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Friday, June 19, 2009

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International designer spotlight: Tory Burch The international designer spotlight series is dedicated to introducing you to my favorite ready-to-wear clothing brands. Some of them you may already be familiar with, and I will introduce you to others. Either way, it's an assemblage of hot designers and brands on the rise that you should know from yours truly — your local authority on fashion. Look out for the home-grown designer spotlight series in future columns. This week's designer is all about classic, well-made clothing that is modern and feminine. Tory Burch is well known throughout the world for her preppy, yet bohemian line of sportswear, shoes and accessories. Pairing simple silhouettes with bold prints, vibrant colors and intricate details have created a recipe for success for this Philadelphia transplant who now resides in New York City. Known for her detailed tunics and accessories, the brand name has catapulted and transitioned its co-founder, Tory Burch, from a New York and Philadelphia socialite to a fashion business mogul to be reckoned with. The true manifestation of an overnight success — within one day of opening her first store in New York City's Nolita district the store's inventory was almost sold out! Launched in 2004, Tory Burch now boasts over 16 free standing boutiques in the United States with over 400 high-end boutiques carrying the brand. However, Tory Burch is best known for her shoes — particularly her ballerina flats. Her flats are especially popular in New York City where women are desperate for shoes that are chic and comfortable given all the walking that is done. Perhaps the most popular style is the Reva ballet flat, which had a substantial waiting list in 2007 and was named in honor of her mother Reva Robinson. Tory Burch had extensive experience in the fashion industry before launching her line. However, oddly enough her professional, experience never encompassed her working directly with fashion design. Prior to launching her line she worked at the fashion magazine Harper's Bazaar. She later worked in public relations for Polo Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang. A staple for many New Yorkers and savvy fashionistas world wide — Tory Burch boasts many celebrity fans including Cameron Diaz, Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Lopez, Uma Thurman and Hilary Swank. Winfrey even endorsed the brand on her show in 2005 — only one year after its inception. Tory Burch pieces are constantly featured in fashion magazines including In Style as well as on television shows including the hit series Gossip Girl. She was awarded the 2008 Accessories Designer of the Year by the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America. If you want to invest in a classic shift dress, tunic or shoes — Tory Burch is your go-to designer brand. Her prices are within reach for the average consumer and her pieces will last you many years because of their ease of wear and superior construction and fabrications. She's one of my favorite ready-to-wear designers and one you should add to your wardrobe because of the detailing in her beautiful dresses, caftans and shoes. Intricate beading, elegant embroidery and shimmering gold accents adorn many of her pieces — adding something special and regal to simple silhouettes. A selection of Tory Burch clothing and shoes can be found locally at the Primadona Designer Shopping & Networking events held monthly. For more information call Tyrina at 426-8137 or visit the website at www.primadonasales.com. Got fashion questions, hit up Tyrina at tyrinaalicia@hotmail.com. Tuesday, June 16, 2009