TUMI Debuts the Santa Monica Collection for Spring 2014

Celebrating artisanal design and elegant styling, TUMI introduces the Santa Monica collection of men’s and women’s lifestyle accessories. Inspired by the coastal living of Southern California, the collection pairs TUMI's core values of design excellence with an enhanced sense of style to present an assortment of modern classics. The collection will launch Holiday 2013 with new styles and colors set to debut for Spring 2014 ...

“By combining beautiful leathers with our iconic ballistic nylon, I wanted to bring elements of TUMI’s heritage of craftsmanship and design to the forefront of each style. The Santa Monica collection demonstrates beauty in simplicity,” said George Esquivel, TUMI Creative Director. 

Distinguished by clean lines and a polished aesthetic, each Santa Monica style highlights the craftsmanship and high-quality materials as key attributes of the design. A nod to TUMI's heritage, a mélange of soft and supple leathers is at the helm of this premiere collection. Cleanly crafted, the materials themselves evoke a sense of demure sophistication and classical chic. Mixing materials becomes a statement when TUMI’s signature ballistic nylon is paired with treated leathers, elevating the personal touch each bag manifests. Rich Vachetta leather complements natural matte or high shine, glazed finishes in a basic palette of Asphalt, Crimson, Black, and Bridle. For Spring 2014 a lighter palette of Flax Multi Natural Linen and Coral in Natural Linen injects seasonal flair in select styles.

Iconic TUMI elements are further enhanced throughout the Santa Monica assortment. Embossed logos are discreetly placed allowing a distinctive “X” detail to gain prominence on select styles. A structural symbol of strength, the “X” detail extends into the stitching of each piece, emphasizing the hand-crafted element attributed to the collection. Santa Monica's knotted leather ties lend a distinctive look to each bag, serving as exterior pocket closures. Luggage tags are refreshed in burnished leather for an effortless touch. 

The casual-chic Santa Monica collection boasts nine versatile styles. From the perennially-chic Mabery Hobo and timeless Fraser Zip-Around Continental wristlet to the utility-driven Bashford Duffel and Whitfield Helmet Bag, this new array of accessories is designed for world-class travel and everyday adventures. 

Key styles include:

Drummond Brief — R9999 (only available in bridle)

• Classic Flap Brief silhouette with a detachable, adjustable cross-body strap
• Boardroom ready with subtle detailing and organized interiors
• Front flap with push-lock closure and two-card slot interior pockets
• Exterior, Back, zip pocket with media pocket and Add-a-Bag functionality

Bashford Duffel — R14999 (asphalt)

• Inspired by TUMI’s best-selling Alpha Soft Duffel style
• Stylish option to pack in weekend essentials featuring iconic “X” design detail
• Snap-close hand wrap
• Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap

Sycamore Tote - R7499 (bridle & black)

• Versatile tote featuring iconic “X” design detail 
• Hidden exterior pocket on the front for easy-access to mobile devices
• Color-blocked bottom is an unexpected twist, adding durability and styling
• Interior reveals organized side pockets and open space to pack in daily necessities

Mabery Coverible Hobo — R9999 (bridle & available in asphalt)

• Offers a two-in-one wear option: over-the-shoulder classic hobo style or convert into a cross body for hands-free wear on the go
• Front flap pocket is the perfect size to access frequently used items including mobile device or iPads
• Dedicated interior laptop pocket and large zippered main compartment 
• Features knotted leather ties

Fraser Zip-Around Continental Wristlet - R3699 (coral, also available in bridle)

• Zip wallet with organized interior for credit cards, coins and money
• Front flap pocket with snap closure for small items
• Doubles as a wristlet
• Two detachable leather wristlet straps included on interior allows individual to accent their piece

The TUMI Santa Monica Collection is available in all SA TUMI stores.

Bollywood Icon Priyanka Chopra for the Guess Holiday 2013 Ad Campaign

This holiday season, GUESS will introduce its new advertising campaign featuring the multiple award-winning, Bollywood icon, Priyanka Chopra, appearing in the brand’s signature black and white style shot by Bryan Adams ...

