GRAY MATTER (s) - FALL 2013

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO BECK CAMERA BAG TAKES CENTER STAGE IN HARPER'S BAZAARThis season, crisp Fall breezes aren't just signs of the season, but also the winds of change blowing through the Fashion world.  Marc Jacobs announced he is leaving Louis Vuitton after 16 years.  Staggering to think of the evolution of the accessories business as we know it during that time.   Sources I've talked to are convinced Marc was pushed out of the position to make way for Nicolas Ghesquire.. but we shall see.   Jacobs pulled out all the stops for his final LV show in Paris for Spring 2014 - everything but the kitchen sink for his swan song.   A Marc Jacobs IPO is guaranteed.  Ever since fellow NY designer Michael Kors went public, all eyes have been on Jacobs to do the same.   Does this mean even more made in China accessories are going to be flooding the "luxury" world?  It's likely, because you can't do outrageous numbers like Michael Kors without volume with a capital V, and profit margin without European manufacturing.  Either way, it only elevates the cache of Made In Italy.  Say it loud!

OFF THE SHELVES

Timing is everything as they say, and the timing of the renaissance at Ferragamo that began over 3 years ago now couldn't have been better!  With fashion house after fashion house losing the "edge", Massimiliano Giornetti's vision of the Salvatore Ferragamo woman continues to impress and inspire the rich, the famous, and the fashion set.    Fall 2013 has the cool palette of pale gray, navy blue, and black.  Notice how sophisticated gray and blue becomes when worn together.   Also, just about every shade of pink works back to pale gray.   It's clear that the fashion world LOVES the camera bag from Fall runway.   I've lost count at this point on how many editorials it has received.   One of the best is in Harper's Bazaar.  The Beck Camera Bag takes center stage in this full page editorial.   The bag is available in limited quantities in Gray, White, Silver, Oxford Blue, and Black for $1,790.00.  Ultra-Luxe option ** White Crocodile ** $17,000.00 in very limited quantities.SALVATORE FERRAGAMO FALL 2013 COAT, SWEATER, & SKIRT, PROENZA SCHOULER SHOES- MINIMAL DETAILS - MAXIMUM LUXURY AS SEEN IN C MAGAZINE

C Magazine also pays tribute to the Salvatore Ferragamo Runway Collection for Fall with a full page editorial.  Modern Art is the perfect partner for the minimal, muted colors of runway.  Modern, sensual, and classic enough to be her go to pieces for years to come.  These items don't have bells and whistles.  What they do have is the finest raw materials, the hand-crafting of Italian artisans, and the limited production that one should expect from luxury ready-to-wear. 

Ferragamo Time

It is so exciting to see editorial coverage continue to fill fashion magazines around the world.   The Ferragamo brand has never been more relevant in print, and on-line.  Smartphone and tablet technology has brought luxury fashion to the fingertips of clients more than anyone ever expected just a few years ago.  With fashion magazines creating features to be viewed online, it is so important for a fashion brand to be represented.   Salvatore Ferragamo is there!   This month Harper's Bazaar, Elle, and Vogue have the hottest accessory stories featuring Ferragamo.   ELLE MAGAZINE'S PICK OF THE HOTTEST BOOTS FOR FALL 2013

The Boots of Fall.   Boots and Fall go together like espadrilles and Summer.  It is a perennial favorite of shoppers and editors.    Elle Magazine chose the Mod runway boot from Fall as one of the best of the season.   While the term "Mod" is used in overkill this season.. the look is timeless!  Check out what the other fashion houses are offering and know your competition.

Another form of "Best Of" that is a favorite of the fashion world is of course "Must Have".   To be "In The Know" is at the core of the desire we create with the beautiful items we sell.  Luxury is not about "needs" - but "wants", "desires", and "dreams". 

Practical is a four letter word to a woman in love with a shoe, bag, or dress!  Romance her.

Leather goods are so important to any house of luxury and Ferragamo continues to develop and expand the reach of our accessory collection.   Harper's Bazaar features the ultra-chic Gancio Zip Interwoven as a "Must Have" of the season.  Madonna helped kick off the luxury side of the Gancio Zip, and the animations are getting stronger and stronger! SALVATORE FERRAGAMO GANCIO ZIP INTERWOVEN - A FASHION "MUST HAVE" FOR FALL 2013 - HARPER'S BAZAAR  Every client you have should own one version of a Gancio Zip - or TWO.

