Dooney and Bourke spring 2008

Dooney & Bourke’s 2008 spring line could be one of the best collection of bags and accessories we have seen in quite some time for this long-time company. When we walked into the showroom we were blinded by the metallic selection of gold and silver bags. We all know that this color range is huge for fall and is making it’s way into the spring line. It’s clear that the company has it’s ear to the ground and is staying with the pack of other brands in this highly competitive marketplace.

It seems this season, they are staying away from some of the experimental designs of the past like the western and bumble bee bags and going more straight forward with the new line.

The Alto line done in a soft blue color has a wide range of styles. This is one of Dooney's core lines and performs well season after season. Also there is a great line of patent leather bags (another ear to the ground) move. We have seen this patent leather look with other companies and on the streets of New York. Another item to note is that they have done some of their bags in different sizes which makes your choices even more expansive.

Finally there is a limited edition bag which was co-designed with Hayden Panettiere and Dooney and is already on backorder. From cosmetics to other limited edition clothing lines and accessories the desire to acquire limited edition anything is larger than life. The video’s from the H&M Cavalli launch is proof enough.

Parke & Ronen's New Melrose Flagship Store

In celebration for their ten years in business Parks & Ronen instead of throwing a party decided to open a West coast flagship store on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles.

With a 1,000 foot square foot space the store has clean lines done in raw steel and bamboo flooring, as well there are three skylights which draws natural light into the shop allowing for true color for the consumer.

Parke & Ronen known for it’s 60’s stye men’s swim shorts are the creators of the snap short. The fitted snap short is the latest trend in men’s swim wear, showing a little more thigh then the normal board short.

Celebrities like Heath Ledger, Andres Balazs and fellow fashion designers Calvin Klein and Todd Oldham are already hooked on this hot design team. The line is sold in Saks Fifth Avenue and Barney’s in New York as well as boutiques across America.

Arthur Mendonca Spring 2008

Arthur Mendonca’s spring collection draws upon Grecian inspired draping and modern cuts to make for a varied and colourful collection. Day looks are functional, incorporating wider pant legs and for his tops a puff sleeve.

Mendoncas color palette range from purple to soft lemon & lime sorbet colours as well black and white pieces. His use of silk crepe, organza and chiffon to create these looks works well, which was seen by the live models walking about. Moreso Arthur has a good grasp on cutting these fabrics to create soft flowing dresses which works with the Grecian goddess feel.

High profile clients like Paris Hilton, Tyra Banks, Vivica Fox and Nelly Furtado call upon Arthur for red carpet looks which make a statement. The price points range between $250.00 for blouses to $2,500.00 for various evening pieces. Once again we find a designer who can create stunning looks without breaking the bank.

Fratelli Rossetti Spring 2008 Collection

The spring 2008 Fratelli Rossetti line is a lesson in what fine Italian craftsmanship is and what other’s should strive for. For those who do not know the luxury goods market is strong and hot according to business analyst’s and this company based in Milan Italy is right in the thick of that market.

The core product for Fratelli Rossetti is their shoes which are all hand made using fine italian leather to produce such striking foot wear. One thing to note regarding this company and it’s very important is that there is no subcontracting of the production of the shoes and everything is made in house under their strict standards which is evident in the finished product.

Along side the shoes is a small collection of ladies purses and clutches which match the shoes for a finished and polished look. Granted everything here does come with a price attached one needs to look at this as an investment in style where certain pieces can go from season to season. Clearly the men's shoes are an investment since the men’s fashion market is not as transitional as women's, so investing in a few pairs of men's shoes makes sense and will certainly fit all your business and leisure events.