PRADA

The Fashion Statement: Stripes, Polka Dots and Plaids

Filed under: Apparel, The Fashion Statement

'Tis the season to break out your spring wardrobe (if old man winter would ever go away). But if you don't have this season's take on stripes, polka dots and plaids, get thee to a boutique toute de suite. This is not a time for wallflowers.

These prints have very little in common with the classics. This year, designers painted stripes with a bold brush, used variously-sized polka dots head-to-toe, and paired plaids with floral blouses.

The key is to break every rule your mother taught you: Mix and match patterns. Select stripes in contrasting colors, pair the polka dots with stripes and spice up florals with any geometric design. Just make sure the contrasting patterns have a consistent theme, use the same color palette, or same motif.

Prada and Jil Sander presented some of the best collections of the season. Sander sent out a floor-length gown contrasting vertical black-and-sheer stripes on the bodice with the skirt's pink-and-white horizontal stripes. Prada took a white blouse with a navy monkey print and paired it with a black-and-fuchsia striped skirt. That same skirt served as the foundation for a blue-white-black-green striped top.

Tags: Dolce and Gabbana, Jil Sander, Louis Vuitton, Moschino, plaids, polka dots, Prada, Spring 2011, Spring 2011 Fashion Week, stripes, The Devils Cloth, The Fashion Statement

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Prada Saffiano Camouflage Tote

by Marsha Reid (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Handbags

Camouflage is a trendy print. Sometimes it works and other times it fails miserably. However, on the Prada Saffiano Tote ($2495), camouflage adds a strong visual interest against a very simple oversized tote, that it works well. And with such a strong print, the Saffiano Tote doesn't need any adornments and neither would your outfit. To really maximize on Saffiano's adventurous print, wear a pared down outfit such as jeans, a crisp white or black well-fitted button down shirt and a pair of brightly hued pumps to balance the tote's eye catching effects.

The Saffiano Tote has a large interior and would be ideal for work or as an overnight bag. Additional features include a double top handles, detachable shoulder strap, and an interior pocket. Dimensions: 15 3/4"W x 9 1/2"H x 9 3/4"D.

Have tips or suggestions? Contact me @marsha712

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Tags: camouflage, handbag, leather, prada, tote

Prada's Peppy New Ad

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel

Need a little dose of spring color? Prada has released a zippy little ad for the Spring/Summer 2011 line full of bright colors and catchy music. The psychedelic film entitled Real Fantasies 2011 showcases those bold stripes we first saw last year. The playful video directed by James Lima features popular models Jessica Stam and Ginta Lipana dancing around interspersed with odd surrealistic moments.

Tags: ginta lapina, jessica stam, prada

Some Prada Items Pulled From Barneys In Retail Stand-Off

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Shopping

If you want to get your hands on the latest Prada handbag you won't be headed to Barneys New York anymore. The Wall Street Journal confirms that Prada is no longer selling any new goods but shoes and menswear at Barneys. Barneys New York Chief Executive Mark Lee says the beef with Barneys began when Prada asked to lease space from Barneys and control its own inventory and markdowns. Barneys refused and Prada decided to pull certain categories. Barneys will be using its former Prada space for pieces from Azzedine Alaia.

The WSJ article goes on to say that this decision was made prior to Mr. Lee's takeover and was related to Barneys position that it doesn't lease vendor space. Lee has said that he wants Barneys to have more exclusive items that can't be found elsewhere. He's also planning a large renovation for existing stores and an overhaul of the store website. He also recently made the controversial move to appoint a new Creative Director, Dennis Freedman, who replaced the beloved Simon Doonan, who is now the Creative Ambassador-at-Large.

