FERRAGAMO FEBRUARY - "CHARMING"
OFF THE SHELVES
The Ferragamo collection for Spring 2011 is a monochromatic dream of neutral colors and pastels that showcases all her accessories -from shoes to bags to belts! There are drawstring bucket bags, modern day saddle bags, and classic clutches. The hardware on these bags takes the cool 70s vibe that is running through the fashion world to a more sophisticated place. The toggles and charms echo the costume jewelry collection that has already gotten a huge reaction in the fashion mags and in the boutiques.
The charms are a great conversation starter about our costume jewelry pieces from spring. Notice that the bags themselves are simple saddle shapes that showcase the quality of the leather and of course the charms. The whole look combines equestrian themes and "classic with a twist" references giving us an "Updated Heritage". The charms also add a nice balance of the tailored menswear details that make up a strong portion of the Spring 11 look. The details add sparkle and shine - while all the time remaining subtle. That is what the Ferragamo Woman appreciates about the brand - sophistication and quality with designer details. She wears beautiful things, they don't wear her. The February issue of Marie Claire has a beautiful editorial of the ELVIA bag in smooth IVORY VITELLO CHIFFON - (New Zealand farmed calfskin-with a wax finish).
LEGACY OF LUXURY
There are few items more fashionable than a little cap sleeve or sleeveless day dress. Fun and flirty, dresses are a versatile investment for any savvy fashion shopper. One little dress can take her just about anywhere depending on the print and especially the accessories.
Take advantage of the fact that Ferragamo RTW has some of the most valuable pricing around for Italian Designer Fashion. A dress and handbag that she will be wearing for then next 10 years can be hers for under $5K - sorry but that doesn't happen in many designer boutiques. Add to this the fact that every Ferragamo item is made in Italy and you really see just how reasonable these price points are. Of course, these items are expensive - but you can confidently talk about the value they have for "Made In Italy" quality and craftsmanship.
I recently snapped a few pics in the wee hours of the morning at the Bal Harbour Shops in Florida. Living up to my "fashion spy" nickname, I was there when no one else was - really taking a look at the windows from every major design house from France and Italy. I must say that the Ferragamo mannequins stopped me in my tracks. These dresses make you imagine some gorgeous gal making an entrance and lighting up the room! The print is called "Girasole" - Sunflower in Italian! I instantly think of Capri or Rome on a cool summer night.
The next time you are working with a client, encourage her to try on any of the little dresses you have in your boutique. I guarantee she will automatically feel like she is on a Roman Holiday!
**Blue and beige combinations - dresses/shoes/handbags/belts are just beautiful. This color palette is so flattering to most and has such a sophisticated look. Think about merchandising Khaki or beige with Navy or pale blue the next time you put together an outfit.
Bravo to our visual team and to the Bal Harbour team - your boutique looks excellent!
FERRAGAMO TIME
With award season coverage all over the TV and magazines, I can't help but think of Salvatore and his RED CARPET connections that set the tone for the Ferragamo collection. From the very start, the brand was synonymous with the Hollywood elite. Before there were elaborate ceremonies for SAG Awards, Golden Globes, or Independent Spirits, there was only the Oscars. Ferragamo was making sure the leading ladies put their best forward on the red carpet all those years ago.
Remember in that time, the rich and famous would wear color from head to toe. Many had dresses designed for them by studio designers such as Edith Head.
The next stop would be Ferragamo's Hollywood Boot Shop where the designer would create the perfect look - usually dyed to match!
Two famous photos really capture the glamour of that era.
The elusive Joan Crawford was captivated by Ferragamo - and Sophia Loren seemed to be romanced by the fashion fantasy of Salvatore Ferragamo. Loren has continued to wear the brand for over 60 years now.
Ferragamo shoes continue to line red carpets from coast to coast and around the world at movie premieres.
Ferragamo - Glamorous then, now, and forever!
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