Distressed Leather Coats

Zentai is apologetic about fur2

This show was well thought out with its slim-line silhouette of shiny satin skirt, or slender suit, the fur like a cloud drifting round the shoulders or arms or trailing in a vapor at the back. Yet in a season where fur is integrated with textiles, there was a disconnect — bridged only occasionally with a feathery fur sweater or a fur hem on a silver dress. That metallic theme was part of the futuristic landscape to which Lagerfeld seems viscerally attached.

The only jollity on the runway came from the mirror rings in which the models examined their ghostly make-up. Silvia Venturini zentai bodysuit

had taken the vanity case of the Art Deco period as inspiration, creating purses that slid on hinges to open like a silver-screen star’s makeup kit. “Luxury today is all about something personal,” Venturini Zentai said. “And you get a reflection of yourself.”

Marni started as a fur house, moved into haute bohemian territory and this season took another step as a sweet choral soundtrack served as a wake-up call. But this wasn’t the fresh-as-a-daisy look of nursery prints and feather-light fabrics familiar at Marni. With barely a spoonful of sugar, the collection had developed in a most delightful way.

“It’s evolving and it has grown up,” the designer, Consuelo Castiglione, said backstage about a show that hit all the right, clear notes, as did the music of the choir group, Scala. The major change was the stripping away of whimsy (give or take the woolly pompoms attached to a purse). That suit came in a leaf-and-branch pattern that was one of the rare prints.

The show was based on mannish tailoring; and the offhand look of tweed pants with gauzy wool shirt and a fur stole or cape jacket brought a new look to the furs. Was there also a touch of Prada in the sober dresses crossed with geometric ribbons, the sudden flashes of cheer chiffon dress, the inserts of elongated enamel jewels and a color palette that mixed gray, brown and pine green? Castiglione turned that echo into her own song. And Adrienne Ma with her mother, Joyce, of the eponymous pan Asian boutiques, applauded the best-selling Marni as their perfect show.

A trim, shaved fur coat with red silk knot buttons like tiny flowers, opened Trussardi’s show on a sweet note. It was a harbinger of a collection that is looking increasingly coherent — and less like an add-on to the smart vanity catsuits that seem to be a current trend. The designer, Beatrice Trussardi, 32, creates in her own image snug-fit suede jeans, subtly patterned cashmere sweaters, some inspired by ski-wear and the suede and leather pieces that are still the house’s beating heart.

Blumarine’s show was supposed to be a tribute to past icons who flashed up on screen, from 1980′s super models Carla Bruni, Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista through the late photographers Helmut Newton and Franco Scavullo.

In fact, this upbeat parade with its gilded skirts and flaunt-it dresses was all about fur — often used as trimmings on a Russian czar theme. The models wore frog-fastened coats and even the designer Anna Molinari herself came out for her bow with a fur muff.

The power of fur, as accessories or worked into clothes, is a strong story. Maurizio Pecoraro showed tufts of fur integrated into a camel sweater — a work of craftsmanship to vie with patches of leather and corduroy on a beige coat and costume zentai with rippling wrinkles.

There was something forced about the man/woman theme that brought distressed chiffon-tiered dresses in a duo with velvet pantsuits in the same vibrant color.

But Pecoraro’s multicolored scarves or even hats took fur to places that could not have been imagined before the Crayola-toned furs hit the current runways.

Suzy Menkes is the fashion editor of the International Herald Tribune.

Andrew Marc

Management history

The brand was founded by Andrew and Suzanne Schwartz in 1981.

In February 2008, the G-III Apparel Group, Ltd. (NASDAQ: GIII) acquired Andrew Marc. The purchase price, including working capital adjustments, was approximately $42 million. G-III Apparel Group, Ltd. announced acquisition of Andrew Marc on Feb 11, 2008. The acquisition of Andrew Marc provided a luxury brand, an expanded mid-tier presence through the Levi’s and Dockers licenses, and opportunities for incremental leverage and economies of scale. Prior to the G-III acquisition, from June 2006, the label was owned by GB Merchant Partners.

Design, image and marketing

Andrew Marc Naomi Bag

Andrew Schwartz initiated the direction of the line, but Suzanne Schwartz designed the collection after she joined the team from 1984-2008. In 2006, she became vice-president. Suzanne also led merchandising and imagery for the brand. Design is done in-house.

While Suzanne designs and merchandises the line, Chris Gbur conceives of and casts image campaign concepts. Gbur is creative director under the management of 2008. The image is both rugged and cosmopolitan simultaneously. Much of the campaign is often shot in New York City and printed in sepia or grey scale.