Tags: barneys, barneys new york, prada, simon doonan

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Miu Miu Presents A Series Of Short Films

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Fashion brand Miu Miu is the latest luxury brand to get into filmmaking with quality short films. "The Miu Miu Womens' Tales" is a series of short movies directed by international female filmmakers. The first video "The Powder Room" by Zoe Cassavetes is a dramatic short film set in London's Claridges hotel. As its name suggests, the piece takes us inside the ladies' room for a look at feminine ritual. Trust me, gentlemen, the public restroom is not usually like this. The short film is laden with lovely models, smoky eyes, sexy shoes, colorful clothing and lingering glances. There's a certain similarity to these luxury brand short films which take place in the same dreamy, aspirational non-reality that the print campaigns seem to inhabit. Watch the video after the jump and head on over to the Miu Miu website for behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.

Tags: filmmaking, luxury short films, Miu Miu, prada, short films, Zoe Cassavetes

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Chic Utility Handbags for the Winter

by Marsha Reid (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Handbags

The harsh days of winter propel us to maneuver through the streets as quickly and easily as possible. There is no time to fuss with what you have on or adjust your bag, especially when you're trying to carefully walk on icy, snow covered streets and cut through gusty winds. These are the moments where you want to get to your destination and come back home.

We've already covered a wide array of stylish winter coats to have you looking your best and to keep you warm. From wool coats to down jackets and everything in between, our winterland of coats is a great resource to start from when hunting for your perfect outerwear.

So it only seems fitting to feature chic utility handbags that will allow you to carry your belongings without having to hassle with falling shoulder straps and endless searches for what you need in an unorganized, bottomless pit of a bag.

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Tags: 3.1 phillip lim, anthropologie, chloe, crossbody bag, handbag, Hayden Harnett, Marc by Marc Jacobs, marni, missoni, mulberry, orla kiely, prada, rebecca minkoff, shoulder bag, tila march, Tory Burch

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Celebrate Valentine's Day in Luxe Style at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Dining, Luxury Travel & Hotels, Spas

The desire to do something extraordinary for Valentine's Day often clashes with the cold reality of no time to travel somewhere truly exotic. We've found the U.S. Virgin Islands to be an ideal escape without having to cross borders (and all that entails) to get somewhere special. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas manages to be a magical oasis despite its relative proximity to the area's only major airport – a big plus when time is of the essence. The resort's secluded setting on 30 acres fronting an intimate white-sand beach and the gracious elegance of its main building, the Italianate Palazzo (above), set the scene for really romantic getaways. In front of the Palazzo are landscaped gardens leading to a stunning infinity pool overlooking the beach and turquoise waters of a sheltered bay.

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, The signature Ritz-Carlton Club Level at the property has 55 Deluxe rooms featuring standing rain showers and soaking tubs and unobstructed ocean views from private balconies. The Club Level accommodations in St. Thomas also include one-bedroom Executive suites, a top-floor Ritz-Carlton Club Suite and three stunning 1,850-square-foot Presidential suites boasting a dining and living area and fitness room with treadmill, where Barack Obama and family have stayed in the past. All Club Level rooms and suites include access to the elegant Club Lounge with a spacious outdoor terrace, offering elaborate culinary presentations throughout the day and evening, chic cocktails and a dedicated Club Concierge.

Once ensconced in your luxe accommodations there are several options for making your getaway even more magical. A particular favorite for celebrating Valentine's Day is a champagne sunset sail aboard the Lady Lynsey, the resort's luxurious 53 ft. catamaran. You can take a cruise to Honeymoon Beach across the bay on St. John featuring some of the finest snorkeling in the Virgin Islands, and then hop back on board for a leisurely lunch for two complete with a champagne toast. Stay out on the water to watch the sunset and then finish the day with a starlit dinner in a private gazebo on the beach with a chocolate and wine tasting, or enjoy a private dinner for two at Bleuwater restaurant, one of four distinctive oceanfront-dining options as unique and colorful as the Caribbean scenery that surrounds them. [cont'd]

Gallery: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

Tags: Barack Obama, beach, Caribbean, catamaran, champagne, dining, hotel suites, luxury hotel, ocean, Prada, Prada Beauty, Ritz-Carlton, sailing, spa, St. Thomas, The Ritz-Carlton, U.S. Virgin Islands, Valentines Day, Virgin Island

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Prada Offers New Personalization Service

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

For a long time Louis Vuitton has offered a monogram service. Now Prada is offering its own made-to-order lettering service but with a unique spin. Tote bags, backpacks and trolley cases in either saffiano leather or camo print can be emblazoned with big colorful varsity-style letters in saffiano leather. The LA Times reports that the service starts up as of January 15 at Prada online and in select Prada boutiques.

