Tiny TotesMore than skirts are going mini....
Tiny Totes
More than skirts are going mini. Handbags too are shrinking. “There’s a shift toward smaller sizes,” says Cartier spokesman Brian Lange. “There are some women who realize a need for something very small, very chic for a dressy occasion or evening.” The legendary design house offers a limited edition collection in genuine alligator. There are only five of each color of each of these, selling for $6,800 apiece. A black calf version is available, however, for $1,250.
Exposed Chapeaus
How many hatboxes have you dug through to find the headgear you’re looking for? San Clemente-based Graphic Signature has created clear acrylic hatboxes in five sizes (about $40 to $80 each, or a set of three for $135). They’re part of a line of see-through organizers intended to showcase and protect. “You get a lot more wear out of your accessories and wardrobe when you can see what you have,” says creator Gretchen Benedetto.
Family Chains
The rage for kid designers grows with the Castillo sisters: Alexandra, 8, above, and Christina, 6, of Taxco, Mexico. But this is a matter of tradition over trend for these girls, whose grandfather and grand uncle started a namesake “ranch” devoted to silver artistry 54 years ago. Their mother, Emilia, who designs a line of holloware, converted one of her elder daughter’s drawings into earring four years ago. “She’s getting to be an old artist now,” Mom quips. “Instead of ‘mom and dad’ going to work, it’s the whole family who’s involved.” (Dad serves as the ranch’s administrator.) Indeed, all four are touring U.S. stores and will be at Neiman Marcus in Newport Beach Saturday. The jewelry line for kids retails for about $30 to $45.
The Agony of Da’ Feet
Stomping fast into the urban wilderness: hiking and other burly boots. Even if their use is limited to savage city streets, boots are only as comfy as the socks within. And pretty lace anklets don’t fit the look. “Go for coarse-gauge knit socks in heavier wools, wool blends and the trendier superfibers,” suggests Jeff Lessard, a spokesman with Fox River Mills. The Iowa company has been making socks since 1900. “The biggest misconception is cotton. The only way to have a real healthy foot is keep it dry. Cotton stores moisture inside a shoe.” Fox River hosiery in both natural and new synthetic fibers is available at most sporting goods stores for $5 to $15.
