It's a Hippie, Happy Holiday at Barneys NY

In economic times of turmoil, it is not unusual for the fashion world to go a little topsy turvy.   There are studies about skirt lengths tied to the stock market crawl.   It has been said that fashion is the fastest art form (ok applied art) to respond to global politics.   This makes perfect sense as designers turn out their work every few months, as opposed to artists that can work for more than a year on a painting, or architects that spend several years bringing a project to fruition.

It is interesting to see the peace sign appear in collections at every price point this holiday season.   In reality, it is a holiday staple and since the U.S. has been at war - it is not some esoteric thought - but a real-life desire for peace.   Barneys NY has taken the concept over the top - as they always do!  The store has made peace & love the theme of their holiday season - tagged "Have a Hippie Holiday".    You can now wear it, sleep on it, and eat the sentiment!  There are gift cards, pillows, cookies - etc.  Stay tuned for the famed windows to be bell-bottomed  and fringed.... where's Cher?  Oh, I forgot - in Vegas.

While there is unprecedented good will growing in the hearts and minds of U.S. citizens and citizens of the world about the election of Barack Obama, we can hardly say that designers could have reacted this quickly to get these peace-full items in stores.   Lets just call it great timing!

 
I can't help but notice the similarity between Lucky brand's new bag and Chanel's resin chain bag that was a HUGE hit over a year ago.   This is a great example of trickle down design effect.   In reality, the Chanel chains were made of Rhodoid - which is the Rolls Royce of Resin.  The Lucky version is pieces of leather braided for a similar effect.   The leather reminds me of arts and crafts projects we did at summer camp.   Lanyard wallet making was always scheduled for rainy days.   Anyone else remember stringing wallets for gifts for your parents?

I won't say that Lucky is knocking off Chanel... lets be positive.   Lets say that Lucky has a great product development team!  How is that for good will!  There is one big difference.   Lucky bags are priced in the mid $200 range - and if you want one of the Chanel bags- you'll need to add a zero.

Peaceful Friday everyone!!!