Priyanka, a former Miss World, actress and recording artist, is one of the most recognized and celebrated talents in India and International cinema. 

Guided by Paul Marciano, Creative Director for GUESS? Inc., and shot by former GUESS collaborator and musician, Bryan Adams, the campaign captures Priyanka’s free-spirited glamour in a collection of signature black and white photographs. In the campaign, Priyanka portrays a movie star at home in an elegant Mediterranean villa wearing some of the season’s most stand-out dresses. 

“Priyanka’s confidence, strength and sensuality reflect the qualities I always look for in a model,” said Marciano. “Priyanka reminds me of the young Sophia Loren and the top actresses of the 1950s. With the Indian movie industry exploding on a global stage, and GUESS having a brand presence in 87 countries, we could not have found a better global brand ambassador. Choosing Priyanka reinforces our celebration of multi-talented, dynamic and accomplished women.” 

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Look for the GUESS holiday campaign in December issues of top South African fashion and lifestyle magazines.

Find Your Edge - The Elements

Wrangler “Find Your Edge” is about igniting your senses of spontaneous adventure and encouraging you to discover the unknown. It is an emotive call to action to awake the instincts and an untameable wild spirit, while embracing the elements of nature — Wind, Water, Fire and Earth.

The global “Find Your Edge” campaign video, based around a couple who want to leave everyday life behind and seek freedom and explore the open road. Wrangler becomes their ultimate travel companion in this journey.

Wrangler is available at Stuttafords stores.

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Kate Moss Returns to Topshop to Celebrate "Being Kate"

TOPSHOP are delighted to announce that the world-renowned collaboration with Kate Moss is set to re-ignite in Spring 2014 ...

Three and a half years after the last collection was created for TOPSHOP — Kate Moss is confirmed to return to the brand to deliver a new take on her style inspirations and unrivalled position as THE true British fashion icon. 

The Kate Moss Collection for Spring Summer 14 will be sold globally via TOPSHOP stores in 40 countries (including the UK and US), TOPSHOP.com and through wholesale partnerships. The collection is currently underway in the design process. 

With so much interest and energy around London as a fashion capital and British style generally, TOPSHOP and Kate Moss felt the time is right to recollaborate and celebrate British fashion. This new phase in this partnership highlights the great close working relationship between TOPSHOP and Kate Moss and is the culmination of two great British establishments coming together. 

Kate Moss and Topshop CEO Sir Philip Green;
[Photo via Topshop]

SIR PHILIP GREEN commented, “I am personally thrilled that Kate wanted to come back to TOPSHOP to work with us again. The first time around was such a lot of fun and she has been sorely missed. The TOPSHOP business has developed extensively around the globe since we launched with Kate in 2007, and its our intention to launch and sell this collection in all 40 countries world-wide where TOPSHOP has a presence, in addition to creating pop-ups in department stores around the globe”. 

KATE MOSS said “I have really missed being involved in the design process, and working with the team at TOPSHOP. I am very excited to create a new collection that bears my name. Now more than ever with London being at the forefront of fashion as it feels like I’m back home working with TOPSHOP”. 

KATE PHELAN commented “Kate is a fashion superstar who sets the trends and influences style, I am looking forward to working with Kate who brings her star quality to TOPSHOP” 

The collection will go on sale globally in April 2014, and the creative teams are working closely with Kate and longtime friend and collaborator Katy England on a multi-platform launch campaign that will evolve the partnership and generate access and excitement for her fans world-wide.

Denim Days with Topshop

First 466/64 Store Pops Up for Spring

Just in time for Spring comes the first-ever 466/64 Pop Up Store, bringing the vibrant fashion brand right into the heart of Nelson Mandela Square, Johannesburg ...

South Africa’s first global fashion brand, renowned for reflecting the different hues, textures and incredible energy of Africa in its seasonal collections, makes its pop up debut on 4 September 2013. 

The 400 square metre 466/64 Pop Up Store will open for a limited time only until end January 2014, and will launch with the brand’s latest summer season range, a 466/64 kids range section, and a limited selection of favourite items. The 466/64 Pop Up Store will also offer some hot spring and summer value deals, as well as specials over the festive season, giving individuals the chance to celebrate the end of the year wrapped in the bold colours and patterns that are integral to 466/64’s much-loved signature style. 

