Wilkes

WILKES BASHFORD

A FASHIONABLE LIFE WELL LIVED

THE HIGHSTYLE LIFE LIVE TO DRESS, DRESS TO LIVE

INTRODUCING

MARIOS

AN ICONIC PACIFIC NORTHWEST RETAILER JOINS OUR FAMILY OF STORES

GREETINGS FROM TYLER & THE MITCHELL FAMILY

WELCOME

A TIME OF NEW BEGINNINGS...

This beautiful spring finds us at a time of some very difficult as well as some very exciting transitions.

Our hearts couldn’t be heavier about the loss of our beloved friend, colleague and visionary, Wilkes Bashford. The letters, memories and tributes to this extraordinary man keep flooding in. Please see our WILKES BASHFORD tribute to Wilkes beginning on 19 3 3 – 2 0 16 page 8.

On an uplifting note, we are thrilled to formally introduce you to the newest addition to our family of stores, the magnificent Marios stores of the Pacific Northwest. We are excited about the expanded product selection and fashion network our customers will enjoy with the addition of these three iconic stores in our corner of the country.

All of Wilkes’ friends and colleagues at Wilkes Bashford in San Francisco and Palo Alto look forward to carrying on Wilkes’ legacy and doing him proud by keeping the Bay Area stylish and committed to its people and causes. We wish you and your family a healthy, peaceful and stylish season.

Tyler Mitchell & the Mitchell Family

INTRODUCING MARIOS While we have suffered a great loss, we also have some wonderful new additions that we believe will bring fun and variety to our friends in the Bay Area: Marios of the Pacific Northwest with stores in Seattle, Portland and Bridgeport Village, Oregon has joined our family of stores! Marios is run by Mario Bisio, a longtime friend of Wilkes Bashford and the Mitchell family. Working with like-minded tastemakers like Wilkes and Mario has expanded our collective fashion world and offerings. We look forward to sharing the Marios edit and sensibility with you online and hope you will stop in and say “hi” at all of our stores in your travels!

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Wilkes Bashford 375 Sutter Street

FEATURES 8 A Fashionable Life Well Lived: In Tribute to Wilkes Bashford 16 Our World is Expanding 29 Have You Seen Our Blog?

30 Introducing Omni-Touch 68 Why a Multi-Brand Store?

78 Shatterproof’s Gary Mendell 96 Profile: Samuelsohn

San Francisco 415.986.4380

450 Stanford Shopping Center Palo Alto 650.322.7080

CONCEPT /CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Andrew Mitchell-Namdar MERCHANDISING DIRECTOR

Tyler Mitchell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Karen Alberg Grossman DESIGN DIRECTOR

FASHION 36 The High-Style Life 64 Spring Silhouette 70 Stylewatch: Mixing Metaphors 80 Romance in the Air 92 Workwear Essentials 99 Flights of Color

Hans Gschliesser MANAGING EDITOR

Jillian LaRochelle PROJECT MANAGER

Lisa Montemorra DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION

Peg Eadie DIRECTOR OF PREPRESS

John Frascone WILKES ART DIRECTION & COPY

WSAA, Inc., Westport, CT BUSINESS JOURNALS FASHION GROUP PUBLISHER

DEPARTMENTS 3 Welcome Letter 18 Scene & Heard 24 What’s New 104 Travel: Brijuni 108 Services

Stuart Nifoussi PRESIDENT AND CEO

Britton Jones CHAIRMAN AND COO

Mac Brighton CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Christine Sullivan FASHION FORUM MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED IN 11 REGIONAL EDITIONS FOR MEMBER STORES OF THE APPAREL FORUM COPYRIGHT 2016. PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS JOURNALS, INC, P.O. BOX 5550, NORWALK, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • FAX: 203-852-8175; ADVERTISING OFFICE: 1384 BROADWAY, NY, NY 10018-6108, 212-686-4412 • FAX: 212686-6821; ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE PUBLISHERS ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITIES

FOR

ADVERTISERS

CLAIMS,

UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS, TRANSPARENCIES OR OTHER MATERIALS. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHERS. VOLUME 19, ISSUE 1. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

K WIAT D IAM OND EAR R INGS

WILKES BASHFORD 19 3 3 – 2 0 16

A FASHIONABLE LIFE WELL LIVED This January, we lost our beloved partner and friend, Wilkes Bashford. Wilkes Bashford, whom the San Francisco Chronicle called “The Man Who Gave San Francisco Its Elegance” had just celebrated his 50th anniversary as a legendary fashion icon, stylemaker and adored figure in the fabric of Bay Area life. We are grateful that Wilkes was able to enjoy this grand celebration and look back at all he has accomplished.

