pop down to this fabulous boutique for a gorgeous, and might I add, less expensive attire for the evening!

I am thrilled to have these incredible boutiques so easily within my grasp and even more happy to find spectacular bargains, as well.  After all, these brands are more expensive in the US, so to get a markdown on these highly stylish and ever fabulous clothes-I am one happy girl.  And also need to share this shopping tip- that while in Paris, do as the locals do….and shop STOCK.

Anyone needing a “little something” from Paris, just let me know, as I’d be honored to “be on the job”  in seeking out fantastic finds, while living in the Fashion Capital of the world!  As a matter of fact, I’m headed over to have a visit with Zadig & Voltaire and Sandro today in the picturesque arrondissement of Le Marais.

Side Note for your STOCK Shopping excursion:  While in the Marais, be sure to grab a falafel- known to be some of the best in the city!  Who knew that Falafel & Fashion go so well together, hand in hand?  Bon Appetite & Bonne Chance with the bargains, mes Amies.

 

Fashion

La Rive Gauche et Le Bon Marche, S’il vous plait!

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I’ve always heard about life on la Rive Gauche…and I am thankful now to be living it, myself.   As I now reside, just a mere two blocks away from the spectacular and historic, Le Bon Marche, which is simply divine and dangerous all at the same time!  As this grand magasin, has been open and offering incredible wears since 1852 and now in 2015, it’s my turn to experience the luxury and beauty that is offered here.

From it’s stunning collections,  unique art installments and historic look-and-feel that has been carefully crafted and maintained, this place is truly divine.

The architecture inside is impeccable and yet still offers clean lines that make it feel quite open and easy to navigate within.  The center escalators frame the interior space and offer a pristine and lovely focal point, as you find your way strolling through some of the best fashion and global brands alike.

Now, onto the shoe department!  (As if this goes without saying!?)  It is almost as if these delicately gorgeous shoes are on display within a dome shaped, bird cage.  Absolutely stunning and makes me want to sit on my pirch all day, trying on each and every pair!  Tweet, tweet.

Lastly, and certainly worth the mention, is their upcoming Brooklyn Rive Gauche animation and inspiration, featured throughout the shopping experience.  You can find “Made in Brooklyn” items by various artists and designers, starting September 3rd-officially.  Luckily, on my walk about this morning, I caught a glimpse at what’s in store.  Though it’s not just in the themes, or items sold within that are note-worthy, it’s an entire experience!   From the moment you enter, you will notice the BROOKLYN inspiration throughout.  Colorful lounge chairs set up in a museum-like black room, featuring gigantic LED screens, showing visually pleasing images and videos of Brooklyn, as part of this exhibit are not to be missed!  Especially for me, being an east coaster by birth, nothing is more exciting than to see your original favorite city being featured, in your new favorite city, of Pareeee!  Through this installation and thematic inspiration, they have truly done a spectacular job creating an experience for their shoppers.

As they say…Art is Fashion.  And as far as I’m concerned, Le Bon Marche epitomizes these two cultural essentials- bringing together the best of both.  So with much appreciation and adoration, this little Rive Gauche Dweller says:  Merci Beaucoup!!!!!

Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.  -Coco Chanel