Tags: custom lettering, monogram, prada

The Fashion Statement: Will 2011 be the Year of the Hat?

by Kristin Young (RSS feed) —

Filed under: The Fashion Statement

Hats worn for the express purpose of style hasn't been widely popular since the '20s. Millinery did have a brief comeback in the '80s when Princess Diana gave visibility to the British tradition of wearing hats for special occasions. Now Kate Middleton is again putting a modern face under the British topper. And numerous designers on both sides of the pond made the hat a central focus of their spring/summer runway collections. And then there is Lady Gaga entertaining us all with her theatrical chapeaus.

Not since the '80s have we seen so many hats! So we wonder: Could 2011 be the year of the hat?

Arguably the most buzzed about accessory of the season was the colorful, wide-brimmed hat like the one above at Prada. Badgley Mischka and Marc Jacobs channeled Jodi Foster in Taxi Driver with their bright pink versions shown over hair that had been appropriately curled and frizzed. Sally Field in The Flying Nun would have fit right in at Missoni where almost every model wore hats that flapped down the runway like wings. And Alberta Ferretti went boho by pairing floppy fringed brims with her collection of gauzy ethereal gowns.

Gallery: Hat Gallery

Tags: Alberta Ferretti, ann demeulemeester, Anna Sui, BadgleyMischka, Carolina Herrera, Christian Dior, dsquared2, Giles Deacon, Hermes, issey miyake, John Galliano, John paul gaultier, just cavalli, Kate Middleton, Lady Gaga, Missoni, moschino, Prada, Princess Diana, Sonia Rykiel, YohjiYamamoto

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Prada Vitello Daino Hobo, Handbag of the Day

by Rigel Celeste (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Handbags

I never do well with white personally (I'm one of those that people that magnetically attracts red sauce and wine) but always think solid white bags look so crisp and refreshing, especially in the winter when there's so much darkness around. Prada plays up the stark factor on their white Vitello Daino Hobo in 'bianco' pebbled calfskin. It feaures bright gold hardware, a small logo placed front and center, and double top handles with a detachable shoulder strap. Inside you'll find their signature jacquard lining and one zip pocket. $1,395

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Tags: handbag, handbag of the day, hobo, prada

Eva Mendes Dazzles in Prada in Marrakech

by Ariston Anderson (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel

Promoting her new film "Last Night," at the 10th Annual Marrakech International Film Festival, Eva Mendes trotted down the red carpet in a festive layered silk Mauve Prada dress, each row lined with Moroccan-inspired fringe. "I'm wearing a cake!" she laughed.

The infectious energy of the city seemed to have gotten to Mendes as she made her way into the Salle Royale at the Palais des Congres. She smiled obligingly to international press and locals who came by for a peak at the Hollywood actress amidst sky lights and booming festival music. "It's my first time," in Marrakech, she said, "and I'm totally in love."

Luxist asked Mendes what was the most exciting thing she's done in Marrakech all week. "Exciting...well I saw some belly dancers last night and now I'm really wanting some belly dancing lessons," she told us.

"I've heard music on the red carpet before but it's never sounded this good," she told reporters as a sounding Arabic dance number accompanied came on the speakers. "I really feel like dancing to this," she said launched into her trademark shuffle.

In "Last Night," the tale of a businessman with a wandering eye, Mendes plays the other woman to a married man (Sam Worthington). But if Marrakech is any indication of her future characters, expect some serious dance roles in her future.

