capsule collection

Valentino for Gap Collection Debuts

The parka, the T- shirt, the hoodie and even cargo pants have been given the Valentino touch in a new capsule collection for the Gap in Europe. If you like ruffles, this is the line for you. Valentino has taken the line's signature flower-like ruffles and flounces off evening gowns and luxury handbags and put them on casual clothing. The results are beautiful if perhaps a little over-the-top. Vogue UK has images of the seven-piece collection, which was launched to celebrate the opening of Gap's first Italian store last week in Milan. The line will also be sold at Gap in London and at Colette in Paris but isn't expected to jump the pond. The line is just the latest in a series of high/low collaborations including the recent H&M Lanvin line.

Tags: capsule collection, gap, high-low fashion, valentines day

Prada's "Made In" Capsule Collections

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel

Prada has created a new project that honors global luxury. Based on the idea that in the early decades of the twentieth century, Miuccia Prada's grandfather, the visionary Mario Prada, traveled the world in tireless pursuit of ideas and inspiration, the new "Made in ..." project features collections from around the world.

"Prada Made in Scotland" is a collection of traditional tartan wool kilts. "Prada Made in India" features entirely handmade garments from the workshops that specialize in Chikan, an ancient form of Indian embroidery, as well as multicolored ballerina flats, sandals and handbags that employ an equally sophisticated traditional weaving technique. "Prada Made in Japan" takes the idea to denim with a collection of jeans produced by Dova, the world's most sophisticated denim manufacturer. The "Prada Made in Japan" jeans can be custom ordered in four different varieties of cloth and seven different washes. "Prada Made in Peru" is a collection of alpaca wool knitwear using artisanal techniques from the most traditional workshops of the Peruvian "campesinos." These collections are identified by special labels dedicated to each country of origin. These collections will be in stores next year.

Tags: capsule collection, prada

Bill Blass New York Extends Line to Include Luxe Capsule for Fall 08

by Tracy Chait (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel

The team at Bill Blass New York has announced in a press release that it will extend its fall line to include a luxe capsule group. The limited edition pieces include made-to-order looks like a mink topper and a metallic python trench. Available only through Blass sales consultants, the niche collection is design director Jose Solis's opportunity to make use of unique detailing and rare fabrics.

Chief Merchandising Officer Rodney Hutton likens the collection to "buying right from the runway." The limited edition pieces from last fall's collection sold out immediately, so if you've been picturing yourself in that python trench ever since we mentioned it, you'd best be dialing up Blass HQ at (800) 901-7895 ext. 214 to find out about the next private trunk show in your area. Check out the gallery for images from the Bill Blass fall '08 runway show, designed by is-he-or-isn't-he Peter Som.

Gallery: Bill Blass Fall 08