2008 sees a record spend in print advertising with 20 pages across periodicals such as Vogue, GQ, Wired, Fashion of the Times, Vanity Fair. Some online placement can also be seen at VF Insider, Facebook, and VogueTV. 2008 also sees a redesigned e-commerce Internet site for Andrew Marc.

Merchandising

Andrew Marc is a luxury apparel line focusing mostly on men’s and women’s leather outerwear. Andrew Marc includes technology, materials and artisanship as features, but the line is positioned to be competitively priced against more expensive European designers. Although the styling is iconically American, the innovation in leather treatments developed by Andrew Marc are various and experimental, including waxes, distressing, pigmentation, oxidation and organic dying processes.

Since its inception, Andrew Marc has expanded into other categories. While remaining focused on outerwear he began to include wool and cloth and all season materials for his outerwear. He also began to experiment with models that could be reversible. Some models are also versatile and become vests or lighter by removing an internal secondary jacket.

In 1986, he founded Precision watch company for watch manufacture and distribution. The look and design is rugged yet finely crafted and inspired by the look of the bomber jackets. The watches are durable, water resistant, sporty but also luxury fashion oriented.

In 1998 Andrew Marc entered into agreements with Levi’s to produce leather and cloth outerwear under the Dockers label. The line included leather outerwear for men and women, and also included women’s cloth outerwear.

He also began collections of women’s and men’s accessories which now include men’s sport and travel bags. The materials of the accessories tend to match the materials used in the current seasons’ outerwear collections.

Spring of 2008 sees Andrew Marc entering into a shoe license with the Camuto Group who will design, market, and distribute women’s footwear under the Andrew Marc name. It is expected to debut in the Fall of 2009. Of the expected collection, Morris Goldfarb, G-III’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (parent company of Andrew Marc), said, “We are excited to begin the broader development of the Andrew Marc and Marc New York branded businesses, which hold an excellent position in upscale specialty retailers and department stores. We believe that the contemporary aesthetic and high-fashion identity of these brands can quickly and decisively transcend their roots from the outerwear market.”

Distribution

Andrew Marc is positioned on the luxury tier aside other labels such as Cole Haan and Burberry. Individual items range from $495$2000. Andrew Marc can be found in many national department stores such as Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. The line is also available in specialty stores nation wide.

The men’s and women’s outerwear and accessories collections are also distributed through an online presence.

Financials

The company has performed notably well in Asia and Europe, with an increase in profit, despite the strong currency impact.

For 2007, Andrew Marc’s parent company G-III business recorded approximately $730 million of total revenue.

References

^ a b c Kimbally A. Medeiros The Modern Fashion Encyclopedia “Andrew Marc”

^ Daily News Record “LIVING THE ANDREW MARC LIFE…” April, 2006.

^ Vanity Fair Insider

^ Andrew Mark Online

^ “Marc’s New Man,” in WWD, 1 September 1998.

^ “Andrew Marc Said Near Pact for Levi’s Dockers Outwear,” in Daily News Record, 23 September 1998.

^ Business Wire “Andrew Marc Names Robert M. Mahan Chief Financial Officer” August 10, 2006.

^ Business Wire “G-III Apparel Group, Ltd. Announces Andrew Marc Shoe License,” June 11, 2008

^ Sak’s Fifth Avenue

^ Andrew Marc Online

^ www.1888pressrelease.com

^ Reuters “G-III Apparel Group, Ltd. Announces Fourth Quarter and Full-Year Fiscal 2008 Results, March 31, 2008

External links

Official web site

Categories: American fashion designers | Clothing brands | Luxury brands | Companies established in 1981 | High fashion brands | 1980s fashionHidden categories: Articles with a promotional tone from July 2009 | All articles with a promotional tone

Men?s Accessories ? 2008 Tips & Trends

Several new trends are becoming very hot for 2008. Men’s accessories are usually overlooked, but men are quickly catching on. Here’s what is hot right now:

Scarves – With just a few cold months left in the year, there is still time to pick up a great scarf. Look for the comfortable Kashmir or cotton wool scarves in neutral tones. Gray has made a huge comeback as well and works with several colors. If you have one main coat, look for a scarf that will coordinate with it. Otherwise, feel free to get a little bold and daring if you want to show your wild side. Scarves should be about 60 to 70 inches in length. Make sure you avoid ones that are too long or too short.

