The LV Boat: Cruise on to 2011

HONG KONG — Cruise collections have always been my favorite in every fashion year. It’s a jewel box collection of forever pieces that also throb with the season’s trends. Meant for holidays in the sun, while most of the world make do with wet and sloshy weather. However, this tight and well-edited collection has become the go-to for the fashion flock for investment pieces that resonate well all year long.

The Louis Vuitton Cruise 2011 sees a southern belle go cosmopolitan in their sweet and tarty Chic Lolita. Inspired by the suggestive sexiness of the cherub-faced femme fetale, the acidic but milky pastel, swishes of blush and colors that are inspired by milkshakes and cupcakes, it makes for an interesting collection from the highly veneered house of LV.

A departure from their usual worldly aesthetic, Vuitton’s Cruise collection is a celebration for women to show off their curves and maybe

Footwear: Feet are clad in dainty flats or timeless booties.

pat on some faux eyelashes. Despite its retro trappings, make no mistake that this sugary collection is still crafted with true Louis Vuitton sophistication. Take the mother- of-pearl minaudiere that looks like a luscious block of candy. Each panel is hand-pressed and hand-sewn with a lambskin lining. A more foxy turn would be the Sprouse flats that can add an edge to the demure repertoire. A more urban and modern addition would be the Sofia Coppola-designed bags that come in a new range of neutrals.

Nice girls don’t finish last in this collection.

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Louis Vuitton is available at Greenbelt 4, Makati City

At homme

Jewelry: Following the old credo of matching sets, the fine jewelry line of LtV call for unity and embrace classic American design.

“At ease” is the tone of the hardy but sophisticated military-inspired men’s collection for Cruise 2011. With parkas that you can pack into little pouches and jackets that double as backpacks, these little gems for men are nothing short of genius.

Even suits can soften any corporate shark with precise detailing and muted neutrals. Casual wear enjoys a burst of color in a sleek Yves Klein blue. Despite its fancy details (think gold monogrammed buttons), the collection remains down to earth.

Accessories enjoy a timeless aesthetic with sturdy brogues, loafers and chic two-tone boat shoes. Even sneakers get the ’80s treatment with classic shapes that echo the time when Run DMC was king. Shades are a touch futuristic with Lucite and luxurious metals playing together. Of course, the all-flattering mod skinny tie is ever present.