MULTIMEDIA: Raf Simons' New Vision For Calvin Klein Unfolds In A Music Video By The xx

There may be no more anticipated Fall 2017 product arrival on its way than Raf Simons'first runway collection for Calvin Klein. New creative directors like to make an impression and show transition. Simons, the Belgian wunderkind who stabilized Jil Sander after a revolving door of designers including the label's namesake herself and similarly revamped Christian Dior after the unplanned exit of John Galliano, is remaking the iconic American fashion label in his own way with slow, deliberate changes that are quietly surfacing to be discovered spontaneously. The latest step in the turn-around of this ocean liner can be seen in a new music video for the song "I Dare You" by The xx (watch above), a cool band chosen in the hopes that an equal degree of coolness will be  conferred upon the Calvin Klein brand. Along with the band members, the video features Simons' newest choices for his brand ambassadors including Paris Jackson, Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown and Moonlight star Ashton Sanders (who has already appeared in a Calvin Klein Underwear campaign with his co-stars) alongside models Lulu Tenney and Ernesto Cervantes who have appeared in Simons first runway show for the brand as well as in subsequent ads. Though the Alasdair McLellan directed video is not presented as the kind of "Fashion Video" that Tom Ford did with Lady Gaga and a gaggle of top models a few seasons ago in lieu of a runway show, everyone in it is dressed by Simons in items from either the Jeans or Underwear lines or recognizable looks from the main collection, now re-dubbed CALVIN KLEIN 205W39NYC (caps, apparently, mandatory). End credits confirm the collaboration, and identify the cast members.

The new, men's Calvin Klein Jeans shop at Macy's Herald Square

Simons' new concepts for the brand are making themselves visible in other ways as well. Macy's, a major retail outlet for the brand, has unveiled a new selling space for the Calvin Klein Jeans line on the third floor of the men's department (pictured above and below), featuring an intriguing combination of industrial concrete and royal blue curtains. It is unclear if any new product designed under Simons' direction has arrived in the store, but the shop is marked by his new, all-caps logo for the brand, and the designer's earliest advertisement images featured vintage jeans from the company archives, indicating that updating the denim division is a priority.  

New Calvin Klein white label signage at Macy's

Elsewhere in the store, eagle eyes will notice that the moderate white label apparel collection is being identified with a tweaked version of the previous logo, or, shall we say, an un-tweaked version of the original logo that was subtly updated in the early 1990s. 25 years later, Simons seems to be reviving that original, iconic font for the widely distributed department store lines including underwear which will allow for retaining that famous Calvin Klein elastic waistband without much change, creating some continuity with the company's largest customer base.
As for the high profile runway line, it is just getting to be about time for it to start arriving in, if reports are accurate, substantially more stores than have recently been carrying it.

Old and new/old logos coexist in Macy's Calvin Klein Underwear department

Once a strong mainstay of designer floors in nearly every upscale department store, the collection diminished in distribution dramatically over the past 15 years despite critical acclaim for previous designer Francisco Costa. The longstanding in-store boutiques in Bloomingdale's and Bergdorf's are now long gone, and while Saks Fifth Avenue continued to maintain a sparsely stocked Calvin Klein Collection boutique, that particular store is undergoing a massive renovation, so it remains to be seen if and where a new in-store shop will appear. Will Bergdorf's, which was once home to one of Calvin's most successful in-store boutiques, find a new dedicated location for Simons latest efforts after great success with his work at both Dior and Sander? We may find out in just a few months. In the meantime, for anyone who wants to check out the debut runway looks more closely, Bergdorf's, Saks, Neiman Marcus and Barneys New York are all featuring the 205W39NYC women's collection for pre-order on their websites —with Barneys  featuring the men's line as well. Though the single remaining Calvin Klein freestanding boutique on Madison Avenue and 60th street has updated the logo on its marquee, the last time we walked by, we saw no merchandise in the windows at all, and it appeared that, like the rest of us, it too was waiting to fully transition into the new Raf Simons era of its brand. It may only be days away.

