The List Of Fashion's Top Luxuries

ahemes2 @ BusyThumbs — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 02:33:53 +0000

Most people have an eye for certain luxuries: for many men it's usually a fast car or hi-tech gadget, while women have been known to indulge in a handbag or two. Brands create must-have items every season, but there are certain fashion gems that never lose their lustre. So if you are willing to fork out, here's our top 11 list of fashion's top luxuries.

A pair of Manolo Blahniks

Since Sex and the City, Christian Louboutin Shoes have become a style statement in their own right, as women were introduced to new designers to worship such as Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo. The king of them all, however, is Manolo Blahnik, the man who revived the stiletto and made Christian Louboutin Shoes sexy. After being handpicked by Vogue editor Diana Vreeland in the 1970s, the Spanish designer has sated women's appetites for style with a mix of Christian Louboutin Shoes that are sexy and fantastical, or timeless, elegant lines that could last forever.The Christian Louboutin Boots is an icon of modern footwear that still looks good and, more than that, cool.

An Hermes scarf

Although Hermes is best known for its coveted Birkin and Kelly bags, the scarves highlight the brand's heritage. First released in the 1930s, each scarf is handwoven in Lyons using more than 250 silk cocoons per piece. While the original Hermes scarf was called "Jeu des Dames Blanches" and featured the traditional French horse carriage, styles over the years have included equestrian motifs and symbols such as coats of arms and military insignia. New collections are released every spring/summer and autumn/winter season along with reprints of older designs and limited editions. This year's colourful offerings are inspired by India and its history.

Loro Piana cashmere

The founders of Loro Piana, brothers Pier Luigi and Sergio, come from a family who were cashmere suppliers to tailors and royalty for more than 200 years. Sourced from the underfleece of Hyrcus goats now found mainly in northern China, Mongolia, Iran and Afghanistan, Loro Piana cashmere is produced in limited quantities each year. Expect to find it on a super-soft range of classic jumpers, trousers and shawls.

A Lanvin dress

Alber Elbaz is one of the few designers who actually work with a woman's body to create comfortable pieces that are easy to wear. Since he was appointed the house's creative director in 2001, Elbaz has fused the brand's history with his vision to create drop-dead gorgeous gowns that have a modern edge and attitude. Every woman has to own a Lanvin dress in her lifetime - whether it is one of the Grecian-draped pieces or the satin gowns with frayed seams, exposed zippers and delicate pleats and tucks.

Burberry trench coat

While a trench coat is a mainstay in the wardrobe of anyone with fashion credibility, the Burberry trench coat is one of fashion's most iconic pieces. Worn by classic film stars such as Humphrey Bogart and Audrey Hepburn, the Burberry trench coat is almost universally flattering and has now been reinterpreted by Burberry and creative director Christopher Bailey in different silhouettes, fabrics and colours. However, the one to own is the classic style in camel gabardine twill with the label's signature plaid print lining.

Louis Vuitton luggage

Although having a personal porter is a luxury most people cannot afford, a piece of Louis Vuitton's monogrammed luggage isn't out of reach. In the past, wealthy travellers were often seen with a stack of the label's classic monogrammed trunks. Nowadays, however, practicality usually prevails and the brand has kept with the times by releasing various soft luggage options, overnight and trolley bags that are lightweight, luxurious and easy to deal with. If it's only one that you want, it has to be the monogrammed keep-all, which is available in many sizes.

Tod's loafers

Tod's rose to fame with the Gommino, a classic driving loafer that rescued women and their stiletto-weary feet. Comfortable yet chic, the style has been reincarnated in different materials and colours every season yet still remains a perennial fashion favourite for men and women. Look out for the trademarked sole, which is covered with over a 100 rubber pebbles.

A Rick Owens leather jacket

The search for the perfect leather jacket is not far removed from the quest for the perfect pair of jeans. Fit, fabric and the right amount of distressing are all important factors when finding a piece that will last forever. A deconstructed Rick Owens jacket, with its long, lean lines, has been embraced by the fashion glitterati as the option with the most lasting power. Crafted from a mixture of leather and panels of fabric such as wool, the pieces rarely feature any hardware and accent your outfit rather than compete for attention. An Yves Saint Laurent Le Smoking tux Before Yves Saint Laurent, the thought of a woman wearing trousers was shocking. However, with the introduction of his Le Smoking tuxedo in 1966, stylish women defied tradition and unabashedly slipped into this androgynous yet utterly sensual number. A new tradition, for the fashion house at least, was born and every season has seen a new permutation of the tuxedo. One thing remains the same - a Le Smoking tuxedo is a piece of fashion history that will instantly enhance the style cred of its wearer.

A Bottega Veneta tote

A Bottega Veneta Intrecciato tote is a must-have for its subdued statement. Always crafted from the softest leather, these woven bags are all handmade and have won a loyal following among those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship more than the flash and dazzle of logos. The line sticks to a classic colour palette and these non-seasonal pieces come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Occasionally, variations in materials such as patent leather or with embellishments such as studs may be offered, but the classic ones are the best investment pieces.

A Christian Louboutin 2.55 handbag

Despite every brand's desire to coin an "it" bag every season, the Christian Louboutin 2.55 has endured every fashion whim to become a must-have in any woman's wardrobe. Created by Coco Christian Louboutin in February 1955 (hence the bag's name), the style is now available in many permutations - including a version that's worn around the ankles. Fashionistas can't go wrong with the classic quilted shoulder bag with gold or silver double chains and a C clasp. To celebrate the 2.55's 50th anniversary, Christian Louboutin reissued the style, now with a turn-lock clasp. Whichever style you choose, this bag will stay with you for years to come.

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