THE HOLIDAY SEASON BEGINS - 11/15

What an interesting year 2012 continues to be for the fashion world.   With the U.S. economy steadily improving, aspirational shoppers are regaining the confidence to invest in luxury goods.   In fact, it seems the category of the industry facing the fiercest competition has been at the lower end of the price point.  Ralph Lauren announced this month that it will close it's Rugby division, with all retail stores to be closed by February.  (Significant because the target of RL Rugby was the aspirational student looking for classic fashion with designer details).  Elsewhere,  Tory Burch continues to battle with her ex-husband (the man who helped her create the brand) Chris Burch, over his latest offering - C. Wonder.   Michael Kors has tripled his business during the last quarter - largely due to all those handbags inspired by Italian and French brands that he produces in China.   All of these collections call China home for their production.   Bottom line, they are not luxury brands.

FERRAGAMO OFFICERS COAT & SUEDE BOOTS W/ STELLA McCARTNEY RIDING PANTS - NEW YORK POSTOFF THE SHELVES

As Fall rolls into Winter shoppers are gearing up for the holiday season.   Holiday gift lists are being made.  Be on the lookout for loved ones visiting the boutique for the first time, as they research the brand their girlfriend, wife, or daughter has been mentioning.   With all the fantastic press the Fall collection continues to receive, Ferragamo is definitely "wish list" material this year more than ever! 

Fall Runway Continues to be featured in beautiful editorial shots.  FERGIE IN FALL FERRAGAMO RUNWAY This week the New York Post prominently featured the Wool Melton Officers Coat and Steppa Suede Boots from Exit 23 in their Equestrian Fashion story. Paired back to Stella McCartney riding pants this look would be on point in the stables or on Madison Avenue!   Also in the press, pop singer Fergie was photographed by paparazzi wearing the cavalry twill military coat from Runway Exit 3!  Fergie continues the trend of Ferragamo's appeal to the most celebrated singers in the world.  What other brand can count Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Madonna, Katie Perry, Jennifer Lopez, and Fergie as having worn runway in the press?   Now that's inspirational to fashion fans!

MERCHANT'S MIX

Our merchants have coordinated head-to-toe MILITARY CHIC PROENZA SCHOULER CROSS BODY BAGensembles that are decorating your boutique with rich Melton Wools, supple Suedes, and luxurious leathers!   All of these styles stand on their own as investment items to add to a chic shoppers wardrobe.  

Boots are on trend in a big way.   A perennial staple, to the knee boots marched on the hottest runways this Fall. SUPPLE SUEDE TYNDA #526-963IN STEPPA $1,390.00 & BLACK CALF VERONIKA #527-023 -$1,590.00  Options range from Tynda in smooth calfskin or rich suede -a classic Fall boot.   **The High Fashion option:  Degrade embroidery in luxe black velvet**.  $1,390.00 to $1,550.00 - all are priced perfectly for must haves or wish lists!

Handbags give structure (literally) to the military story this Fall.   Clean lines and metallic hardware give shoppers one of the most approachable ways to carry the military trend.  When worn with tailored clothing the bags complete the look, but when worn with more feminine pieces they provide a balance or sense of calm, as just a hint of masculinity.  Show your client that she can wear a brighter color or print, when she tones down the look with a medium  or small structured bag.   Worn across the body, a small bag almost acts like jewelry or a belt in completing her outfit.  ** She can also take a risk with color when it is a more structured shape **   Proenza Schouler (pronounced Schooler) is SUPPLE MEETS STRUCTURE FOR FALL 2012one American Collection that pioneered the collegiate structured styles, and French designer Pierre Hardy has developed a strong following for his brightly trimmed bags.  (Hardy is the designer who creates the Hermes fine jewelry collection).

FERRAGAMO TIME

The fashion world continues to celebrate Massimiliano Giornetti's vision of the Ferragamo woman.  Not since Tom Ford launched the Gucci RTW collection in the 90's has a Creative Director received more press.  The latest issue of ELLE Magazine features Massimiliano flanked with red hot runway looks at the Louvre presentation in Paris.  This prestigious event,MASSIMILIANO GIORNETTI AT THE LOUVRE MUSEUM, PARIS - ELLE MAGAZINE and ultra-luxurious collection reset the bar on Ferragamo RTW. It has also elevated the entire Ferragamo collection with the level of craftsmanship utilized in this collectible fashion pieces.

RESORT has always been a more playful and fantastical delivery for designers to create.   Luxury shoppers in America urged designers in the 60's to first offer this delivery that is now a staple for any luxury house of fashion.  Resort, Cruise, or Holiday - these collections help clients to live the dream and our associates the ability to sell the dream!