SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER : FASHION GO TIME IN THE BOUTIQUES!

FERRAGAMO FALL 2016 RUNWAY FEATURED IN C MAGAZINE'S "ELECTRIC AVENUE" SHOT ON LOCATION IN VENICE BEACH, CA The months of September and October are always magical! As the seasons begin to change, the latest creations from Milan, Paris, and New York comes flooding in to the designer boutiques from coast to coast.FALL 16 RUNWAY EXIT #13 - DOUBLE FACE ZIP FRONT TUNIC   FALL 16 RUNWAY EXIT 24 - REVERSIBLE KNIT CAPESalvatore Ferragamo is exceptional, as one of a very select few collections that create runway fashion exclusively for company owned boutiques.  The Ferragamo brand has never been over distributed, over exposed, or presented in any way other than a first class creation.   Always inspiring, and always representing the best Italy has to offer the world of fashion. FALL 16 RUNWAY EXIT 16 - WINTER WHITE LAYERED KNIT DRESS WITH MATCHING CAPELET Almost 100 years after Salvatore created a sensation in Hollywood - Ferragamo has never been more coveted and admired.   Admired by such a wide range of customers, from so many different backgrounds, around the world! 

The trend for Fall 2016?  Let's just say - she had better like color!FALL 16 ZIG ZAP NEW LOCK IN COLORFUL SUEDE

The Fall collection is about as dynamic as you could imagine.  Bright Colors, detailed silhouettes, and luxury materials come together like fireworks.   Wearable pieces that have been connecting with clients from coast to coast at the Fall trunk shows.  Looks that have really stood out? - EXIT 24, The cotton Zig Zag knit reversible cape (featured in the C Magazine spread), EXIT 17 - layered knit dress in Ivory with matching capelet, and Exit 13 - the double face wool / cashmere tunic can be worn 100 different ways.  Over pants, belted as a dress, and left open for extra movement and color - just three of the hottest looks from Fall.  With pieces that stand so strong on their own, the Fall collection makes an excellent introduction to a shopper that has previously only purchased shoes or handbags.

ZIG ZAG

One of the key details of the Fall collection is Zig Zag patterns that cross categories.   The pattern makes a statement on RTW pieces for sure - but on handbags they create one of the easiest ways to wear a mix of colors.  The pattern makes a great investment bag as the mix of colors means it can be worn with so many looks.  When shown on the smaller, structured bags, it also means they can be worn day or night. 

IN PRINT AMERICANA MANHASSET PRESENTS FALL 2016 IN A ROMANTIC AFFAIR

We are so fortunate in the United States to have beautiful shopping centers throughout the country.  While there is almost one large shopping center in every metro area in the US, some truly stand out.  NORTHPARK CENTER IN DALLAS - GIVE FALL 2016 A MODERN LIFE Not only do these properties offer luxury boutiques, and creative public spaces, some create print publications that rival major magazines. The books speak for themselves in representing how sophisticated each center is.  It's great to see what they put forward as a representation of their unique style.  Take note of just how different the same runway look (Exit 14) can be showcased!  ** It's so important to recognize how easily the Ferragamo pieces can take on a different identity. Exactly as we always say:  Salvatore Ferragamo helps a women look her best.  She wears the item, the item does not wear her ** As unique and iconic as this runway exit is, somehow it can be almost a neutral. That is no easy task.  With so many "Costume" like fashion designs popular in the market today, when you see an ensemble like Exit 14 - it is striking.

Let's take a look at the Fall books from Bal Harbour Shops in Miami, Northpark Center in Dallas, the Americana Manhasset in New York, and South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, California.  If you live and breathe fashion - put those four destinations on your "MUST VISIT" list.  You will not be disappointed.  ** Worth noting how much work it takes to coordinate between our PR & Marketing teams and our boutiques and Shopping center management to make these books happen.  Bravo!!!BAL HARBOUR SHOPS IN MIAMI GIVES FALL THAT ICONIC VIBE BAL HARBOUR IS KNOWN FOR!SOUTH COAST PLAZA PRESENTS FALL 2016 AS A LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLE STATEMENT

IN FOCUS - BUCKETS OF FASHION BAGS

The New York Times Fashion Magazine  - aka - T Magazine featured one of the most classic shapes in handbags - The Bucket Bag.  They shape never really goes out of style, but they are so in-style at the moment - that it  really is a MUST HAVE shape for everyone.  The magazine showcased the black Ferragamo bucket created by Sara Battaglia for her capsule collection with the house.  A true fashion item to wear now, and collect for the future.  Alongside bags from Chanel, Tods, Marni, Alexander Wang and more - Ferragamo was right at home.

