Lucky Shops

LUCKY MAGAZINE SHOPS
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
OCTOBER 26 & 27
METROPOLITAN PAVILION, 125 WEST 18TH STREET, NYC
The Ultimate Shopping Event
LUCKY MAGAZINE’S FAVORITE DESIGNERS, UP TO 70% OFF:
Chloe,Theory, Marc Jacobs, Bluefly.com , Balenciaga , Tory Burch, Jill Stuart , Cynthia Rowley
Alice Ritter , J Brand, Vena Cava , Charlotte Ronson, Botkier, Stella McCartney, Daryl K
and more!
LYCRA® Denim Bar:
great jeans for $100 or less, and Free Hemming while you wait!
Plus, the Love, Recycled® Shop—
overflowing with one-of-a-kind vintage items from Blahnik, Chanel, Gucci, YSL, and more.
Get a GIFT BAG worth $100+*
For tickets and information:
LUCKYSHOPS.COM or
866-4LUCKYU
* Gift bag with paid admission, while supplies last. LYCRA® is a registered trademark of Invista for its brand of premium stretch fibers and fabrics.

Wilen

Aaah, these West Coasters and their easy clothing. Brooke Wilen launched her first collection in Fall 2006 with herself and friends in mind; clothing for professional women who don't want to wear pantyhose and a suit. The line is knit entirely with luxurious Italian yarns for a comfortable and easy fit.

The Lookbook

The lookbook is live! It is a small selection of designers that will hopefully make it a bit easier for you all to stock your stores...and closets, with some of the best design out there. I hope to make it something that changes seasonally. Also, some of these good folks have signed on to give clothing and accessories away to you just for reading, so stay tuned for the giveaways! Right now the lookbook is searchable by category and designer, I'm working to break it down by pricepoint as well but on one page it's pretty easy to navigate. Enjoy!

P.S. Forgive the long title...it can be reached from a link on the right column as well :)

Rust Belt

Angelina from Beklina wrote in to tell me about the new collection she picked up and I was sold immediately. The name alone makes one curious, but the collection is a favorite already. Rust Belt creates jewelry from re-purposed materials using environmentally conscious practices. Their website goes more in-depth on their choices and a blog details their research into the subject. I love that even the packaging is recycled, the result is lovely.

Bethan Lloyd Worthington

I fell for Bethan's ceramic charm bracelets when Grace posted them yesterday... just too cute to pass up. Bethan makes some of the most beautiful ceramic tableware with detailed layers of patterns and sketches. It's about that time to start thinking about gifts and what a unique gift this would be; the designer also does commissioned work.

Barila

Sabrina Barila isn't afraid of a little sex appeal...ok a lot sex appeal. Inspired by her extensive travels, Barila embraces feminine cuts and fabrics that promote a woman's curves. Check out the collection here.

New Happenings...

Today is just a short note while I do some admin work around the blog.
On October 15th, we will launch a lookbook portion of the site. It will be a small selection of some of my favorite designers, and you will be able to find designers by category, price point, etc. It will read like a blog layout, but each designer will have contact information listed so there will be less need to click over...search for contact info...etc.
Next...I'm so excited that I will be able to offer designer giveaways. Yes...free stuff for you fabulous readers. Free stuff from fab designers that you know and love...how spectacular is that?! Stay tuned for the first one 10/15.

Kimberly Baker

New designs from the fabulous Kimberly Baker. Some of the new items pull from antique collectibles and vintage coins, while others have a little edge thrown in (see the brass rings pendant). Overall Kimberly stays true to her nature with pretty pieces for stylish gals.

Meet the Designer- Melanie Dizon

-Your name and name of your brand.

MELANIE DIZON

-Tell us a bit about your brand and your inspiration/story.

