Today, I did my regular first day run around to Galleries Lafayette, Bon Marché and the shops in St Germaine. It’s how I ward off jet lag after an overnight flight and a late check-in time at the hotel. It’s January Mark-down mania in Paris and as usual the stores are packed with sales. Interesting fact: in France big sales are government controlled. These big price breaks are en mass, … Read More
I love sitting in a showroom, nourishing my merchant’s soul with gorgeous product, beautifully executed and so seductively marketed. This is perpetually guaranteed when reviewing the Chantelle Lingerie collection. It’s always interesting and I am always inspired. This is, after all the brand that has so successfully managed to bring French elegance to the pragmatic North American marketplace. They have succeeded with a balance of sensual designs and essential basics. … Read More
By now, it must be very apparent that I get a kick out of finding a new product whose character is clearly defined by vision and quality. This time it’s the luxury designer collection from Minuit Douze showcased by the elegant In Showroom based in NYC. Made in France, this is a concept brand created to evoke the romance of travel to romantic venues often dreamed of but not always … Read More
When I first walked into Faire Frou Frou unannounced last week, Alison Rubke, the charismatic co-owner of this eponymous boutique was clearly surprised. We had tried to connect during several of my previous LA visits but never seemed to make it happen. Obligations always interfered; so this time, I did not want to make a promise I might not keep. It’s a bit of a trek from downtown Los Angeles … 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. … Read More
Once and awhile I come upon a marketing idea that hits a particular merchandising nerve. This is just what happened with the Sybaris Lingerie brand, high-end intimates from France, whose gorgeous underpinnings I have admired for some time, but could not figure out how to integrate into the American specialty store milieu. But last week, while I was reviewing the current assortment, I had an “A Ha” moment. This is … Read More
I have wanted to highlight the Kentia Tulip bra from Barbara Lingerie ever since I saw it at Curve last February, but somehow time has slipped away. Respecting its 85 year old heritage this brand is surging forward into the 21st century with styles that capture the modern woman’s desire for easy comfort, elegance and beauty. This 3 part lace bra is designed with a unique leaf patterned motif, … Read More