Taking a Gilt Trip: The Next Hot Things

By: Sharon Mosley

It’s official that summer is in full swing, but fall is not far behind! And that means thinking ahead about spiffing up your fall wardrobe. Alexandra Wilkis Wilson and Alexis Maybank, fashion insiders, style experts and founders of Gilt Groupe, are the perfect pair to offer tips and tricks for making your style as sizzling as the weather.

Gilt Groupe (www.gilt.com), a members-only online retailer, offers exclusive access to high-end designer goods at up to 70 percent off retail, including apparel for men, women and children, luxury accessories as well as home goods. With more than 2.5 million members, Gilt Groupe has established itself as a leader in the luxury e-retailer field.

What are some of the “hot items” you’re seeing right now that will translate into fall? Can you give us some ideas on how you see trendsetters putting these looks together, both casually and also for work?

Alexandra & Alexis: From soft florals to detailed jackets, fall fashion is all about modern femininity — think red lips and leather paired with velvet and lace. In addition to the romantic palettes and resurgence of menswear, what we love best for fall is the ability to mix and match. Whether pairing a turtleneck with a leather mini or graffiti-printed pants with a camel blazer, fall’s fashions combine elegance, grace and attitude lending to women not only great style, but great confidence as well.

What are your favorite “new” designers in ready-to-wear and also in accessories? Why are they your favorites, and what are some “hot” items from them?

A&A: At Gilt Groupe, we are committed to supporting the fashion industry as a whole, which is why we are delighted to share the development of “One’s to Watch,” a new series of sales highlighting up-and-coming designers. An exciting initiative not just for Gilt, “Ones to Watch” grants emerging designers a platform to showcase their line to a nationwide audience and members the exclusivity of getting acquainted with a new and buzz-worthy label.

Do you have any specific designers that you would recommend we watch?

Hot, young talent on the rise include Kelly Bergin, an LA-based designer who is bringing simple, easy-to-wear basics to an utterly chic level, and Myne, a new designer who’s not afraid of bold statements. These two also just so happen to be part of the latest “Ones to Watch” installment, which goes live Monday July 12 at noon on www.gilt.com. Other favorites include jewelry by DANNIJO, shoes by Mea Shadow and tees by Sophomore — all previous “Ones to Watch” contributors.

What trends would you suggest “hanging up” for right now as well as some “in’s” and “out’s”?

A&A: Keep: Floral dresses — Make these summer staples autumn-friendly by pairing with a structured blazer, leather jacket or a comfy, cranberry cardigan and booties with tights.

Get: Velvet — If you’re bold, go for jewel-toned velvet pants. If a little more demure, try a navy velvet vest or jacket.

Trash: Socks and Platforms — While we love the creativity, there are far too many cute ankle booties to carry this trend into fall.

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