**T Magazine has a way of hanging around and being read again and again, so be prepared for questions about the SB bucket well into the Fall season due to this shoot. 

Flattered We're (NOT SO) Sure

The latest brand to show their love and envy for the Salvatore Ferragamo collection has taken inspiration to a whole new level. THE VERY VARA / VARINA LIKE TORY BURCH GEMINI SHOES Recently I was walking through a large shopping center when I did a double take.  I seriously thought Ferragamo was in another store window.  The Tory Burch GEMINI collection has some new hardware.  It's new to her - but it's been on Ferragamo shoes, bags, and clothes for years and years.   That's right, the double GANCIO  clearly inspires Ms. Burch.  She is obviously a fan of Ferragamo and has brazenly put a very similar buckle on bags and shoes.  Shoes that look strikingly similar to Vara and Varina styles also feature a nearly identical Vara bow. With all that effort Tory has made to launch those empty sport stores,THE INCREDIBLY FERRAGAMO-LIKE HARDWARE ON THE NEW "GEMINI" BAGS AT TORY BURCH I guess there was no time to create something new and original.   I hope customers point out the similarity to Ms. Burch.  After looking at these Tory Burch flats, mid-heels, and wedges - I think I need to take a shower.

BEST FOOT FORWARD

For the first time in the history of the house of Salvatore Ferragamo, the company named a Women's Creative Director of Footwear.BRITISH DESIGNER PAUL ANREW - THE NEW CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF WOMEN'S SHOES FOR SALVATORE FERRAGAMO  On Sept. 8th, Paul Andrew became the man steering the image of the brands reason for being - SHOES.

Mr. Andrew is British, but is based (or has been based) in NYC.  His experience at Donna Karan clearly shaped his knowledge of the American retail market.  His own collection of shoes for men and women have a loyal following far and wide.   Chic shoppers at Barney's NY and Bergdorf Goodman have been coveting his designs for four years.

Looking at Mr. Andrew's collection, its easy to see his ability to channel the legacy of Ferragamo in his designs.

After almost 100 years, the house of Ferragamo has been evolving.  Today it continues to grow and change - embodying the modern approach to life that made Salvatore and his eponymous house of luxury goods- a legend. 

Paul Andrew's first designs for Ferragamo will debut with the Pre-Fall 2017 collections.  WE'LL BE WAITING!! PAUL ANDREW FALL 2016 COLLECTION

POP ART PATRIOTISM - SUMMER STYLE 2016

Fall Ferragamo - Pop-Art Patchwork Pumps - I mean.. do they need any explanation!>??!!SIGN OF THE TIMES?

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.  Sometimes a quote says it all, and what a wise man Charles Dickens was when he wrote that opening line to A Tale of Two Cities in 1859! Patchwork / Pop-Art Sandal with Gold Heel - $750.00 Here in 2016, who wouldn't agree with that statement.  There are so many crazy things happening in the world we live in.   Just this week, the horrific bombing in Istanbul, and two weeks ago more senseless killing in Orlando.  I can't even try to make sense of it.  Politically, we have a side-show-Bob vying to be President of these United States.  Last week, Britain put the global economy on a roller coaster with their vote to leave the European Union.  A bold move, possibly the wrong move, but bold none the less.   Unfortunately, instability doesn't make people want to shop.  Small Metallic Sofia - They hypnotic tassle can be your fashion sparkler this holiday weekend! $2,500.00

Hopefully our customers will need some escape from the news and engage in some retail therapy this Summer!  Some good news?  The U.S. remains one of, if not the most stable democracy in the world, making the U.S.WOOL & SILK DRESS - PREFALL - $1,170.00 - THERE ARE SO MANY REASONS THIS DRESS IS EVERYTHING! COVERS THE ARM, TWIRLY SKIRT, BLACK, TRAVELS WELL, ANY OCCASION, ACCESORIZED EASILY.. ETC ETC!! a bright spot on an otherwise gloomy globe.  The housing market roars along month after month gaining strength.   If some of the big corporate giants would pay employees higher wages, we would see even more customers in our boutiques - but that's a longer conversation.   **Bottom Line** - America has much to be grateful for this Independence Day on July 4th.   Celebrate and be proud to be American, and/or proud to be working in America.  Be equally proud to be working for a company that is a vital part of the retail economy from coast to coast - and quite literally around the world!

