AccessAtlanta > Shopping > Blog > Archives > 2008 > January
January 2008
American Idol
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I admit I’m not one of the 60 million people watching American Idol on a regular basis.
So, I probably won’t be buying any clothing from the new American Idol collection by Lyrix, which is fine since it’s mostly geared to 7 to 16 year old girls. (Designs for women are on the way according to the website).
The line of $24 to $58 pants, tees, sweats and denim launched online in January, but is scheduled to hit Macy’s stores in Atlanta in April.
Inspiration for the line comes from some song lyrics of some of the hits performed on the show including t-shirts with “RESPECT” or “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.”
Would you invest in some Idol gear for the tween in your life?
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Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Designer Marc Jacobs is the subject of an upcoming documentary to air on the Sundance Channel during Fashion Week (beginning Feb. 4).
The documentary, simply titled “Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton” shows Jacobs traveling from New York to Tokyo to Paris to prep and show the Spring 2007 ready-to-wear collections for his own eponymous label, and for the French luxury brand Louis Vuitton. Here’s a clip of Jacobs getting inspiration from macaroons:
Jacobs, who has served as artistic director of Louis Vuitton since 1998, is credited with energizing LV handbag collections. His own bags (featuring the still popular Stam bag named for model Jessica Stam) have also made a splash.
Are you a Marc Jacobs/ Louis Vuitton fan or foe?
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All Occasion Registry
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It used to be that you threw a party and people came with gifts.
You crossed your fingers and hoped that your guests knew you well enough (and had enough taste) to give you something you really wanted.
If they didn’t, you smiled, said “Thank you!” and figured out what to do with the unwanted book, socks, metallic fringe purse, later.
Now, of course, there are registry services for any occasion such as the recently re-launched myregistry.com .
Users designate a special occasion, compile a list of desired gifts from any retail outlet, then email the list to friends and family.
Sounds like a good way to eliminate unwanted gifts, but some people think that all occasion registries (not including weddings or showers) are crass.
Do you think asking for the gifts you want (say for a birthday or graduation) is okay or in poor taste? Would you be offended if someone sent you his or her wish list?
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Blue Genes Outlet store
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Blue Genes, the boutique that has been outfitting Atlantans in fine denim since 2001, has recently launched a new concept.
The Blue Genes Outlet store (located right next door to Blue Genes at 3400 Around Lenox Drive NE), offers collections organized by designer at 30 to 80 percent discount.
Available merchandise includes Jenni Kayne dresses, Hanni Y leather jackets as well as denim from AG, J Brand, and Genetic Denim as low as $25. There’s also a selection of clothing for men including denim from Earnest Sewn and Brown Label. Kid’s stuff too.
Open 10:30 am to 7:00pm Monday to Friday, 10 am to 6pm Saturday, and 1pm to 5 pm Sunday.
Tell us about the deals you find at Blue Genes/ Blue Genes Outlet.
MORE: Blue Genes Online
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High Fashion Hockey
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Even if you’re not a total hockey head, NHL all-star weekend isn’t a complete bust.
Alyssa Milano (seen lately on My Name is Earl) is making an appearance in Atlanta this weekend at Rockin’ Skate 2008 to launch her new clothing line for female hockey fans who are into fashion.
Touch, available in early spring at http://www.shopnhl.com/shop.nhl.com, will include outerwear, denim, dresses and more. Clearly a sports lover, Milano also designed a Major League Baseball line.
Female hockey fans, what do you wear to games? Are you willing to give Milano’s gear a go?
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The Grooming Lounge
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Men don’t have to do a lot of grooming, but some can’t quite get it right. What are men’s biggest transgressions in grooming? Shaving wrong and having raggedy nails.
This week, the Grooming Lounge (owned by Mike & Pirooz at right), a new men’s barbershop / spa at the Terminus building in Buckhead (3820 Peachtree Road), is prepping for its’ official opening. (It’s open now for appointments, but there are still a few details to tend to.)
Grooming Lounge Atlanta administers everything from the signature $50 hot lather shave in a 6 chair barbershop to a $100 golf massage (treats muscle groups essential to golf swing) in a private treatment room.
Comforts include big screen TVs and complimentary cocktails. And guys can get a professional shoeshine while they wait.
What grooming issues do you think guys need help with the most?
MORE: Learn more about products/ services at the Grooming Lounge
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Oscar de la Renta Boutique in Atlanta
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Oscar de la Renta is coming to Atlanta…no, not the designer (although he has been here quite a bit in recent months).
De la Renta’s first retail boutique in the city (and eighth in the world) is expected to open in Fall 2009 at The Streets of Buckhead, according to the folks at Ben Carter Properties.
