As a teenager, my father promised me a trip to France if I proved the seriousness of my intent to learn the language. Meeting his expectations, off I went with the Experiment in International Living to immerse myself in the French lifestyle and discovered a culture inexplicably entwined with feminine mystique. I learned my lessons well. My conservative parents’ values were a bit jarred, however, when I returned to the States decked out in a … Read More
I had every intention of updating you daily from the New York Curve show this week, but unfortunately hotel hysteria intervened with 4 room changes in 4 days. (Don’t ask). Anyway, better late than never. There was lots of product to see, some interesting trends, new brands percolating and a quintessentially New York energy: focus without fanfare. To be honest, I don’t spend a lot of time on New York based brands since I have … Read More
Shell Belle Couture
As I was explaining a few days ago, with intimates “it’s all about the details”. Yes, technical prowess is critical for fit and function, but with Intimate Apparel, it’s the special touches that transform a style into a seductive and elegant art form. Unlike outerwear, which gets visual support from accessories, shoes, jewelry, even cosmetics, undergarments are constrained by the very fact that they sit so close to the skin and must … Read More
When it comes to the sport of football, I am pretty much less interested in the competition than the strategic fanfare that seems to drive the game. It is hard to ignore the Super Bowl hype that takes the media hostage in the USA every January. We turned on the television Sunday Night, mainly out of habit, to watch the Ravens trounce the 49ers in the first half. I, for one, am more interested in … Read More
I’m back in NY where I have to say, the single digit temperatures trump the snowstorm in Paris. I have had a few days to filter and as I like to do, I am letting the highlights of the Salon De Lingerie surface as I debrief. As a merchant, that’s my way of finding focus. I’ll leave the recaps to the trend services and press and give you with some of the images that made … Read More
The first time I saw David Blaine perform his Street Magic, I must admit I was somewhat wary. I am not a fan of tricks, sleight of hand or wizardry. But it did not take too much scrutiny for me to realize that what I was observing was a form of extraordinary art. In Blaine’s space, reality shifts, perception intercedes, and astonishment results. What you see is what you get. It does not matter that … Read More
My mother taught me a very valuable shopping lesson when I was young that I believe has informed my entire approach to buying, both personally and professionally throughout my career. If you see something that you think you really want, walk away from it. If, after some breathing space, you can’t get it out of your mind, then perhaps, the product is worth a second look. This is where instinct and insight take form in