At Long Last, Brandon Blackwood Expands Into Footwear
- 1/20
At Long Last, Brandon Blackwood Expands Into Footwear
Welcome to March, arguably the month of spring fashion.We’re getting into the swing of the season with a noticeable lack of winter clothing, as we begin to swap our winter gear for something a little lighter (and arguably more floral). This month promises to be an exciting one, with Brandon Blackwood’s long-awaited expansion into footwear, Jean Paul Gaultier’s second collab with Y/Project, and Zara Studio’s latest ethereal offering. Make sure to check back throughout the month for all the collaborations, launches, and news that you definitely don’t want to miss.
Zhong Lin - 2/20
1) Brandon Blackwood (Finally) Expands Into Footwear
$565.00
Who: Brandon Blackwood
What: Footwear launch
Where: Online at brandonblackwood.com
Why: Brandon Blackwood stormed onto the accessories scene with instantly covetable and affordable handbags that are as practical as they are damn fun. The founder is setting his sights on building a lifestyle brand, with the successful launch of outerwear last fall, and now is expanding into footwear. It's a natural step for the accessories-heavy brand, and the range delivers on his world of whimsy and sexiness with thigh-high slouchy black boots, heeled Chelsea boots, sky-high platforms in bright colors, and even heeled sandals with joints (!) and taxis as heels. Because a true city girl needs some stompers to get her high— literally.
Zhong Lin - 3/20
2) Jean Paul Gaultier Collabs With Y/Project, Again
$300.00
Who: Jean Paul Gaultier
What: Collaboration with Y/Project
Where: Online at jeanpaulgaultier.com
Why: Jean Paul Gaultier is the undisputed king of camp and irony, and also a designer who has his finger on the pulse of today. Between his guest-designed couture shows and fresh new collections, the brand is staying in touch with its past and embracing the new vanguard. Case in point: this second iteration of the playful, cheeky collab with Y/Project. This round leans heavily into the trompe l'oeil effects that debuted on the Y/Project runway last year, with skin-grazing skirts, dresses, and tops printed with "tops," body scans, and the much-beloved JPG nautical stripe top. Everything is not as it seems, and that's just how they want it.
Thomas Cristiani - 4/20
3) Zara Studio Introduces SS23 Collection
Zara Studio
zara.com
$229.00
Who: Zara
What: Zara Studio SS23
Where: Online at zara.com
Why: For the uninitiated, Zara Studio is an elevated line from the retail conglomerate, offering a more design-heavy take on the season’s hottest trends. For SS23, the focus is on white, creams, and dusty pinks, giving ethereal, flowy country dresses a welcome cosmopolitan update. It’s as if Alexa Chung and the Virgin Suicides costume designer made a collection together, resulting in an offering of silk slip dresses, easy blouses, and macramé tops that are perfect for spring and summer nights, either at the beach or in the city.
Steven Meisel - 5/20
4) Valentino Unveils ‘Unboxing Valentino’ Windows Worldwide
Valentino
valentino.com
Who: Valentino
What: “Unboxing Valentino” window installations
Where: In nine selects cities worldwide and online at valentino.com
Why: Creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli’s latest vision for Valentino was the SS23 show “Unboxing,” an intentional move to strip down the brand to its essence. To celebrate the arrival of the minimal yet oh-so-chic and fanciful collection, Valentino invited nine renowned stylists from around the world to create window installations in their respective city’s storefronts. The ideas ranged from classic Valentino red in New York by Law Roach to the literal unboxing pictured here in the Paris storefront, as imagined by Clément Lomellini. It’s like Christmas in March!
Courtesy of Valentino - 6/20
5) FoundRae Releases Medallion in Support of PEN America
FoundRae
foundrae.com
Who: FoundRae
What: Strength Exuberant Medallion in support of PEN America
Where: Online at foundrae.com through the end of March
Why: Beth Hutchens of FoundRae believes deeply in the power of free speech and female voices, which is exactly why she released the quietly fierce lion medallion in support of PEN America, a nonprofit that works to protect open expression. To help get the word out, Hutchens hosted an intimate dinner with writer and PEN America member Cleo Wade to support voices that are being silenced, with ever-increasing censorship of important and hard-hitting stories that speak power to truth. Through the end of the month, 100 percent of proceeds from the medallion will go to PEN America, plus, through April 15, any donation over $25 made to the organization automatically enters you into a giveaway of the medallion set on a necklace. “There is the overt strength a writer has when they put pen to paper to express an idea that isn’t widely accepted, or when they are willing to tell an untold story,” says Hutchens in a press release. “There is the strength and will of PEN America to stand up and protect the rights of the writers and then there is the strength of the supporters who stand in strength as witnesses and in support of these courageous acts.” Do your part.
Courtesy of Foundrae - 7/20
6) Staud Launches Bridal Collection
Staud
staud.clothing
$395.00
Who: Staud
What: Staud Bride
Where: Online at staud.clothing and in Staud stores nationwide
Why: More and more, modern brides are looking for streamlined, simple dresses to celebrate their nuptials without sacrificing style. Enter Staud Bride, a collection realized by the brand that’s been dressing cool downtown girls since its inception, at a relatively accessible price point. The bridal range includes everything from simple A-line dresses to full-on feathered frocks, plus white accessories and even bridal party looks. Nothing’s too fancy, so expect them to live in your closet long after the wedding.
