What Valentino Showed Us!

     It's that time again, the Spring 2013 Couture designs have been brought to life before our eyes this past week.  The week took flight with Armani Privé and came to a smooth landing when Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri of Valentino graced us with their, rather graceful, combined imaginations and their dreamy creations.  Couture designers and ateliers believe that the art and concept of "couture" is to be kept secret.  Hence, why the minimal couture industry is kept a mystery until the unveiling of the garments, during the exclusive fashion shows that are few and far between.  Let's focus on the round of applause show that Valentino presented us with.

     Following suit, mystery and secrecy seemed to be trending on this mystical runway.  Chiuri and her partner in design, Piccioli, got many ideas from eighteenth-century garden design books, paintings, gardens themselves and more wondrous things.  Features included lightly stamping bonded wool with a design, different laces that were re-embroidered, chiffon dahlias, ribbon work and many more unique effects.  

     All of these details and effects are extremely feminine and come together to create an antique fairytale l that is desired by all.  This soft collection has been taken back to the times where simplicity and lace ruled the world.  I aspire to be able to create replicas of art and gardens through clothing.  This is a gift that is hand selected by he Himself and bestowed on very few.  This was truly a stunning collection of pure craftsmanship.

Beauty is in the eye of the creator.

Ciao, 

Annie

Keeping Your Fingers Warm & Fancy!

     Do you ever go outside to get in your car and you notice the frost that has softly coated the door handle?  Then you get in the car and put your hands on the freezing cold steering wheel?  Nothing solves this problem like leather/pleather gloves.  They are the driving (and walking, for that matter) savior!  As the tight fabric snugs next to each individual finger somehow it creates such warmth to the hands.  I've noticed that designers are getting fancier and fancier with their driving gloves.  As you can see below there are bright colors, studded additions, woven fabric, chain and fur accents, and they are even extending past your elbows now.  Quite a change from the original black or brown sleek leather look.  But, it's good we have moved on to bigger, better and more dramatic things.  This is a winter accessory that can add a bit more fuss to your outfits.  I would advise you all to go out there and get your gloves before your phalanges start getting chilly.

Bottega Veneta

Causse Gantier

Haider Ackermann

Valentino

Burberry

Causse Gantier

Miu Miu

Fingers need some snuggling too!

Ciao,

Annie