What a strange year it has been for the fashion world! Last August - the economy was bad, but we were all still in denial (especially at the White House). The world of retail imploded just around September / October. I had been hired by Neiman Marcus to speak at a luxury shopping event in Early September at a private home in Alpine, NJ. The event benefited Table to Table - a great charity feeding the hungry of Northern, New Jersey. The day before the event, Lehman Bros. went belly up. Talk about taking the wind out of a sail - or sale! The event turned out well, despite the nervous energy in the room - as we all felt the unraveling starting to fray.
Fast forward one year. The economic roller coaster has turned into more of a merry-go-round. There are still ups and downs week by week - but less dramatic. There seems to be silver if not gold lining the clouds that covered us all Winter - and literally all summer.
The fashion industry has been one of the hardest hit by the recession. It was to be expected that luxury items would now seem less like necessity and more like - well - luxury. If there is anything good that has come of this terrible time, let it be that we all appreciate the things we have and are able to buy. That Gucci bag is not necessary to live. You are fortunate to have it. I think we have all had the reset button pushed on our idea of what we "need" to be who we are. Good. Hold on to this feeling and think long and hard about who you are. "Things" are much less important than people or peace of mind.
Having said that, if you are in a position to shop- do! The Fashion industry needs you. There is a time and a place for everything and this Thursday, September 10th - the place to be is your favorite retail store. Chances are they are participating in "Fashion's Night Out". The brainchild of Vogue's Anna Wintour - Fashion's Night Out is the American Fashion Industry's answer to the stimulus package. Designer boutiques from coast to coast and now around the globe are staying opening late - many until 11pm to welcome shoppers and help them get re-acquainted with the brands they sell. Over 700 stores in NYC alone are officially involved. Many who are not affiliated with Vogue have organized their own events that night. Chances are, your favorite designer boutique will be open late - so ask in advance and plan to spend the night with friends hitting the stores!
If you are in the NYC area - I have a few suggestions.
FERRAGAMO LEATHER BOOTIE
Start your evening festivities at the Ferragamo Flagship store on 5th Avenude at 53rd street. The mega-store full of all things Ferragamo will be hosting an art exhibit featuring one of kind behind the fashion scenes images authorized by Vogue magazine! Buy those hot new Ferragamo shoes you have been dying for - or that chic silk scarf for mom! Have a glass of champagne and start your evening right.
TRAVAUX EN COURS APRONS
Next stop - Bergdorf Goodman. Just a few block uptown to the ultimate department store. Everything a girl or guy wants under two roofs! Head to the 7th floor and buy an apron from Travaux En Cours. T.E.C. are the chicest accessories to wear when you are cooking all those cool dishes for friends this fall. Hot all over Europe, Bergdorf is the first store to carry them up in the U.S. - of course!
Next, work your way up Madison Avenue. A collection of the most exclusive designer boutiques in the world line the blocks from 57th street to our final destination , The Michael Dawkins boutique at 33 East 65th street, just off Madison Avenue. Michael has been creating statement pieces for almost 20 years. 
MICHAEL DAWKINS FALL 2009You know his work the moment you see it for his use of sterling silver and semi-precious stones is so unique. I'm sure you have also seen Michael appearing on one of his super successful segments on QVC over the last 4 years in support of the line he designs for the network. While those pieces are beautiful - his boutique collection is out of this world! MD has just launched his new ad campaign for fall featuring Nina Warthen. The shots are stunning and chic - just what you would expect from Michael Dawkins!
**Looking for something to do Thursday outside the City? I'll be at the Ferragamo boutique in Manhasset, Long Island. The legendary Americana Mall at Manhasset is hosting its own evening of luxury shopping and events. "Style On The Go" will include beauty spa treatments and luxury designer previews. Join me to preview the Spring 2010 Ferragamo collection and of course to shop the new Fall arrivals. For more information call the Ferragamo boutique at 516-365-9765.