“We have been looking for the perfect time and space to give our customers an opportunity to enjoy a broader and more dedicated brand experience,” says Wayne Bebb, CEO of Brand ID, the license holder and custodian of the 466/64 fashion brand. 

Since 466/64's inception, the design team has been known for creatively weaving the iconic inspiration of Nelson Mandela into the clothing. “We are a fashion brand with a purpose and part of that purpose is to take forward Nelson Mandela’s humanitarian legacy,” says Chris Vogelpoel, Creative Director for 466/64. 

“The response to the brand has been exceptionally positive both locally and internationally and we’re looking forward to a busy and successful phase ahead,” continued Bebb. 

Image from 466/64 Summer 'Freedom' campaign shoot
(Totally LOVE the Variety of Prints)

“Over and above our Spring Pop Up we have plans for a stand-alone store in South Africa for 2014, and, together with our international partners, are finalising the plans for the launch of 466/64 in Brazil, Europe and the UK in early 2014”.

Image from 466/64 Summer 'Freedom' campaign shoot

Preen x Aldo Rise

The wait is over! In stores now, ALDO RISE is proud to launch its third collaboration with London-based design duo Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi of Preen by Thornton Bregazzi.

Buffalo 66, the darkly absurd cult American film, characterized Preen's perpetual play on the masculine and feminine identity for Spring/Summer 2013. The PREEN x ALDO RISE collection contrasts classic shapes with striking patchwork combinations. Stand-out styles include a pump with mixed exotic influences and asymmetric vamp; an ankle-strap stiletto with a flash of neon and touch of snake. Detailed with a silver square metal lock closure, the collection is an exquisite distillation of Preen's masterful balance.

PREEN x ALDO RISE is now available in select ALDO stores worldwide. Through ALDO RISE, ALDO supports, promotes and celebrates daring talent in the fashion community.

Moonlight Sonata

The romantic allure of first spring is captured in Moonlight Sonata, the whimsical new story from Forever New ... 

A delicate airiness conjures a feminine colour palette of ivory powder, dusky lilac, soft mint, apricot and periwinkle; awash in vintage border florals and swirly deco prints. 

Bygone eras are subtly referenced with vintage details on new season shapes. Crochet inserts and white on white embroidery decorate blouses and tops, with deco style embellishment adoring dresses for formal occasions. Column maxi dresses, floaty split-hem gowns and flouncy 1950’s style prom dresses are the perfect choices for the first occasions of the season. 

This graceful collection is enhanced with classic finishing touches. Pastel-toned structured day bags and box clutches make pretty day-to-night options, while heels are worn tall with dainty ankle straps and intricate embellished details. Jewellery is subtly shimmering and encrusted with pearls and gemstones. 

Some Items I can't wait to get my hands on:

Left: Petalcream Greta Sparkle Silk Maxi R2299.00

Right: Spliced Animal Lara Printed Maxi Dress R1799.00

Nude Croc Mary Jane Day Bag R499.99

 Left: Seafoam Prue Notched Blazer R899.00

Right: Mirror Floral Brynn Printed Dress R1199.00 

Be swept away with the dreamy Moonlight Sonata collection, available in all Forever New stores and select Edgars stores from 22 August 2013.

All Photos via Forever New

Wrangler product innovation in Summer 2013 collection

Wrangler is proud to announce a product innovation that sees them adding the Waterless Eco denim to their Summer 2013 Collection. Established in 1904,Wrangler's highlight for the season shows their dedication to sustainability and the environment ...

“Sustainability has become a major issue for fashion producers which has lead toWrangler successfully developing treatments that require less water, less energy and fewer chemicals, while still enabling fantastic vintage looks,” says Wrangler’s Marketing Manager, Clair Mortimer. “It's something Wrangler has been working on for a few seasons and feel is important in the market place.”

