Posts Tagged ‘Saks Fifth Avenue’

Exclusive Interview with Alexis Bittar

Tuesday, March 15th, 2011

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If you’re an accessory aficionado, Alexis Bittar is on your radar. Each of his designs is a statement piece of individual splendor, and last week, we had the extraordinary honor of chatting with him at an exclusive Saks Fifth Avenue event. We walked in and amongst the runway seats and audience stood two tables–and later models–adorned with lavish bounty: Alexis Bittar’s Spring 2011 collections. We saw ocean-inspired necklaces, colorful leopard prints and bejeweled masterpieces, all designed to wow.

There were three collections for spring, each with their own personality: “Lucite,” “Elements” and “Miss Havisham.” The three all had their own texture, material preference and vibrancy that appeal to three style aesthetics. However, they all hold one thing in common: personality. These pieces are not for the feeble-minded. They’re for the fashionably brave who wish to use the industry for what it’s intended to do: impress and stand out.

Here’s what the jewelry master had to say:

SA: How is the Spring 2011 collection different from your others?

AB: Well, I designed three collections, so its is a medley. Each one of them has a distinct personality. I think in general there’s this kind of [motivation] to try new textures and metals, and overall, there was a fantasy.

SA: Do you have a favorite piece or set within the collections?

AB: Sophie’s choice! There’s a bunch in there. I love the pearl collar necklace. I love the woven turquoise collar, which is all hand-done. There’s a ‘80s graffiti print that’s also really amazing.

SA: Do you have a muse?

AB: It’s tricky because again I have three collections, so each one has a muse. I try to mix it up in terms of personality. I’m good friends with Iris Apfel. She’s more mature…almost 90, and they did a whole exhibit about her at the MET. She’s got such a great personality, and she’s a fashion icon. She has great individual taste. Also…Debbie Harry. I like people who have personality, who aren’t wallflowers. I feel like if you’re going to do fashion, then at least have fun.

SA: Why did you choose Lauren Hutton for the spring ad campaign?

AB: It’s funny because when I first started to design, I was selling jewelry on the streets of New York. I remember Lauren actually coming to my table when I was 19 years old. I feel like today Lauren resembles a mother of where fashion is going this season in terms of what Chloe and Celine are doing: This very clean, very ‘70s aesthetic. When you find a face that’s iconic and of substance, sometimes that comes with age. To have an iconic face, you have to be around for a while. There’s something in the maturity of her face. She’s a strong woman. She’s my date to the MET Ball!

SA: How do you feel like your designs have evolved since setting up a table on the streets of New York? Do you feel your work still holds the same personality it did then?

AB: Definitely! I’m fortunate I’ve got a team of 12 people on the design team, and 300 total. So, I’m able to design more and more frequently. I have the privilege that I can design what I’m inspired by. For example, for fall, I’m designing this pendent that says, “Reality TV Makes Me Sad.” It’s been 20 years, but I’m much more detail oriented now. I understand the consumer better. I feel like with the older I get, the better I understand what women want.

SA: Do you have any jewelry trends you are particularly excited about for spring?

AB: I like the clean metal pieces. Also, the trend toward this multi-ethnic, eclectic feeling. I feel like mixing that up is a strong look.

SA: Can you give us fall sneak peak?

AB: For fall, I worked again with Jason Wu to design his collection. We went into this baroque, Gothic, Tim Burton look, while still being very chic. We just showed it in Paris!

SA: You were really big into the New York party scene. What of that do you see in your work today?

AB: A lot. I was going to clubs when I was 13. I feel like the whole energy of it is to have fun, and a little bit of shock. You want to keep people on their feet. Fashion shouldn’t be boring.

We couldn’t agree more.

By Meghan Turner
Interview conducted by Meghan Turner and Maia McGinley

Images: Gold ring ($325); Turquoise and varasite collar ($495); Leopard bracelet ($375) courtesy of Alexis Bittar

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On Point

Tuesday, February 15th, 2011

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I never thought I’d support a revival of the pointy-toe shoe, but after years of round shapes and months of clunky boots, this classic style couldn’t be more refreshing. Unlike most footwear trends that rotate out of the closet after a season or two, the right pair of pumps are an investment that will reemerge for decades. Why? They’re timeless, versatile and loved by woman of all ages.