Leather Accessories – A nice leather neck rope or bracelet is very popular right now. Combining leather with stainless steel is also quite hot and presents a nicely polished finish. For necklaces, go with a thinner style to avoid having it look like a dog collar. For bracelets, look for multi-strand leather bands that incorporate tribal or other interesting designs. Black is the most popular color, but you can mix it up with cream or brown to keep it interesting.

Stainless Steel Jewelry – These are incredibly popular this year.

Look for a nice stainless steel cuff bracelet or a pendant that can be worn in several different ways. These are signature pieces that you can wear everyday and are even suitable for most workplaces.

Bold Pendants – Bold silver pendants are definitely hot items right now. Pair them with a nice chain or a leather cord for a polished look. Cross and spear pendants are particularly hot right now, but any bold shape that incorporates an interesting design will work as well.

Cuffs and Armbands – Bold cuff like bracelets and armbands are very big this year. Look for metals or if you are feeling really bold, go with a nice big leather cuff. Armbands are a bit smaller and should be worn on the upper arms. This is a great way to really define your upper arm muscles.

Hats – Trucker hats are dead and gone, but a simple ball cap is still very in, look for ripped edges and embroidered. Camo and washed colors are very hot right now. Try to avoid a hat that is too flashy or strange and stick with neutral colors that will coordinate with just about everything. Make sure you have enough hats to wear to avoid the dreaded “dirty hat” look.

Messenger Bags – This is a continuing trend, but we are seeing more use of leathers and other bold fabrics. Look for the hand crafted and vintage. Popular designs include faded or distressed brown leather or suede.

Bathroom Remodeling 3 : Faux Finishes

Faux (pronounced Fo) finishing is a technique that uses paint to simulate various finishes, such as textured stone, lime washing, linen weave, crackle paste, distressed leather and more. Attractive it may be, but durable it is not. In fact, one paint manufacturer actually states in their brochure that the finished faux surface must be protected by painting with the color of your choice. Beyond that, damaged areas are virtually impossible to patch invisibly. Now, there’s nothing wrong with using a faux finish. Many people do, never have a problem with it and are very happy with the results.

But just be aware of it’s limitations.

Exotic finishes

These options may be beyond the reach of the casual D-I-Yer, but they deserve to be mentioned. Behr produces an item called Venetian Plaster. It’s a thick paint designed to be troweled onto the wall and ceiling surfaces. By the time you’re finished, you’ll have a surface that’ll look for all the world like an original plastered wall. Somewhat more expensive than regular paint, as well as time-consuming to apply, this type of finish gives beautiful results that you can be proud of, but you’ll certainly work to get it.

Last but absolutely not least is clay plaster. Offered by American Clay and several other companies, it’s exactly what it says it is, an earth plaster. This product has to be mixed with water to a pudding consistency and then two coats troweled onto wall and ceiling surfaces. Since it’s made from clay and aggregates, it qualifies as a “green” building material. It also breathes and does not need to be sealed except in high moisture areas. Since the sealer does not alter the color appreciably, it can be used in bathrooms without a problem. Best of all, any damage it sustains over time is easily repaired and the repair will be completely invisible if you exert just a little effort.

Compared to the other options mentioned, clay plaster is expensive. It’s also time-consuming and physically tiring to apply, especially when you consider that you’re mixing fifty pound bags of product at a time. In spite of all this, the end result makes the cost and all your effort worthwhile. At this time, no other product can match the warm earth atmosphere of clay plaster.

Hot Style in Italian Boots

Italian boots can be an expensive purchase, so it is best to pick the best Italian boots to fit your needs. The Italian boots featured here are made with incredible quality and will be extremely durable. Proof that value can be found at a wide range of prices; these Italian boots will keep you at the height of sophistication.

For a hot little ankle boot perfect for fall, Apepazza has a fabulous offering. The Orione Italian boots scream glamour and they are absolutely fantastic. In a short ankle style, rich chocolate suede, and impressive ruching details, these Italian boots are the epitome of European chic. Pair these Italian boots with some merino wool tights and a sophisticated coat and you are ready for a stroll through Central Park in winter.

The Kink Italian boots by Geox are the quintessential walking boot. Sleekly European and deafeningly confident, these Italian boots are made with distressed leather and a metallic sheen. With a waterproof sole, these Italian boots are all weather. With a crazy cool lace-up detail at the back of these Italian boots, these Italian boots are a must have. Check out the price! These Italian boots are incredibly attainable at $115.00. Pick these Italian boots up before they sell out!

