KIRSTEN DUNST FOR BVLGARIItalian Jeweler BVLGARI is known the world over as a symbol of luxury.   Beginning as a Silversmith in Rome in 1884, the family owned brand would move into fine jewels in the 20th century, cementing it's legacy in luxury.  Today, the brand is truly global with Hotels & Spas, Fragrances, Skin care, Sunglasses, Watches, and Leather Accessories.  Acquired by LVMH in 2011, Bulgari is now destined to be a growing presence in the world of accessories.HOTEL IMPERIAL - VIENNA

Once when I was on vacation in Vienna I had a chance to become familiar with the brands luxurious body lotion and skin care.  I was lucky enough to be a guest at the Hotel Imperial.  Once the residence of a king, it now hosts the rich and famous (and a fashion blogger like me!) as they visit this beautiful city.   Everything about the hotel says luxury.  From the marble stairs, to the fine silk curtains, and Bulgari products fully stocked in a most imperial bathroom suite.   The rich formulas of the products made such an impression on me, CLICK IMAGE TO SHOPI regularly look for it when I'm shopping abroad.   The products are beautifully packaged, expensive, and make you feel pampered.

The fragrances that represent the house are just as luxurious.   Hollywood starlet Kirsten Dunst is nothing short of breathtaking in the exclusive campaign for MON JASMIN NOIR.  The floral scent of Jasmine, with the intriguing depth of a spicy depth give this scent a sensual identity.    A perfect introduction to Spring, and the sultry nights that Summer can bring.   Click BVLGARI to shop the fragrance now.

MIROIR SORCIER - LINE VAUTRINThe French Artisan Line Vautrin was that rare soul that lived to create.  Her sense of independence and unique sense of style were both assets and detriments in the 1930's Paris in which she began her career.   The privileged world of Paris society was a fortunate backdrop for the impressionableARTIST & DESIGNER - LINE VAUTRIN young artist, who gave up an internship with the Couturier Elsa Schiaparelli to work on her own.   This was not done at the time by anyone - let alone a woman.   It was the nerve that few in a generation possess - Coco Chanel being one other, just blocks away on the Rue Cambon.   Vautrin would make a name for herself by embellishing items other designers had not thought to decorate.  Shoe heels, Umbrella Handles, and hair combs were among her most notable pieces.   Items that would help a woman to recreate a wardrobe - without buying new clothes.   Accessories to upstage clothing - unheard of in this era of full skirts, big hats, and layers of fabric. Vautrin would create a school of artists to realize her visions, eventually creating jewelry - objet d'art, and concaveADAM & EVE NECKLACE IN BRONZE - LINE VAUTRINE metallic wall mirrors knownLINE VAUTRIN GLASS & BRONZE EARRINGS as Witches Mirrors or Miroir de Sorciere in French.   Her work was unmatched for decades, and collected by the most stylish women and men around the world.

In the 80's Vautrin retired, continuing to create one of a kind items as she desired.   British collector David Gill would connect with the artist soon after, convincing her to travel the world exhibiting her unique collections.  Vautrin died in 1997 at the age of 84, leaving an incredible body of work - and an amazing legacy. 

This month, two New York legends of their own unite to bring a capsule collection of Line Vautrin's work to passionate collectors of fashion jewelry and collectibles. Gallery Maison Gerard and on-line destination- 1st dibs both have a loyal following of taste makers and collectors.  Maison Gerard - a brick and mortar location, and 1st dibs - a website and a concept have coordinated this sale launching 12/12/12.   Bravo to Gerard Widdershoven  and Benoist Drut of Masion Gerard, and Michael Bruno of 1st dibs- for their continued vision of sophisticated design and limited luxury.   Preview this capsule collection - exclusively available at www.1stdibs.com

LEIGHTON MEESTER IN BORDEAUX FERRAGAMO

The deepest of shades of burgundy and bordeaux are right on trend for Fall 2012, in fashion boutiques now.FRIDA PINTO, LEIGHTON MEESTER, & HILARY SWARK IN FERRAGAMO FALL 2012   Sometimes called Oxblood, this rich color can be worn back to a host of items already in your wardrobe.  Flattering to most skin tones, this color is a great alternative to black and almost as neutral.  Gossip Girl star Leighton Meester was stunning at the Ferragamo Resort Show in Paris this Spring.   Meester dazzled the crowd in head-to-toe color.   The sheer silk blouse paired with the intricate hand embroidery of that skirt make a super chic combination.  