Basically, pointy-toe pumps equip us shoe collectors with all the practical reasons to justify coming home with another box of Manolos. Pointy toes transition from season to season, and more importantly for modern ladies, from day to night. There’re an array of styles–from d’Orsay stilettos to unconventional straps to kitten heels–that suit every occasion and taste. Whether your style is classic, edgy, glam or preppy, and you’re headed to work, date or cocktail reception, you’ll delight in all the pointy styles available for spring.

Practicality aside, though, there’s another reason these shoes are a must have: attitude. Ladylike yet fierce, these heels have a way of saying, “I’m sweet and classy, but get the hell out of my way.” Ranging from conservative ‘50s styles to full-out mod, pointy toes can tone down or amp up a look with their leg-lengthening silhouette, eye-catching embellishments, austere cuts and slew of delicious colors.

Simply choose one (or two, or three…) of the hundreds styles and pair it with cocktail dresses, pencil skirts, tapered trousers, boyfriend jeans, miniskirts, et al. One can’t deny the resurgence of this timeless trend is one chic, fashionably versatile move that allows us to accent just about any outfit with pointy toes. This spring, I think you’ll all join me by saying, “Welcome back, pointy-toe pumps!”

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Schutz lavender suede pump ($214; shopbop.com). The chicest pump for spring. Understated enough for work, pretty enough for tea and fierce enough for drinks.

2. Kate Spade “Licorice” pump ($285; Shirise; 341 Park Avenue, Glencoe, IL). Basic, black and just plain sexy.

3. Valentino studded lace ankle wrap pump ($995; Neiman Marcus). Edgy and fearless. This shoe is not what you would expect from a comfortable and surprisingly versatile shoe.

4. Blue pointed pump ($90; Zara). There’s a reason Elvis wrote a song about blue suede shoes. Colorful, fun and a perfect pick-me-up to cure the winter doldrums.

5. Giuseppe Zanotti red patent leather “V” strap pump ($550; Saks Fifth Avenue). Va-va-voom! Femme fatale at its best.

6. Christian Louboutin “Pigalili 120 mm” ($3,545; Christian Louboutin). The power to stop ‘em dead in their tracks. Literally.

7. Messeca “Jesenia” pump ($110; Pump Shoes and Accessories; 1659 W Division Street). Add some swing to your swagger with these show-stoppers.

8. Topshop “Glitz Bow Point Court Shoe” ($125; Topshop). Conservative for the office, but fashion-forward for the weekend.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Kate Spade, Neiman Marcus, Zara, Saks Fifth Avenue, Christian Louboutin, Pump Shoes and Accessories, and Topshop

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Simply Fabulous: Jimmy Choo Fragrance

Sunday, February 6th, 2011

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To celebrate its 15th anniversary, Jimmy Choo extends its reign into the world of eau de parfum. We love this fragrance’s warm, sensual richness that’s made for the confident, glamorous Choo woman. Available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue; $70-$90.

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Simply Fabulous: Chicago Exclusive Bond No. 9 Fragrance

Thursday, November 4th, 2010

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Created exclusively for Chicago and Saks Fifth Avenue, this Bond No. 9 fragrance launched November 1. A tribute to Chicago blues, the bottle is embellished with Swarovski crystals and the warm, woodsy scent has hints of amber, tonka beans and pineapple leaves. A true collector’s item, a 3.4 oz. bottle of this unisex fragrance is $365.

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Chicago FNO Schedule

Friday, September 10th, 2010

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Pretty in Pilsen (2150 S Canalport Avenue, between Halsted and Cermak)
From 5:30 to 8pm, spend Fashion’s Night Out with local Chicago designers Kate Boggiano, Objets d’Envy, Jess Audey and more. Customers can take advantage of exclusive discounts.

FNO at Macy’s on State Street (111 N State Street)
As part of FNO, Macy’s on State Street is hosting an all-day shopping experience. Customers can shop and receive special gifts with purchases from Joe’s Jeans, Carlos Santana, Franco Sarto, Via Spiga, Michael Kors and many more.

FNO at The Shops at North Bridge (520 N Michigan Avenue)
From 6 to 9pm, shoppers are invited to spend the evening with one-night only shopping exclusives, gifts with purchases and complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Plus a fashion show will start at 6:30.

FNO at Water Tower Place (835 N Michigan Avenue)
From 5 to 9pm, customers who spend $150+ will receive an exclusive FNO tote bag plus two tickets to the dress rehearsal of TRACES. Guests can also enjoy shopping incentives, mini makeovers and massages, cocktails, hors d’ouvres and live entertainment.

