7 sinful little pleasures ...

by Alessandra Mazzola

At first glance, an accessory is just that -- a cute little handbag, a pair of shoes,
a tote... Yet a closer look brings with it an appreciation for detail: color, form, workmanship and designer ID. An even closer examination excites a formidable reaction -- that is to say, the price is worthy of the label! The acquisition of a whimsical, must-have accessory item has become sheer madness. But then,
it's a very satisfying folly...

The turbulent pace at which trend-setting fashion accessories are deposed upsets everything in its path -- and everyone -- from manufacturers to boutiques to department store buyers. These are some of the latest whirlwinds sighted by Dolce Vita.
But grab hold of your pocketbooks 'cuz nothing's ever cheap in Italy and the goods are tempting! There's a little something for every taste. Whether you're after military garb or faux fleece, wrist head-to-toe lace...you're sure to find something tempting below!


Gucci
Sandals
350.00 Euro


The sandal is an accessory which by now transcends the seasons: form the first ray of sun in spring to the last dance on a sultry summer night it remains the ideal solution for the best-dressed, seductive foot. Tom Ford's little black leather sandals for Gucci are lightly perched on a 5" wedge, delicately wrapping the toes in two bands adorned with a gold-trimmed glass flower . The sheer simplicity of this pair of sandals underscores the simplicity of the entire line. The leather laces embrace the top and the foot and ankle to an elegant effect.
Dolce & Gabbana
Shirt-jacket
1,625.00 Euro

Lace is an unbeatable material, seductive and playful, decorative and sublime. Dolce & Gabbana's shirt-jacket in stretch-lace is divine, creating patterns of light and shadow enhanced by embroidered floral motifs. While the lace itself plays peek-a-boo, the neckline leaves little to the imagination. And the price leaves little left...
Antonio Berardi
Boots
3,098.00 Euro


These Antonio Berardi boots are all a-glitter with a triumph of gold and diamonds, making them something closer to sculpture than footwear. From toe to mid-calf, they cover the leg in a shimmering case of light. Definitely for the woman who doesn't want to be overlooked in even the largest crowd!
Paired with a fitted black mock-turtle necked dress that hugs but doesn't squeeze, the effect is devastating. And the price?
Dolce & Gabbana
Bag
730.00 Euro

They've got a blank check and all the sales in the world but they're still out rummaging for army surplus stores in search of bits of direct issue uniforms and accessories. There are these women who want to cover all the fashion angles this season, from stars and bars to coats of arms! Objects and symbols in some sort of safari-military-ultrametro look are crowning the collections of the majority of Italian and international designers this season and next.
A signature Dolce & Gabbana bag in camouflage green sports two false pockets straight off the fatigues and a little flag appliqué on the side. Handles are fashioned in dark brown leather and the gold-tone zipper hermetically sealed by a serious buckle.
Antonio Berardi
Shoes
490.00 Euro


A classic 'bianco' Antonio Berardi shoe is a delight in white lace, finely embroidered with a delicate leather strap. The image of purity and light is carried through in the gentle lines and ribbons wrapped around the ankle. The same shoe is also available in embroidered leather.
Versace
Bag
1,114.00 Euro

Certainly never a label to pay a lot of attention to animal rights groups, Versace has put fur everywhere in their next winter collection: coats, dresses, suits and accessories. Less offensive item, the all-around fleece bag with leather trim. It's so cuddly you can even take it for a walk! And its housebroken.
Valentino Garavani
Bracelets
1,363.00 Euro


For anyone who delights in the joy of physical freedom, winterwear can be a heavy burden. But then the accessories can save the day. Valentino Garavani's precious cuff bracelets make for sophisticated fun, made of mother-of-pearl and zircons. The enchanting design, so finely decorated, makes arms and wrists bewitching focal points.



The prices quoted are the current retail prices in Italian stores.
Prices in the rest of the world may vary considerably.

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