BABY BABY BABY!!SALVATORE FERRAGAMO BABY BLUE VARAS AS FEATURED IN VOGUE

While the mainstream media hasn't covered it, I'm here to tell you we are in the middle of a baby boom!  Everywhere you look there's a stroller or a very pregnant woman.   Cities are seeing the biggest influx of new mothers and toddlers as fewer and fewer couples head to the suburbs these days once the stork delivers that bundle of joy.   Well who needs a gorgeous fashion item more than a mom-to-be, or a new mom?  Remind that dad-to-be not to forget his beautiful wife once the baby arrives.   I always make it a point to bring a gift for the new mother when I visit friends with newborns.   New mothers become the ultimate "never buy that for myself" shopper.   What better way to celebrate a new baby than a pair of Varas?   Baby Blue or Precious Pink??   Suddenly the Vara takes on a whole different meaning - yet again!  Don't take just my word - Vogue magazine recently made it's whole INDEX page - "All About Baby".

LEGACY OF LUXURY

In the world of fashion, the iconic brands that honor the legacy of Couture and true luxury are far and few between.  It is important for those fashion houses that are true to their roots and those that honor tradition to recognizeBOTTEGA VENETA CREATIVE DIRECTOR - TOMAS MAIER their fellow artisans.  One iconic brand that has so much in common with Salvatore Ferragamo is Bottega Veneta.  A fellow Italian house of luxury, I often point out the similarities of the sophisticated and chic approach that the two brands have in common.   Creative Director Tomas Maier actually refuses to create ANY product with a logo and the house has grown dramatically during his decade long tenure. (Maier was under great pressure to great logo branded accessories - as he is funded by the house that GG bags built).

Last Month, something very important, and rare happened.   The U.S. Federal Trademark commission granted Bottega Veneta trademark status of their woven "Intreccio" leather.   We all know Bottega Veneta with just a look, and now the company has proven it in court.   The repercussions are sure to be huge, as millions and millions of dollars have been made by other brands purposely creating product to look like Bottega.BOTTEGA VENETA INTRECCIO LEATHER CABAT - NOW TRADEMARKED!   Now, those actions will be against the law.   Considering Bottega Veneta is part of one of the largest fashion groups in the world - Kering - formerly PPR - formerly Gucci Group - you can imagine the size of the legal team at their disposal.   I was happy to be asked by Bottega's lawyers to give a deposition on the subject matter a few years ago, and thrilled (also flattered and humbled) to have been quoted in the Federal ruling that was issued last month.   As you know, I am passionate about the legacy of luxury fashion, and I respect these few gems of designer houses that also protect those ideals.  Bravo Bottega Veneta.  Iconic styles are what make each house so important and timeless.  As I wrote on the front page of aLIFEofSTYLE - "You better check your weave girl" - because Bottega Veneta IS watching. 

RUNWAY ROCKS - HEAD TO TOE "MUST HAVES"

OFF THE SHELVES - RUNWAY  ROCKS

MASSIMILIANO'S SPRING 2013 FERRAGAMO COLLECTION -A MODERN VISION OF THE TRENCH COAT - EXCLUSIVE SKETCH FOR VOGUE -ITALYThe Spring 2013 Runway Trunk Shows are taking place coast to coast, and the reaction from fashion shoppers is clear - Ferragamo Runway ROCKS!   SLEEK AND SEXY - SPRING 2013While the brand has been a symbol of sophisticated and chic Italian design for decades, Massimiliano Giornetti has given RTW a sexy edge that is attracting the most fashionable women.  Those Runway watchers that regularly wear McQueen, Dior, & Gucci are putting the Ferragamo boutique on their list when they shop for Spring.  With a strong emphasis on item Jackets in the Resort (Louvre) and Spring collections, Ferragamo has joined the most select RTW in the industry.COOL STYLING WITH TRUNKSHOW.FERRAGAMO.COM