FNO at Neiman Marcus (737 N Michigan Avenue)
Neiman Marcus will have its FNO event from 6 to 8pm. Michelle Alegria will emcee a Fall 2010 trends fashion show. Guests will the opportunity to sample local fair, and designer Taryn Rose will be on hand to present her new line of shoes, Haute Footure.

FNO at Saks Fifth Avenue (700 and 717 N Michigan Avenue)
From 6 to 10pm, Saks has FNO events at both its Main and Men’s Store. Enjoy the Rock Out and Make Up Event and a complimentary fashion show. DJs and informal modeling will run all evening. Customers can also take advantage of one-night-only promos.

FNO at Nordstrom (520 N Michigan Avenue)
FNO at Nordstrom will be from 6 to 10pm and will include exclusive collections from TOMS shoes, William Rast, Burberry and more. Customers can win a $2,500 shopping spree, a 1-year subscription to Vogue, and a closet makeover with a Nordstrom Stylist.

FNO at Macy’s at Water Tower Place (835 N Michigan Avenue)
FNO at Macy’s Water Tower Place runs from 6 to 11pm. Customers will receive a special gift with purchases from Carlos Santana, Franco Sarto and Via Spiga. You can also get mini-spa treatments and your photo taken on the cover of a VOGUE Magazine.

FNO at Cynthia Rowley (810 W Armitage Avenue)
Celebrate FNO at Cynthia Rowley with Glossed & Found from 6 to 8pm. Enjoy makeovers from Trish McEvoy and a change to win a special Cynthia Rowley gift package. RSVP to chicago@cynthiarowley.com.

FNO at Sprinkles Cupcakes with Gilt Groupe (50 E Walton Street)
Gilt Groupe is partnering with Sprinkles Cupcakes on FNO to satisfy your sweet tooth and your fashion fix. Customers can receive a free cupcake and a chance to win a $1,000 Gilt Groupe shopping spree. Register at www.gilt.com/sprinkles.

FNO After-Party at Crimson Lounge (333 N Dearborn Street)
Crimson Lounge will host an official after-party for The Shops at Northbridge Fashion’s Night Out events. From 9pm to 2am, DJ Justin Dahl will spin tracks, and there will be multiple chic giveaways. Bring your receipt and skip the line!

Zamrie Fashion Show at Manor (642 N Clark Street)
Chicago Twenty Something presents the unveiling of the Fall 2010 Collection from Zamrie at Manor. A complimentary cocktail reception will kickoff at 10pm followed by a fashion show at 11pm.

Image courtesy of Pretty in Pilsen

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Fashion’s Night Out in Chicago

Monday, September 6th, 2010

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This week, fashion insiders from around the world focus their attention on one thing: New York Fashion Week. The tents open Thursday, but one of the newest, must-see attractions isn’t a runway show at all. It’s Fashion’s Night Out this Friday. Started last year by Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour, the evening features discounts, celebrity appearances and parties galore. Designed as an all-out, spend-fest to stimulate the economy, the evening was wildly successful its inaugural year, so it went without question that other major cities around the world would follow suit.

Here in Chicago, there’s shopping events hosted around the city to draw you and your pocketbook into stores both large and small. From giveaways at Macy’s to a fashion show at Saks Fifth Avenue to cocktails at Cynthia Rowley, FNO offers shopping and entertainment until late in the evening. For more details on FNO events, click here.

By Meghan Turner

Image courtesy of Fashon’s Night Out

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Lolla Style #2: Stand-out Style

Monday, August 2nd, 2010

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Oh Lolla, how I love you so. For three blissful days, I get to jam out with my favorite bands alongside other sweaty concert-goers. We party through rain or shine against Chicago’s gleaming skyline, yet the weekend isn’t all glow sticks and draft beers. With last year’s temperatures topping 90 degrees and a city-wide influx of urban hipsters, we prepare ourselves to battle the summer heat and crowds vying for the fashion spotlight. Think boho chic meets urban cool to guide this weekend’s wardrobe selections. I know such fashion pressure can be a bit looming, but never fear. My below day-by-day guide to Lolla style can help equip you for what’s always a weekend to remember.

FRIDAY

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Friday music picks: Strokes, Chromeo and Hot Chip.
Fashion picks: Channeling my inner flower child by rocking a boho maxi with some awesomely retro accessories.

