During the Paris Fashion week last March, they were already dangling from the editor`s shoulders: The small frame bags. This is quality in a square! Those simple and cute accessories have mostly a long strap with a 70s feel to them. Called box bags, the elegant and chic models are on the rise to become true classics if they are not already like the Constance by Hermès. Here are my favourites for F/W 2010:
A small frame bag is very comfortable and stylish to wear. If you do not want to spend too much or try it out first (believe me after years of gigantic models you have to get used to it…), H&M offers a pretty nice one.
Your back will love the new It-pieces…!
LoL, Sandra
The cult of Louis Vuitton`s Stephen Sprouse leo scarf is a worldwide phenomena. It started in 2006 when Marc Jacobs made his first tribute to the artist, who had died at the age of 50 in 2004, by using the leo print the two had created together. An It-stole was born.
The first colour marron has become an integral part of every year`s collection, followed by other seasonal versions. Wrapped around many celeb necks, the scarf is bound to go down in history as one of the most famous of its kind.
Another historical moment took place last month in London when Louis Vuitton celebrated their new store on New Bond Street with the launch of 4 limited editions of their iconic Leo scarves. Only available in the British capital, they were sold out immediately on the opening day.
I know so many who were diappointed the last years because they missed the new colours. We do not want this to happen again! Here is the preview of the two latest designs for F/W 2010, said to be in stores around August. The statement piece was seen already on Margherita Missoni in Monte Carlo (see above). Always good to be friends with a designer.
So girls, who are not on good terms with Marc, get yourselves on the wait lists now and claws out for the new leo!
LoL, Sandra
Camilla Skovgaard F/W 2010
High heeled, stilettoed, up to the thigh, those boots are insane and definitely to become the hits of the season. Just imagine your legs in them! Those jaw-dropping models from the F/W 2010 collections will make you speechless and others green with envy.
The overknee is going to stay for another season, love the Burberry ones. You could feel a saloon-girl approach in detail and line at Balmain or Givenchy, lace-up and mid-calf, you are ready to dance the Can-Can. But no worries, it is a very modern look, not at all disguised.
Architecturally amazing are the soles of Viktor & Rolf, even if they seem to be a copy of Camilla Skovgaard`s signature style (see left).
Buckled, fringed – there are certainly no rules, experiment with such a variety of shapes and models. I am sure that there is already one that has conquered your heart! To be in stores soon…
LoL, Sandra
These boots are made for walking… and admiration. There is always a time and always a place to put on a pair of flat boots. From patent to suede, from colourful to neutral, there is a pair for everyone. The flat It-boot next season would be the riding boot – totally love the Manolos. The range is wide, the pirate style ones by Michael Kors would also be a great purchase just like the studded ones by Christian Louboutin. If you are worried about them looking too casual, these stunning versions are refined and polished, and dressy enough to wear to a variety of occassions and events.
Chloé wool-lined leather boots, approximately €850.-
Already available at NET-À-PORTER 
and selling out fast is the Chloé pre-fall 2010 strappy model to the left.
LoL, Sandra
News is: Velvet has made its comeback for F/W 2010. The rich fabric has many enemies, are you one of them who shudder to think of a post-90`s revival? Please do not and give it a chance! You may be pleasantly surprised. The designers used velvet, preferably red and oxblood coloured, in many striking ways. Alexander Wang showed probably the best collection to bring the velvet trend out of the 90`s and into the now.
Dolce & Gabbana kept it classic and elegant with vampy red draped dresses.
I also spotted historical references. Ralph Lauren got inspired from the medieval era whereas Zac Posen and Altuzarra showed sharp cut 70`s style trouser suits.
Hopefully I was able to convince the velvet haters among you. And if not yet, consider that just one single velvet piece like a well crafted jacket can create a sizzling dandy look without going overboard.
Inject a bit of velvet into your wardrobe and signal your sophistication!
LoL, Sandra
It might be on short notice, but definitely not too late to get your hands on a gorgeous pair of leather shorts. An absolute must this summer that will stay trendy next winter.
My favourites are the lace-up ones by Alexander Wang with zippers on the side, available in brown or black. Combine them with a boyfriend blazer, an embellished top and stunning wedges (see above). Add a feodora hat for that certain twist or just wear them with cowboy boots and a little cardigan for your urban days off-duty like I did this week.
Here are some gorgeous versions from the S/S 2010 collections available at Net-à-porter or Browns. Do not forget, sale will be starting soon…. in the US it is already on!
