Open Season
Warmer climes mean less of everything--even footwear. The most flattering of heeled looks is the banded model, like Liz Claiborne’s ($69). A slight lift at the sole and a solid heel anchors the airy top. “It works well with deconstructive, sheer clothing, as well as flared trousers,” notes spokeswoman Phyllis Cerrato. In lino leather, the shoe has the look of linen but is less likely to perish, she adds. Available in nutmeg, navy and black, it also comes in metallic in smoother napa leather.
Another Chance
Fans of Comme de Garcons who only admired from afar will have a better chance of enjoying the progressive Japanese label with the debut of a secondary line. The collection of simple, snug-fitting dresses, sweaters and skirts carries the trademark unconstructed feel, says Roman Alonso, a spokesman for Barneys New York. “These looks are a bit more accessible, but they still carry the Comme de Garcons look.” Pieces run about $200--less than half what it could cost for a basic couture item.
Match of the Day
While everyone has rushed out renditions of athletic-inspired streetwear with Adidas-style racing stripes, K.P. Productions comes out ahead with its salute to the World Cup. It seems the San Francisco label already played the track look last year. Cut of the same nylon mesh used for jerseys, the soccer-inspired collection “is just a progression on the sports idea,” says designer Keri White. “We’ve had a brilliant response.” The football frocks and unisex tops and pants were a natural for the British immigrant, who did some kicking of her own as a girl. Choose your own team colors: red, green, yellow, blue, black or silver.
Sign of the Times
File this under freaky items you can live without. Or, great gifts for that person who has it all. The Sharper Image, that purveyor of things for better living, summons you to “wear your own personal billboard.” The Litesign is a mini version of those red digital screens that scroll everything from the news to trivia. (They’re standard at pizza parlors and sports bars.) For $99.95, you can relay your message to the world without even opening your mouth.