More of the new Calvin Klein Jeans shop at Macy's

SAMPLE CIRCUIT: The Steven Alan Sale Is Here Along With More Sferra, More Theory, Marchesa & More

It's time for another longtime heavy hitter sale, and this week it's STEVEN ALAN's turn at 150 Greene Street in SoHo (pictured above). This retailer/wholesaler's seasonal clearances used to incite frenzy and endless lines when he held them himself in his Tribeca showroom. Since he has ceded operational responsibilities for the sale to 260SampleSale, the frenzy has subsided a bit but it is still a potent draw. As always there is an abundance of the label's own famous men's shirts alongside private label merchandise for both genders as well as random selections form fashion forward third party labels. The main difference this season is what appears to be a lighter density of merchandise. Perhaps they are hiding back a bit to ensure goods for business throughout the weekend, but shoe and accessory offerings were substantially lighter than they have been in the past, and apparel was much less densely packed on the racks. Still, there are great buys to be found especially with all third party goods priced at a flat 75% off original prices and house label items priced at a similar discount —just don't expect the abundance you have seen in past seasons.

Steven Alan isn't the only fame in town, of course. Yesterday brought a 3-day showroom blowout from glittery eveningwear label MARCHESA which has promised deep savings from both the main runway collection and the more commercial Notte line. Samples and stock will both be included  for those in need of an extravagant one-of-a-kind entrance making gown.

THEORY is back again too. This time it's at Clothingline in the Garment District. It's the buyer beware sale featuring samples and slight irregulars. There's always a bit of caveat emptor with this one, because quality of construction is not always guaranteed for a number of reasons. Sometimes the prices will make it worth the gamble. Shop through Thursday.

SFERRA will also be returning for another shot, this time at Soiffer-Haskin near Penn Station. It's hard to know whether or not this  location brings out better goods than other sales Sferra holds regularly through 260SampleSale or with Privé at Chelsea Market, but they like to spread around the love and the label more than meets the luxury level we typically find at Soiffer Haskin sales. At the very least, good prices on fine Italian sheets and bedding are always worth a good look.

Speaking of legendary names, the HALSTON HERITAGE label will be offering savings of up to 80% off original prices at its sale at 151 Wooster Street in SoHo starting today. Look for complete offerings of apparel, accessories and shoes through the weekend.

Be sure to keep an eye on our SALE ROLL sidebar at left for times, locations and any breaking sales we find. Next week 's schedule is broken by the 4th of July, but be sure to tune in for more news of upcoming events. There are still plenty of designers we haven't yet heard from this season, so there's more shopping ahead.

SAMPLE CIRCUIT: It's Time For The J.Crew Sample Sale(s) + Tracy Reese, MCM & More

We're at the point in the season where there may not be 30 sales happening every week, but the handful that are running are going to include some names of note. This week it's J.CREW which though it may be having some struggles, remains a powerful draw on the NYC Sample Sale Schedule.
As in past seasons, the capable folks at 260SampleSale have split the retailer's offerings among two locations. Men will have the roomy space at 151 Wooster Street to shop for themselves, while the women's collections along with CREWCUTS and sister chain MADEWELL will take over the home base at 260 Fifth Avenue. As we have pointed out before, this sale is not always a dream come true. Most of the offerings are actual samples —many that were never put into production. The seasonal breakdown is always a little bit murky, and, often, the prices are not lower than what you can find on the sale racks within the J.Crew flagships here in Manhattan given the chain's current hyper promotional state. However, that doesn't mean that there isn't a great piece here or there to be found, including accessories. its also an opportunity to catch items like sneakers from other vendors at great prices or prototype items that never made it to the selling floor, but make for great one-off bargains. The offerings are abundant enough that 260 is giving them seven whole days starting today which is a day more than their typical schedule allows. Shop through Sunday.

On Tuesday the 21st, resurgent status brand MCM will be taking over 150 Greene Street in SoHo for its seasonal sale promising discounts up to 80% off. for those looking for irreverent but slightly less exalted logo-wear, this one will be a must-shop.

