FASHION BY THE RULES: The Art of the Glove

One can find art in many areas of fashion, but it is rare than one can find a master of his art in any industry. I have been lucky enough to find such a master and he is in the unlikely business of GLOVES!! Gloves have long been regarded as either utilitarian, theatrical and even possibly a prop which when added to achieve a more compelling image of glamour or aristocracy.

I can think of very few in the fashion business who were considered to be masters of their art. Charles James for the elaborately constructed gowns, Geoffrey Beene for his deceptively simple designs, and possibly Christian Lacroix who elevated the art of the Haute Couture to dizzying heights of perfection. What is curious about these men is their single-minded vision to take their creations to new standards of perfection. Each of the designers lacked a desire to bend to the dictates of any commercial enterprise – each product was conceived from passion and not commercial marketability.

Enter Daniel Storto who took the knowledge bestowed upon him by his Grandfather and turned it into an art form and a passion, the vehicle he uses to convey his art is THE GLOVE. What one can find truly ironic is that the master glove maker resides in Gloversville New York, once the epicenter for glove making in the country.

Mr. Storto has been called in to confer on exhibitions for The Metropolitan Museum of Art, create for the late Alexander McQueen, use his craft to enhance the already theatrical creations of Bob Mackie but he saves his love of his art for his private treasure, the “Hand Bag.” The is an ode to his art…..a one of a kind,totally handmade, hand stitched creation which is constructed from the finest Italian leather and will be sold with one leather glove to match. There is no greater luxe than an item such as this; it is an ultimate expression from an artist who has perfected his craft beyond any expectation.

As further proof of his devotion to his craft, he is working on restoring a space in Gloversville that he will turn into the only museum in the world that will be devoted to the art of the glove.

You need to expand your knowledge by visiting his web site http://www.danielstorto.com/ . Feel free to click on any of the images in this posting for an enlarged view…… The photos are courtesy of Stephen Piersanti and Mr. Storto.

Don’t forget to look for me at http://jeffybruce.blogspot.com/ or on Facebook

Resort Report

It’s that time again, this week’s trend report is the official Oligoville Resort Report. With dozens of amazing designers presenting dazzling accessories, handbags and threads we had to pick a few of our faves to share with you.

While neutrals are present in many Resort collections, I must respectfully look the other way. Nothing against the hues, but as you ladies know, I’m just not a neutral kind of girl.

This resort reprt is all about color and  here are some of my top selections from the trends this year.

Best of Resort #1: Candy Colors

Sonia Rykiel shorts (Mimosa, anyone?)

Prada Clutch:

Ralph Lauren Collection dress:

Best of Resort #2: Turquoise

Oscar de la Renta:

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Chanel (of course) and a Frette towel:

Roberto Cavalli Ring:

Best of Resort #3: Navy and Gold

French Connection top:

Miu Miu Sunglasses:

Proenza Schouler sandal (so hot):

So those are some of my top pieces, but what about complete collections?

A savvy fashionista from NY divulges her top designers, which I must respect and agree with her insider opinion: “[My] three favorite collections shown at New York during Resort 2009 fashion week dazzled me with their lovely, feminine sophistication note. First of all I love their chromatic palettes: white and off-white, grey, rose, crimson red, midnight blue, navy and black and the subtle refinement of the delicate details: ruffles, draping and other embellishments. These are clothes to keep in your wardrobe forever and not just for one holiday.

Carolina Herrera, recently granted with Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award at CFDA, brought out an impeccable chic collection, as always, though with a cheerful, breezy note, perfect for resort: orchid print, wide-leg fluid trousers, sheath dresses with delicate frills, long gowns with bold prints…simply stunning.

Carolina Herrera Resort 2009

Donna Karan showed a romantic resort collection that included delicate pieces in soft makeup colors – blushes, pinks and nudes – emphasized by deep black. Soft fabrics and different textures are cut into gently bubbled silhouettes. Draping or feminine embellishments such as bows add a lot of chic appeal while those breathtaking one-shouldered draped gowns in jersey and silk make you wish a never-ending holiday.

Donna Karan Resort 2009

Zac Posen‘s resort collection is just as lovely and chic and, most of all, very wide-range reaching all sort of sartorial needs that might occur during vacation time. Cocktail dresses with floral prints for outdoor parties, crisp tennis whites for smart looks, loose garments for strolls on a beach and even short dance frocks or Grecian evening gowns.”

Zac Posen Resort 2009

While I won’t be sporting these looks at the lake on this holiday, maybe some of you will at more glamorous locations. These Resort picks are styles that will keep you on the edge of fashion whether you are in the Hamptons, on the beach or staying haute in the City.

XOXO