Massimiliano has said that Los Angeles inspired hisCHIC AND STRUCTURED SHOULDER BAG - SPRING RUNWAY collection for Spring, and it is evident.  His modern interpretation of the iconic Trench Coat is at the core of the Spring Runway Collection.  (Belted and slung low on the hips, this is not any trench hanging your closet).  The runway was full of light weight cotton jackets, pants, and skirts.  The luxurious details elevate casual fabrics, and the sexy curves give these pieces multiple ways to wear the look.  FERRAGAMO SPRING 2013 - BACK IN BLACK - A FASHION STAPLE A black jacket with leather peplum detailing, a sexy trouser with Trench coat inspired pockets.   Fashion statements that flatter!  Of course there are some ridiculously luxurious pieces - think a Crocodile Dress and a White Leather trench coat.   This is Runway after all!

Accessories are also - RED HOT!  Runway bags took two directions - small, structured shoulder bags, or big teardrop hobos to swing around for dramatic effect.   Shoes continued the gladiator trend from Resort and took that gladiator girl from the Coliseum to the Catwalk in sleek black pump sandals with a chunky heel, or an insanely sexy over the knee boot that Demi Moore just had to have!  In fact, she had to have TWO pairs!STRUCTURED NOVELTY IN BLACK AND BRONZE 

Creating designer RTW that is sophisticated and sexy is no easy task.   I've always said that Karl Lagerfeld does "lady" at Chanel and Fendi, but he can't do "sexy".  

Before his very public fall from grace, John Galliano was one of the few designers working today that could do "sexy" while remaining ultra chic.  GROMMETTED GLAMOUR - SEXY SPRING PUMPS - $1,150Galliano's exit from the industry left a real void for women who aren't comfortable with the overt and provocative feel of Roberto Cavalli, but are looking for something sexier than Armani.  

Donatella Versace has made her career (and remade the Versace name) designing sexy dresses, and Massimiliano Giornetti has now emerged with red hot RTW - Jackets, Skirts, Pants, Bags, & Shoes that are sexy, sophisticated, and stand out from the rest of his Italian designer peers!

Jackets are critical!   When a designer can master the shoulder to flatter a woman and give her a sexy silhouette - that's magic!  The Resort jackets that are in-store now are destined to be collectible fashion.  In ten years, these jackets will be prized vintage items. 

FERRAGAMO TIME

** During the Spring 13 Trunk Show in Beverly Hills I had the pleasure of witnessing a real fashion moment.   A very chic woman came into the boutique balancing on sky high RED Christian Louboutin platform pumps.   Her match-stick skinny jeans were the perfect shade of slightly faded, darker denim.   A white t-shirt was the perfect understated top to balance her Black CHANEL evening jacket with satin lapels.   A small black clutch completed the look.   In a word, she was COOL!    As this oh-so-chic, ash blond shopper with a vague European accent circled the boutique, the earth tone shades of cream and beige of the RESORT collection caught her eye.  In an instant, her black jacket was flung on a sofa in the neighboring shoe department and the desert cotton asymmetric jacket with whipstitch seams was on her back.   Turning from side to side, she oohed and ahhed.   She pulled the collar up and down, she crossed her arms, and even gave a quick spin to watch it move.  She was sold!  (Quite frankly- so was I!).   This walking fashion statement didn't flinch at the $4,000 price tag.   Why would she?  Jackets from Chanel, Prada, or Dior often cost that much or more.  Sometimes MUCH more, as any serious shopper knows.  Not to mention, no other brand is hotter than Ferragamo - with editorial shots in the most important fashion magazines month after month.   The jacket was sold, and she was gone within 15 minutes!  While most sales of that price point might not happen so quickly, it's the type of transaction that SHOULD and WILL be happening more and more.   The word is out - FERRAGAMO is HOT!