With an impeccable eye for fashion and detail, Wilkes pioneered what he coined the “bold conservative” look, famously dressing his friend Mayor Willie Brown as well as countless friends and celebrities of the art, science, technology and political worlds, in the Bay Area and beyond. Wilkes was the first retailer to bring designers including Brioni, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren to San 8

Francisco and has been a regular on Esquire’s “Best Dressed List” since 1972. Aside from his enormous contributions to style, Wilkes was a passionate public servant, championing local causes and chairing many charity events and galas. Most recently, Wilkes was president of the War Memorial & Performing Arts Center Board of Trustees, devoting his efforts to building a monument to the city’s veterans.

The Mitchell family first got to know Wilkes on European buying trips, where they were charmed by his unmatched taste level and unforgettable grace, warmth and sense of humor. We, along with all of Wilkes’ colleagues, truly considered him a member of our family. The youngest Mitchells regarded Wilkes as another grandfather. R.I.P. Wilkes. Your legacy, contributions and humanity live on. — THE MITCHELL FAMILY

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“For 26 years you were my teacher and mentor in style and in life. I will miss you so much.”

Randy Candler, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco Since 1989

“We all have lost a fabulous friend and business colleague.

Wilkes was a bright and genuine icon… a leader in our industry. He was the pioneer in the San Francisco Bay area, bringing great designers such as Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani to his townhouse store on Sutter Street. During his last years, he was a loyal ambassador supporting our family in his home… his store. I will cherish the last dinner we had together, just the two us, in mid-December, sharing lots of candid, caring stories of our journeys. I didn’t know it at the time but I will always remember it as our farewell dinner. I will miss the great Wilkes Bashford … miss him a lot.”

Jack Mitchell

WILKES BASHFORD 19 3 3 – 2 0 16

“My memories of Wilkes go back to the ’80s, when I was running the USA market. Wilkes, along with Murray Pearlstein and Fred Pressman, was one of the masters of men’s luxury retailing, in an age when it was all about fine taste, top-quality products and intimate service. Today, in the era of omnichannel, going back to basics reprises the legacy of these legendary merchants. I will always remember the creativity and retail leadership of Wilkes!”

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Gildo Zegna

“Until meeting Wilkes, I never knew someone who loved to eat out, but did not really like to eat. He was passionate about his guests, where they sat and how they interacted — food was just a sideshow. I shared great dinners with Wilkes and my friends from college, and with my wife and kids. Once, he took us to Le Central and taught my daughter Lauren to play dice. She was the big winner, taking money from Wilkes and his friends! Another amazing afternoon, we were in the penthouse and in came Secretary George Schultz. We had a great conversion about his negotiations with Gorbachev.

Later at dinner, Wilkes and I discussed world politics and I discovered yet another dimension and depth to Wilkes.”

Russ Mitchell

“One of my favorite memories is when he asked me to take care of Duchess. He showed me how to feed her and gave me her walking schedule. Anyone who knew Wilkes knew that Duchess was his baby and he loved her like nothing else.

The fact that he trusted me with her that whole day made me feel so valuable and important. He always knew how to make you feel special and for that I am eternally grateful. Cheers to a man that will forever be my hero. I miss you! xo” Star Burleigh, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco Since 2015

“It is with deep sorrow that I have learned that my esteemed Wilkes Bashford has passed away; he was a human being constantly in love with fashion, gracious and distinguished, whose soul had always been the source of great thoughts. I would like to express my deep condolescences to all of his family.”

Brunello Cucinelli

“Six years ago I came to work for my two former customers, Wilkes Bashford and the Mitchell family. What I never expected was for my relationship with Wilkes to transcend work and turn into a beautiful friendship. He became my pal and buddy. We had so many laughs and great times on the town together and in our day-to-day work.

I will miss Wilkes very much and forever cherish my time with this great friend.”

Jeff Garelick, General Manager Wilkes San Francisco Since 2010

“You rarely meet exceptional people today and without a doubt you were one of the greatest men I have ever met. A true gentleman of style, humor, wit and sophistication. I am grateful our lives crossed six years ago and I will forever remember you with fondness and love!”

Andrew Mitchell-Namdar 11

“Always so dapper...

I will miss Wilkes terribly. He shaped my life and I will be forever grateful to him.”

Christine Robbins, Women’s Team Leader Wilkes San Francisco Since 1988

“When Wilkes hired me over 15 years ago my start date was January 2, 2001. I was leaving my previous employer just before Christmas so he asked if I’d like to start a little earlier, the day after Christmas. I had already been in retail for 10 years, so I said I’d like to have that holiday week off. He agreed and said I should enjoy it as I’ll never have that week off again! We laughed, but it was then that I knew he was investing in me for the long term. I will miss him immensely! “ Robert Simmons, Style Advisor Wilkes Palo Alto Since 2001

WILKES BASHFORD 19 3 3 – 2 0 16

“Every day there was something Wilkes would talk about or insist that we do for the city. He was part of the heart of the city.”

Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, Best Friend for Over 50 Years 12

“Wilkes set the bar for sophisticated sartorial flair with his exquisite taste. I will miss his wit, his teaching me things that enriched all aspects of my life, and slipping down to his office to tie his bow tie before he set out to support and celebrate all that is life in San Francisco...

So long, my elegant friend. I told you I felt the measure of a good life was that you touched other lives and made them better... Well, I say Mr B., you lived an awesome life!”

Lorrin Mullins, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco

“I grew up idolizing Wilkes Bashford, the store and the man.

I will be forever grateful for our friendship and partnership. He was truly a legend and pioneer, but most importantly, one of the kindest men I have ever known.”

Bob Mitchell

“I’ve been at Wilkes for 23 years and feel so privileged to have worked with him and to have called him my friend.

Although I was hired in 1993 by a separate company, the shoe concession formally known as Wilson & Dean, Wilkes always treated me as one of his own. Wilkes was a true visionary and he gave so many designers their big break.

To name a few: Donna Karan, Richard Tyler, Ralph Lauren, Alexander Julian, and the list goes on. I will miss the wonderful Wilkes Bashford so much and will never forget him and his kind spirit. Even though he is gone, his legacy will live on forever.”

Michele Goulet-Russell, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco Since 1993

“I sat next to Wilkes during a performance of Beach Blanket Babylon, an iconic “way off-Broadway” musical.

I have never laughed so hard in my entire life — not simply at the show, but at Wilkes’ start-to-finish commentary. It was priceless! The man was a gem in so many ways.”

“I will be one of many who will miss you every step of the way, Mr. Bashford... You will live in my heart forever.”

Nina Kirilova, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco

Scott Mitchell 13

“I have worked for Wilkes for 31 years... He was a dear friend to me and my mentor for years.

I will miss him tremendously, but a great story of him is when I took him and Cissie Swig on the Wine Train for their birthdays. We had the whole car to ourselves! They had never been on the Wine Train before! We all had so much fun together!”

Sheree Chambers, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco Since 1983

“Before the Kiton trunk show, Mr. Bashford asked me to let him know when swatches arrived that he could pull for clients. I stood faithfully behind him and Duchess, watching him discerningly make stacks of fabrics he did and didn’t approve of. Occasionally, I made one-word comments, hoping my opinion aligned with his. He responded politely when he disagreed. Then, a fabric came up for consideration. He was transfixed by the swatch. Without much thought I blurted out, ‘It’s too much white!’ He put everything down and looked at me through his powder blue-stained glasses and said ‘You’re exactly right, Lucas! I knew we hired you for a reason.’ It was then I realized, I was in. Thanks Mr. Bashford; I will always remember the moments I was able to soak up your insights and learn something new.”

Lucas Schott, Style Advisor Wilkes San Francisco Since 2015

WILKES BASHFORD 19 3 3 – 2 0 16

“San Francisco is deeply heartbroken by the passing of Wilkes Bashford, the business and civic leader that represented the best of our city. I have great respect for Wilkes in creating the renowned world-class Wilkes Bashford company that started in downtown San Francisco in 1966 and has grown over the last five decades. But it was also his lifelong dedication to our communities and our city that I admire the most. As president of the War Memorial Board of Trustees, Wilkes oversaw our treasured performing arts venues and recently presided over the reopening of the War Memorial Veterans Building after a historic multi-year renovation.

We were fortunate to have called him a true friend of our city.

San Francisco will not be the same without Wilkes Bashford.”

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San Francisco Mayor Edwin M. Lee

“I’ll never forget the humor that Wilkes and I would often share... Generations apart, but man did we connect and laugh about stuff.

Most of the time it was the ‘off-the-record’ conversations that just had us howling... But it didn’t have to be. He had the unique ability to put things into perspective for me... I always left his presence feeling better than when I entered it. I think this picture captures a lot of perspective about life and our friendship.”

Tyler Mitchell

PRATESI © 2015 · PHOTO BY OTTAVIA POLI

“GRAFFITI” pratesi.com

MARIOS OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST JOINS OUR FAMILY OF STORES!

OUR WORLD IS EXPANDING THE MARIOS STORY

1960s

1970s

1980s

1990s

Mario Bisio Sr. opened Marios, a family clothing store in Portland’s newly opened Lloyd Center. Mario Jr. began working for his father as a kid, sweeping floors and opening boxes, and selling during his high school years.

Mario Jr. graduated from the University of Oregon and by 1973 became a full business partner with his father. A year after Mario Sr.’s passing in 1975, Mario transformed the store and made his first buying trip to Europe. In 1976, Marios was the first retailer to bring Canali to the U.S. It was also one of the first stores to offer Ermenegildo Zegna and Diesel Jeans. In 1977, Mario opened a second store at the Portland Galleria.