My trip to Marrakech was sponsored by the FIFM, but the opinions in this story are my own.

Tags: eva mendes, marrakech film festival, prada

Prada Raso Stone Clutch, Handbag of the Day

by Rigel Celeste (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Handbags

Oh what I would give to carry this Prada Raso Stone Clutch on New Year's Eve. The resin stones glisten so pretty and although they're not really Christmas colors (not to say everything has to be this time of year) they certainly are festive and full of happy party energy. Also available in shades of nude and shades of black it features a basic fold-over closure and does not have a shoulder strap so keep your hands clean or risk ruining the glassy lustre with fingerprints. It's also very tiny at just 7" long. $2,100

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Tags: clutch, handbag, handbag of the day, prada

Prada Launches World's First Customizable Sunglasses

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel, Men's Style

In time for the holiday season Prada is introducing the world's first customizable sunglasses, providing fashionistas with the opportunity to transform a classic pair of Prada shades into a gift that is truly unique. The PradaPrivate collection sunglasses feature two removable plaques on each temple featuring letters, numbers and a variety of symbols including hearts, stars and skulls. Thanks to the uniquely engineered and patented system, one can substitute the detachable symbols on the arms of the glasses with others bought either at the same time or at a later date. The frames are available in black, white and tortoiseshell in both men's (above) and women's styles starting today exclusively at Sunglass Hut and Prada boutiques in Milan, Rome, Venice, London, Paris, New York, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Dusseldorf, Hong Kong and Shanghai.

Gallery: PradaPrivate Sunglasses

Tags: custom, Italian fashion, Milan, Prada, skull, Sunglass Hut, sunglasses

The Luxist Top Ten Handbags of 2010

by Annie Scott (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Handbags, Holiday Guides

Valentino Crystal-Embellished Feather Clutch

2010 may have been a tough year in a lot of ways, but it was a terrific year for handbags. From divinely sparkling clutches to totes in unheard-of textures, designers were inventive, creative and finally took some risks again -- a sure sign of an improving economy. We're celebrating the return to flamboyance and daring style with a list of our top ten favorites from this year's outstanding Luxist Handbag of the Day collection.

1. Valentino Crystal-Embellished Feather Clutch

Let's begin with the ethereal, exquisite bag above, the Valentino Crystal-Embellished Feather Clutch. These little birdies outdid even the Judith Lieber Enchanted Stardust Clutch with their whimsical glamour, and the feathers are so elegantly and daintily assembled, the clutch eclipsed the ballerina charm of the Valentino Tulle Rosette Bag. We love the coloring; it's as if each perfect feather has been gingerly dipped in the blackest of ink. The pale pink satin structure and lining complete the dream-come-true wonder of this masterful handbag which commanded $4,170.00.

Tags: alexander mcqueen, best of 2010, christian louboutin, fendi, gucci, handbag of the day, handbags, jimmy choo, nina ricci, prada, temperley, top ten, valentino

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Daria Werbowy Poses Nude for French Vogue

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Canadian-born supermodel Daria Werbowy famed as the face of Prada and Lancôme, has posed completely nude for French Vogue's fashionable new calendar which will be available as a supplement to its upcoming Christmas issue with a "fantasy and sensuality" theme, guest-edited by Tom Ford. In the racy pic shot by Mikael Jansson – which we can't possibly show you here – the statuesque stunner wears nothing but some gold Louis Vuitton jewelry which seems to be all the adornment she needs. Werbowy was named the eighth highest paid supermodel in the world for 2010, earning $4.5 million. Her other ad campaigns include Yves Saint Laurent, Roberto Cavalli, Gucci, Hermès, Valentino, David Yurman, Missoni, Versace, Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

Tags: Daria Werbowy, France, Louis Vuitton, nude, Prada, supermodel, Tom Ford, Vogue, Yves Saint Laurent