March 6, 2008
Bostonist Fashion: Designer Umbrellas and Impossible Shoes
It’s been pretty quiet on the fashion front. The shows in Europe are almost over and the Spring/Summer collections are on display in store fronts up and down Newbury Street. So in between listening to Papelbon complain and trying to get tickets to see Shiny Toy Guns on St. Patrick’s Day, why not take a well deserved fashion break.
Fashionistas on a budget should check out Jovovich Hawk at Target. Models Mila Jovovich and Carmen Hawk have taken their high-end, ready-to-wear vintage/bohemian inspired line to the general public. Look for flowery sundresses, floppy hats and tunics as key pieces in their collection. Leelo’s line won't be available until April 12th in stores, but your best bet is buying them online.
How many of you out there have thought to yourself, "You know, the world needs more overpriced designer umbrellas?" Well, feel free to send your thanks to Rihanna. The pop diva of the moment has released her own line of umbrellas, to go along with the song that will never die. While most of us grab whatever free-with-purchase umbrella from the bottom of our closets during New England’s mini monsoon seasons, the singer would like to sell you one of these iridescent rhinestone encrusted numbers. Prices range from $20.00 to $50.00, and you can pick yours up at Macy’s. Unfortunately, a number-one hit single produced by Jay Z that you can make millions off of isn’t included.
Antonio Berardi has designed a pair of shoes that have caused quite a commotion in the fashion world. Not because they're made out of snakeskin and Ingrid Newkirk is on the warpath, but because they have no heels. Who doesn’t want to learn how to walk on a 5 ½ inch platform? Berardi is insisting that women look dainty while you’re tiptoeing in his latest design, while Bostonist feels most women will look like they’re just mere steps away from a shattered ankle and broken nose. Where do we sign up? We were wondering how we were going to use all that vacation time we’ve earned, why not spend it in traction? If you do invest the money into these “shoes,” you won’t be alone. Supposedly after Berardi’s show, Gwyneth Paltrow, Uma Thurman and Victoria Beckham all bought a pair. More proof that some trends shouldn’t be followed.
Post contributed by Jocelyn Celeste. Image from Target's online pressroom.



'Dainty-looking,' huh? Wasn't that the rationale behind footbinding? I suppose at least you can take those hideous shoes off at the end of the day. But still.
(And Fifth Element reference for the win!)