Courtesy of Staud - 8/20
7) Polo Launches Intimates and Sleepwear
Polo Ralph Lauren
ralphlauren.com
$38.00
Who: Polo Ralph Lauren
What: Intimates and sleepwear
Where: Online at ralphlauren.com
Why: Polo’s pieces are often geared toward the woman on the go, but for its latest launch, the brand is focused on the slower moments spent lounging at home. A new selection of sleepwear and intimates includes body-hugging ribbed underwear in organic cotton with logo waistbands, plus super-luxe silk robes, pajamas, and even mesh bras for slimming support. The iconic Polo striped shirt appears as a crisp poplin, perfect for a very stylish breakfast in bed.
Courtesy of Polo - 9/20
8) Sperry Partners With Brooks Brothers on Shoe Capsule
Sperry x Brooks Brothers
sperry.com
$74.95
Who: Sperry and Brooks Brothers
What: Sperry x Brooks Brothers shoe capsule
Where: Online at sperry.com
Why: If you’re already planning your summer wardrobe and feeling preppy, look no further. Two stalwarts of American clothing, Sperry and Brooks Brothers, teamed up to create a collection of Sperrys infused with the timeless sensibility of Brooks Brothers, including casual white slip-ons with a terry cloth lining. These shoes are not just for boating—they’ll work for just about anything summer is going to throw at you.
COURTESY - 10/20
9) Tommy Hilfiger and Shawn Mendes Collab on Preppy—and Sustainable!—Collection
TommyxShawn
tommy.com
Who: Tommy Hilfiger and Shawn Mendes
What: The TOMMYXSHAWN collection
Where: Online at tommy.com, in Tommy Hilfiger stores, and at select retail partners worldwide starting March 15
Why: In case you missed the last two seasons of trends, prep is back—in a huge way. Tommy Hilfiger was, and is, one of the proprietors of the put-together look, defining the ’90s with his crisp, singular polos, oxford shirts, and chinos. For a 2023 update, Tommy has enlisted none other than Shawn Mendes, the internet’s favorite boyfriend and hitmaker, to collaborate on a refreshing collection of updated classics. The range pushes Tommy’s sustainability and circularity efforts to a new high, with the “Classics Reborn” idea taking roots in recycled fabrics, dyes, and ways of dressing that feel as good as they did in their heyday (even if Mendes wasn’t born then…). The collab isn’t even out yet, but we’ve got our eye on...pretty much everything.
Cass Bird - 11/20
10) Mother Denim Pays Tribute to David Bowie With New Capsule
motherdenim.com
$475.00
Who: Mother Denim
What: The BOWIE x MOTHER capsule collection
Where: Online at motherdenim.com and in stores globally
Why: David Bowie left an indelible mark on both the music and fashion worlds, so much so that his trademark stage makeup and androgynous style lives on well past his passing. A new capsule from Mother Denim, titled BOWIE x MOTHER, honors the musician’s legendary Ziggy Stardust days with a chunky knit cardigan (pictured here), band tees, and flared denim emblazoned with gold stars and “The Jean Genie” across the butt. A legendary collab, just like Bowie himself.
Courtesy - 12/20
11) Chanel Releases High Jewelry Book
CHANEL
thamesandhudson.com
$200.00
Who: Chanel
What: Chanel Haute Joaillerie
Where: Online at thamesandhudson.com and amazon.com
Why: Since its inception as a brand over 100 years ago, Chanel has defined modern luxury at every step. To honor its rich storytelling through jewels (what else?), the house is releasing Chanel Haute Joaillerie, an all-encompassing review of the gems it’s been responsible for crafting, from Gabrielle Chanel’s creations all the way up to those dreamed up by Patrice Leguéreau, director of the Chanel Fine Jewelry Creation Studio. The through line is a commitment to using only the best materials, and crafting heirlooms that stand the test of time. The same could be said about this gorgeous collector’s item of a book, which deserves a place on your coffee table, stat.
Courtesy of Chanel - 13/20
12) Harley-Davidson Launches H-D Collections
H-D Collections
$1300.00
Who: Harley-Davidson
What: H-D Collections
Where: Online at hdcollections.com
Why: Harley-Davidson is synonymous with biker style, and has been for over 120 years. Under the creative direction of Louise Goldin, the iconic moto brand is launching three different lifestyle labels to appeal to every customer: Originals for all the Gen Z-beloved racer tees, Authorized Vintage for holy grail finds, and Bar & Shield, a design-forward line (pictured here) with elevated basics made with premium fabrics. Not riding has never looked so good.