Mike & Chris is known for fashion apparel, but their boots are definitely not shabby. The Butler Italian boots have a fantastic western appeal but with the great sophistication of a cool European countryside. With a beautifully hidden side zipper, the sleekness of this Italian boot is never compromised. With a beautifully casual stacked heel, these Italian boots have about 1 1/2″ of height. Nothing too over the top, these Italian boots are the perfect boot to slip on for everyday. At a higher price point, these are worth the extra bucks. Sure to be an everlasting favorite in your own fashion hall of fame, these Italian boots are beautiful.

For Italian boots that are good for work or play but has a bit more height, check out the Cefeo knee high Italian boots from Apepazza. With a 3 3/4″ heel, these patent leather Italian boots are incredibly beautiful with great ruching details at the calves. The details of these Italian boots never take away from the classic form. A style staple, these Italian boots are an insanely great price for an Italian boot that is guaranteed to be one of your favorite sexy Italian boot styles. For work, pair these with a beautifully slim pencil skirt. For play, pair these Italian boots with a sleek pair of distressesd skinny jeans and a fashion forward blazer.

The qualities of these hot styles in Italian boots are sleekness, sophistication, and durability. These hot styles in Italian boots are proof that quality, durability, and major style can be found at a variety of prices. These Italian boots will be your style staples for seasons and seasons to come.

Is this a good back-to-school shopping list?

My school has a uniform, so I won’t be wearing any of it to school except on dress down days, hah. But I threw a ton of old clothes out, and came up with this list of new things to buy. Anything I should add or take off?

One pair of lack skinnies
Two of three plaid flannel shirts
Three or four boyfriend sweaters
One motorcycle-style jacket
One pair of distressed jeans
Black low-top Converse (maybe a high-top pair as well if I have money)
One trench coat
One pair of opaque black tights to rip up
One pair of ankle boots (with a heel)
Two or three studded belts
Silver cuff bracelets
One leather with hardware purse
One fedora or cloche style hat
Two to three band shirts
Tall boots (flat)
One destroyed denim mini
Two to three cardigans
One pair of motorcycle-style boots

Get the Low Cost Dubarry Boat Shoes

It is very critical for several grounds to hold out the prudish shoe hold out when someone is on a boat. Deck shoes are employed not simply for guard of the individual wearing them but as a entails of aegis for the deck of the boat itself.

Dubarry boat shoes are splendid for comfortableness, enduringness, and security as well. The mocha nubuck is one of the favourite type deck shoes prepared by Dubarry for men .This specific shoe is a three-eye lace up with a velvet collar. The front segment of this shoe is a canoe front expressive style. They are established water resistance with a variety of materials such as nubuck leather .One of the unmatched affairs about these proper shoes is that they have the fast dry coating application.

Although the shoe has a leather reckon about it is in the spruce distressed leather expression. The shoes are processed to forbid against bacteria and fungus whether they be wet or dry. These Dubarry boat shoes are capable of preserving the feet good and dry during the entire time that they are assumed. They are special for occupying impact and quashing the usual tire out and tear that the feet are displayed to. Of Course, they are superb at protecting the deck as well.

This Dubarry boat shoes are brought in in Ireland and are well renowned for their strength vogue and ease. They are one of the most favorite deck shoes on the market. Another loved feature of the Dubarry boat shoes is they are a blend of leather and fabric, which creates the water resistivity that one needs one on deck. The sole is a lasting non-slip sole and is stitched to the upper section of the shoe for special security. Most of the Dubarry boat shoes are designed with a three eye cushioned collar, which hits for advisable accord.

Another very flush to wear Dubarry boat shoe is the cruiser mahogany. This is a moccasin eccentric shoe extremely good to get on. It admits all of the security that one postulates went on deck.

The Dubarry line of boat shoes is the ideal choice of foot assume when practising any kind of boating such as yachting. It is exceedingly significant to wear the specific footwear in order to foreclose slithering. With wrong foot don that does not have the proper protecting soles it is smooth for one to receive an fortuity by slipping. This is why the Dubarry boat shoes are a smart option. They are a top-of-the-line deck shoe that anyone that enjoys boating on a steady basis is well careful of.

There are cheaper forms of boating shoes on the market no doubt. The problem is that that with some more low-grade stimulates, the soles shortly wear out and do not establish the same protection that as the Dubarry line does. It is cozier to invest a low excess money and sustain the right footwear and something that is going to last rather than something that is going to be deficient and you have to replace on a consistent basis.

The materials and craftsmanship that is positioned into the Dubarry of Ireland boat shoes is what gifts them their believability.