Recently when BORDEAUX ORCHIDS AND PETROL BLUE RUNWAY SANDALS AT FERRAGAMOI was in the Ferragamo Flagship Boutique on 5th Avenue, I saw this breathtaking display created by this Italian House of Luxury's  Visual team.    To see more color, click Beautiful Bordeaux.

FENDI FALL 2012 AT SAKS 5TH AVENUEIt might be as hot as Hades in most parts of the U.S. & Europe, but the best Fall merchandise is hitting department stores as you read this!   Saks 5th Avenue has a "Must-Have" checklist of pieces to curate for your own wardrobe.   This Fendi knit with pleatd sikl skirt is a great example.   Also in on the knitwear is Stella McCartney, Giambattista Valli, and Akris.    Click over to Saks to see these and so many more hot looks for Fall!  

After all, just because you're in your bathing suit - doesn't mean you shouldn't be planning your city suit!

FERRAGAMO ICONIC CHARM BRACELET IN ENAMELED BRASS - $390.00With Mother's day less than a week away, you have a few days left to point and click to make your mother smile on her day.   Charm bracelets are one of the most classic items in any woman's wardrobe.   No jewelry box would be complete without at least one of these feminine accessories that can be worn with everything.14K GOLD & ORANGE SAPPHIRE DOG AT B2C JEWELERS -$585.00

Charm bracelets have a magical ability to flatter any wrist it decorates.  From 8 to 80, every girl and woman appreciates a charm bracelet.   Some are covered in charms that are personal, representing children or grandchildren, gardens, homes, and even cars.    Today, any passion can be represented as a charm. TIFFANY CHARM BRACELET CHANEL METAL & RESIN CHARM BRACELET

Amazingly, these charm bracelets lend themselves to every woman that wears one.  What is innocent and playful on a girl can be downright seductive on a beautiful woman.

At the most iconic fashion and jewelry houses, charm bracelets take on similar significance.   These charm bracelets are adorned with brand "icons" that represent the savoir-faire and legacy of the fashion house.   Whatever her favorite brand is, there is a bracelet full of iconic charms just waiting to be hers.  The price range is great, as some are made from costume jewelry materials like resin and brass, and some are made from sterling silver and gold.  JUDITH RIPKA STERLING SILVER "BLUE HEART FOOT" BEAR AT BLOOMINGDALE'SLAARON BASHA "BABY SHOES" CHARMegendary fashion houses like Chanel and Ferragamo have symbolic charm bracelets in stores now.   Fine jewelry houses like Tiffany and Bulgari are of course destinations for these little charmers as well.

Think of your mother's favorite designer and click over to the website today.  After all, don't you want your mother to lead a charmed life!    

Click on images or links to find the store nearest you.

CHANTECAILLE CORAL REEFS PALETTEInspired by nature, Chantecaille beauty and skincare products have a dedicated following of those seeking effective CHANTECAILLE BTQ- SAKS 5TH AVENUE - NAPLES, FLtreatments that are also kind to the environment.   This family run beauty empire creates products that have a purity of design and simplistic elegance.   FERRAGAMO SEAHORSE EARRINGWith a consistent goal of calming inflammation (the most common cause of aging) and flattering skin tones with the most natural ingredients, the Chantecaille collection is an excellent resource for anyone seeking cosmetic appeal and real results.  Creative Director Olivia Chantecaille brings a dynamic sense of energy to the brand, infusing the current trends of the fashion world and latest developments from the world of cosmetics.CHANTECAILLE CORAL INSPIRATION

For Spring 2012, Chantecaille partners with the Marine Conservation Institute in the goal to protect 10% of the worlds oceans by 2020.  In an effort to keep the message in the minds, and on the lips of Chantecaille clients, The Coral Reefs Palette of lip and cheek colors was created. CREATIVE DIRECTOR OLIVIA CHANTECAILLE  With a portion of proceeds benefiting the MCI, this palette draws inspiration from these natural colors found in the deepest of ocean waters. 

