Fashion comes at us at breakneck speed. We are bombarded with so much visual stimulation, much which is entirely forgettable. At this point, I will admit to being jaded. So, when I see something that catches my eye and grabs my attention, I can’t help but take note. The following items are some of those things. What makes them ‘super’? Whether vintage or new, they are all classic enough to stand the test of time but tweaked to be distinctive in their own way.
Puffer jackets are omnipresent, but this iteration by Junya Watanabe for Commes des Garcons, from the fall 2009 runway, is truly exceptional. This jet black medium weight padded coat has an exaggerated collar, fitted shape, and back bustle. Sized’ M’, it is available on 1stdibs.com and priced at $795.
This beautiful and contemporary circa 2013 Azzedine Alaia boiled-wool fit and flare “princess” styled coat has a fantastic cut and shape. Double-breasted with a full skirt, it is a knockout in cardinal red. Marked French size 40, it is reduced from $4500 to $3600 and available on 1stdibs.com.
Sacai’s trench coat is part of an all-green look on the Resort ’20 runway in Paris. The military shades reflect Chitose Abe’s utilitarian influences. It has a loose silhouette and an adjustable waist belt. Perfection! It is for sale at netaporter.com for $2975.
Bottega Veneta’s classically tailored trench is made of camel thick wool gabardine. It has a diagonal contrast bonded leather on the upper body and a belt in bonded leather with signature triangle hardware. It is priced at $5350 and is available for pre-order at bergdorfgoodman.com.
Loewe’s Jonathan Anderson is an expert at elevating everyday silhouettes. Expertly cut in Italy from panels of wool-twill and cotton-poplin and printed with chic monochrome stripes. They are scored in turn with the label’s moniker. Wear it tucked or untucked to showcase the frayed hem. It is $1200 and available on netaporter.com.
These rubber boots from Simone Rochas’s Moncler Genius collection are modeled after traditional galoshes. The rainy weather in the designer’s native Ireland was a primary source of inspiration. Perfect for wet days when you still want to look chic. They are detailed with laser-cut flowers and scalloped trim. Priced at $425 at netaporter.com
Can’t decide between black or white? With Kara’s two-toned Baby Pinch Shoulder Bag, you don’t need to choose. Even the removable crossbody strap is two-toned. It is priced at $425 and available at karastore.com.
Kara’s black and gold bike wallet is inspired by the oversized bike locks worn by cyclists around New York City. The wallet made of black cowhide measures 3″ x 4″ and features a gold-toned 36.25″ oversized chain with clip. You can wear it over your torso or slip the wallet into your pant pocket and clip the chain to a belt loop. It is available at karastore.com and priced at $395.
This Michael Kors Collection striped tennis sweater and the matching scarf is a modern yet luxe take on the classic collegiate style. It’s hand-knit from premium Italian cable-knit cashmere and cut for a relaxed fit, while the frayed cuffs and hem add a laissez-faire feel. The sweater is $1290, and the scarf is $590. Both are available at michaelkors.com and select Michael Kors Collection stores.
There’s something so special about the way Alessandro Michele incorporates Gucci’s instantly recognizable details into his pieces. Both the ‘Rhombi’ pattern and gold horse bit are taken from deep in the archives. These ‘Fria’ loafers are a chic take on a slipper. They are made in Italy from cozy wool and set on gripped rubber soles for traction. The notched vamp is outlined in contrasting grosgrain. Priced at $750, they are available at Gucci.com and in Gucci stores.
Miss you Marilyn!