Marios opened its first women’s store, named Ragazza, across the street from the Galleria. In 1982, Mario expanded to Seattle, opening a store for both men and women on 6th Avenue.

Fashion expert Lynwood Holmberg was hired to lead the growing women’s department. In 1994, the Seattle store was renovated, featuring a grand staircase leading to the mezzanine and a new, expanded women’s department.

Lynwood and Mario introduced new lines, including Loro Piana, Narciso Rodriguez and Prada.

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It is with great excitement that we introduce you to the newest members of our retail family, the stunning Marios stores of the Pacific Northwest. Founded in Portland, Oregon, Marios has three stores — Seattle, Washington; Portland, Oregon; and a contemporary store in Bridgeport Village, Oregon.

A second-generation family business, Marios is run by our longtime friend Mario Bisio. We have known Mario for over twenty years and he shares a similar taste level, the same values as a long-running family business, and above all, our commitment to bringing the world’s best fashions and service to his customers.

Marios has many of the same designer

partners as our other stores as well as a distinct edit of mostly contemporary international and local designers, which we think you’ll enjoy getting to know. The addition of Marios stores will expand our online offerings, bringing the exquisite sensibilities of the Pacific Northwest to our customers everywhere.

When business or pleasure next takes you to Seattle or Portland, we hope you will stop by and introduce yourself to the warm, engaging and knowledgable team at Marios. They look forward to welcoming our customers to their stores. To learn more about Marios and explore our new collective offerings, check out mitchellstores.com!

2000s

2014

2015

2016

The Seattle and Portland stores now included Ermenegildo Zegna shops and in 2005, new jewelry departments were created. In 2006, Marios 3.10 opened in Bridgeport Village, catering to customers who favor a stylish, casual lifestyle. In 2008, Mario Bisio received the Lifetime Achievement Award from MR Magazine and by 2010 both Seattle and Portland stores became home to the first and only Brunello Cucinelli shops in the area.

In July 2014, Marios was recognized

by MR Magazine as one of the “10 Most Influential Stores in North America.”

In September 2015, Mario Bisio joined forces with his longtime friends the Mitchells, and Marios officially became part of Mitchell Stores.

In spring 2016, Marios’ website and inventory is integrated into the mitchells.com online shopping experience, expanding collections from our existing designers as well as many designers new to our store.

Marios’ Style Advisors join our online service team, available to our Style Advisors and customers globally who may need guidance on their product and services.

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WB CELEBRATES

50 YEARS OF STYLE! with Champagne, customized poetry and fashion models!

Champagne was flowing as the movers and shakers from the Bay Area raised a glass to the continuing bright future of Wilkes Bashford as we kicked off our 50th year. It was an all-day celebration with activities throughout the seven-story San Francisco townhouse.

A vintage typewriter pounded out customized poetry for guests and our photo booth created fun 60-page miniature flipbooks from 7-second videos the guests made with Wilkes, Tyler Mitchell or their favorite Style Advisor. Piano music played by longtime client Dick Clark filled the townhouse while guests shopped, enjoyed light bites throughout the store, and watched as models roamed the seven floors.

CELEBRATING

Tyler Mitchell, a co-owner, and Wilkes Bashford shared stories with clients and friends— and offered their famous “Bash” cocktail in the penthouse. Q

50 YEARS OF STYLE

... JUST GETTING STARTED!

THE PARTY CONTINUED TO PALO ALTO….WB@50!

The following weekend, the celebration hit the Palo Alto circuit. Clients and friends from the area came by to hug Wilkes and Tyler as they commemorated 50 great years of the California institution.

A charming gelato cart was added to the event and the flip-book photo booth was a huge success with lots of memories made that day. Q

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49ERS WIVES

GIRLS NITE OUT!

Cocktails and Couture Girls Nite Out with 49ers wives, patrons and friends The annual evening affair at a beautiful home in Hillsborough continued the Wilkes Bashford tradition of “wowing” the crowd with the Best of the Best Fall Trend Fashion Show. A Wilkes popup shop on the grounds completed the night.

The fashionably epicurean evening benefited the 49ers Academy. The generosity of the guests empowers East Palo Alto youth to achieve their dreams. Q

WILKES &

WHOA! Back in the saddle for charity!

In celebration of the Menlo Charity Horse Show’s 45th year, Wilkes Bashford hosted an evening of charity and fashion at our Palo Alto store. The evening’s auction and a percentage of sales benefited the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. It was 45 years ago that seven women got together to plan the horse show, and the kick-off for this 45th major milestone season found guests enjoying cocktails and camaraderie among the horse set while enjoying the luxuries offered at Wilkes. Well done! Q

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LPCH STANFORD BENEFIT AT WILKES

WALK SOFTLY AND CARRY A STUNNING BAG

Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Ambassadors hosted a unique Shoe and Handbag Runway Show at Wilkes Bashford Palo Alto. The stage design revealing only the models’ hands, legs and feet was greeted with enthusiasm by guests who also enjoyed a fun day of shopping benefiting the charity.

