The Best of BA 2012

As 2012 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our year in fashion. Whether you loved this year’s top trends or you could’ve lived without them, one thing is for sure-we had fun, didn’t we? Although options were plentiful, I’ve narrowed down my BA fashion faves to a select few. Stylish, chic, creative, and cool, here are BAShopGirl’s Best of the Best 2012.

Best New Label: Blackmamba
Based on my glowing review of this up and coming brand, it’s not hard to guess why I chose Blackmamba as the best new label of the year. The combination of an effortlessly chic aesthetic with high quality fabrics makes this the label to watch in 2013.


Best Avant-Garde: Visentini
After including Visentini in a column on the best avant-garde design a few years ago, I haven’t been able to forget designer Agustina’s unique perspective on fashion. Visentini embodies everything that is wonderful about fashion in Buenos Aires. It’s young, it’s creative, and just a little bit eccentric.


Best National Brand: Ayres
Among all the outstanding national mega-brands, Ayres truly stood out this year with a beautifully styled summer campaign. Simple, wearable, colorful, and classic.


Best Jeans: Paula Cahen D’Anvers
Whether you’re in search of straight leg, cropped, boyfriend, or flare, the jeans at Paula will leave you wanting more. As an avid jean lover, I have tried on nearly every pair in the city, yet I always return to Paula. The fits accomodate many body types, and they never wear down. A true BA classic.


Best Bags: Maria Mor
I have been a loyal customer of Maria Mor for years. Designer Natalia always manages to keep her designs current without being overly trendy. No matter what color or style, Maria Mor has something new to offer.


Best Accessories: Cuatro Musas
If you love rock n’ roll, the funky yet sophisticated accessories at Cuatromusas will steal your heart. This seasons’ bracelets are standout pieces that will last for years to come, and don’t even get me started on the fabulous earrings.


Best Boutique: Tony Soiree
New on the Palermo SoHo scene, Tony Soiree hit the town with a bang. At this intimate boutique you can find casual wear by Chinita, shoes by Di Mannuk, knitwear from Las Osas, and my personal fave, leather jackets by Javier Ced. Tony Soiree offers a little something for everyone, earning it my nod for best boutique of the year.


Best Shoes: Centrico
All it took was one look at the winter boot collection and I was hooked. In addition to Centrico’s timeless style, the quality is unbeatable.


Best Mall: Paseo Alcorta
Although this was a tough decision, Paseo Alcorta is undeniably the best shopping mall in the city. Stocked with top brands from Rapsodia to Jazmin Chebar, but dotted with smaller boutiques like Huija and Lupe, Paseo Alcorta beats the competition in every category.


Best Collaboration: Prune by Concepcion
Pair Argentina’s most well-known bag store with it’s most stylish socialite and you have a winning combination. Concepcion Cochrane Blaquier’s consistently strong limited edition collections are at the top of my wish list every season.

To my BAShopGals, thank you for supporting the blog this year! May next year bring us more style, more fun, and more to shop for.
To a fabulous 2013!

xoxo
Your BAShopGirl

2012 llega a su fin, y ahora es el momento perfecto para reflexionar sobre nuestro año en la moda. No importa si te encantaron las tendencias de este año o si podrías haber vivido sin ellas, una cosa es segura-la pasamos bien, no? Aunque las opciones eran abundantes, reducí mis favoritos de la moda de Buenos Aires a unos pocos elegidos. Con estilo, elegancia, y creatividad, aquí están los BAShopGirl Mejores de los Mejores 2012:

Mejor Marca Nueva: Blackmamba
En base a mi crítica radiante de esta marca emergente, no es difícil adivinar por qué elegí a Blackmamba como la mejor marca nueva del año. La combinación de una estética re chic con telas de alta calidad nos dice que ésta es la marca del 2013.


Mejor Diseño de Vanguardia: Visentini
Después de incluir a Visentini en una columna sobre el mejor diseño de vanguardia hace unos años, no podía olvidarme de la perspectiva única que tiene la diseñadora Agustina Visentini. Su marca representa todo lo que es maravilloso de la moda en Buenos Aires. Es joven, es creativa y solo un poco excéntrica.