1. What Goes Around Comes Around “Paloma” maxi dress ($278; ASOS). A maxi reminiscent of decades past.
2. House of Harlow “Carnelian” dome ring in Tiger’s Eye ($70; singer22.com). A festival-worthy bauble.
3. Tom Ford “Nicole” sunglasses ($390; Barneys). Rose tinted shades with a retro-glam feel.
4. Jeffrey Campbell “Snick” wedges in olive ($138; Lori’s Shoes). A clog meets a wedge for a modern interpretation of this throwback trend.

SATURDAY

Saturday music picks: Phoenix, Cut Copy, Empire of the Sun.
Fashion picks: Mixing girlie and grunge with the perfect denim cutoffs, wrap strap booties and a ruffled floral tank.

1. Jeffrey Campbell wrap strap booties ($230; shopbop.com). Rugged boots to protect your feet while treking from stage to stage.
2. Blank Denim patchwork cutoff shorts ($79; Saks Fifth Avenue). Bleached and ripped, just how jean shorts were meant to be.
3. Madewell floral tiered tank ($88; shopbop.com). A flirty, sheer tank to stay cool.
4. Rebecca Minkoff boyfriend crossbody bag ($295; Intermix). A rocker-chic messenger makes it easier to get through the crowds.

SUNDAY

Sunday music picks: Yeasayer, Arcade Fire, Temper Trap.
Fashion picks: Ending the weekend on a high note by standing out in a neon tribal romper.

1. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent cami romper ($275; revolveclothing.com). A lightweight silk romper with a festive print.
2. Ray-Ban wayfarer ($145; Ray-Ban). Classic shades with an edgy vibe.
3. Dolce Vita sandal ($78; Urban Outfitters). Metal accents with a twist – literally.
4. Alexander Wang “Brenda Camera Bag” ($425; Saks Fifth Avenue). A bag to fit only your most precious essentials.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, Intermix, ASOS, singer22.com, Barneys, Lori’s Shoes, revolveclothing.com, Ray-Ban and Urban Outfitters

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Lolla Style #1: Music Inspiration

Tuesday, July 20th, 2010

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There’s no better place than Chicago during the first weekend in August. Since I missed Coachella earlier this summer, I’ll definitely be at Lollapalooza—blanket and camera in tow. The three-day festival melds my passions for music and style, and because one often inspires the other, my Lolla looks nod to the musicians I can’t wait to see. While I want my get-ups to seem effortlessly superb, there’s still a decent amount of planning to stylishly battle the heat and humidity.

FRIDAY

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Though I’m not a die-hard fan of her music, I do admire Gaga’s humor and artistry. The lady sure knows how to fly her freak flag, so I’ll honor her opening day performance with skin-tight Lycra and quirky pieces.

1. Quontom cutout dress ($90; Topshop). Edgy cut outs are cool and hot.
2. Dolce Vita “Indy” shoes ($36; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). While sky-high heels are more Gaga’s style, they just aren’t practical for Lolla.
3. “Chain Mail Perfection” body jewelry ($300; Litter San Francisco). Fashion-forward enough to make Gaga herself jealous, this embellishment is bound to be a conversation piece.
4. Paloma vintage sunglasses ($173; Akira; 1849 W North Avenue). An interesting, modern approach that rivals Gaga’s standout eyewear collection.

SATURDAY

I’ll revisit my youth Saturday night. Memories of pre-mainstream Green Day and Social Distortion have inspired me to rock elements of punk and alternative from the early 90’s. Who knew I’d regret dumping my old Doc Martens?

1.  Urban renewal cutoff shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters). Denim shorts are a festival must-have—hands down.
2.  Vintage Doc Martens ($128; Free People). Comfortable boots to trek Grant Park.
3.  Plaid “Dakota Gilet” ($68; AllSaints). The cut-off sleeves are edgy and airy.
4.  “Yes please” cutoff  tank ($64; The Trend Boutique). Nothing says “punk” like pairing stripes with plaid.
5.  “Diego” bucket bag ($825; Alexander Wang). This gorgeous cross-body bag keeps hands free and luggage minimal.
6.  Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses ($170; Sunglass Hut). You can’t go wrong with this classic.
7.  Low Luv knuckle ring ($80; Saks Fifth Avenue). Positively badass.

SUNDAY

If I survive this music marathon, the carefree, barefoot hippie within will shine through on Sunday. What better way to come off an intense weekend than to lounge in the grass swaying to tunes? Wolfmother (hauntingly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin) evokes a laid-back vibe that carries me back in time when peace, love and music ruled the earth.

