Ahoy Mate! Nautical is on the horizon for Spring 2010

Although nautical classics have never really been out of fashion, but for Spring 2010, the nautical trend has made its way back onto the runway. Fashion lines from Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci to Esprit and Comptoir des Cotonniers are bringing out the nautically inspired stripes for spring women’s wear, and menswear designers including Michael Bastian and Burberry Brit are also going with the look. It’s based on the boat-necked French marine pullover, which is traditionally worn by low-ranking sailors as they swabbed the decks and hence known in France as a marinière,or sailor-style, shirt. When it comes to creating fashion, the reasons why a style takes off are often mysterious. Sometimes, trends evolve slowly from the runways where high-fashion designers strive to introduce new concepts. Sailor uniforms have come in and out of fashion for more than a century. Often, the looks were based on the officers’ double-breasted coats or the dressier uniforms that have a broad collar with a V-shaped front and a flap across the back. The striped sailor’s work shirt is decidedly more casual. It’s such a steady muse for Mr. Gaultier that he dresses his press assistants in them for his shows each season. Last year, France’s Musée National de la Marine thanked Mr. Gaultier for “exceptional” help in producing its book “Les Marins Font La Mode,” or “Sailors Make Fashion.”
Variations of this classic trend is to pair key pieces in moderation, especially when it comes to wearing navy. Covering yourself in stripes and gold buttons from top to bottom is not the way to stay in fashion this Spring. The secret to wearing navy this season is in both subtlety and color combinations. Nautical outfits are normally associated with white and navy but cream and navy and a splattering of beige and red, especially when accessorising.
Nautical Accessories: For nautical accessories, don’t go overboard. Keep jewelry simple – a plain gold chain or some anchor drop earrings, or a rope bracelet or fine necklace decorated with delicate sea charms. Handbag designers have really jumped on board with striped totes, over sized sailor duffel bags and navy and white clutches. Shoes have also been given a nautical twist, with anchor and stripe prints in white and navy or cork heels. If you want to liven up your outfit, then visit your local store and buy a heart-stopping pair of red shoes and matching handbag.Hats are always one of the most favorite accessories especially in the summer time. They not only bring color to our outfit, but protect our hair as well.

Featured at Busacca Fashion Gallery: This navy and cream striped sailor sweater is unique in every way. From the striped detailing down the sleeve, to the weaved rope that is risen and weaved through the red anchor. It's in great condition and ready to be warn by those who love the nautical look. The garment is 100% cotton and extremely soft in touch. Measurements taken flat from seam to seam. Double measurements to get full circumference.

Link: http://www.busaccafashiongallery.com/catalog.php?catid=1600001&itemid=32&page=1#

The Return Of Distressed Denim, Spring 2010

Levi Strauss introduced denim in one of the best cities of the world, San Francisco, CA. Several trends have surfaced on the runway this season, which highlights some of the classics. Peek-A-Boo Denim: Denim jackets peeking out from underneath leather jackets and over sized blazers, a subtle nod to the 90s without overdoing it, adds a nice layered look that is casual and smart-looking. Ripped, Torn and Patched Denim: Although the days of torn jeans and patches don't seem too long ago, they're already back! They hint towards a fierce, strong character similar to the military jackets that have been in the spotlight these last few seasons. This spring and summer are the season of RIPPED jeans, what’s not cool before is cool now. A great thing about this trend is that fashionistas can manifest this trend with what they already have in their closet. Pair with a simple white tee. Looser Pant: For the last 10 years, skinny pants have dominated leg wear. This trend ultimately led to the legging revolution of the last five years. This spring, there are much looser pants, suggesting a possible end to the skinny jean decade. You can put your billowy harem pants in your wardrobe. You don't need to wear them that were seen around many of the spring fashion runways. Get comfortable this spring in relaxed ankle crop pants. 2010 Spring fashion features relaxed pants that are easy to wear.