3.1 Phillip Lim, £465.-
Fendi, €1060.-
Helmut Lang, €586.-
Or wait for those ones below from the F/W 2010 runways. Salvatore Ferragamo showed many different versions in suede and nappa leather.
Get ready to wow!
LoL, Sandra
Meet Pascal Millet and his first collection for F/W 2010 in his own name. Contemporary, modern with a couture allure- that would be the perfect description.
The designer began his career as the assistant to Michel Goma at Balenciaga, stylist with Givenchy, then continued to work with John Galliano and Alexander McQueen, before taking over as artistic director of Carven in 2001.
Now he has fulfilled his dream and opened his house in Paris. “La Parisienne” in all her splendor is anyway his greatest source of inspiration. The style is evening cocktail. I love the colour combination of blue and black in particular.
Available at Galeries Lafayette in Paris or for more information visit his homepage.
LoL, Sandra
As promised here are the best crochet and knit looks from the F/W 2010 runways. The designs were versatile, catering for all tastes.
From bohemian 60`s and 70`s inspired looks like the Versace or Missoni ones to crocheted knits combined with romantic details like bows and ribbons, spotted at Dior. If you like it more gothic or clean, Pringle of Scotland will be your choice this winter.
As I already told you, the “Miss Sicily” bag by Dolce & Gabbana is coming back in knitted versions and has been seen on Victoria Beckham already. So keep an eye on the upcoming sale, probably you can find one from the summer for a great price. I will keep my fingers crossed!
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
There was a lot of movement in the fashion world during the last days, some very interesting announcements were made. The probably most unexpected one is Jean-Paul Gaultier`s departure from Hermès seven years after his jump-start of the house`s ready-to-wear line in 2003. If the reason was the seven-year itch or the death of former president and chief executive, Jean-Louis Dumas a few weeks ago, we will never find out. Fact is that Christophe Lemaire, the designer behind the resurgence of Lacoste, is headed to Hermès and will present his first collection for F/W 2011 next spring.
Gaultier is reportedly leaving to focus on his own collection of which 45% is still owned by Hermès. Like a real divorce… somebody is always keeping a stake.
The second news was not so surprising for me. After different speculations over the future of the Alexander McQueen brand, the creative director has officially been named. Sarah Burton, who had worked alongside McQueen for sixteen years and oversaw the completion of the F/W 2010 collection after the designer`s death in February will definitely keep his spiritual heritage.
The first McQueen underwear collection for men will launch in June. Might be a nice gift for your boyfriend or hubby.
Finally we have two more designers who landed themselves a job. First, former wunderkind Olivier Theyskens, who worked for Rochas and Nina Ricci, will design a capsule collection for Theory that will be released next spring.
And last but not least, Alessandro Dell`Acqua is making a return to fashion with a new collection dubbed N°21( his lucky number), after having lost trademark rights to his namesake line last year. Moreover he will take reigns at Brioni and design their womenswear.
Somebody else seems also ready for a fresh start: Giles Deacon has been confirmed as Emanuel Ungaro`s new creative director. After tumultous times and the Lindsay Lohan episode, the French fashion house will try to skyrocket right up to the point where Balmain and Balenciaga already are. One thing is certain, Ungaro has a fancy name and a lot of potential. Let`s see if Deacon along with the help of his stylist friend Katie Grand can come up with some zesty ideas.
LoL, Sandra
Yesterday, Matthew Williamson celebrated his collaboration with Belvedere at his flagship London store in Mayfair with many of his famous friends that were mostly dressed in his amazing F/W 2010 collection. His muse Sienna Miller showed up in one of my favourite dresses from his winter runway show. I just love the foiled chiffon twist dress. The cut and fabric is divine in combination and Sienna looked absolutely gorgeous in it.
Matthew Williamson with his muse Sienna Miller wearing F/W 2010 Foiled Chiffon Twist Dress
The reason for the party was the launch of Belvedere Pink Grapefruit, the newest to the brand`s popular line of maceration vodkas. Matthew Williamson designed an exclusive kaftan and all-in-one „inspired by the vitality of sultry high summer evenings“ and „incorporating a vibrant sun drenched palette“. The Matthew Williamson for Belvedere limited editions are available at his flagship stores in London and New York and online.
Singer Little Boots in F/W 2010 Metallic Lace Embellished Shoulder Dress with the Pyramid Crystal Belt
Enjoy the party pics!
LoL, Sandra
Peaches Geldof with Tyrone Wood, son of Rolling Stone Ronnie
Model Tolula Adeyemi in F/W 2010 Wool Crepe Frill Jacket and S/S 2010 Orchid Silk Top
London`s It-Girl Alice Dellal
LoL, Sandra