Also on Tuesday, the Garment District will play host to two contemporary dress events from former FLOTUS fave TRACY REESE for two days, and MIGUELINA for three. Take the opportunity to pick something smart for summer weddings and garden parties.

Finally, on Sunday the 25th, Italian luxury linen label SFERRA will be returning to Soiffer Haskin for a four-day sale featuring all of it's sumptuous bed & bath offerings. Didn't they just have a sale a few weeks ago? Yes, they did, but Sferra, like some other labels likes to appear in different locations with new sales throughout the season, os if you missed it last time, here's another chance. 

Keep an eye on our sale roll sidebar for locations, hours and other update information including late-breaking sale. Next week, prepare for Steven Alan's seasonal extravaganza as well as Halston and more.

THIS WEEK ONLINE: Maison Margiela, Porsche Design, Giuseppe Zanotti, Shinola, Havaianas & More On Flash Sale This Week

Here is your weekly sampling of some of the brands you can expect to find on the bigger online Flash Sale Sites this week. You should click over to the sites themselves for a full schedule of events, and be sure to check for the correct start time for each sale. Shop well!

GILT GROUPE

Akris, ABS Allen Schwartz, Salvatore Ferragamo Watches, Aperlai, Naked & Famous, Farah, Camper, Maison Margiela, Baxter of California, Eddie Borgo, Tracy Reese, Free People, Moritz Glik, Seychelles, Ben Sherman, Saint Laurent, Psycho Bunny, True Religion, BluePrint Cleanse —join HERE

RUE LA LA

Giuseppe Zanotti, Murano Glass, Coach, Llum, Persol, Porsche Design, Yves Saint Laurent, Luli Fama, Argento Vivo, Brooks Brothers, BB Dakota, Lilla P, Saucony, Meshmerise Jewelry  —join HERE

HAUTE LOOK

Tumi, Franco Sarto, Tea & Cup, Desigual, Tommy Hilfiger, James Tattersall, KUWALLA, Novo Watches, Shinola, Dolce Vita, Belstaff, Havaianas, Free People, L'Atiste, Maac London, Bobbi Brown, Mario Badescu, Rogue, Eton, Robert Talbott, Diesel Watches  —join HERE

SAMPLE CIRCUIT: The Alexander McQueen Sale Arrives With Alice + Olivia & More Theory

We're a little late with the Sample Sale report this week, but not too late to remind you of the big ALEXANDER McQUEEN sale taking up residence at the Metropolitan Pavilion Soiffer Haskin for the weekend. Starting today, the label will be offering discounts on all of its main product categories, so go early and expect a line.

Also continuing and still worth a look with some likely extra discounts at this point in the week, are ALICE AND OLIVIA returning to 260 Fifth Avenue.

Today is the last day for the ELEVENTY sale on 40th Street across the street from Bryant Park. We aren't terribly familiar with this label, but the website shoes some appealing apparel for men and women, and it is all apparently made in Italy for what that's worth.

LA PERLA the luxury lingerie mega-label will be continuing through Sunday in SoHo if you haven't picked up something slinky yet.

Across town at the Chelsea Market, THEORY is making yet another appearance, this time for men only. Look for up to 60% savings on what is usually an abundant offering of solid, modern men's sportswear and clothing.

Make sure to keep an eye on our SALE ROLL sidebar at left for times, locations and any other breaking sales. Next week, its the big, multi-location J.Crew sale along with Tracy Reese, MCM and look to the end of the month for the always major Steven Alan sale.

THIS WEEK ONLINE: Anna Sui, Céline, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Fendi, Kenzo, Missguided & More on Flash Sales This Week

Here is your weekly sampling of some of the brands you can expect to find on the bigger online Flash Sale Sites this week. You should click over to the sites themselves for a full schedule of events, and be sure to check for the correct start time for each sale. Shop well!