And while we’re at it, so is Van Cleef & Arpels.
Add that to the previously confirmed Bottega Veneta, Etro, and Hermes, and it sounds like a pretty nice foundation of free-standing luxury boutiques in Atlanta.
Of course, that is developer Ben Carter’s goal, and fortunately for high-end shoppers, his wife and daughter are dropping hints about the boutiques they want to see in the city.
If you had Carter’s ear, what luxury stores would you whisper in the hopes they may show up at SOB?
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Who is Atlanta’s hottest emerging designer?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta is becoming the place for up and coming designers.
Local boutique P. Valentine (in partnership with Icon Style) just announced a new competition for designers.
The annual “City’s Most Loved Designer Competition” is accepting submissions for the competition that culminates in a late February fashion show of 8 designer finalists (4 accessories designers will have window displays).
The winner receives a signature window display at P. Valentine and possibly the opportunity to sell through the store.
The requirements? Each designer must have his or her own collection and have shipped and sold at least one collection to at least one boutique or store. A collection must included at least 6 to 8 pieces. A public poll will run online for 29 days to give Atlantans the chance to choose a favorite designer, and then judges will select a winner from the top eight at the show.
Who are the up and coming clothing and accessories designers in Atlanta that you like? Where do you buy his/her clothing/accessories?
MORE: Enter the City’s Most Loved Designer Competition
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Head Over Heels
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
WHERE: 3701 Main Street, College Park
CONTACT: 404-765-9364, www.iloveheadoverheels.com
CATEGORY: Shoes
WHAT YOU’LL FIND: This transplant from Riverdale offers College Park shoppers a hip selection of bags and shoes ranging from platforms to flats. I couldn’t resist a wedge heeled bootie by Apeppazza, and was eyeing a pair of patent leather grey platforms with ankle straps by Boutique 58. Roomy Tano bags in supple leather are unique finds which will not be spotted in local department stores. The small selection of men’s styles will be expanded in the future.
ATMOSPHERE: Relaxed. Comfy seating in the back room (not fully visible from the street) makes it feel like you’re trying on shoes in you living room.
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No More Mizrahi at Target
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Designer Isaac Mizrahi is leaving Target which has carried his brand since 2003.
Five years after launching his hugely successful run at Target, Isaac Mizrahi is moving on.
By the end of the year, the Mizrahi section at the discount retailer will be phased out. Mizrahi is leaving to serve as creative director of women’s apparel for the Liz Claiborne brand.
Mizrahi’s line at Target helped make him a household name and the label has been very successful for the discount retailer.
Are you sad to see Mizrahi go?
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Boutique Bargains
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
New location for this year's Original Boutique Warehouse sale is above Z Gallerie in Atlantic Station.
It’s time again for Atlanta’s boutique warehouse sales, which kick off tomorrow offering up to 90% off (or below cost prices) on fall merchandise. The sales take place on Friday and Saturday so visit one or both…participating boutiques listed below:
The Original Boutique Warehouse Sale (NEW location):
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 18 and Saturday, Jan. 19
Where: Atlantic Station (above Z Gallerie). Enter on Market Street.
Participating boutiques: Sandpiper, Tulipano, Potpourri, Veruca, Boogaloos, Kaleidoscope, 4 Bags, Limetree, fab’rik, Bilthouse, Fickle Manor, Lisa Brown, Mooncake, K’la, Luxe, 1 Five 0, Emly Benham, Pella, Thread House, Dress Codes, and Ooh La La Boutique and more.
The Intown Boutique Warehouse Sale:
When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 18 and Saturday, Jan. 19
Where: 728 Ralph McGill Boulevard ( One block off Freedom Parkway)
Participating boutiques: Alternative, Bill Hallman Original, Bill Hallman Flaunt, Demure, French Kiss, Market, Mitzi and Romano, P. Valentine, Sole Fetish, Standard and Wish.
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Grammy Swag Suite
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
ohamerie.com
Singer, Amerie at Grammy Style Suite in 2006
The movie industry may have but the kibosh on swag, but not so the music makers.
In fact, organizers of the Grammy Awards just announced that the fifth annual Grammy Style Studio (Feb. 6 to 9) has doubled in size.
The style suite is where nominees, performers, presenters, and their stylists go to paw though goods from top designers to wear during Grammy week.
This year, confirmed designers include Karl Lagerfeld, Vivienne Westwood, Ted Baker London and more. Blue Notch Denim is pushing a pair of silk denim jeans valued at $1000 while Fendi and Pucci are unveiling new eyewear.