RED, WHITE, BLUE & BEYOND - A CLUTCH TO COLLECT AND TO COVET!!PATRIOTIC COLORS

While we are celebrating the Red, White, and Blue this season - Salvatore Ferragamo Spring and Fall 2016 are there to represent.  The rainbow continues to shine bright in the fashion press, and there are so many options in every category for our ladies shopping the trend.   The Ferragamo collection and the house of Salvatore Ferragamo amazes me season after season.  In a world full of fashion collections that can be sleazy or Yeezy - Ferragamo is always tasteful, sophisticated, and luxurious.  It collaborates with some of the most talented designers - both new and legendary, to create capsule collections that sell out globally.  It inspires and delights men and women of all ages day after day.  It is ICONIC.  We need to remember that every day.  FERRAGAMO IS ICONIC.

Speaking of iconic - one of the most celebrated silhouettes in fashion accessories is the hobo bag.  Easy to wear, and always chic, a great hobo is a go to bag that women love to use again and again.   The small hobo with large gancio hardware in RED calfskin this Fall is a MUST HAVE!  Priced at $1,990.00 - it's a bag all of your most stylish ladies should own.   CALL-HER-NOW!

ART & FASHION

The Ferragamo Museum in Florence has a spectacular exhibit this Summer examining the cross section of Art & Fashion.  The debate whether fashion is art is an age old discussion, and many have contrastiing opinions. Coco Chanel spent much of her time with some of the greatest artists of the 19th and 20t century - but herself felt fashion was not art.  0 I think when fashion design elevates the whole medium, or presents MUSEO FERRAGAMO PRESENTS ART & FASHION - FEATURING KEY ARCHIVE DESIGNS FROM SALVATORE THAT CROSS SURREALISM AND POP-ART!!ground breaking ideas, it is art and not just an applied art.   Salvatore was surely an artist.  An artist working with a living medium - shoe creation.   Have a discussion of your own about Art & Fashion with your favorite client this Summer.  Get her opinion, get her thinking, get her talking.   It will make her remember you & Ferragamo. GANCIO CLIPP CALFSKIN BAG - A POP OF COLOR TO WEAR ALL SUMMMER LONG AND INTO THE FALL

One of the chicest shoes headed to the boutiques for Fall is the patchwork series of pumps and sandals that absolutely echo the pop-art surrealism that so inspired Salvatore Ferragamo decades ago.  These shoes are playful, sexy, and just plain fun - but they also just might be one of the best examples of the DNA of the house of Ferragamo!  

FROM BAKU WITH LOVE

ROBERTO AND AMEDEO OF FARAONE MENNELLA FINE JEWELRY WITH NARMINA MARANDI WEARING FERRAGAMO RUNWAY IN BAKUWe talk often about the global reach of Ferragamo's style and legacy, but a picture says a thousand words.   I've shared images of my travel around the world where I find a Ferragamo Boutique, or some drop dead fashion from the house that Shoes Built!   A few nights ago while scrolling through Instagram before bed, I was THRILLED to see my friends Roberto & Amedeo in Baku, Azerbaijan.   I'm always happy to see these two fine jewelry designers (born in Italy, living in NYC) - but THRILLED this night to see them with the oh-so-chic and fashionable Narmina Marandi in Salvatore Ferragamo Spring Runway!  The striped strappy dress is SO on trend and really made her shine.  CALFSKIN HOBO WITH GANCIO HARDWARE - $1,990.00 Narmina is one of the chicest women that run the social set between London and Baku.  (Who Knew?)  It's a big glamorous world out there, and Ferragamo is always at the heart what's happening! 

Wishing you the happiest of holidays this July 4th weekend.  I hope everyone has time to spend with friends and family!!  Celebrate big - you've earned it!

FALL FASHION BLOWS IN - FERRAGAMO RUNWAY ON TREND!

STRUT WITH THE WIND IN FERRAGAMO! - HARPER'S BAZAAR SEPTEMBER 2012OFF THE SHELVES

This time of year temperatures fluctuate and rain storms come and go quickly.  Fashionable ladies need to be prepared for anything and everything in wardrobe options. EMBROIDERED VELVET - ON TREND - ALWAYS IN STYLE - #527-031-$1,550.00 While October weather is unpredictable, Ferragamo fashion is a stable resource for any weather forecast.     Evenings in October can be warm enough for the lightest suede jacket, or blistering winds can call for the warmest of outerwear.   Suggest coats and capes to all your clients - now before October is a warm memory.  With her cape or coat think knee high boots to keep her on trend and cozy!   Being prepared builds confidence, and having confidence makes every woman more beautiful.   Ferragamo women are empowered by these hand-crafted pieces. 