GILT GROUPE

Anna Sui, Schutz, Hickey Freeman, Reef Footwear, Versace, Aveda, Converse, Céline Accessories, ZAC Zac Posen, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Ramy Brook, Cynthia Steffe, Tara Pearls, Malone Souliers, BLK DNM, Tommy Hilfiger, Gordon Rush Italy, Diesel Underwear, Peanuts Artwork, Kavka Designs, Nespresso  —join HERE

RUE LA LA

Max Mara, Anne Klein, Jimmy Choo, Amorium, FENDI, Hale Bob, Taryn Rose, Nambé, Joan Vass, Mia Belle Couture, Elaine Turner, Michael Kors Watches  —join HERE

HAUTE LOOK

Dooney & Bourke, Donald J Pliner, Emerson Thorpe, Philosophy Collection, Original Penguin, Joe's Jeans, Antony Morato, KENZO Watches & Accessories, MAC Cosmetics, Betsey Johnson, Tom Ford Sunglasses, STEVEN by Steve Madden, DL 1961, Timberland, Cult of Individuality, Control Sector, Melissa Footwear, Young Fabulous & Broke, Missguided, Roberto Cavalli SUN, Angie, DAYA by Zendaya, Whyte Eyelash, English Laundry, Versace Jeans, Tommy Hilfiger, Goorin Bros. Hats —join HERE

FLAGSHIP FLASH: The Nordstrom Men's Store is Slated To Open Well Before The NYC Flagship Store

There was one thing we were all certain of when the Nordstrom Flagship near Columbus Circle was announced: It was going to take a looooong time to build.
Initially announced as part of new wave of midtown skyscraper buildings, the upcoming store began to grow as it acquired space across the street at 3 Columbus Circle and then it was announced that adjacent buildings at 1776 Broadway and 5 Columbus Circle would be incorporated into the growing flagship including major restoration work on parts of the storefronts —which will probably make it take even longer. There's one part of the store, however, that shouldn't be hampered by complicated construction issues, and that's the Nordstrom Men's Store that is slated to open across the street. While the opening date of the main store has been pushed to 2019, new signage in the windows of the upcoming men's unit announces a Spring 2018 opening, a full year, at least, ahead of it mothership (pictured at right). Obviously, the advantage here is that the store will open in a building that has already been built, and like any good retailer, the chain wants to get this freestanding component open as soon as possible. This will make Nordstrom only the second major store in Manhattan to house its men's department in a completely separate building on another block since Bergdorf Goodman opened its Men's Store nearly 27 years ago at 58th Street and Fifth Avenue. It helps that Nordstrom has one of the most developed Men's businesses of all the higher-end specialty department store chains. It has long been said among menswear vendors that if Nordstrom is one of your clients, it is likely to be your largest, and over the past decade, the company has made great efforts to evolve its menswear offerings from traditional middle-of-the-road fare to a broader assortment including more international designers and directional labels. We will likely see more evolution in the new store as executives have already promised an extra-special presentation for New York. As the city's erstwhile men's tailored clothing champion, Barneys New York, has jettisoned all but the most luxurious tier of its men's suit offerings, there is an opportunity for Nordstrom to pick up some of that slack as the city is still home to substantial legal and financial industries where lots of men still need nice suits for work. Now, we can be fairly certain that there is less than a year to wait to see how Nordstrom will address New York's menswear market as well as to see the first glimpse of the massive upcoming flagship project.

SAMPLE CIRCUIT: ETRO's First U.S. Sample Sale Leads The Week With Helmut Lang, Montblanc, Buccellati, Isaia & More

It's a big sample sale week for luxury fans, and the main event kicks it off today. Here are some highlights:

