Roopal’s London-Milan Express
Wednesday: London calling! I love everything about this city. The energy is amazing! London Fashion Week got rave reviews around the globe. Erdem, Christopher Kane, Peter Pilotto and Mary Katrantzou all were a part of the talented lineup.
Peter Pilotto, S/S 2012
I go to Tom Ford’s office and showroom, a hidden treasure. Here are two handbag names you need to know: Jennifer, named after Jennifer Aniston. Maybe you’ve seen her sporting her black TF zippered shoulder bag in the latest US Weekly. Neiman Marcus sold out of it immediately, but we do have a re-order coming some time in November. My advice? Get on the wait list now! Trust me, you want this bag. Carine, named after the iconic French editrix and longtime Tom Ford muse Carine Roitfeld. The bag is timeless and chic. The signature gold clasp hardware are original and unique. I am crazy about a Tom Ford signature bag. (No photos, sorry.)
Thursday, 6:30 am: Off to Heathrow airport to catch a 9 a.m. flight to Milan.
12:40 pm: Ciao Milano! We have just touched down, and it feels like summer here. Very unusual for this time of year.
1:15 pm: Hotel Principe Di Savoia…my home away from home here.
2:30 pm: Panino Giusto. Some of the best panini in town.
3:15 pm: Head to Derek Lam to walk through handbags with Kel and Howard. The collection looks even more gorgeous than I remember from New York.
Derek Lam, S/S 2012
I loved the patchwork snakeskin handbags on the runway! We are loving these vivid mixed colors in exotic skins.
Derek Lam, S/S 2012
4:11 pm: En route to meet our senior buyer Michele Schwenk at Prada. She has a gorgeous eye and exceptional taste. I’m so excited to see this collection up close and personal in the showroom. Bonus: I can stare at the giant Damian Hirst artwork that graces the entryway. It’s visual stimulation and gratification at its best.
Damien Hirst at Prada
What a beautiful and feminine collection! Feminine Fifties influences, very soft and light. Pleated skirts, jacquard coats, and bandeau tops…
Prada, S/S 2012; Photo: Dan Lecca
The plisse colorblocked dress…
Prada, S/S 2012; Photo: Dan Lecca
Mrs. Prada was inspired by cars and women – both are objects of desire. The bags are scaled down a bit in size. The gold frame is very chic and modern. We like the camel and yellow colorblock version. Mrs. Prada gives you a clutch for every part of your day. The portofololio clutch, the crocodile frame clutch, novelty clutches with rose or Cadillac motif appliqués. There is no shortage of beautiful handbags at Prada for Spring.
Prada, S/S 2012; Photo: Dan Lecca
Prada, S/S 2012; Photo: Dan Lecca
8:15 pm: I meet the VP/DMM of shoes, Julee Butler, for a traditional Italian dinner. Alla Collina Pistoiese is the new place we try. I highly recommend it.
10:30 pm: Turn in for some much needed sleep. Big day tomorrow…