At BusaccaFashionGallery.com, features a sleek straight leg , manufactured by jean designer label, Stitches. These slim straight leg jeans are a comfortable, yet stylish bottom. A close fit to a skinny jean, fit snug around the calf, they can easily fit into a boot without added fabric. The denim is a light wash, with a dirty fade to create contour to the leg for a slimmer fit. The wash and fit is extremely versatile, which can easily be dressed up with a pair of heels, or dressed down with sandals. They are also a mid-rise jean which adds to the overall comfort and confidence of not falling out of them when sitting down. Pockets are strategically placed slightly higher and closer together to provide a round bottom. Made with 98% cotton & 2% stretch, the denim retains its fit after wash. http://www.busaccafashiongallery.com/catalog.php?catid=64&itemid=25&page=1. For the latest postings & merchandise, visit http://www.busaccafashiongallery.com/.

Re-invention of the 80's Shoulder Pad

It's back....! Back in the 80's, shoulder pads were used with almost everything in the wardrobe, from jackets and blazers to evening dresses and casual tops. Some time later high shoulders were successfully forgotten and outdated, though this fall they are the actual trend to serve for a trendy and a powerful woman of today. That trendy item became actual thanks to Christophe Decarnin, the Creative Manager to the French House of Balmain. It was Decarnin who reincarnated such a recognizable element of the '80s when he launched collections for Spring-Summer 2009 with a line of military-styled jackets and dresses with shoulder pads.
The passion for Balmain that the fashion world was seized with was productive to the extent that in the beginning of this year the other designers followed Balmain and presented Fall-Winter'09-10 ensembles styled '80s, from Donna Karan and Louis Vuitton to Julien Macdonald and Jean Paul Gaultier. The trend is believed to origin from the '80s though the true prototype of the style was that of the post-war epoch.
High shoulders apparently specified authority and aggressiveness though at the same time they make the silhouette slimmer. But high shoulders are not that fashionable thing to suit everyone. Shoulder pads can be tremendously risky to the self-esteem and image of those women who wear them wrongly or with the wrong styles. The most recent collection by Christian Dior, the trend that was the pre-image of the style of the coming '80s in the second half of the forties was smoothed by femininity and stylishness of works by the French designer. The image of a powerful woman was recollected some time later, in the year 1975, when flowery prints and loose flying silhouettes of blouses were in the great fame.
Soon after, the founder of the fashionable brand Biba, the designer Barbara Hulanicki, launched fur coats with high shoulders. She was followed by Ossie Clark and Bill Gibb who used shoulder pads to add some distinctness to their romantic chiffon ensembles in the end of seventies. The other «forefather» of high shoulders is the celebrated French couturier Yves Saint Laurent. In 1966 the designer opened his iconic Le Smoking, a manly smoking only for women. Owing to Saint Laurent the pantsuit became far more sexual for women for the accented thin waist matched with high shoulders. Later on, Bianca Jagger contributed to popularization of such pantsuits and when she married to Mick Jager in 1980, she wore a white smoking with shoulder pads, and then she regularly appeared in similar jackets in public.
In the middle of the eighties many women imitated the figure of the character played by Melanie Griffith in «Business woman» movie or actresses from the legendary soap opera «Dynasty». As for men, they were not aside of the fashion and they liked the image created by the legendary Pop King Michael Jackson when he set trend for a military-styled jackets with shoulder pads. At the end of the day, it was Michael Jackson who made high shoulders come back in fashion. His favorite military-styled jackets were the source of inspiration for Christophe Decarnin from Balmain followed by other designers. Today a jacket, and even dresses with high shoulders is an absolute must-have for the winter season. Most recently, one of the largest fashion brands showed the example to cheaper retailers, from Topshop to New Look with collections launching really elegant jackets with high shoulders.

For more on the latest trends & postings, visit our website, www.busaccafashiongallery.com!