I started my company in spring 2001 first launching with handbags, here in NYC. And 5 years in the spring of 2006 expanded into shoes, which has done wonders for the collection and the brand. I’ve always been into accessories as far as I can remember, having grown up in LA, I was always collecting/buying vintage and reselling it, sometimes reconstructing as well. I’m pretty much self taught in what I do as I never went to school for this, so with that I’m most proud as there’s no better way to learn that actual hands on and learning from your own mistakes. I’m inspired by everything really, and when I design I keep my girlfriends in mind and what they would need/want in their wardrobes, as well as my own of course.

-What was your inspiration for this season?

Fall carries a sort of Argentinian hunting lodge feel with a splash of bohemian rock.

-What's your current beauty obsession?

Cheek stain, can’t leave home without it.




-Name 5 items you couldn't live without?

iPod, my handy Sony Cybershot camera, water, my black “poppy” bag, and Kiehl’s lip balm.

- What's currently on your playlist?

Kings of Leon- Knocked up
Kings of Convenience- the weight of my words
Astrud Gilberto- Agua de Beber
Inflagranti- Hot city feelin
loveimagination- So Good, So Right
Claudjia Barry- Love for the sake of love
the Doves- Here it comes
Ian Brown- Neptune
Tosca- Natural High

- Favorite vacation spot?

Mindoro, Philippines

- What's your decoration style?

minimal- clean-old world tribal


- Favorite book/magazine? What are you currently reading?

Norwegian Wood by Murakami

-What current fashion trend are you excited about?

What’s His is Hers

- What's your favorite snack?
Gummy Bears

- Day bird or night owl?

NIGHT OWL

- If you weren't designing your own collection...what would be your runner up career?

Poet/Writer

- Pick a fashion decade (or period) and tell us whay you loved or hated it.

I loved the 30’s; I’m all about the finger wave hairdos, smoky eyes, and lots of dancing!


Thanks Melanie!

On the Line- Le Train Bleu

- your name, name of store, year opened

Bria Phillips, Le Train Bleu, 2003. Le Train Bleu launched in 2003 as a web-only boutique and we opened our first brick and mortar store, which has now moved to a larger location in Spring of 2006.

-tell us a bit about your shop and inspiration to open

Le Train Bleu the website is inspired by international fashion websites such as dresslab and showstudio. It's a creative endeavor--we do our own fashion photography and make fashion movies. We try to offer experiential shopping online, like a cool fashion mag come alive. Viewers can see special features such as exclusive designer interviews, articles, and styling tips. Our flagship store has the same vibe as the site, inspired by the creative era of the Ballet Russes in 1920s Europe. Our influences for the interior are London's Biba of the 60's, Art Nouveau, Russian Tea Houses, and psychedelia. We carry international cult labels and cater to customers around the world who appreciate fashion as art.

-what item is currently on your covet list?

The newest Karen Walker High-Waist trouser pants--very Sartorialist.

-what item could you not resist buying for yourself?

Just bought a Tucker dress and I know it will be one of many for Fall--I'm already an addict for Gaby Basora's prints and think she's the Diane Von Furstenberg for a new generation.

-who is your personal "it" designer right now?

I would have to say Lover the Label out of Australia. Talk about cult following. And they do two collections each season, one for the Northern Hemisphere and one for the Southern Hemisphere. Their followers in Australia don't have access to the Northern Hemisphere styles there, so they have to purchase them online and in advance of each season we receive tons of emails from Australian customers who are eagerly awaiting our shipment. They really love their Lover!

-what is your recommendation for designers who want to be carried in your store?

Send look books as emails and have great photos on live people (doesn't have to be a professional model, but that helps)--as the sole buyer for Le Train Bleu I am bombarded everyday by emails and mail from new designers and the snail mail stuff quickly gets buried in piles. Also, be on the regular fashion schedule.

-what is the biggest trend that is currently impacting your buying decisions?

I don't really think so much in terms of trends, maybe because our customer is really ahead of that curve. Our designers are all really unique and individualistic as well--each has their own personality.