Ms. Chantecaille is a fixture on the New York Social Scene and is one of the most glamorous attendees at any society soiree!  A priceless brand ambassador, Olivia is also the face of CHANTECAILLE PROTECTION-NATURELLE LOOSE POWDERthe print and advertising images.  

The fashion world has also been enchanted by the sea in the Spring 2012 collections.   The biggest CHANEL "CORAL" HEELED PLATFORMnames in fashion referenced natures bounty under water on the runway.   French couture house CHANEL took to the ocean floor for inspiration with Coral heeled pumps and oversized shell handbags!   In Milan, the house of FERRAGAMO saw a colorful runway of glamorous prints and gowns highlighted by seahorse earrings and bracelets. 

Find your inspirationFERRAGAMO HAND EMBROIDERED GOWN & SEAHORSE EARRING from this magical world beneath the sea - CHANEL "SHELL" CLUTCHclick on images for more information.    Visit a Chantecaille Boutique near you soon, or shop on-line for these wonderful products.

BIANCA BALTI STUNNING IN BLUE - SURROUNDED BY FERRAGAMO CLAD PARTY GIRLS - SCHNABEL, RICHARDS, CHANDLER, & REMINGTON-PLATTFerragamo, the uber-luxe house of Italian fashion is launching their latest fragrance with events unfolding around the world.   From Dubai to Shanghai, and of course NYC, Ferragamo has been the "Must Go To" event for all the hip young girls that hit the party circuit this season.   Signorina, so aptly named has the sweet and spicy smell of pink pepper blended with jasmine, rose, and the slightest hint of patchouli musk - wow - Miss thing in SEXY!   In New York, Italian super model and face of the Signorina campaign Bianca Balti hosted the event.  Where you ask?  JULIAN SCHNABEL'S PALAZZO CHUPIAt the only Italian Palazzo in NYC of course, the Julian Schnabel designed Pink Palace -Palazzo Chupi. 

Signorina blooms on the heels of Attimo, the Ferragamo fragrance launched last year that has been a massive hit in the fragrance world - for men and women.   With the latest scent, Ferragamo wrote a perfume love note to the chicest young ladies that are becoming Ferragamo fashion clients in droves!  Since the revamp of ready-to-wear under talented designer Massimiliano Giornetti 2 years ago - the house has been in overdrive with events, shows, and press-press-press.   I dare you to try and find a ACTRESS KATE MARA IN FERRAGAMO SPRING 2012fashion magazine from any country that is not loaded with Ferragamo editorials - trust me.. you can't.  ACTRESS PIPER PERABO GIVING GLA-MOUR IN FERRAGAMO That's when a brand is red hot.   Speaking of - there are insanely gorgeous RED accessories for Spring 2012 in the Ferragamo boutiques now.   These are ones to collect, so spritz yourself with Signorina and then buy yourself a pair of ballerinas and a serious bag to spice up your Summer!

CLICK RED HOT SOFIA BAG - SPRING 2012IMAGES to shop and learn more about all things FERRAGAMO and all things FABULOUS!

DAVID BATCHELOR AT STELLA MCCARTNEY - SOHO PH: JASON JOBSONStella McCartney has taken her unique sense of style further STYLE IN THE ROUND AT STELLA PH: JASON JOBSONdowntown in NYC to SOHO!   This British designer is the coolest woman working a runway collection on either side of the pond, and she continues to make news season after season.   Last Fall she bested every American designer right under their noses by dressing more A-List celebs at the Met Costume Institute Gala than even the late honoree - Alexander McQueen!LACE BUT NO LEATHER! - STELLA McCARTNEY - PH: PAMELA BERKOVIC

In fact, Stella and her crack team of fashion professionals seem to be one of the only companies creating any buzz these days.   Not by going public, not by starring in some tacky reality show, but by creating newness - season after season.  There is something you can't put into words about Stella and the way she rolls.   Her fashion shows and boutique events have an authentic vibe to them that shows her credibility with celebrities and the "in" crowd is the real deal. BROCADE IN GOLD -STELLA McCARTNEY PH: PAMELA BERKOVIC  The celebrities in attendance are there because they want to be, not as some sort of pay-for-play deal with agents and fashion campaigns.   Stella is just cool.  