Mejor Marca Nacional: Ayres
Entre todas las marcas nacionales excepcionales, Ayres realmente se destacó este año con una campaña de verano con mucho estilo. Simple, versátil, colorida y clásica.


Mejores Jeans: Paula Cahen D'Anvers
No importa si estás buscando un jean de tiro alto, capri, boyfriend, o oxford, los de Paula te dejarán con ganas de comprar más. Yo, que soy una amante de los jeans, he probado casi todos los pares en la ciudad, pero siempre vuelvo a Paula. Los cortes acomodan a muchos cuerpos diferentes, y nunca se desgastan. Un verdadero clásico de Buenos Aires.


Mejores Carteras: Maria Mor
Soy una clienta leal de Maria Mor hace muchos años. La diseñadora Natalia siempre hace diseños aptos para la temporada y el momento, pero sin estar demasiado “a la moda.” No importa el color o el estilo, Maria Mor tiene algo nuevo para ofrecerte.


Mejores Accesorios: Cuatro Musas
Si te gusta el rock n 'roll, los accesorios cancheros pero sofisticados de Cuatromusas te robarán el corazón. Las pulseras de esta temporada son piezas únicas que te van a durar por muchos años, y ni hablar de los aros, que son fabulosos.


Mejor Boutique: Tony Soiree
Nuevo en el barrio de Palermo SoHo, Tony Soiree llegó con una explosión. En esta boutique se puede encontrar ropa casual de Chinita, zapatos de Di Mannuk, tejidos de Las Osas, y mi elegido, las camperas de cuero de Javier Ced. Tony Soiree tiene algo para todas nosotras, por eso la eligo mejor boutique del año.


Mejores Zapatos: Centrico
Sólo hacía falta un vistazo a la colección de botas de invierno y me re enganché con esta marca de zapatos. Además del estilo atemporal de Centrico, la calidad es impresionante.


Mejor Shopping: Paseo Alcorta
Aunque esta fue una decisión difícil, Paseo Alcorta es sin duda el mejor shopping de la ciudad. Lleno de las mejores marcas como Rapsodia y Jazmin Chebar, pero también de boutiques exclusivas como Huija y Lupe, Paseo Alcorta supera a la competencia en todas las categorías. 

Mejor Colaboración: Prune by Concepcion
Combiná la marca de carteras más famosa de la Argentina con la socialité más elegante, y tenes una combinación ganadora. Las colecciones de edición limitada de Concepción Cochrane Blaquier son imperdibles cada temporada, y sus carteras siempre están en mi lista de compras deseadas.

A mis BAShopGals, gracias por apoyar el blog este año! Que el próximo año nos traiga más estilo, más alegría, y más para comprar.
Por un fabuloso 2013!

Xoxo
Tu BAShopGirl

Photos: Ayres, Cuatro Musas, Maria Mor, Paula Cahen D'Anvers

Buenos Aires Summer Knitwear: Florencia Llompart

In her bright and sunny Belgrano studio, Florencia Llompart warmly welcomes visitors to view her fresh, summery knitwear collection. Color abounds in crocheted vests, dresses and even a pair of enticing hot pants I couldn’t resist. Stripes are a hallmark of the collection, as a neutral black sweater is accented with orange, pink, and yellow at the wrists. The dresses are perfect for a hot day in the city, and the knit vests stand out for their brilliant color combinations and versatility. They can be easily integrated into any summer outfit, which definitely makes them a fundamental item for your closet. If you’re planning to spend summer at the beach, the knit bras are the piece for you. Try pairing them with a linen pant for the ultimate warm weather look. In case your closet simply needs a basic with flair, Flor’s classic sweaters are the way to go. They come in a variety of styles, from colorful cardigans to knee length wraps with knitted belts. Each individual piece emphasizes ease and comfort, while maintaining a young, stylish energy. Some garments in the collection are even handsewn, which is truly a steal considering the prices. Sweaters range in the 200s, and dresses in the 300s.


