Akris

Yesterday I went to Akris, and I thought it was the best collection ever.

Akris is a Swiss brand sold all over the world. The designer is Albert Kriemler.  His fabrics – the quality of his materials are beyond. But in my opinion, the prices are too high – even though the quality is there. The line used to be very conservative, but in the past couple of seasons Kriemler has added more dresses (which I actually suggested to him).  They are beautiful – and underestimated.  This fall collection was amazing – modern, slim pants with short jackets, chiffon dresses. They’ve got a little structural shape but not like the space cadet.

Akris is very popular in the States because the clothes are beautiful and easier to wear. But still not as popular as in Europe – not sure why? Maybe the windows are a little boring. I think their advertising is great, but with a little movement and some life Akris could be even more attractive. When you walk by the store it doesn’t speak “buy me” – you have to know that the quality is there.

The Crillon

Last night, a fabulous Vogue party at the Hôtel de Crillon hosted by Mario Testino.

Mario Testino

Karl Lagerfeld

Mischa Barton

Carone Roitfeld

Everyone was there – Valentino, Karl Lagerfeld, Carine Roitfeld in a cool Christopher Kane short sexy dress – she looked amazing. Other notables were Mischa Barton in a beautiful Dior Haute Couture beige silk dress cut on the bias with some beautiful jewel attached to the hip.

Skin

Hamish Bowles

Also there, Nicholas Ghesquière from Balenciaga, a rock singer named Skin (a fabulous woman, I have to find her music). Hamish Bowles was there and he congratulated me on my book. L’Wren Scott, stylist. Erin Fetherston – up and coming designer – she showed in New York but she lives in Paris. I think she will be a great success. Victoire de Castellane – I am going to the Dior cocktail this evening.

Lots of champagne and amazing music – everyone danced until 2 a.m. Definitely looked like Mario Testino was enjoying himself. International designers, artists, celebrities, ingénues, and icons, amazing models Daria and Carmen dancing up a storm…is it 1980 again? It was like my book launch soirée at the Crillon which took place during October prêt-à-porter 2006.  There is no better spot to have a cool sophisticated party in all of Paris than the Crillon. The room is so beautiful – from the high ceilings, the ornate gold woodwork, the inspired view overlooking the place de la Concorde. Like an exquisite jewel box floating on the Seine.