Competitive bidding for a fantastic Wilkes Year of Shoes, a silent auction item donated by the store, brought in an enthusiastic winner coveting the idea of shopping each month for a great pair of shoes. What woman would not covet that prize!?

The stylish women savored small plate specialties as they visited with friends and patrons of the hospital. Wilkes Bashford himself was on hand to chat with longtime clients and new customers. Q

SOCIAL MEDIA WILKES-STYLE...

STAY CONNECTED

As the ultimate tastemakers who are in the know, we have our fingers on the pulse of fashion, culture, beauty and current topics!

Stay connected as we post the season’s hottest trends, share a backstage pass and peek at our designers’ inspiration. Sneak a behind-the-scenes look at photoshoots, fashion weeks, showrooms and, of course, the party circuit.

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ͦͣͥ͟Ǿ ͭ͛ͬ͢͟ Ы ͩͦ͠​ͦͩͱ ͯͭ ͩͨ ͛ͩ͟͜͠͝​ͩͥǾ ͮͱͣͮ​ͮͬ͟ Ы ͣͨͭͮ͛ͬ͛ͧ͡Ȃ

ͣͨͭͮ͛ͬ͛ͧ͡ǽͩͧ͝ȡͱͣͦͥͭ͛ͭͩͬ͟͜͢͠͞ ͮͱͣͮ​ͮͬ͟ǽͩͧ͝ȡͱͣͦͥͭ͛ͭͩͬ͟͜͢͠͞ ͛ͩ͟͜͠͝​ͩͥǽͩͧ͝ȡͱͣͦͥͭ͛ͭͩͬ͟͜͢͠͞

We’ll see you there! Q

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SPRING 2016

TRUNK SHOWS 1/11-12

CAROLINA HERRERA TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

2/24-25

BOGNER TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

2/26-27

BOGNER TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

2/27

ISAIA TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

3/4-5

BRIONI TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

3/5-6

BRIONI TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

3/10-12

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI WOMEN’S TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

3/11-12

BOGLIOLI MADE-TO-MEASURE CARAVAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO BRUNELLO CUCINELLI MEN’S TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO SARTORIA PARTENOPEA TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

3/15-17

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI WOMEN’S TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

3/16-17

DANA KELLIN TRUNK SHOW PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

3/18-19

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI MEN’S TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO DANA KELLIN TRUNK SHOW PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

3/24

DEREK LAM TRUNK SHOW PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

3/25-26

DEREK LAM TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

3/31-4/3

KITON MEN’S TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PALO ALTO

4/2

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA TRUNK SHOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

4/7

PAOLO COSTAGLI TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

4/7-9

KITON MEN’S TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

4/16

LUCIANO BARBERA TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

5/19-20

PAOLO COSTAGLI TRUNK SHOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SAN FRANCISCO

PA = PERSONAL APPEARANCE

For a complete list of events, please visit wilkesbashford.com Q 22

TABITHA SIMMONS Tabitha Simmons launched her debut collection in 2009. Tabitha has won numerous awards, most recently the CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year Award. Her collections are defined by the use of exquisite materials such as exotic skins and the finest leathers and suede. Couture craftsmanship by master cobblers in Italy is seen in details and ornate embellishments. Her designs are inspired by her British roots and worldwide travels.

What’s

NEW

DISCOVER NEW DESIGNERS IN OUR STORES & NEW COLLECTIONS FROM DESIGNER FAVORITES!

STEPHEN WEBSTER The London-based jewelry brand is known for its exquisite and cutting-edge designs. Inspired by art subjects as diverse as William Blake’s illustrations for Albion Rose, the pop culture iconography of David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust album cover, Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and reinterpreted plumage of England’s game birds, this is fine jewelry-as-storytelling at its most colorful and imaginative.

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SAMANTHA SUNG Korean-born designer Samantha Sung worked at Ralph Lauren for five years before launching her own line in 2006. Characterized by her trademark and original prints, Samantha Sung clothing draws inspiration from the colors of the South Pacific and the spirit of bohemian islands. Elegantly shaped and adorned with handpainted prints, her range of dresses boasts standout pieces perfect for updating modern wardrobes.

SUNO

BIGI CRAVATTEMILANO In 1938, Stefano and Paolo Cravatte’s maternal grandfather, Luigi Draghi, opened the family’s first workshop for the production of ties. Since 1954, it has been one of Italy’s most renowned names in ties. In 1990, Stefano and Paolo, a third generation building on their family’s technique of producing exclusive handmade ties, have built a brand known for tradition, creativity and unsurpassed quality in handmade ties.