Brought up in a family of weavers, Flor’s passion for knitwear stems from her heritage. The first garments in her burgeoning collection were handmade by her mother, and as demand for her pieces skyrocketed, Flor expanded to create the knitwear brand we know and love today. The success of Florencia Llompart Tejidos has grown steadily in recent years, with her appearances at two BAFWeeks and the independent design fair Puro Diseño drawing the attention of fashion insiders. If its recent success is any indication, this brand has nowhere to go but up. Flor has managed to create a knitwear collection that is perfect for summer-light, bright, and pure Buenos Aires.

xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
Find Florencia Llompart here

Desde su luminoso y soleado estudio de Belgrano, Florencia Llompart da la bienvenida a los visitantes que vienen a ver su colección fresca, llena de prendas super veraniegas. Hay una abundancia de color en los chalecos tejidos, vestidos, e incluso en un par de culottes irresistibles. Las rayas son una marca distintiva de la colección. El clásico suéter negro se acentúa con rayas de naranja, rosa y amarillo en las muñecas. Los vestidos son perfectos para un día caluroso en la ciudad, y los chalecos se destacan por sus combinaciones de colores brillantes y por su versatilidad. Pueden ser incorporados fácilmente a cualquier conjunto veraniego, y definitivamente son un elemento fundamental para tu ropero. Si vos tenes planeado un paseo por la playa, los corpiños tejidos son, sin duda, tu prenda. Combinálos con un pantalón de lino para un look bien canchero. En caso de que tu armario sólo necesite unos básicos con onda, los suéteres clásicos de Flor son las piezas justas. Vienen en una variedad de estilos, desde cardigans coloridos hasta modelos más largos con cinto tejido. Cada pieza se destaca por su facilidad y comodidad, manteniendo al mismo tiempo una energía joven y elegante. Algunas prendas de la colección son hechas a mano, lo cual es realmente increíble teniendo en cuenta los precios. Los suéters te salen en los 200s, y los vestidos en los 300s de pesos.


Criada en una familia de tejedores, la pasión que tiene Flor por los tejidos se debe a su herencia. Las primeras prendas de su colección emergente fueron hechas a mano por su madre, y cuando se aumentó la demanda para sus piezas, Flor creó la marca de tejidos que conocemos y amamos hoy en día. El éxito de Florencia Llompart Tejidos creció constantemente en los últimos años, con sus presentaciones en dos BAFWeeks y la feria de diseño independiente Puro Diseño llamando la atención del mundo de la moda. Si su éxito recién es una indicación, esta marca sólo va por más. Flor logró crear una colección de prendas tejidas perfecta para el verano-luminosa, brillante, y puro Buenos Aires.

Xoxo
Tu BAShopGirl
Encontrá Florencia Llompart aquí

All photos courtesy Florencia Llompart

Bridal Gowns of Buenos Aires: Muscaria Couture

If there’s one thing every woman looks forward to, it’s her wedding day. The flowers, the food, the ceremony, and of course, the dress. It should be elegant, dazzling, and timeless. For all this and more, Celeste at Muscaria Couture is there to make your dress dreams come true. After designing for the legendary Argentine couturier Fabian Zitta, Celeste decided to start her own label Amanita Muscaria, named for a legendary mushroom known in mythology to spur creative visions. The label began with menswear, and in its current incarnation as Muscaria Couture, is fully dedicated to the creation of whimsical custom gowns for brides and special events.

A true hands-on designer, Celeste plays with texture and accessories to make each dress a creation worthy of even the most picky bride. A bodice of cotton silk is paired with beaded shoulder pads, and the softest chiffon is complemented by accents of leather flowers. An open back is draped with dangling gold chains, and a classic gown is accented with a feather headpiece.


In addition to the sheer beauty of the dresses, Muscaria Couture stands out for its intricately constructed accessories. Each is individually made to form part of the garment and blend seamlessly into the overall look. Whether the accent is a pearl hat, sheer gloves, or one of the many eclectic pins, they all add a touch of glamour to every piece in Muscaria’s exclusive collection.