LEGACY OF LUXURY

FERRAGAMO BOUTIQUE - ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - UNITED ARAB EMIRATESAs I write this edition of the Ferragamo Feed I'm thousands of miles from home (or Italy for that matter!) in Sri Lanka.   South of India, this beautiful and exotic Island country has been inspiring and exciting since the moment I arrived.  A friend from Shanghai celebrating a milestone is what brought me here.  He invited friends from around the world and put together an itinerary that would make even the savviest traveller sit up and take notice.  This colorful culture constantly tantalizes the senses - from vibrant silk Sarees worn on the super chic women, to seriously spicy Curry sauces served in trendy, laid back restaurants. The word Bland is not one to describe Sri Lanka!   On the way from NYC, I connected in Abu Dhabi.   After a 12 hour flight I emerged in need of coffee, before getting on a second 5 hour flight.  Make that all caps - COFFEE!    I stepped off the plane and one of the first sights I saw?  HOTELIER AND FERRAGAMO FAN - HELGA de SILVA BLOW PERERA - KANDY, SRI LANKAA Salvatore Ferragamo boutique in the terminal in Abu Dhabi - of course!   Be proud to work with a company that has roots so well established around the globe.   **Realize the importance of this brand recognition that shoppers from this part of the world experience when they travel abroad.** 

I knew my group would be international, but I didn't know what a fashion powerhouse was heading for Sri Lanka.   Executives from Dior and PPR (Gucci, YSL, Stella McCartney), a Chinese Movie Star, a Chinese Super-Model, a renowned art dealer from Beijing, and my friend - THE event designer that Dior turned to when they took Couture to China last year (a first in the history of Dior).   I'm so happy to say - they all had much to say about Ferragamo - ALL POSITIVE!  Everyone knew the Resort and Spring collection.  Even our hostess one night - the mother-in-law of fashion stylist, editor, and icon - the late Isabella Blow was a fan.  Helga de Silva Blow Perera runs the craziest hotel your will ever see in the town of Kandy in the mountains of Sri Lanka.   (I couldn't make this up!)  There are no words to describe the hotel aptly called - Helga's Folly.  If Wes Anderson directed The Rocky Horror Picture Show - it might look like this! Google the website and you will see what I mean!  The hotel inspired the U.K. band -The Stereophonics to write about this other wordly place with the song - Madame Helga!  It was a pleasure to meet Helga who will proudly tell you she is 70+, who wore an 18th century Japanese Kimono (of course!) and dark sunglasses well past midnight.   When I mentioned Ferragamo - her face got serious and she said - THOSE SHOES!    She knew everything about Salvatore!!   This was the most fashionable group of people I've ever travelled with and I was so proud to represent Ferragamo in this circle of international fashionistas!   After a few long flights and serious jet lag, I'll See you back in North America Soon!!

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!

NOVEMBER TRICKS - LET'S LOOK TO RESORT TREATS

Several states on the East Coast of the U.S. were devastated by the storm and after effects of hurricane Sandy.  With millions more still without power and displaced, our thoughts and prayers go out to all who lost loved ones and property.  We can only hope time will heal those losses, and we can all do our part to help make sure our friends and neighbors are getting the help they need.  At a time like this, we are reminded that we work in a wonderful world of fantasy and luxury.  The fashion world has always served as an escape from reality, or a reason to dream.   While many of us are getting back to normal, there are those looking for a reason to smile or dream.   Let's look at what we have coming for those dreamers out there.

HALLE BERRY IN FERRAGAMO RESORT 12/13 - NY TIMES T -MAGAZINEFERRAGAMO TIME

The Resort collection shown at the Louvre museum in Paris continues to enchant celebrities and editors around the world.  By establishing Resort as an ultra-luxe resource, Massimiliano raised the bar on Ferragamo RTW, now having the same status that Salvatore established for Ferragamo shoes all those decades ago! Now included in just a handful of collections to offer this level of craftsmanship we see in Resort, Ferragamo joined CHANEL and HERMES in the most detailed and handcrafted of global brands.   The amazing press coverage continues!

Oscar winner  Halle Berry stars in one of the biggest films of the year - Cloud Atlas, along with Tom Hanks.  Ms. Berry graced the cover of The New York Times'- T-Magazine in October.  The hand embroidered jacket from Ferragamo Resort was prominently featured in this beautiful story.  The jacket is crafted with tiny metal plates, all hand tied into place.  While this jacket wasResort Exit 16 on Jessica Hart with Massimiliano Giornetti -Haper's Bazaar November 2012 not produced, there is a stunning dress produced with the same technique.  The dress is cotton and linen crochet, and the little plates create a sequin effect.  ** Ultra-Luxe at $18,000.00 and in production and bought for the U.S.**  The dress was one star of the amazing feature on Massimiliano Giornetti and the House of Ferragamo from Harper's Bazaar November issue! 