With the bleaching agent taken out of the finishing to reduce the chemical usage, water consumption has been drastically reduced; all the while, still achieving the same results. The final result is a jean made in a much cleaner way as processes like drying and rinsing, after using chemicals, have been cut out. This results in less tumbles in the machine and reduced energy.

The “Eco Treated” denim is now available at Stuttafords nationwide, retailing at R599.

Forever New's Botanica Collection

Inspired by bouquets of blooms and Monet’s garden landscapes the new Botanica Collection from Forever New offers fresh, new found femininity ...

The softest of flowers set against painted, flowering, garden landscapes conjures a delicate palette reminiscent of Ladurée macaroons; with shades of aqua mist, apricot sorbet, powder blue, lilac, petal pink and Chantilly cream. 

Watercolour floral silk prints flow on evening gowns, with prom dresses featuring lace, crochet and delicate embroidery details. Flounces and ruffles create beautiful movement in the softest of shades, while blossom applique details are delicately feminine. 

The gentle and romantic story is set off with sparkling jewels that are intricately detailed with petal shapes and ladylike pearls. Pastel rose-hued party heels and embellished modern box clutches provide the polished finishing touches for occasion looks. 

Some of my favourite pieces from the Collection:

Jenny Frill Front Dress Floral Print R1499

Left to Right: Tamara Twist Back Tank Abstract Floral Print R449; Lottie Shimmer Scarf in Porcelain R229

Snow Maxi Dress Water Floral R1999

Sweet Sorbet Clutch in Aquatic Mist R299

Lydia Lace Cape Dress in Vintage Cream R899

Alizia Embellished Stretch Bracelet in Mint R199

Soft, fresh and entirely feminine, Botanica brings the promise of spring into full bloom. The collection will be available in all Forever New stores and select Edgars stores from 10 July 2013. 

All images via Forever New

International Fashion Sale on a Bigger Scale

Lakusasa Exhibitions brings you the 2013 International Fashion Sale under new ownership, new management and new strategies. From 26 to 28 July 2013, an International Fashion Sale extravaganza will be held at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand ...

With a “winter wonderland” theme, shopping hours from 10am till 10pm, it promises discounts of up to 70% on local and international clothing brands like Tom Ford, Roberto Cavalli, Marc Jacobs and Cazal sunglasses; popular international men’s wear brands such as Borgat Man, X-Seption and Mondo Barracci, an exclusive Turkish brand. The ladies will also be in for a shopping treat indulging in various cosmetics, fragrances, and lingerie brands; shopping Errol Arends clothing as well as shoes at discounted prices. 

There will be spot prizes up for grabs for all in attendance, a well orchestrated fashion show and refreshment bars for recharging after a long day of shopping. With Metro fm broadcasting at the IFS grounds and Grazia Magazine offering the shoppers a pampering station throughout the shopping days, there is no doubt that the 2013 International Fashion Sale will be spectacular, a place for a fashionista at heart! 

Marc Jacobs for Coca-Cola light® ♥

When you combine fashion and Coca-Cola light®, you are bound to get a sparkling result. Today, we announce the latest fashion forward campaign that will tantalise your taste buds. Straight from the runway, we present Coca-Cola light® and Marc Jacobs Sparkling Together ...

Coca-Cola light® has seen international designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier and Karl Lagerfeld lend their creativity to the iconic bottle in 2011 and 2012 respectively.

This year, Marc Jacobs brings his unique vision to the brand, uniting the stylish and light-hearted personalities of both icons. Inspired by the ’80s, ’90s and ’00s, the chic designs capture a celebration of women through the decades, with a whimsical twist–true to Jacobs’ signature style.

Jacobs’ collection exudes a youthful spirit, with provocative artistry–the perfect partner to collaborate with Coca-Cola light®.

Marc Jacobs commented, “I feel very privileged to be the new creative director of Coca-Cola light® in 2013 and put my stamp on the Sparkling Together campaign. Coca-Cola light® is an icon… and I love an icon.”

Coca-Cola light® and Marc Jacobs 330ml cans, 500ml and 2L PET are available in store this June ♥

There's even a cute video to go along with the campaign! A must watch!

images via Coca Cola

Info via Brand Ambassador