ETRO is has become more than just a cult label for people who love prints. It now ranks among the most coveted luxury brands which, like Loro Piana, evolved out of its original fabric business and remains one of the most skillful producers of intricately printed silks. Now they are everything from knitwear to footwear to jewelry and fragrance and accessories, most of which will be found at the Metropolitan Pavilion when its first Sample Sale in the United States opens its door to the public this afternoon. Lazar Media group has been aggressively promoting the sale, so it will be a must-shop for New York's Etro fans —of which there are many. Yesterday's VIP preview was full of the brand's signature prints ranging from the classic paisleys that are its signature to all manner of other patterns making for a nearly psychedelic array of apparel for both men and women. Needless to say, this is not a sale for minimalists looking for basics, but it is full of special pieces. Nearly everything they make is a showpiece of sorts, and the assortments covered multiple seasons and collections. The venue was split down the middle evenly divided for men and women. Shoppers found plenty of Sweaters and other knitwear along with apparel and lots of shoes (see a glimpse of the tables pictured above). Conspicuously missing, however was a broad assortment of the label's core categories, scarves and ties. Those items, perhaps are strong enough sellers that only a handful of each were left, but there is plenty of everything else for Etro fans at a blanket 80% the original prices for all merchandise. That still leaves some special pieces at lofty prices, but by and large shoppers should not be disappointed. Shop through Wednesday.

That's not all for Italian luxury this week. On Tuesday, in SoHo, Neapolitan hand-tailored clothing label ISAIA (which has its own enthusiastic cult of followers) opens its seasonal sale along with its slightly more directional and ever so slightly less expensive little brother EIDOS. Expect the usual selection of sumptuous suiting as well as the full lifestyle collections of sportswear, shoes and accessories from both labels. The sale takes place through Saturday at spacious 151 Wooster Street which suggests that there will be a lot of goods to choose from.

Up at 260 Fifth Avenue, MONTBLANC will be launching a four-day sale through Friday featuring watches, leather goods, jewelry and, of course, those famous writing instruments. Strategically scheduled right before Fathers' Day, this will be a popular stop for last minute gift shoppers.

A few blocks uptown and across town, Soiffer Haskin will be filling its display cases with art crystal, silver and jewelry from France's DAUM and Italy's BUCCELLATI. The three-day sale (through Thursday) completes the Euro-luxury theme of the week, but there is still plenty more on the schedule.

HELMUT LANG will take up residence at Chelsea Market once again starting on Wednesday the 7th featuring up to 60% off women's and men's collections from the Spring Season. Fans of the current incarnation of Helmut Lang should make sure not to miss this , since the label is transitioning into yet another concept this fall featuring capsule collections with guest designers. Shop through Sunday.

Finally, on Saturday, ESCADA will make its seasonal appearance at Soiffer Haskin through the following Wednesday rounding out a very full week.

See our SALE ROLL sidebar at left former sales, locations, hours and other details as well as any late-breaking events as we update regularly this week.
Next week, contemporary powerhouses Alice and Olivia and Theory (again) arrive along with more to come.

 

THIS WEEK ONLINE: Céline, Burberry, Stuart Weitzman, TUMI, Diane von Furstenberg, ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo & More In This Week's Flash Sales

Here is your weekly sampling of some of the brands you can expect to find on the bigger online Flash Sale Sites this week. You should click over to the sites themselves for a full schedule of events, and be sure to check for the correct start time for each sale. Shop well!

GILT GROUPE

Céline, Joe's Jeans, Shoshanna, Commando, Stuart Weitzman, Royce Leather, Official Program, Creed, TUMI, Cole Haan, MCM, Paper Crown, Sophie Anderson, Mosmann Australia, Royal Doulton,   —join HERE

RUE LA LA

Hudson Jeans, Tahari ASL, B Brian Atwood, Michael Stars, Kelsey, Ike Bear, Tissot Watches, Burberry, Shaker & Spoon —join HERE

HAUTE LOOK

Diane von Furstenberg, NADRI, Becca Cosmetics, Stonefeather, Zachary Prell, Sandro Moscoloni, TOMS, Laundry by Shelli Segal, Perry Ellis, PRPS, Lafayette 148, Lime Crime, VELVET by Graham & Spencer, Keds, Bony Levy, Volcom Swim, Tiare Hawaii, Robert Graham, ATM, Anthony Thomas Melillo, Edox Swiss Watches, Billabong, Dakine —join HERE