1. Shady Brady hat ($70; Alcala’s; 1733 W Chicago Avenue). Be weary of UV rays by shading your face from the summer sun.
2. Nightcap Clothing “Penelope” dress ($275; Shopbop). Beat the heat with an airy white dress.
3. Vintage bottle necklace ($578; Free People). A perfect addition to the part boho, part rock ensemble.
4. Zara Terez holster bag ($125; p.45; 1643 N Damen Avenue). The most practical festival bag yet; it’s just big enough for all your necessities.
5. Hudson buckle boot ($345; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue). Add a masculine touch to an otherwise feminine outfit.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Topshop, Lori’s Shoes, Litter San Francisco, Akira, Urban Outfitters, Free People, AllSaints, The Trend Boutique, Alexander Wang, Sunglasses Hut, Saks Fifth Avenue, Alcala’s, shopbop.com, P.45, and Niche

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To Dye For: Grown Up Tie Dye

Monday, July 12th, 2010

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With summer underway, music festivals are in full swing. Whether you’re seeing Gaga at Lolla or counting down the days until North Coast, one trend remains ubiquitous throughout: tie dye. However, this is not your parents’ Technicolor tie dye from Woodstock. This year’s reinterpretation calls for both sleek and slouchy silhouettes in monochromatic schemes.

While many may think tie dye should have died with Hanes t-shirt experiments at summer camp, the current looks have a level of sophistication that prove this retro trend might have some staying power. With styles ranging from Gryphon’s traditional tie dye to Helmut Lang’s marbled splatters, these pieces run the gamut from funky fun to abstract art. To make the trend work for you, complement the below statement items with solid colors and fitted denim. For the more adventurous types, keep the rest of your ensemble equally daring. Think chunky heels, Lucite accessories and layered patterns.

Get Psychedelic with these looks:

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Gryphon knot dress ($250; Saks Fifth Avenue). AVersatile crew neck dress. Add some edge to with a black wedge heel.
2. “Mimi” clutch ($129; Club Monaco). A wooden handle makes this clutch especially relevant this season.
3. Vince oversized tee ($128; Intermix). This shirt’s slouchy shape is a cool silhouette on hot summer nights.
4. Rebecca Minkoff “The Clutch” ($350;  Shopbop.com). During the day, wear this bag as a messenger. Come nightfall, hide the chain for a chic clutch.
5. Helmut Lang silk wrap skirt ($207; Krista K). A grown-up shape meets a playful print.
6. Elizabeth and James silk button-up shirt ($144; Nordstrom). A light and airy silk chemise: grungy yet glam.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue, Club Monaco, Intermix, Krista K, shopbop.com and Nordstrom

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Anchor’s Away: Nautical Style

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

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This season calls for yet another revival of the ever-classic nautical trend. Evoking thoughts of tried and true Americana and the French Rivera, this preppy yet classic look is a casual counterpoint of the LBD—eternally in style. This 4th of July weekend, get on board by updating your summer wardrobe with Breton stripes, flashes of gold, wicker accessories, and boat-inspired kicks.

While yachting might be out of the budget, keep this season’s nautical look afloat by taking it to the street. The summer’s maritime-inspired pieces create a fresh approach to sea-worthy style and prove to be a wise investment, as elements of this timeless trend return season after season. Set sail with a mix of patriotic colors, clean lines, and metallic touches for added flare—a suitable combo for the office, summer strolls, and, of course, a yacht.

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Cape-stripe swimsuit ($112; J. Crew). The essential suit for summer afternoons on land or sea. Pair with a crisp white oxford for a chic cover-up.
2. Platinum Sperry Top-sider boat shoe ($85; Nordstrom). A metallic edge on a classic style.
3. Rag & Bone red skinny jean ($175; Barneys). A pop of primary color adds a vibrant flare to a sleek cut.
4. Twisted chain collar necklace ($38; Lori’s Shoes). A statement chain necklace that makes knots a chic embellishment.
5. Kain Label pocket tee ($88; Saks Fifth Avenue). A super-soft tee with preppy stripes can be dressed up or down.
6. Slouchy tote ($350; Tory Burch). A straw tote with a timeless shape suits the beach and work.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of J.Crew, Nordstrom, Barneys, Tory Burch, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Lori’s Shoes

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