Fashion's Hidden Treasures

Vintage jewelry has gained increasing popularity over the years. Designers & many fashion savvy individuals have incorporated these timeless pieces into their everyday wardrobe. Busacca Fashion Gallery, a unique online retail consignment gallery, catalogues & showcases unique items, both old & new. BFG aims to find, especially in jewelry pieces, items that can extend beyond the current trends. When it comes to looking for vintage jewelry, there is virtually no difference between costume jewelry and antique jewelry. Costume jewelry dates back to the 1930s. By the definition of "antique," that would also make it antique jewelry. However, most jewelry pros agree that antique jewelry predates the 1930s. Costume jewelry came into being in the 1930s as a cheap, disposable accessory meant to be worn with a specific outfit, but not meant to be handed down through generations. It was intended to be fashionable for a short period of time, out date itself, and then be repurchased to fit with a new outfit or new fashion style. Jewelry reflects styles, designs, colors and stones of an era. In the 1930s rhinestone's popularity was ever increasing in Europe. As a result, many of the pieces from this period tend to feature lots of metal and a single stone or a small cluster of tiny rhinestones.
Costume jewelry styles of past years are now becoming very fashionable, and many are being reproduced. Even among costume jewelry there is a difference in quality. Many of the new pieces do not have the vibrance in the stones or the weight of the older pieces. Antique and vintage costume jewelry are both fun to collect and fun to wear. Bring a simple outfit to life with some old finds. Combining old with current trends can instantly vamp up your look & make it unique. No longer is costume jewelry simply "collectible." It is "in style," and "fashionable," and a terrific conversation starter.
To view more of these timeless vintage pieces, please visit www.busaccafashiongallery.com.

Gallerist Mark Busacca: Passion for Collecting

Five years ago, while looking for collectible antiques online, San Francisco artist Mark Busacca was disappointed that his searches yielded only text-based results. "As a visual person," he recalled, "I wanted to see the objects before considering a purchase." So he took matters into his own hands. With the goal of eventually launching an online consignment gallery, Busacca established a bricks-and-mortar location to learn the ins and outs of running a gallery. Busacca Gallery opened its doors in the Russian Hill neighborhood in 2007, carrying a variety of art and antiques from his personal collection. In January, after years of research and hard work, the Web site (busaccagallery.com) began offering objects from hundreds of sellers worldwide.

His daughters, Jennifer and Brittany, apparently paid close attention to his successful consignment business model and recently created an offshoot, Busacca Fashion Gallery (busaccafashiongallery.com).
As he weaves through the shelves and tables in his packed gallery (2010 Hyde St.) relating the history of piece after piece, Busacca's passion for collecting is obvious.
"Part of it is the idea of show and tell," he explained, "sharing with other people, teaching them about something they didn't know anything about."
The Busacca cheat sheet: Local gallery for global art: "I love Spanish colonial art because of its richness yet earthiness. I recommend James Eddy, owner of the Colonial Arts Gallery, as a great resource for Spanish colonial antiques, Mexican folk art, retablos, santos, Guatemalan masks, talavera pottery and much more. James has a great eye, and his collection is second to none." (colonialarts.com)
Go-to shop for gifts: "When I want to get a gift for someone special, I go to elle-même on Russian Hill. The exquisitely designed shop displays a mix of fine and fashion jewelry from over the last 100 years in vignettes of complementary paired sets, each in individually lit cabinets. Denise Kohne's taste is superb and occasionally whimsical, so I can find just what I want." (elle-meme.com)

Art expertise: "When private clients, interior designers or corporations ask me for an art consultant to help them with major decisions about purchasing modern and contemporary art, I am proud to recommend Holly Baxter. I have known Holly for years and regard her as San Francisco's premier art authority. She can perform any services a client might require, from research to acquisition to framing." (baxterandcook.com)
Essential event: "The San Francisco Fall Antiques Show is where I get some great works of art every year. It is the oldest continuously operating international antiques show on the West Coast. It features approximately 70 dealers from across the United States and Europe, offering for sale an extraordinary range of fine and decorative arts representing all styles and periods. This show is vetted to ensure the highest quality merchandise. A must-see." (sffas.org)
Objects of inspiration: "When I need my design fix, I go to De Vera, architecturally designed objects by Federico De Vera. I admire his impeccable taste and design sense. It is a pleasure to just spend an hour looking at his collection. From the perfection of lacquer card cases to contemporary Italian glass, it is an environment to savor." (deveraobjects.com)Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/25/HO0L1AT86A.DTL#ixzz0ar0EvzT8