Courtesy of Harley Davidson - 14/20
13) DL1961 Collaborates With KSENIASCHNAIDER
DL1961
nordstrom.com
$349.00
Who: DL1961 and
What: Exclusive collaboration
Where: Online at dl1961.com, nordstrom.com, and other retailers
Why: New York-based denim brand DL1961 has teamed up with Ukrainian designer Ksenia Schnaider on an exclusive, experimental capsule of denim (think: multi-colored patchwork, fray, and fringe) that gives back. A portion of sales go toward United24, a global fundraising initiative supporting Ukraine launched by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
nordstrom.com - 15/20
14) Aquazzura Introduces Handbags
Aquazzura
aquazzura.com
$2695.00
Who: Aquazzura
What: Handbag line
Where: Online at aquazzura.com, in Aquazzura boutiques worldwide, and at select retailers, including saks.com
Why: Aquazzura is responsible for the most delectable, wearable, and unique footwear on the scene. Creative director Edgardo Osorio recently expanded into the home category, and now, to further his vision, he’s releasing a selection of handbags for every woman. From the uber-chic croc-embossed Downtown 24/7 bag (pictured here), which holds up to its name with an all-day appeal that city girls will love, to ombré-effect clutches in nappa leather and even lip-shaped minaudières, the range is extensive and speaks to the glamour one can expect from the brand.
Ludovico Lambri - 16/20
15) Re/Done Teams Up With Dr. Scholl’s on Footwear Capsule
shopredone.com
$265.00
Who: Re/Done and Dr. Scholl’s
What: Footwear capsule
Where: Online at shopredone.com and drschollsshoes.com
Why: Your favorite throwback shoes just got a chic upgrade, thanks in large part to vintage-inspired denim brand Re/Done. The classic wooden slide clog from Dr. Scholl’s gets reimagined in five brand-new colorways—including denim made from upcycled scraps—for a capsule that’s both modern and timeless at once.
shopredone.com - 17/20
16) Heaven and Stray Rats Partner on Deftones Capsule Collection
Heaven x Deftones
marcjacobs.com
Who: Heaven and Stray Rats
What: Deftones capsule collection
Where: Online at marcjacobs.com and in-store at Heaven Los Angeles and Dover Street Market Los Angeles, New York, and London
Why: Heaven by Marc Jacobs is the fun-loving, irresponsible brainchild of designer Ava Nirui and Jacobs, creating clothes that match the Gen Z zeitgeist to a tee. The pair continues their working relationship with streetwear brand Stray Rats—specifically, on a collaboration that honors the groundbreaking metal band Deftones. For the last 30 or so years, Deftones has created artful, aesthetically cutting-edge alternative music that has garnered fans who were born after the band formed, proving their lasting power. The collection is rife with mini and oversized logo tees, massive baggy pants, and miniskirts, all perfect for rocking out. We’re particularly fond of the jersey pictured here, emblazoned with the group’s iconic album art from 1997’s Around the Fur.
Courtesy of Heaven - 18/20
17) Caviar Kaspia and Casablanca Introduce Casa Kaspia
caviarkaspia.com
$7500.00
Who: Caviar Kaspia and Casablanca
What: Casa Kaspia collaboration
Where: Exclusively online at casablancaparis.com and on caviarkaspia.com
Why: Caviar Kaspia should be the official sponsor of Paris Fashion Week at this point, having hosted countless fashion events, informal dinners, and catch-ups with editors and influencers between shows. The restaurant has even gone one step further by collaborating with fashion brands. Its latest partnership is with none other than Casablanca, whose relaxed, Euro-chic vibe translates wonderfully to a capsule collection of silk shirts and matching sweatsuits with cheeky nautical themes, and of course a custom tin of Baeri Imperial caviar rendered in Casablanca’s signature blue. Who’s hungry?
Courtesy of Casablanca - 19/20
18) Joopiter to Host Auction of Lorraine Schwartz’s Epic Jewels
Joopiter
joopiter.com
Who: Joopiter
What: Lorraine Schwartz: A Journey Through Gems auction
Where: Online at joopiter.com on March 17
Why: For those who are unfamiliar, Joopiter is Pharrell Williams’ digital-first auction house that launched last year, when the multi-hyphenate artist’s personal collection sold for well above estimates in the groundbreaking Son of a Pharaoh debut auction. For the second go-around, Williams enlisted world-renowned jeweler Lorraine Schwartz, who has created custom pieces for just about every A-list celeb you can name. Schwartz is opening with pieces from her archive, plus newer designs and other items created with Williams exclusively for the big event. We’ve got our eyes on the 18k white gold diamond and Colombian emerald bib necklace with matching earrings, pictured at left. It might be time to start making that wish list.
Courtesy of Joopiter - 20/20
19) Wandler Expands Ready-to-Wear Offerings With Electra Jacket
Wandler
wandler.com
$1600.00
Who: Wandler
What: First ready-to-wear collection
Where: Available for pre-order online at wandler.com
Why: Wandler has fast become the fashion set’s go-to for minimal, high-quality accessories that don’t compromise on comfort. Now, the brand is setting its sights on becoming a one-stop shop with an expansion into ready-to-wear, starting off with the super-luxe Electra jacket. It’s a natural step for the label to bring its leather know-how to jackets, with clean lines and a slight crop that pairs best with Wandler denim.
Courtesy of Wandler