LE TRAIN BLEU

1905 NW 26th Ave

Portland OR 97210

www.letrainbleu.com

Beau Soleil

Are you in love yet? Beau Soleil, new launched Fall 2007, by Anne Salvatore Epstein is an eco- fashionistas dream! Anne uses organic cotton, bamboo, tencel, recycled leathers and vegetable dyes to create the Beau Soleil collection. While there is a emphasis on sexy silhouettes, with deep v-necks and bared shoulders, the collection has a serious comfort factor. One of my many favorites is the beau sweat, I want to don that and wait for my husband to come home :o
There's something for every occasion though, check out the full collection here.

Redtoenails

Redtoenails is designed and run by Farrah Zeigler and Dana Schulman out of their Willimasburg, Brooklyn studio. Their focus is on creating clothing that is edgy yet wearable; with amazing attention to details and fit. They have recently launched a lower priced line under the moniker Artean which should be available in stores soon. In the meantime, if you're a fan check out the deeply discounted items over at stars and infinite darkness.

Melissa Borell

a bit under the weather today...check out this great jewelry kit from multi talented designer Melissa Borrell. The pop out pendant made of laser cut stainless steel comes with instructions and silver chain. Find this one at Rare Device at an incredible price!! I'm seeing a great gift idea :)

Staci Woo

A stint in the world of tee shirts and jeans (as assistant designer to Adriano Goldschmied) must have taught Staci Woo a lot about comfort. While working for AG, Staci began dreaming up her own collection, reworking vintage materials into sling bags that she gave out to friends. Staci Woo is now synonomous with tropical beach chic and casual, luxurious pieces. The full lifestyle line includes underwoo, little woo, and woo mama.

Jutta Neumann

Hand made leather goods from Jutta Neumann. Jutta makes every item, including sandals, bags, and belts from her new york studio/storefront. Check out the variety of styles and colors here.

Viridis Luxe

This is the sexiest hemp I've ever seen. Viridis Luxe is an eco friendly collection that blends organic materials (including their signature hemp with cashmere) to create these incredibly fashionable and luxurious pieces. This small collection includes sweaters, dresses, and a variety of great tops. To top it all off these incredible images are frame worthy...check them out here.

Kim White Handbags

Love the handbags by Kim White! I first learned of Kim when the "Camarro" bag hit the scene, but since then the collection has evolved to include larger bags, belts, and a collection using vintage fabrics. I've shown two of my favorites here but there's plenty to peruse. Of course all materials are recycled from vintage vehicles, and obviously extra durable.

Red Cat Run

I really love the simplicity of the jewelry by Red Cat Run. A trained scientist, you can see the precision in each piece; I especially like the rings. Check out the etsy shop here, with many items at unbelievable affordable price points.

Mae's Dress Shop

Sweet vintage style clothing from Mae Ho of Mae's Dress Shop. With a restrained color palette and materials like silk, cotton sateen, and wool; the collection really tunes into the ultra feminine era. Love the details.

Modaspia

When Ursula emailed me with images from her Modaspia collection, I immediately fell for her attention to unique details. Gathered pockets, oversized buttons, and skewed seams add such a touch of whimsy to this collection. Modaspia is made locally in the SF Bay area with an emphasis on unusual color palettes, hand-made flowers and poetic prints. Check out the collection here, with select pieces available to buy online.

Juliana Jabour

Brazilian designer Juliana Jabour is rightfully known in her hometown as "Knitwear Queen". Juliana launched her own label in 2003 while working for other well known Brazilian labels. With an emphasis on well designed comfort pieces, the collection is offset by bold colors, a splashing of gorgeous prints, and injections of exotic materials like python.

photo credit: shopbop

Cut, Sew and Blog

I first mentioned Mal Sirrah a few months back when I fell for his clothing and his non-descript aproach to the industry. I recently recieved an email that he has started a blog, Cut, Sew & Blog, to offer an inside look as he debuts his Spring/Summer 2008 collection, launches a new collection and runs a design business. I think the most exciting news though, is that Malcolm will show his collection online via the blog as opposed to live runway as a courtesy to press and buyers. Check it out here...if I can get a photo from the designer I'll post it a bit later.

