a LIFE of STYLE

VALENTINO FALL 2009The Fall 2009 ads are filling up magazines around the world.   This is the year that the economy hit the fan - and so did budgets for advertising at most fashion houses.   What does this mean?  That means that every ad that runs this fall is more important than ever.   Designers are looking to get the maximum return from the advertising dollars spent.

With that in mind, we will be posting looks from the usual suspects - and any ads that stand out.  Victory will be at the register when designers look back and see sales figures for this crucial Fall season.KRISTEN MCMENAMY BY KARL LAGERFELD

VALENTINO FALL 2009

First up- Valentino.   The legendary house has new designers at the helm this fall.   Even though they have been working with Mr. Valentino for years - Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli had big shoes to fill when they were handed the post last fall.   Designer Alessandra Faccinetti was out overnight and the duo who had worked with Mr. Valentino for years were in!

Masters of Photography M&M Paris shot the campaign that channels classic Valentino themes.   Dark and Sexy, the shots remind me of Indochine and model Iris Strubregger is channelling uber model of the 90's Kristen Mcmenamy with her piercing stare and androgynous beauty.

**MOST IMPORTANT CLASSIC VALENTINO LOOKS**

-Lace Blouse

-Knitwear

-Evening Gown - most iconic in RED