Issue link: https://www.balharbourdigital.com/i/262375
LASTING IMPRESSION The Somerset House, one of London's premier cultural centers, honors the iconoclastic Isabella Blow with the exhibition, "Isabella Blow: Fashion Galore!" The program brings to life her extraordinary perspective on fashion and art—and, of course, the feral style maven's stupendous wardrobe. Blow's monumental inspiration for Alexander McQueen, Philip Treacy, Steven Meisel, Sophie Dahl and David LaChapelle, among others, is celebrated throughout the show. WALK THIS WAY For all the elaborate finery they send down the runway, designers are more often spotted in sneakers than stilettos when it's time to take their final bow. That low-key, functional approach has influenced Spring accessories, making flats of every kind most wanted this season. Key silhouettes upgrade favorite standbys. Labels including Lanvin and Jimmy Choo elevated the look of sporty skate shoes with luxe fabrics and graphic, feminine prints. Loafers—especially Charlotte Olympia's—are the polished option of choice. And for devotees of maximalist dressing, a low heel can have high drama. At Dolce & Gabbana, gladiator flatforms were topped with jewels, gold coin details and baroque flourishes. To mark the 30th anniversary of David Yurman's Renaissance cable bracelet, David—along with his son and design director Evan—has created a number of special limited-editions, ranging from colorful aluminum Renaissance bracelets to full pavé pieces in white, black or cognac diamonds. The limited-edition white pavé diamond bracelet, seen here, is set with more than 28 carats covering the cable's entire surface. Here's to the next 30 years. PHOTOS © NICK KNIGHT (BLOW) 46 BAL HARBOUR David Yurman pavé diamond Renaissance Cable bracelet. Lanvin snakeskin slippers Philip Treacy cut-out mouths pop art hat, Spring 2003; right, Undercover burka by Jun Takahashi, Spring 2003