BauXo

I love wood accents in decor...from vases to sculptures, so it's no surprise that I like the BauXo collection. The company came about when two Canadian women took a trip to Bali and fell in love with the work of a designer there. The collection uses wood, leather, and bone to create these structured pieces that are modern yet warm. I love that each piece is loyal to the material, making the shapes seem like they were destined to be a piece of jewelry.

Alexis Hudson

I love the pleated details and earth tone colors of the Alexis Hudson Fall 2007 collection. Since inception, design partners Rachelle Copeland and Emily Ironi have created a luxurious handbag collection with an emphasis on classic shapes and subtle design elements. Take a look at the Fall collection here.

Meet the Designer- Antoinette Lee

1- Your name and name of your brand.

Antoinette Lee - Antoinette Lee Designs

2-Tell us a bit about your brand and your inspiration/story.

Having my own fashion line has been a dream of mine for as long as I could remember. I pursued my dream by moving to New York City, and working as a designer in the fashion industry. After growing and learning about the “ins and outs” of fashion, I finally felt it was the right time to branch out and create a line of my own. Soon after, Antoinette Lee Designs was born! Antoinette Lee Designs focuses on using the highest quality leathers, suede, and hardware. Handbags are a reflection of a woman’s identity, so we offer a variety of styles to fit your every need.

3-What was your inspiration for this season?

For my Fall/Winter 2007 line, my inspiration came from my use of rich colored leathers, and how beautiful they looked when paired together. For my solid bag styles; the use of gray, plum, bone, navy, and black patent looks so luxe. But when paired as a gray/navy or bone/black combo, it gave the style a whole new edgy look.

4-What's your current beauty obsession?

C.O. Bigelow Lemon Body Cream

5-Name 5 items you couldn't live without?

My LG phone, my I pod, ice coffee, a headband, and flavored lip gloss

6- What's currently on your playlist?

BEN KWELLER

7- Favorite vacation spot?

Any tropical island

8- What's your decoration style?

Modern…black & gray with accents of color.

9-What current fashion trend are you excited about?

I have been into the oversized tops/skinny jean look, such a great silhouette!

10- Favorite snack?

Hot Fries

11- Day bird or night owl?

Definitely a night owl

12- If you weren't designing your own collection...what would be your runner up career?

Probably a stylist or interior design

13- Pick a fashion decade (or period) and tell us why you loved or hated it.

I think today is an amazing fashion era. Now, the fashion trends of past decades are recycling & reinventing themselves. A person now is able to admire their favorite looks from the past and share their loved fashion eras with the current fashion trends of today.

www.antoinetteleedesigns.com

New Series- Meet the Designer

I'm starting a new series today called "meet the designer". Short interviews that will give you a look at some great indie designers, including personal tidbits and photos. Hope you enjoy!

Lorun Collection

The first collection of designer Lauren Wallack is short and sweet...precisely so. With a mod 60's influence, it's all about the gams...the stems...the sticks; whatever you choose to call it, the legs have it. With the use of materials like silk and cashmere paired with tailored details, Lauren has modernized the classic looks while retaining a focus on the delicacy and sex appeal of the bygone era. Comprised mainly of dresses, there is a sprinkling of jackets and slim pants to round out the collection.

Polli

Sydney based Polli is a collaboration between industrial designers Maja Bartlett and Tess Lloyd. The pair have managed to fuse a beautiful bond between craft, fashion, and industrial design with their collection of accessories and home products. I absolutely love the delicacy of the jewelry, but be sure to check out their incredible mobiles, decorations, and the most fabulous jewelry stand ever!

Sally Scott

I rarely post about a designer that has no English on their site, but the incredible photos were too good to resist. The clothing at Sally Scott is lovely, with a cozy, nostalgic feeling to the pieces. Check out the catalogue here; the photos make you feel as if you couldn't make it to the party but your friends sent you all the great photos.