Above all, Celeste views the design process as a dialogue with the client, and she truly strives for perfection. Her goal: to make the client feel more herself in a Muscaria Couture gown than ever before.

xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
Find Muscaria on Facebook

Si hay una cosa que cada mujer espera, es el día de su casamiento. Las flores, la comida, la ceremonia, y por supuesto, el vestido. Debe ser elegante, deslumbrante y atemporal. Por todo esto y más, Celeste de Muscaria Couture está ahí para hacer que tus sueños se hagan realidad. Después de diseñar para Fabian Zitta, un genio de la alta costura, Celeste decidió empezar su propia marca, Amanita Muscaria, el nombre de un hongo mágico conocido en la mitología para impulsar visiones creativas. La marca comenzó con ropa de hombre, y en su encarnación actual como Muscaria Couture, está totalmente dedicada a la creación de vestidos de fiesta hechos a medida para novias y eventos especiales.

Una diseñadora que le gusta tener la mano en todo, Celeste juega con la textura y accesorios para que cada vestido sea una creación única, hasta para la novia más exigente. Una blusa de seda de algodón se combina con hombreras de piedras, y la gasa más suave se ​​complementa con acentos de flores en cuero. Una espalda abierta se cubre con cadenas de oro colgadas, y un vestido clásico se acentúa con un tocado de plumas.


Además de la belleza de los vestidos, Muscaria Couture se destaca por sus accesorios intrincadamente construidos. Cada uno se fabrica individualmente para formar parte de la prenda y estar integrada con el conjunto entero. Si el acento es un sombrero de perlas, guantes transparentes, o uno de los pins eclécticos, todos ellos dan un toque de glamour a cada pieza de la colección exclusiva.


Sobre todo, Celeste considera el proceso de diseño como un diálogo con la clienta, y realmente busca la perfección. Su objetivo: hacer que la clienta se sienta más como sí misma en un vestido Muscaria que nunca.

xoxo
Tu BAShopGirl
Encontrá Muscaria en Facebook

All photos courtesy Muscaria Couture

The Shoe of Your Dreams: Hermanas Aguila

In the life of a shopaholic, the quest for the perfect shoe is seemingly endless. With so many to choose from, it can be difficult to find a singular pair that captures our heart. From their downtown showroom, the designers of Hermanas Aguila try to satisfy our infinite desire for shoes with custom creations made of the finest Argentine leather. Each pair stands out for its mix of textures and colors. Imagine soft royal blue paired with vibrant red, or polished leather mixed with transparent plastic. Some of the leathers display a weaved effect, while others are simply smooth as silk. Each pair is a work of art unto itself, and can even be customized to your heart’s desire. Designers Cielo and Johana offer a wide selection of leather choices in almost every color you could want. Once you choose your favorite of their many styles, they will create an exclusive pair using any leather in their plentiful inventory. Get ready to be pleasantly surprised.

xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
Find Hermanas Aguila on Facebook

En la vida de una adicta a las compras, la búsqueda del zapato perfecto es interminable. Con tantos para elegir, puede ser difícil encontrar un par singular que captura nuestro corazón. Desde su showroom en el centro, los diseñadores de Hermanas Aguila tratan de satisfacer nuestro deseo infinito para los zapatos con creaciones hechas a medida con el mejor cuero argentino. Cada par se destaca por su mezcla de texturas y colores. Imagínense azul real combinado con un rojo vibrante, o cuero pulido mezclado con plástico transparente. Algunos de los cueros tienen efecto de tejido, y otros son simplemente suave como la seda. Cada par es una obra de arte, e incluso se pueden personalizar acorde a tus deseos. Diseñadores Cielo y Johana ofrecen una amplia selección de cueros en casi todos los colores que desees. Una vez que elijas tu favorito de sus diferentes estilos, crearán un par exclusivo con cualquier cuero en su inventario abundante. Prepárense para estar sorprendidas.