In the past, celebs such as Paula Abdul, and stylists for celebs such as Christina Aguilera, stopped in the suite to search the merch. This year, invited guests include everyone from Amy Winehouse to Missy Elliot.
Does it cost the celebs anything?
Apparently it’s up to each designer whether to sell the merchandise. Any proceeds from sales benefit the Recording Academy’s educational initiatives, but I’ll bet they’re not breaking any fundraising records with style suite contributions.
Do you think the Recording Academy should stop the swag parties and make artists pay for what they wear?
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Atlanta’s first Beauty Sample Sale
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I have been to a sample sale or two…mostly in New York. Mostly in search of handbags or clothing. So I was surprised to hear about a sample sale coming to Atlanta tomorrow.
This is a first…a BEAUTY sample sale.
Since sample sales usually mean buying model remains in weird sizes, I’m not sure how that works with cosmetics, but founder Carolyn Brundage of Pretty City.com has somehow made it work in New York and Chicago.
Brands such as Jane Iredale, Revlon and more will be on hand with sample products and services, as well as some of Atlanta’s local spas. And of course there will be cocktails and treats.
Beauty Sample Sale
January 16, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Biltmore, 817 Peachtree Street
MORE: Buy tickets ($12.50 to $25). Must be over 21.
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Blue Mercury Apothecary and Spa
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
WHERE: Perimeter Mall, second level, 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road N.E. Enter mall near Bloomingdales.
CONTACT: 770-399-7774, www.bluemercury.com
CATEGORY:Cosmetics & Beauty
WHAT YOU’LL FIND: Atlanta’s newest beauty emporium Blue Mercury has more than 50 beauty brands. Hair care lines include Bumble and Bumble and Frederic Fekkai. Some treatment and beauty lines such as Mario Badescu, Molton Brown, and Laura Mercier can certainly be found at other stores, but I was surprised by the large selection of fragrances by Serge Lutens. The store also stocks a range of Tocca products (fragrance, home scents, candles, etc.). The in-store spa with two treatment rooms helps distinguish Blue Mercury from other beauty retailers. Clients can indulge in facials, microdermabrasion, and waxing services starting at $15.
ATMOSPHERE:Laid back. Customers are encouraged to touch and sample the products. Salespeople are available if you need assistance, but aren’t pushy.
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Kitty & Dick Lingerie Debuts
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Recording artist, Joi, performs with Kitty's Litter in lingerie from the Kitty & Dick collection by Mychael Knight
Mychael Knight, of Project Runway fame, hosted a Vegas style cabaret show Wednesday night at Opera for the Atlanta debut of his lingerie line Kitty & Dick.
Kitty’s Litter, a group of model/ dancers reminiscent of the Pussycat Dolls pranced in stretchy silver jumpsuits with peek-a-boo bras, sequined baby doll nighties, and sheer boy shorts from the collection.
They also served as back up dancers for recording artists Joi and Tweet who performed at the event sponsored by Hennessy Cognac.
The verdict on the Kitty & Dick lingerie? Tweet was a fan.
“I love it,” said the petite singer smoothing her hands over the silver sequined corset worn over a long sleeved thermal shirt and cotton mini skirt combo. “It’s creative,” she said. “It makes me look slimmer.” (Not that she needed help there.)
The line, priced from about $45 to $450, is designed as both inner (inside) and outerwear with some costumey touches added. It goes on sale February 14 at www.kittyanddick.com.
For now, take a look at the photo gallery and let us know what you think.
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Atlanta Students got Style
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
There are a lot of 18 and under types in Atlanta who are interested in fashion and occasionally they call or e-mail to ask me for advice.
Sadly, I don’t have much to offer since I took a total back alley path to fashion writing. What I can do is share success stories of students who are doing big things in the biz…
Victoria Hughes, a senior at Roswell High School is the latest student to show promise as a designer. In December, she won the Passion for Fashion competition at The Art Institute of New York City.
Her yellow evening gown in chiffon over crepe took second place in the national competition and earned her $8000 in scholarship money which she will use to attend the Fashion Design program at AI in NYC this fall.
LUXE Atlanta , Atlanta’s hot spot for discount designer goods, has launched an annual event to inspire senior fashion students at Grady High School.
This year 11 Grady seniors were given $100 to revamp a vintage garment into a Spring 2008 runway inspired look. The fashions will be on display at Discover Mills mall beginning Jan. 16 and will be available for purchase for $250 after a fashion showcase on February 7 at LUXE.
MORE: Details on the LUXE Deconstructed Urban Couture Fashion Showcase
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Sigrid Olsen Store closing
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sigrid Olsen
Belted trench, Sigrid Olsen, $189
Sigrid Olsen fans will have to kiss the brand goodbye.
