Little luxuries

There are times when everyone craves a little luxury: that one-of-a-kind item so unique, so stylish, it’s hard to stop thinking about it.

Of course, I believe it’s possible to look great, whatever your budget. However, if you’re on the lookout for something that’s truly a luxury buy, I’d suggest these, Net-A-Porter and Bergdorf Goodman: two luxury sites that feature designer clothing.

All categories of fashion—from top designers—plus curated clothing and accessories, can be found.

Sites like these are visual feasts even if just browsing. With clothing and accessories by designers from A-Z, like Brunello Cucinelli, Carolina Herrera, Erdem, Ferragamo, and Isabel Marant, it’s hard not to find something to love.

Need a floral jacquard cotton midi skirt in Camel by Erdem? Or suede ballerina flats in Chocolate by Brunello Cucinelli?

And that pair of embellished black suede pumps by Ferragamo? Or a Carolina Herrera floral print satin midi dress?

A suede clutch in Midnight Blue by Khaite, made in Italy, is one way to stow your essentials. Then there’s a pair of turquoise satin mules by Alaia or for the next holiday party a silver sequin and lace top by Veronica de Piante made of floral sheer lace, shimmering with sequins.

Yes, some of the fashions on these sites are a little outrageous but for the beautiful items sprinkled in, it’s worth a search.

Fashion has taken a bit of a dive the past few years between minimalist dressing and over-the-top, throw-in-the-kitchen-sink creations but surely this ribbed green mohair and silk cardigan is a find with its soft texture and subtle sheen. Or Saint Laurent’s cropped wool button front cardigan in Nero, with gold medallion buttons: simply stunning.

Prefer a car coat? Valentino Garavani’s brushed cashmere and wool single-breasted coat in Off-White with embellished buttons is ultimate elegance. Add a wide-cuffed, above the ankle pant with Jimmy Choo suede ankle boot in Toffee and you’re practically walking on air.

Need a gorgeous yet understated blazer? This silk-satin blazer by Gucci in a creamy Off-White with gold-tone clasp closure is the finest in Italian tailoring. Wear it over Jil Sander’s turquoise crepe midi skirt and you have a winning outfit. Or switch out the blazer for this slim fit stretch silk blouse by Vince in Optic White: versatile, dressy and great for office or evening.

Remember gabardine? Burberry has a belted woolen midi skirt in Brown that’s retro beautiful. 

Looking for a signature leather belt? Isabel Marant’s Brown Lassio leather belt covers that. How about some cool shades? Dior’s metal oval sunglasses, made in Italy, throw some real shade.

Something soft and textured to swim in? Suni’s textured gingham one-piece swimsuit in pale pink may be the ticket as the temperature rises. And when it’s hot outside, a striped cotton midi dress with structured bodice and pleated skirt in Periwinkle, is all you need to keep that cool.

Going black tie? How about a pleated, off-the-shoulder satin column gown in Champagne for that special occasion? Or a strapless, draped side slit gown by Et Ochs in high sheen, pale green.

A little less formal though still so pretty is Armani’s lilac, long sleeve silk chiffon layered gown.

Whatever your indulgence, or if simply browsing, luxury shopping opens your eyes to what’s possible. Designer styles can be mimicked for less. It’s all about finding what’s right for you.

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