By ELLEN LEWIS
I was a teenager and in college, during the Vietnam War. Our government was submerged in scandal; women struggled with self-image and race relations were buried by an avalanche of outdated social standards. We were disillusioned; looking for a way through the messy politic of the decades that followed the sheer disbelief of the Kennedy assassination. We were all about our long hair, tie-dye t-shirts, and washed … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
I am back in Mexico for a month with my 6 year old grandson, a powerhouse of endless activity. It’s been one week, 100 games of Sorry, endless questions requiring immediate answers, a 500 piece jigsaw puzzle to be sorted. Between all of this, I am trying to work. How does someone so small produce so much energy? I’ve watched him grow from the toddler every grandparent … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
Years ago when I first became acquainted with French Lingerie, I was most impressed by the unique design artistry of each brand. In an instant, design details clarify the brand’s ethos providing a distinct fashion and fit profile. Aubade Lingerie is, in my opinion, the quintessential embodiment of elegant bravado: simultaneously seductive, playful, romantic and always on trend.
It’s no surprise then, that the “Bow” capsule … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
When I first saw the new Chantelle Logo, CL, I will admit, I was slightly confused. BUT, that was because it was so innovative that I needed a moment to absorb the vision behind it. Then it hit me, Chantelle was breaking free of traditional marketing rules to re-define itself for the contemporary woman. Under its corporate umbrella, four ‘states of being’ reside: Chantelle, Passionata, Chantal … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
Patriotism: It’s a loaded word now a day in the USA. And that’s unfortunate. Nonetheless, I have absolutely no doubt that when push comes to shove, Americans are all in. We honor our troops, respect the sacrifices and pay homage to their victories. This weekend we will celebrate a national holiday specifically named for those lost in service, Memorial Day. For our citizens, it’s the official beginning … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
I am headed back to New York next week for my daughter’s wedding. It will be a very small family affair. That was her choice. She has very understated but decidedly upscale taste. Kate’s an artist, visually brilliant, flirting on the edge of the millennial generation; but way past fairy tale wedding expectations. She says she trusts me and will bow to my planning decisions. With only … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
I am always touting young brands that continue to mature. There is nothing more satisfying to a merchant at heart than the discovery of a product that has legs. Such was the case when Nubian Skin launched in 2014, brought their ground breaking “New Nude” concept for women of color to the market. Still, I hesitated; waiting for brand traction, not because I didn’t see the viability, … Read More