The sexy image of Halle Berry in T-Magazine was an excellent example of mixing runway fashion with more casual, everyday items.   A great pair of jeans and novelty t-shirt, joins this ultra-luxe jacket and Hermes belt.  This high-low combination of dressing started on the West coast years ago, and has influenced designers and shoppers from coast to coast.   To be clear:  Choosing to wear expensive clothing, in an inexpensive way is unique.   This sense of irony is very American, not often seen in Latin American or European countries.   However, the concept is a favorite of the rich and famous, and the most progressive luxury clients from around the world.  Embrace the concept of being able to mix a very expensive item, with very inexpensive pieces.

LEGACY OF LUXURY

SABINE SANDAL - $950.00 -HUSK SUEDE WITH NICKEL EYELETSWhen Salvatore created the concept of designer shoes, it was with exotic creationsSABINE SANDAL - ONE OF KIND DETAILING SURE TO BE A COLLECTIBLE and whimsical design.  Over 90 years after that magic first started in Los Angeles, Ferragamo continues to create stunning footwear that inspires the industry to "borrow" to borrow our design.   Resort features thigh-high python boots, and "gladiator" style sandals - sure to sell out before they hit the shelves.   Harper's Bazaar magazine is already featuring them in print, and on-line, with a pre-order option.  "ON THE FRINGE" - CREATING TRENDS - FERRAGAMO FRINGE HOBO BAG- $2,600.00- ELLE MAGAZINE - NOVEMBER 2012you know that means they think the style is HOT!

Along with the perfect sandal is a super chic hobo-shaped handbag with leather fringe.  The soft sculpted shoulder strap is created by hand weaving leather and metallic hardware! Elle Magazine from November features page after page of Resort looks from Ferragamo in a story titled BIG SIR.  The focus is on 70's style Menswear themes,  inspiring new looks for the chicest women around!   Take note of the neutral and muted color palette of pale pinks, soothing earth tones, and natural greens.  The whole palette is flattering to many skin tones and easily mixed back to other colors.   Start creating new ensembles today, making options NOT shown on the runway.    **Elle & Harper's Bazaar are MUST have issues in November!**

OFF THE SHELVES

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO VISUAL DREAM- RUNWAY SANDAL - 527-127-VELVET & LACE - $1,390.00I must take a moment to highlight the amazing work being done by the Ferragamo visual team.   Month after month our masters of illusion are able to create stunning displays and dreamy vignettes.   I was stopped in my tracks recently in the NY Flagship.  This beautiful portrait created with orchids and runway sandals is one to remember.  This image could be hanging in a famous museum.  It showcases the level of sophistication that is a standard at Salvatore Ferragamo.  I have spent a countless number of days in designer boutiques over the last 15 years, and I have rarely seen a display this beautiful.  Let's all be proud to be a part of this amazing company, and proud to have the best visual team in the industry!

FLIRTY FEBRUARY - FERRAGAMO SPRING 2012!

EVA MENDES WEARS 13B828 - BEIGE & IVORY SILK CREPE HALTER DRESS - $2,340 FRIDA PINTO WEARS 13B844 - SILK PRINTED HALTER TOP - $820.00OFF THE SHELVES  

This might be the Winter that never was (it's 50 degrees in NYC as I write this!) and while the season is far from over - the fashion world is looking to the Spring Collections that are filling boutiques from coast to coast.  The WORLD got a sneak peek at Ferragamo Spring/Summer at the now-famous Resort Show on 5th Avenue way back in June.   That show garnered press coverage the world over.   Much of the attention was due to that gorgeous Resort Collection, but the leading ladies in attendance were breathtaking - and of course - head to toe Ferragamo!