**Luxury fashion should make her look spectacular, not like a spectacle.**  

This point is often forgotten by too many ladies that go for fashion that wears them.   Salvatore Ferragamo was inspired byBLACK PVC AND ROLLED KNIT ANKLE WARMER = BIKER CHIC - #514-109 -$295.00 the chicest women in the world, and the brand was built on creating styles for them.  Massimiliano continues that tradition today, designing collections that follow the Ferragamo Woman around the world!   **Our job is help weave the runway fantasy into the everyday lives of Ferragamo shoppers**   With one pair of boots, or one luxurious cape, you can change a clients perception of her own image or style.  Speaking of boots: WEATHER ANY STORM WITH PVC & LEATHER TRIM - #520-470-$350.00 There are several options for your next customer.   The luxurious embroidered velvet boots from runway are elegant and a true collectible.  On trend with the baroque detailing, the more substantial heel, and the tall body of the boot - triple trend!  The rolled motorcycle boot from main collection is just plain cool and the detailing gives it a biker-chic feel.   Finally, a boot to MELANIE GRIFFITH IN WORKING GIRL - FASHION FAUX PAS IN MOTIONwear when the weather is bad without looking like all the commuters in the movie Working Girl, starring Melanie Griffith.  (If you don't know the film - Netflix it this weekend - great film - and great NYC fashion references.   Every archetype in the film still exists to this day!)  Friends don't let friends do the white sneaker switch!

LEGACY OF LUXURY

TOKARA RUNWAY SANDAL WITH GOLDEN EDGED LACE, SHEER MESH, AND CHAIN TIPPED VELVET TIES - #527-128-$1,390.00When you think of all the styles that are produced each year at Ferragamo in Italy, the level of detail that goes into each item is amazing.   While all styles represent the legacy of Salvatore with pride, there are those that have that extra level of Italian Savoir-Faire.   The Tokara Golden Lace Runway sandal is such a shoe.   Every inch of this sophisticated shoe is impeccable.   From the golden edged lace to the velvet ties with metallic chain ornaments, these are unique shoes.   Runway shoes are the most limited in production, and typically take the most time to produce.   This shoe truly embraces the level of detail that Salvatore himself created in The Hollywood Boot Shop in Los Angeles some 90 years ago.  They are spectacular!  

Few items in the world of luxury goods have more prestige than the evening handbag - aka GOLDEN FRAMED MINAUDIERE - WITH WOVEN LEATHER FABRIC INSIDE - $2,500.00- The Minaudiere.   These heavily detailed items blur the line between jewelry and handbags with embellishments, metallic and leather details, and sometimes even gems.  These bags also posess a strange versatility.  Compared to other handbags, evening clutches can be worn with a wide range of looks.   For some reason, they look fantastic with the most formal ball gown, but also sexy and cool with jeans and heels.  A minaudiere can instantly "dress up" just about any look, making them a valuable accessory to travel with.  We've discussed these little treasures before, and the Fall collection features a stunning example in the metallic Milena.   This classic evening clutch features a golden frame with woven Mirtilla leather lining the bag.   It dazzles in the Fall campaign with Kate Moss and it is truly a limited edition.  Twenty exist in the U.S. and it is priced at $2,550.00

FERRAGAMO TIME

LEIGHTON MEESTER AKA BLAIR WALDORF OF GOSSIP GIRL FAME IS STUNNING IN SALVATORE FERRAGAMOHow exciting each season has become!  Watching as Massimiliano's visions of Ferragamo sparkle and shine in the fashion world.   With the addition of the Resort collection, the House of Ferragamo has made an investment to luxury that few fashion empires ever will.  There are a select few that make up this group of "Houses" that are truly global fashion icons.   The ultra-luxe detailing of Resort has elevated every delivery of Ferragamo RTW, as it created a new benchmark to be measured against.   The prestigious showing of Resort at the Louvre Museum in Paris this year drove home this point.   Also, the attendees giveFRIDA PINTO, LEIGHTON MEESTER, & HILLARY SWARK - SPARKLE IN SALVATORE FERRAGAMO us proof that Massimiliano is building his loyal following of Hollywood starlets.   Gossip Girl is one of the most successful programs to come along in the last decade.   Sex & The City's Carrie Bradshaw clearly passed the baton to the young fictional girls from New York's Upper East Side.   Leighton Meester stars as Blair Waldorf, the girl everyone loves to hate.  Ms. Meester was stunning in a Bordeaux runway ensemble from Fall.   Big screen actresses Frida Pinto and Hillary Swank held court in sexy and sultry embroidered lace with both black and gold accents.   Ferragamo gave Paris and the industry a true fashion moment!