The new boutique is bigger and brighter thanLITTLE BLACK JACKET - STELLA McCARTNEY F2012 PH: PAMELA BERKOVIC McCartney's current 14th Street store.  It covers two floors and several thousand square feet.   Ms. McCartney naturally outgrew the Meatpacking District store over time by creating division after division, and by raising the bar on her own creativity.  McCartney refuses to use leather or fur in any category and has become the only fashion designer in the industry doing so to achieve status and make "wanted" accessories from non leather or exotic skins. 

U.K. based artist David Batchelor designed the sleek light boxes that fill Stella's windows and make her entrance into SOHO's fashion scene.   Located at 112 Green Street, McCartney is in good company right next to Louis Vuitton.   Oddly, LV doesn't make their bags from leather either - but that's no Vegan cause - that's another conversation.

Stella McCartney is hot and you need at least one piece of her collection in your permanent wardrobe.DAVID BATCHELOR LIGHT BOXES

Up next for McCartney? Oh just designing the uniforms for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London!  As if that weren't cool enough - look for Stella's cameo in the return of ABFAB.  That's right, Patsy and Edina are back and this time around they love STELLA! 

Visit the Stella McCartney boutique near you - Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Dallas, Bal Harbour, or New York.  Don't wait to visit her website now.   Her collection is also available on Net-a-Porter.

Stella McCartney SOHO is located at 112 Greene Street. 

K is for KRIZIAJust when the name Krizia had slowly escaped the conscious of everyone working in the New York fashion scene the company has opened a new modern boutique on 14th street.  In the epicenter of the Meat Market, and a stones throw from The High Line, The Standard Hotel, and Jeffrey New York, the new boutique replaces the Madison Avenue corner spot that was home to Krizia for at least a decade, MARIUCCA MANDELLI OF KRIZIAand had shuttered its doors a few years ago.  Created by an eccentric Italian woman in 1950, the label has had many incarnations and collections over its 60 year tenure.  Mariucca Mandelli looks and behaves like someone from Central Casting in a Hollywood movie about a Milanese fashion house.   With iconic black bangs and a bob, Mandelli is the classic Italian Fashion Nonna (or Nona!).   She runs the show, she takes the press, and she pays the bills. 

Known for Animal prints in the 80's and color blocking in the 90's, since 00 Mandelli is best known in the fashion world for being the woman who fired Alber Elbaz after only one critically acclaimed collection for Krizia Top. CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP KRIZIA FRAGRANCES  Not happy with the global press he brought, Mandelli fired Elbaz over "creative differences" in record time.   I attended that show in Milan, and it was one of the most beautiful collections I ever saw walk a runway.  Yes, Krizia could have seen the rebirth that Lanvin has had under the guidance of Elbaz - but it wasn't meant to be.  This scenario is too often the issue with Italian owned fashion houses and American or French born designers.  (The Lanvin website is a must visit - I promise you will be charmed).

A storied house of fashion that has seen better days and better sales will hire an up and coming designer in order to breathe new life into the brand. KRIZIA - FLAGSHIP BOUTIQUE - NYC  When the press and department stores come calling, suddenly egos are damaged since the new designer is getting "all the attention", even if the owners are getting all the Euros.  Seems silly doesn't it?  It is.  Mandelli is not alone though, there are many who have followed the same route.   Think Donatella Girombelli of Genny.  She will forever be known as the woman who fired a young designer named - Gianni Versace.  But then again, what did he know?    Since three is a charm, let's not forget Guiliana Gerani of the "big in the 80's" house of ICEBERG.   Gerani also had a little known designer by the name of Marc Jacobs designing her signature collection.  Known as Mama Gerani by Iceberg employees in Cattolica, Italy, Guiliana never saw a design or color board she didn't think she could tweak or take for her own collection.   Jacobs didn't last long there.  But he had bigger and better things to do.  I don't think it's a coincidence that both the Genny and Iceberg websites are "under construction" at the moment!

The staying power of Krizia is reason enough to celebrate the house and the ability of Mariucca to keep turning it out season after season.   Big in Japan, the company has a roster of fragrances and licensee's in that part of the world.  There are women's and men's clothing as well as handbags and small leather goods.   If nothing else, Mandelli's choice of retail locations shows she is one smart cookie.    Now you know!  Click KRIZIA to learn more.