Max Osterweis conceived of Suno in 2008 after witnessing the postelection violence in Kenya.

Using the collection of Kenyan Kangas he gathered over years of traveling, Osterweis joined forces with Erin Beatty, a Parsons graduate and designer for The Gap and Generra, to launch a high-end collection with a conscience. Suno now includes production in Kenya, India, Peru and its home base of New York.

Suno utilizes talent from each country to create a fresh, optimistic collection of unique prints, textures and embroideries, layered together to build a bright and modern wardrobe.

VALEXTRA Valextra was founded in 1937 by Giovanni Fontana in Milan, Italy. The brand is known for its clean lines and precise cuts.

The designers draw inspiration from contemporary design and minimalist architecture, molding leather like steel or concrete. The pieces in the collection are influenced by timeless forms and are a result of a spatial study inspired by contemporary masters.

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TOD’S Tod’s artisans reinterpret Italian handmade tradition by selecting the best quality leather and crafting unique products with a continuous attention to the smallest details.

Each single Tod’s product is the result of the constant pursuit of excellence, an iconic mark of quality and handcrafted heritage.

Wilkes is thrilled to introduce Tod’s iconic handbags in our stores.

ZIMMERMANN Sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann founded their namesake label in 1991. They fast won a loyal following: smart, sartorially savvy women with an eye for quality fabrics and clever cutting.

Zimmermann’s bold original prints create a new point of reference in flattering, sexy, ready-towear collections.

GOOD LIFE Good Life believes that the best clothes get out of your way, so you can focus on more important things: living life, working hard, helping others. Good Man Brand’s next-level comfort and innovative, effortless tees, polos and sweatshirts help you look and feel your best. So you can choose what you wear carefully, then forget about it completely — and confidently move on to the day’s good works. Lead. Inspire. Live. Your good life.

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What’s

NEW

IN DENIM AMO

Introducing our next generation of denim designers RE/DONE

RE/DONE

RTA

AMO

Re/Done jeans are the vintage denim of your dreams, remade in your favorite modern fits.

Founded by Sean Barron and Jamie Mazur, Re/Done is restoring individuality to luxury fashion, keeping heritage brands relevant and creating sustainable fashion. Vintage Levi’s denim carries, within its stitching, stories of years of wear — a history of a past life.

Like a fine wine, the denim only gets better with age.

Designers Eli Azran and David Rimokh launched the Road to Awe (RTA) with the purpose of creating a movement. A movement of like-minded people that believe clothing should be used as a form of expression.

They believe clothing should be effortless and chic. The RTA girl is confident and while the clothes evolve, they empower her and help her convey her indominable spirit.

AMO is the Latin root word for love, which is fittingly applied to how founders and fashion industry vets, Kelly Urban and Misty Zollars, feel about denim.

The label was born with a fearless spirit and objective: to create the perfect pair of jeans designed by women who get it. AMO brings back the true intention of denim: to feel real, get better with every wear, and be so comfortable you never want to take them off. 27

AQUAZZURA Born in Colombia and raised between Miami and London, Edgardo Osorio combines his eye for drop-dead glamour, his passion for modern design and his hand for luxury craftsmanship into desirable footwear.

After attending the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins, he made his first strides in the footwear world within some of the most prestigious luxury brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Sigerson Morrison, René Caovilla and Roberto Cavalli. In 2011, after working in the industry for 10 years and at just 25 years old, Osorio launched his luxury footwear brand Aquazzura.

Striking the perfect balance between modern design and impeccable craftsmanship, Osorio creates stylish yet wearable footwear for the modern woman.

He draws his inspiration from European luxury and tradition whilst creating modern shoes that are both sexy and incredibly comfortable, winning him awards such as the Footwear News Best Designer of 2015 award, the Vivian Infantino Emerging Talent Award in 2013 and Elle Spain’s Style Award as the 2014 Best Accessories Designer of t he Year.

The Sexy Thing booties, the Belgravia and Christy flats, and the Wild Thing sandals are his signature styles and have been claimed as must-have shoes by top influencers and fashion press.

Edgardo Osorio has been featured in numerous top international magazines.

His headquarters and Florentine flagship store are situated in the historical Palazzo Corsini along the Arno River, in the heart of Florence and near the best shoemakers and craftspeople in the world.

In just four years, Aquazzura has become available in 48 countries within the top retailers of the world. The brand has gained global recognition as an innovator in the footwear industry.

On top of his iconic seasonal collections, Osorio has also collaborated with renowned influencers and brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo, with whom he created a capsule collection, Edgardo Osorio x Salvatore Ferragamo, launched in December 2015.

This was the first time that the house of Ferragamo has associated themselves with another designer’s name.

