Shops & Style
1960’s Inspiration
Skinnier ties, cinched waists, pearls, dresses and cardigans are making a comeback. Popular television shows like Mad Men and Pan Am are driving this fashion trend. This retro 60’s fashion trend includes dressing up a bit more with suits for men and more feminine styles for women. With businesses turning to a more casual dress, a little formality in the fashion mix appeals to consumers.
Old is new
Modern necessities like the iphone are wielding retro attachments these days. No one wants an actual phone from the last century, but a 2011 device with a 60s, 70s, or 80s feel is a hot commodity in younger circles—and those trying to be. Case in point: Lenny Kravitz spotted in NYC this summer talking on a Mad Men–style receiver hooked to his Apple device. For the 20-something set, Urban Outfitters is selling the “Zack Morris” phone case that turns an iphone into a chunky, funky handheld, complete with one-foot antenna. Other retrofitting products include a too-cute 1950s-style TV iphone case, and, for vintage-loving tweens and teens, a pink Princess phone handset to replace those androgynous earbuds. It's only a matter of time before someone comes out with a rotary dial for your Blackberry.
Luxury iPad carrying cases
Looking for a trendy way to carry your iPad in style? As seen in the December issue of Real Simple magazine, luxury retailers such as Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, as well as, designer Stephanie Johnson are now offering iPad cases with an indulgent appeal. Designs feature studded leather, crocodile-embossed Italian leather, python-look and suede Bollywood styles in vibrant hues.
Noir – Guilt Free Fashion
Danish fashion label Noir combines fashion sense and social conscience, calling itself "the meaningful luxury label." The company has created a fabric brand called Illuminati II, made from organic African cotton. The company has also established the Noir Foundation to support African cotton workers.
Humanity in fashion
A new breed of designers are looking at clothing as a way to help address social ills. Fashion used to be the epitome of vanity and conspicuous consumption. But now causes such as erasing global poverty, AIDS, producing clothing that drives emerging nation development and combats worker abuses are part of the design mission. And while some echo a back-to-the-land organic ethos, others are high-fashion that would not be out of place in the trendiest boutiques.
Handmade works of art for the pampered pooch
Inspired by eight Great Danes, Sniffanys luxury dog collars are made-to-order at prices starting around $700 for the ultimate pampered pooch. Their new Wellbeing line boasts semi-precious & precious stones plus crystals, finished with Sniffanys signature metal clasp. The stones and crystals are specifically chosen for qualities that support overall pet wellbeing .
Aloha spirit comes to American Girl
Kanani Akina has been introduced as the 2011 American Girl of the Year for her cheerful spirit, commitment to helping others such as the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and welcoming aloha nature.
Eco-friendly umbrella
Brelli offers the world’s first 100% biodegradable umbrella made of renewable bamboo, organic cotton and patented biodegradable bio-film. With a clear canopy this lightweight umbrella is quickly becoming a celebrity sensation for its sustainable and green product benefits without sacrificing any of the fashion or fun.
Rockin’ style with substance
Edun is a socially conscious clothing company created by Ali Hewson (wife of rock star Bono) and designer Rogan Gregory. Their mission is to encourage trade with Africa by creating sustainable employment in the developing world. The Edun label is sold in upscale department stores and specialty shops. Blank tee shirts from sub-brand Edun Live are made 100% in Africa as a sign of their commitment to expanding African production and providing local economic opportunities.