Footwear Dominates Winter, 2010

Footwear & leather inspired trends for Winter 2010, hit the runway with a dominating presence that was difficult to look anywhere other than south of one's ankle. The main trend for Shoes Fall 2009-Winter 2010 are ankle boots and Over-The-Knee boots.
The colour palette for the coming cold season looks dark, nearly mystic.Near-black and black and colors that go between midnight blue, asphalt, dark green, petrol, dark violet and deep reds display themselves from an inconceivable side.
Above the Knee Boots: Every socialite and off-duty model was photographed in her over-the-knee quilted Chanel boots last year. This year, above the knee boots are most popular in heeled versions (rather than small or flat heels) with suede the material of choice. Just a few of the of the designer's that inspired today's Winter trends, Badgley Mischka, Akris, and Fendi.
Reptile leathers: Alligator, crocodile, lizard, snake... reptilian skins are a major trend choice for footwear. Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren, Derek Lam, Cavalli, YSL provided the feeling of exotic and luxurious through their reptile & leather inspirations. Used in the most classic of ways; subtle, refined and yet bold.
Fringing and Folk-Inspired: Folk-inspired with an ethnic twist,fringed boots are the defining feature of the trend, with other details like studs and tooled leather adding to the crafty, bohemian feel. Gucci, Balmain, Anna Sui featured the short fringed ankle-boots in leather or suede can look sexy with bare legs or tights. They can add a ruffian charm to a sophisticated outfit, or be thrown together with an everyday outfit for casual chic.
Featured at www.busaccafashiongallery.com, Fashion forward ALDO ankle bootie heels! Their cutout profile is unique and stylish, and makes us instantly fall for them http://www.busaccafashiongallery.com/catalog.php?catid=235&itemid=511&page=1. Also with buckled straps and geometric studding detail, you can't go wrong. Super cute paired with a skirt or skinny jeans. They are soft leather so there is no need to work them in before wearing them out during a long night on the town. The heel is 2.5 inches.

Color Palette & Fabrics for Spring 2010

This season color is a rainbow of possibilities, with a tapestry of color from Earthy tones to eye catching brights, to soft water colors. Some of the color stories for Spring, 2010. There are some key trends for Spring/Summer 2010, which are inspired by relaxation and casual classic apparel. Fabrics are light in weight. Silhouettes are looser this season. Athletic and Nautical details continue. There is a 1960’s influence for the younger customer. Prints and Patterns play a key role in creating excitement and newness.
COLOR
1. Think sandy beaches. One of the key components for next seasons color palette are neutrals. Valentino's Spring line displayed colors ranging from seashell white, golden sand shades, and driftwood taupe.
2. Water colors- Soft, chalk-like pastels influenced by water color paintings. These soft shades work well with white and light sand shades mentioned above.
3. Spa and Pool inspired shades, water inspired blues mixed with blue/ greens such as Aqua and Teal.
4. Sunny Yellows emerge with gold cast. Greens are inspired by Grass and Leaves and have a yellow cast. Along with bright yellow and greens, fruity Shades of peach, oranges and shades of pink and berry. Look out for coral! Coral will be a hot color for this fashion season.
5. Purples continue to be strong, and one of my favorite colors, will remain strong, especially in the periwinkle blue tones.
6. Nautical color story by using shades of orange, reds, coral and aqua update the traditional palette.
7. Muted color palettes, resembling dusk or early evening. This is an important palette because of sand-washed silks and washed linen fabrics which compliment the inspired color scheme.

FABRICS
1. Light and Fresh- A dressed down look blending dress and casual clothes. Color is key highlighting the soft water colors with neutrals. Fabrics are light and airy. Looser silhouettes and soft shapes are important. Styling still remains simple.
2. Leisure Class- This trend is all about weekend wear clothing. Casual Classics with Nautical, or athletic details. Cotton is the key fabrication. Performance
fabrics also work under this trend. Checks, Stripes, color-blocking are key patterns. Bright colors are used mixed with White, Black and Navy.
3. Loose and Free- The anti-establishment trend. 1960’s influence, color and pattern driven. Geared towards the juniors and young men customers. Denim is a key fabrication focusing on washes and deconstruction. Variety of slim and loose silhouettes.
4. Laid Back Attitude- Vacation attire with a tropical island look. There is less
Emphasis on Safari and Tribal Inspirations this season. Texture of fabric increases both for knits and wovens. Pucker, Crinkle, Pebble, Waffle, Herringbone, are important textures. Fabric still remains light in weight. Prints and Patterns are key and is inspired by Polynesian Islands, Peru, Exotic Flowers and Asia.

To view & shop for the latest fashion trends visit www.busaccafashiongallery.com.