Eva Mendes never looked more sophisticated than she did in theEVA MENDES - FELLING FLIRTY AND FUN! silk crepe halter dress that has just arrived in boutiques.  There are less than 30 units in the United States and that makes this dress more exclusive than most fashion houses the size of Ferragamo will ever offer customers!   Unfortunately, 100% silk is also harder and harder to come by in the fashion world -FRIDA-GO-LIGHTLY by not at Ferragamo.   Take every opportunity to tell customers when a blouse or dress is all silk.   Dresses are a big strength of the Ferragamo collection and this dress proves that point!   Body language says it all and Eva clearly felt beautiful and sexy. 

Frida Pinto channeled Audrey Hepburn in a multicolored halter, ivory skirt, and wedge heels - light and breezy and oh-so-chic!  The halter top has arrived early and this is a silhouette that every customer needs to own.   This piece is available in limited quantities, but there are other halter shapes on the way for Spring!  Suggest a halter top or sophisticated day dress today.    

**Don't ever feel left out if you don't have RTW in your store.   Talking about these trends and styles with all customers will only raise your status and credibility in her eyes.   So many of these trends influence what handbags and shoes a woman buys, so these trends affect every fashion client.

LEGACY OF LUXURY

There are few things that represent luxury more than a finely crafted handbag or shoe.  Salvatore Ferragamo 491-803 LINETTE TOTE IN PORCELAIN CALFSKIN - $1,750.00help create the industry of luxury shoe making and 80 years later - Ferragamo shoes still exemplify "Made In Italy" craftsmanship at its best.   In addition, the finest fashion houses from around the world do anything they can to produce handbags in Italy.   At Ferragamo - 491-807- BLACK LINETTE TOTE - $1,750.00that's a given!   Ferragamo handbags have the savoir faire and legacy that few collections have.   I just witnessed the spell a Ferragamo handbag can have on a woman.   I met a fashionable shopper that was going up and down Rodeo Drive with the goal of finding a new handbag.  Wearing a purple cashmere sweater and matching purple Fendi bag, she wanted color.   That is, until she saw the black LINETTE tote.  The braided handle and gold hardware detailing stopped her in her tracks.   With all the color in the boutique, this fashionista was torn - but bought the black calfskin bag.   Also available in creamy Porcelain, the bag is right on trend!   A tailored tote with countless details.  **Versace is making a big push to relaunch handbags and this bag evokes that type of styling.  502-249 CASSIA PUMP IN BLUEBERY PATENT LEATHER $495.00

With all the retro styling on every runway, the CASSIA pump is on trend and classicPRADA "RETRO" SPRING 2012 STYLE at the same time.  The chunky heel and Gancio Belt Charm detail make this shoe one to collect.   Suggest super cool Blueberry as an excellent alternative to black.  (also available in Grey and Black).    This pump is the perfect shoe for Spring looks from Prada or Marc Jacobs.

FERRAGAMO TIME

The month of February is prime time for Ferragamo Spring RTW Trunk Shows!   The vibrant runway collection is hitting select boutiques from coast to coast.  If your store is hosting a show -FERRAGAMO SPRING 2012 -SILK JUMPSUIT & JACKET I'll be there - and I'll be excited to talk about color, shape, and story to inspire our most fashion forward shoppers.   This Spring Massimiliano made a fashion statement, and now it's our turn to make that statement be heard loud and clear in our beautiful boutiques all over the country.   If your store doesn't carry RTW - you still get to brag about the runway collection!  The gorgeous campaign starring super-model Giselle is everywhere!  Clients are sure to be taking notice of the beautiful vision Ferragamo represents for Spring.   Talk to them about prints on blouses, dresses, skirts, or scarves.   There is a bit of print for every customer that wears Ferragamo.   Your job is to find what item will work on her!   Let's get creative and think outside the box.   If your store doesn't have RTW, partner with one nearby that does.   Make a special arrangement for a customer to shop the collection at your store or that larger boutique where she is visiting.   Perhaps arrange a day to take her to see the collection.   Talk with your manager or managers talk with your associate that has a client you think would appreciate this extra attention.   Spring 2012 is all about luxury styling, so let's make an effort to give her a luxury experience while shopping at Ferragamo.   Hope to see you at a Trunk Show soon!