xoxo
Tu BAShopGirl
Encontrá Hermanas Aguila en Facebook

All photos courtesy Hermanas Aguila

For the Love of Leather: Motto

When it comes to exclusivity, no one does it better than Carolina at Motto. One of the best kept secrets in BA, this exciting brand of leather jackets offers ultra-exclusivity at truly amazing prices.  Each style is made with the most supple Italian sheep’s leather and features distinct touches like studs and fringe. Additionally, each piece is highly versatile, as the fringe accents can be detached if desired, and some even offer removable belts.
A former law student turned clothing designer, Carolina prides herself on her one of a kind designs. She only manufactures a select quantity of each style, every one of which is unique. Not only is the design irresistible, but the fits are impeccable. The quality of the leather is noted in its softness and malleability, while the craftsmanship shines in details like quilting and zippers. As if all this weren’t enough, she will also personally deliver the jacket of your choice to you at home. If that doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will.

xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
Find Motto on Facebook

Cuando se trata de exclusividad, nadie lo hace mejor que Carolina de Motto. Uno de los mejores secretos de BA, esta marca emergente de camperas de cuero ofrece ultra-exclusividad a precios realmente increíbles. Cada modelo está hecho con cuero de oveja italiano bien flexible y con toques diferentes, como tachas y flecos. Además, cada pieza es muy versátil, ya que los acentos complementarios se pueden sacar si queres, y algunos de los modelos ofrecen cintos desprendibles.
Una estudiante de derecho antes de convertirse en diseñadora de ropa, Carolina pone la mejor energía para que sus diseños sean exclusivos. Ella fabrica cierta cantidad de cada modelo, cada uno de los cuales es único. No sólo el diseño es irresistible, pero los cortes también son impecables. La calidad del cuero se observa en su suavidad y maleabilidad, mientras que la artesanía brilla en detalles como las texturas y los cierres. Como si todo esto fuera poco, también se entregará personalmente tu campera elegida a tu casa. Si esto no te convence, no sé qué lo hará.

Xoxo
Tu BAShopGirl
Encontrá Motto en Facebook

All photos courtesy Motto

Designer Profile: Blackmamba

From their base inside a hidden Palermo showroom, the designers behind Blackmamba have created a highly versatile collection built around the one classic material no woman can live without-leather. Although the leather jackets are the highlights of this up and coming label, the rest of the collection also stands out. Imagine comfy printed cotton tees, wide leg pants, and maxi skirts with sexy yet subtle slits and draping. Head designer Bianca’s attention to detail is noticeable in every single piece, from the lightness and luxury of the imported fabrics to the finishes on each garment. The look is young and fun, yet maintains a unique level of sophistication.


Neutral colors such as tan, white, and military green predominate the collection, but you will also find checkered shirts and shorts and the oh so classic striped blouse. Additionally, the showroom is dotted with two super stylish bucket bags and several pairs of eye-catching shoes. Each pair is simple enough to combine with the outfit of your choice, but interesting enough to warrant a second look.


While I absolutely loved almost every single piece, the short suede dress accented with buckles covering an open back really stole my heart. It’s sensual yet classy, compelling yet totally wearable. Let’s just say I couldn’t resist an impulse purchase.


Utilizing her extensive background experience at Argentine mega-brands Maria Cher and Chocolate, Bianca knew she was destined to design her own label. In just 9 months, she has already presented her winter collection at Buenos Aires Fashion Week and appeared in major fashion magazines including the indie favorite Catalogue and online style guide Segui la Moda. Now that’s what I call an overnight success.


If the first two collections are any indication, this brand is going somewhere. Keep your eye out for Blackmamba’s brand new boutique opening in March 2013. In the meantime, pop in to the showroom for a quiet afternoon of shopping. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
Check out Blackmamba at Thames 2110 1D
www.beblackmamba.com

Desde su showroom en Palermo SoHo, los diseñadores de Blackmamba han creado una colección muy versátil hecha con una material simplemente imperdible en el placard-cuero. Pero aunque las camperas de cuero son las prendas más destacadas de esta marca nueva, el resto de la colección también te va a encantar. Imagináte remeras super cómodas de algodón, pantalones anchos y maxi polleras con tajos sensuales pero sutiles. La atención a cada detalle es evidente en cada prenda, desde el lujo de las telas importadas hasta las terminaciones de cada prenda. El look es joven y divertido, pero sin embargo, mantiene un nivel único de sofisticación.