Parent company Liz Claiborne, Inc. announced today that they would close 54 Sigrid Olsen stores nationwide by mid-2008. That includes the Phipps Plaza store that opened in June 2005. Store representatives were not sure of the exact closing date.
Sigrid Olsen had been losing money over the past several years, said William L. McComb, CEO of Claiborne, Inc. in a statement.
The 20-year-old line began as resort wear and expanded into a lifestyle brand of casual women’s clothing, handbags, and some home items. It is known for sweaters with artistic details and the use of fine materials that look more expensive than the mid-range pricing.
The brand (along with 15 others) was under review by Liz Claiborne Inc., which also counts Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, and Lucky Brand Jeans as part of its diverse portfolio of brands.
Liz Claiborne, the designer, died last year. Her namesake brand has struggled to overcome the image of being stodgy and is reportedly seeking hip designers such as John Bartlett and Tracy Reese to design for the label.
Sigrid Olsen, which had strong appeal to mature women, seems to be a casualty of the company’s focus on more youthful brands.
What do you think of Sigrid Olsen closing?
Is it another slap in the face for mature shoppers?
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Urban Outfitters takes on Ponce
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
urbanoutfitters.com
Free People tunic, $88 at urbanoutfitters.com
Urban Outfitters (UO) was founded in a row house a few blocks from my alma mater in Philadelphia. That was in 1970.
By the time I arrived on campus (DECADES later), there was a brand new store smack in the middle of everything and we fashion mavens in the making turned into a bunch of Free People wearing freaks.
Obviously, I have a soft spot for UO. So I kind of like the idea of the freestanding store scheduled to open soon in Virginia-Highland on Ponce de Leon Ave. But I’m worried….
The location, while high on traffic, is low on luck. Two gourmet grocers disappeared from the same space, as did Storehouse Furniture (after only two months when the parent company declared bankruptcy).
Maybe it’s a curse.
Still, UO is one of the few retailers analysts say will make profit gains in 2008. They are also scheduled to introduce a new brand of home and garden products called “Terrain” to add to the Urban, Anthropologie, Free People mix. All of which should be pretty good insurance against sudden death.
Are you excited (or not) about UO’s arrival on Ponce? Do you think it will survive?
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Blissful in Atlanta
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Bliss
One of New York’s hottest spas, Bliss, comes to Atlanta on February 12th at W Atlanta - Midtown (188 14th Street).
The location is the ninth Bliss spa in the world.
The 4,000 square foot space will offer signature over the top services such as the Blissage 75, a 75-minute massage for $150 or the triple oxygen treatment.
The retail boutique will have a selection of Bliss products and fashion finds.
And of course, they’ll have the brownie buffet.
MORE: Information and appointments at Bliss Spa Atlanta .
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Taking Fashion to the Streets
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fashion Television
Hat from Daspu at fashion show in Brazil
The term streetwear takes on new meaning with Brazilian clothing line Daspu, designed by a former prostitute to outfit ladies of the night. Daspu is short for das puta which translates as “of the prostitute”.
That’s right. Clothes for … well, it rhymes with clothes.
Don’t confuse the brand with Daslu, the high-end clothing line that also has origins in Brazil. (The company initially threatened to sue Daspu, but has decided not to.)
Daspu was launched under Davida, an advocacy group that raises money for AIDS prevention, and more. Prostitution is legal in Brazil (for those 18 and over) and part of the brand’s mission is to send the message that it’s OK to be a hooker.
For now, the clothing - priced from $50 to $150 for items such as T-shirts, dresses and hats - is sold in 10 stores in Brazil, and has recently expanded to a boutique chain in Zurich, according to a story in Women’s Wear Daily.
It left us wondering … with Atlanta’s reputation for gentlemen’s clubs & other adult entertainment, where exactly do these professional dancers turn for work clothes? Are there certain “uniform” stores or Web sites that might serve their wardrobe? If you know the answer, let us know.
MORE: Video of the Daspu show.
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Fooled by a Fake
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You would think that someone who writes about shopping would be an avid user of eBay. But the one and only purchase I ever made on the site was among my worst shopping experiences ever.
The 80’s style metallic LeSportsac messenger bag that I sniped from the highest bidder in the final minutes ripped right down the seam about 3 days after I started carrying it. I am convinced it was fake, but why would anyone ever make a fake LeSportsac bag?
That’s when I realized nothing is safe anymore…clothes, handbags, watches, fragrance (years ago vendors in NY were selling a fragrance called “CK UNO”. Seriously.)
It’s a bit out of hand.
Have you been fooled by a fake? What’s the story?
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