Aquazzura shoes can be seen on the feet of trendsetters, Hollywood stars, European royalty and fashion insiders around the globe, from Julianne Moore to Jennifer Lawrence, Gwyneth Paltrow to Nicole Kidman, Rihanna to Charlize Theron, and Beyoncé to Diane Kruger, among many other high-profile celebrities.

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Edgardo Osorio in his Florence, Italy office; Desert Sun shoe available through our stores and online.

DO TELL!

STAY IN THE KNOW WITH OUR DESIGNERS... STYLE... TRENDS... & MORE!

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR BLOG? We just launched Wilkes Edit, the ultimate destination for all things chic.

As fashion lovers we have scoured the store, designers, market, media and current events to keep you in the know.

Check out our blog to meet the designers and find out about everything from designer launches to relevant trends, our must-haves, lifestyle topics and behindthe-scenes glimpses. We are connecting real people to high fashion. We will help you know what to wear—and how and where to flaunt it! Q

Find your fashion inspiration!

Wilkes Edit blog.mitchellstores.com/wilkes

WILKES

le. y t s . e lif

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SERVICES

INTRODUCING OMNI-TOUCH...

OMNI-TOUCH: THE MITCHELL STORES SHOPPING EXPERIENCE. ONLY BETTER. Online shopping with your Style Advisor. In-store browsing from our eight stores online. Messages when something you’ll love arrives, or when your favorite designer hosts a trunk show.

Social media and blog postings with new arrivals each day.

Introducing Omni-Touch. Our signature shopping platform created to touch our customers in any and every way that feels right, for a fully seamless and integrated retail experience.

Enjoy as many or as few “touches" as you like, from anywhere you are, 24/7/365...

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STYLE ADVISOR

STORE

WORLD

EDIT LIFESTYLE

ONLINE CUSTOMER

“WE HAVE EXPANDED CONSUMER TOUCHPOINTS IN STORE, AT HOME AND ONLINE TO DELIVER A SEAMLESS CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE ACROSS ALL CHANNELS.” — RUSS MITCHELL 31

SERVICES

INTRODUCING OMNI-TOUCH...

ENJOY OUR UNIQUE BRAND OF FULLY INTEGRATED SERVICES —

ACCESS OUR EIGHT-STORE INVENTORY

WORK WITH YOUR STYLE ADVISOR

RESERVE IN YOUR FAVORITE STORE

Our eight stores share common designers as well as distinct edits unique to each. Our carefully curated inventory has over 15,000 items. Whether you're shopping from afar or in the store, this expansive inventory adds huge breadth to your favorite store’s offerings. Your Style Advisor will help you find anything you can't find in store online.

Instead of random advice from someone you've never met, work with the same Style Advisor online as in store. If you haven't already, take two minutes to set up an WBWorld account and learn how your Style Advisors can help you build stunning outfits and wardrobes and prepare for events and travel, even on the go.

Shopping online doesn’t always mean buying. Reserve in Store is one of the most popular features of our new site. It saves you the trip of looking for items that are not currently in your preferred store. Reserve items you like in the store of your choice and make the trip when they are there to touch and feel.

WITH OMNI-TOUCH, YOUR TRUSTED STYLE ADVISOR IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE FOR HELP & GUIDANCE.

“ I have had some great success with the Reserve in Store function. I have a client who moved away but comes into the Bay Area once a month.

She goes online and reserves everything she wants to try on, from shoes to clothing. She gives me about a week to get it all together.

When she comes in, we have a very productive appointment because she gets a greater selection than if she just showed up at the store.”

NADINE MARTIN Palo Alto

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NO MATTER HOW YOU SHOP.

MATCH WHAT’S IN YOUR VIRTUAL CLOSET

ADD IT TO YOUR WISH LIST

KEEP UP ON WHAT’S NEW

Our signature Virtual Closet allows you and your Style Advisor to view all your prior purchases (for as far back as we have photos). This is very handy for remembering what you have and building outfits and wardrobes from anywhere.

Introducing our newest tool for keeping track of items you have your eye on! If you see something you like, add it to your Wish List. That way, if you get interrupted or haven't yet decided, you can always go back and find your favorites.

Wilkes Edit (our blog), Facebook, e-mails, Wilkes Magazine and ads are just some of the ways we "touch" you with what's new in fashion and in our stores. And if you see something you like somewhere else, drop a note to your Style Advisor.

ARNAUD GEBLE San Francisco “I met a fellow in the store and he bought two beautiful sportcoats.

He lives far away and is unable to come to the store, so I emailed him when we launched the site. He looks online and reaches out to ask if I think items suit his style.

He is not just a virtual shopper; it’s a way for him to get my fashion guidance. That visit could have been it, but he has used the site combined with emails and phone calls as tools to create a very personal fashion relationship with me.”

“I have a couple of clients who really love looking at MPix in the evenings! It's a great way to shop while you're relaxing late at night.