Los colores neutros como el marrón, blanco y verde militar predominan la colección, pero también encontrarás camisas cuadriculadas, shorts, y la clásica blusa rayada. Además, hay dos carteras súper elegantes y varios pares de zapatos llamativos. Cada par es suficientemente simple para combinar con todo, pero suficientemente interesante como para merecer una segunda mirada.
Aunque me encantó casi cada prenda, el vestido de gamuza corto con hebillas en la espalda realmente me robó el corazón. Es sensual, pero elegante, y además es totalmente usable. No lo podía resistir.


Utilizando su experiencia extensa en las marcas Maria Cher y Chocolate, Bianca sabía que estaba destinada a diseñar su propia marca. En sólo 9 meses, ya presentó su colección de invierno en BAFWeek y apareció en revistas de moda muy importantes, incluyendo Catalogue y la guía de moda online, Segui la Moda. Eso es éxito total.


Si las dos primeras colecciones son una indicación, esta marca va por mucho más. Vamos a esperar ansiosamente la apertura de la boutique en Marzo del 2013. Mientras tanto, dáte una vuelta por el showroom para una tarde tranquila de compras. Confía en mí, no lo vas a arrepentir.

Xoxo
Tu BAShopGirl
Visitá a Blackmamba en Thames 2110 1D
www.beblackmamba.com

All photos courtesy Blackmamba

Welcome to the Brand New BAShopGirl.com

BAShopGirl has a new look! Get ready for shopping tips, style advice, and all the best of fashion design in Buenos Aires. Brand new posts coming soon! xoxo

Let's Get Ready to Party

Photo: Maria Dahn Facebook

For the ultimate fashionista, there is nothing more exciting than the classic cocktail party, VIP event, or store opening. Each of these fabulous occasions requires a party dress to impress, and fortunately, Buenos Aires has a plentiful variety of stores and showrooms offering everything from the traditional LBD to gold studded minis.  If you're on the hunt for your perfect party dress, you're in the right city.

Through their use of sheer lace, sparkling paillettes, and a fitted cut that emphasizes your best features, the dresses at Sisters Solnicki are showstoppers. Located in the ultra chic Galeria Promenade, the line designed by Marina and Jessie Solnicki is unforgettable. Expect to look sexy yet classy in these short, thigh-baring garments. I can't get over the sea blue dress studded entirely with glittering beads, reminiscent of a 1920s sensibility. It shines like the sun and is guaranteed to draw attention.  I certainly couldn't live without my black lace, deep V-neck cocktail dress by the Sisters. Lined with a gold slip that adds a hint of color, there is nothing in the room that will compare. The party dresses by Sisters Solnicki are nothing if not incomparable.
       
From her exclusive boutique also inside the legendary Alvear Palace Hotel Promenade, designer Agustina of María Dahn has created one of the most popular lines among young people in BA.  Through the use of solely imported fabrics purchased each season in New York, she has utilized her Parsons education to create a line that's fun and fresh. Each of her dresses is accented with a ruffle here or a sequin there to give your dress a unique feature. One of my favorite elements of her collection is her use of color. Forget about a plain black dress, Agustina will always add a touch of excitement, whether it's gold, sea green, or hot pink. Even her LBD is dotted with colorful beading. At María Dahn, be prepared for low cut backs that give her pieces a feeling of sensuality and refinement. While you're there, don't miss her daywear collection filled with handmade sweaters, sundresses, and even some cute leather jackets.
       
The epitome of elegance, Evangelina Bomparola uses smooth silk in all her delicate creations. This season is marked by a menswear theme, with black and white being the dominant colors in the collection. My favorite piece is her tuxedo jacket cut beautifully for a woman's body. It can be paired with black trousers and bold jewelry for an alternative option at your next event. Unexpected yet mysteriously intriguing. On the more traditional side, Bomparola also offers exquisite full-length gowns in pure silk and chiffon for your most formal celebration, and of course, your classic LBD.
       
Perhaps the most well-known party dress store in Buenos Aires, Salsipuedes ("Leave if you can"), has three locations in some of the most exclusive neighborhoods. The look at this store is bright colors, lots of ruffles, and hippie chic. They offer a wide selection of dresses from long gowns to short cocktail, all with the signature Salsipuedes funky, youthful spirit. Each boutique also sells select jewelry pieces and some cute bags to pair with your new dress. Consider it your one stop shop for your next event.
       
From graceful to edgy, you can find the dress of your dreams in Buenos Aires. It might be time to start planning your birthday party, if only as an excuse to stop by one of these stores. Leave if you can.


xoxo
Your BAShopGirl

Sisters Solnicki: Galeria Promenade Alvear: Av. Alvear 1883 Local 17
María Dahn: Galeria Promenade Alvear Av. Alvear 1883 Local 28
www.mariadahn.com.ar
Evangelina Bomparola: Av. Alvear 1923
Salsipuedes: Honduras 4814
           

BA's Queens of Comfy Cool

Photo: Victoria Sedran

Although enchanting and endlessly fascinating, Buenos Aires can also be an intense and fast-paced city. As much as we love to dress up in luxurious fabrics like satin and silk, sometimes all we need to get through a busy BA day is comfort. Lucky for us, in this city, comfortable doesn't equal boring. Some of the most innovative and unique design is made out of nothing more exotic than cotton and lycra. These designers have taught me that casual can still be cool.

Tucked away on one of Palermo Soho's hottest streets, Nehgro thoroughly embraces the concept of creating funky clothes with personality using basic fabrics. Many of their pieces, including a fabulous pair of shorts I tried on, include a stretch waistband, so that no matter how much you eat, you're stylishly covered. The summer collection incorporates some of the most prominent trends, most notably the military theme.  A white buttoned tank top features prints of fighter planes and warriors, and a few tees feature an emblem declaring, "Lovers Make War." These playful aspects help enhance a diverse collection that features a variety of muted colors like gray, dark blue, beige, and of course, black.  Stripes are another signature accent in Nehgro's summer collection, and can be found on everything from stretchy pants to light tees and tanks. Shopping at Neghro is the perfect opportunity to show off your fun personality while remaining thoroughly relaxed.


For a feminine sensibility, Denari Rodriguez offers cotton dresses with lace trim, tops with cap sleeves, and touches like buttons and ruffles. Expect lively colors such as orange and violet, with many cream pieces to tone down the bold prints.  In their new collection, the ladies of Denari Rodriguez have thoroughly embraced spring fever, emphasizing florals and pinks. This irresistible charm makes DR a great option for the girl who's ready for beach trips to Brazil and warm summer nights. Many pieces in the collection can also be layered for a more complete look, which makes them versatile and wearable.  All the fabrics are light, airy, and durable, and made of some of the best quality cotton available.


The original pioneer of comfort as high design, Dorina Vidoni now operates a nationwide brand that embraces the female figure like no other. Regardless of your size or shape, Dorina offers a variety of eclectic pieces in almost every color you can imagine. Forget about prints at this store, but focus on the bold block colors that hug your body in just the right places. Whether you like fitted clothes or a loose look, you will find everything from dresses to pants at one of her boutiques. Famous for her belief in cross-cultural communication, a distinctly exotic flair can be seen in every piece in her collection. Another strength of Dorina Vidoni is her ability to design clothes for all ages. A dress from DV will look stunning on a woman of 60 or 20, and most importantly, it will keep you feeling comfy all day long.


Deceptively simple, Victoria Sedran utilizes soft cotton and lycra to create pieces you can live in. I often take a siesta in her relaxed tees, and head out for dinner in her sexy leggings. Once you put on Victoria's clothes, you simply cannot take them off. Picture off the shoulder tops with her classic logo and tanks stitched with smooth cut pockets. Her spring/summer collection is highlighted with a bold printed skirt that accentuates your body. This piece can be combined with one of her signature loose fit tops for a balanced, hip look. My favorite piece? Her black leggings with cutouts at the knees. I haven't put these on without hearing the classic, "Where did you get those?" And since I put them on almost every day, that's really saying something. It's little details like this that make Victoria's concept absolutely genius. A pocket here, a stitch there, and a cotton-lycra skirt is suddenly transformed into a sexy piece for your whole day. If your life demands you stay comfortable, stay comfy in style with clothes by Victoria Sedran.


Until I moved to Buenos Aires, I always believed that activewear would never allow a woman to truly show off her unique personality. This city has proved me wrong. Ever since I laid eyes on all of these collections, it's hard to get me to wear anything else. Just try to take these clothes off-I dare you.


xoxo
Your BAShopGirl

Nehgro: El Salvador 4619 PB D
www.nehgro.com.ar
Denari Rodriguez: Peña 2757 PB A
www.denarirodriguez.com
Dorina Vidoni: www.dorinavidoni.com
Victoria Sedran: info@victoriasedran.com.ar
www.victoriasedran.com.ar

The Best of BA Bags

Photo: Anne Bonny Facebook

Sometimes it seems as though there are an unlimited amount of stylish items for sale in Buenos Aires. Strappy sandals, shiny rings, leather jackets, and elegant dresses are just a few of my favorites. However, there is one accessory that inspires my inner fashion diva, one that I simply cannot live without. A classic purse. Luckily, BA is one of the best cities in the world for bag shopping. The combination of rich Argentine leather and creative design makes this city the capital of the handbag.

Although it’s almost impossible to choose amongst the array of fabulous designers, when it comes to a bag that’s trendy but durable, I adore Anne Bonny. Imagine accessories like goat hair, tassels, ropes, and quilted leather, available in a variety of colors including red and blue. Anne Bonny is the ultimate in high fashion and impeccable quality. The new spring/summer collection is particularly eye-catching, with designs inspired by the movies of illustrious Spanish film director Pedro Almodóvar. Look for touches of tiger print in these limited edition purses, and get there fast if you’re lusting for a bag. There are only ten available of each piece in the new collection.

Just a quick walk up Malabia from Anne Bonny and you can find the showroom of Maria Mor. I fell in love with this line when I first laid eyes on a smooth brown leather tote. Needless to say, I was hooked. However, it’s not just her tote that is unforgettable. Designer Natalia has created a diverse collection of colorful bags in all sizes and finishes. In her showroom, you’ll see traditionally shiny leather, as well as a delicate matte that’s a perfect match for jeans and a tee. Furthermore, her line certainly does not lack color.  One of her standouts is a hot pink petite bag with a chain strap a la Chanel. Love at first sight.

If you like color as much as I do, head to the Belgrano showroom of designer Maria Caldas. Each bag is lined on the inside with a variety of prints, from floral to tiger. Thus, even if you’re sporting a traditional black bag, it unzips to reveal a bright interior. The hallmark of Maria’s line is her young, hip design aesthetic, evidenced by her extensive use of tassels, zippers, bows, and buckles. Additionally, expect to find bags in every color from yellow to bright red. The service at Maria Caldas is also impeccable, and I couldn’t resist the charm of her heart shaped coin purse as a free gift with your new purchase. With her fun and versatile style, it’s hard to leave Maria Caldas empty handed.

New on the fashion scene, yet already incredibly successful, the designers behind Faustina bags and more have brought their New York style sense to Buenos Aires. The details at Faustina include gold studs and clutches featuring ruffled leather accents in colors like light pink and whimsical green. According to the two designers behind this line, their purses are directed towards the modern woman, who is independent, elegant, spontaneous, creative, and above all, chic. If this sounds like you, stop by their Recoleta showroom and find the perfect purse for your adventurous lifestyle.
The availability of beautiful bags in Buenos Aires is almost overwhelming, and it’s nearly impossible to choose just one. Nevertheless, you’re guaranteed to find exactly what you want at any of these amazing showrooms. Next time you walk out the door to take on your busy day, don’t leave home without a classic BA bag.

Xoxo
Your BAShopGirl

Anne Bonny: El Salvador 4719
info@annebonny.com.ar
Maria Mor: Malabia 587 6F
info@maria-mor.com
Maria Caldas: info@mariacaldas.com.ar
Faustina bags and more: www.faustinabags.com.ar