The next morning I go through each piece and email my suggestions back on what to order or reserve in store for them. The best part is when they come in to see and try on what we’ve pulled together.

This service-oriented way of shopping makes happy customers and is a win-win for all.”

YVONNE HUGHES San Francisco

ROBERT SIMMONS Palo Alto “ My clients have embraced our online shopping. I’ve been able to reintroduce past clients to the ease of online shopping through wilkesbashford.com.

Some were just far too busy to stop by the store and have now loved the access to shopping with a larger inventory now available from all eight Mitchell Stores.

They are also delighted to have instant access to me through the Style Advisor section for any questions.”

“One of my clients is a Valentino fan and checks our site on a regular basis. One morning she sent me MPix of coats she wanted to try on from Valentino. I didn’t even know we carried them since they were in the East Coast stores. I had them transferred for her and she tried on the ones she liked so I could tell her boyfriend which to buy for her birthday.

She was so happy when she received her new coat, and it’s all thanks to MPix!"

STAR BURLEIGH San Francisco

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LORO PIANA “EXTREME” PERFORMANCE FABRIC

THE HIGHSTYLE LIFE

AS TEMPERATURES RISE, OUR PASSION FOR STYLE HEATS UP ALONG WITH IT. SET AGAINST THE STYLISH MID-CENTURY MODERN HOMES AND SURREAL BACKDROPS OF PALM DESERT, THIS SPRING WE INVITE YOU TO DISCOVER OUR DESIGNERS’ HOTTEST CREATIONS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO ELEVATING YOUR LOOK AND ENHANCING YOUR LIFE BY HELPING YOU DEFINE YOUR PERFECT STYLE.

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WES THE GORDON ROW

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ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

BRIONI

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LORO PIANA

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DRESS WITH CONFIDENCE IT’S NOT JUST WHAT YOU

WEAR, BUT THE WAY IN WHICH YOU WEAR IT. WE’LL HELP YOU REFINE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE UNTIL IT FEELS JUST RIGHT

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KITON

ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

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MANOLO BLAHNIK

ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

LUCIANO BARBERA

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THE ROW

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SYLVA & CIE.

DRESS TO INTRIGUE ADD CONTRAST IN COLOR, PATTERN AND TEXTURE TO CREATE A STYLE ALL YOUR OWN

MAURIZIO BALDASSARI

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ROBERTO CAVALLI

DRESS FOR DRAMA CELEBRATING

SOMETHING SPECIAL? LET US HELP YOU MAKE IT UNFORGETTABLE!

ORDE R ONL IN E @ MIT CHELL S T O R ES.CO M FR EE SHIPPING

OSCAR HEYMAN

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ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

ETON

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ORLEBAR BROWN

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COOMI

DRESS TO BEGUILE WITH THE RIGHT DESIGN, SIMPLE CAN BE SIMPLY FABULOUS

VINCE

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OSCAR DE LA RENTA

ISAIA

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SUTRA

AGNONA

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DRESS SMART WORK WITH YOUR STYLE ADVISOR TO REVIEW WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD A WELL THOUGHT-OUT WARDROBE

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SAMUELSOHN

ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

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BONTONI

24

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TOD’S

BOGNER

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DRESS EFFICIENTLY SEE SOMETHING YOU LIKE

ONLINE? RESERVE IN STORE AND WE’LL HAVE IT IN THE STORE OF CHOICE WAITING FOR YOU

ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM F REE S HIPPI N G

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GRAVATI

KITON

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ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

VALENTINO GARAVANI

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DRESS TO SURPRISE ORDINARY TURNS

EXTRAORDINARY WHEN MIXED WITH UNEXPECTED DETAILS

TOTAL KNOCKOUT

Dress Like You Mean It.

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

VALENTINO

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DEREK LAM

GEOMETRY CONTRAST TEXTURE!

SPRING SILHOUETTE

SPRING ’16 IS ALL ABOUT BOLD YET SIMPLE ELEMENTS, TEXTURES AND DETAILS. CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU LOVE THE WAY YOU LIVE IN THEM. WE’LL HAVE YOU READY FOR ALL THAT LIFE BRINGS, INCLUDING YOUR CLOSE-UP, IN NO TIME.

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

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ORDER ON LI N E @ WI LKESB ASHFOR D.COM

F REE S HIPPI N G

AKRIS

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SIMPLICITY LUXURY WEARABILITY

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SARAH FLINT

OUR STYLE ADVISORS WILL HELP YOU FIND YOUR PERFECT MIX!

WHY A MULTIBRAND STORE?

IT’S ALL IN THE MIX!

BY ANDREW MITCHELL-NAMDAR

THE MITCHELLS’ PHILOSOPHY ON WHY A MULTI-BRAND STORE LEADS TO A BETTER WARDROBE.

Multiple designers. An edit customized to the lifestyle and taste of our customers and the climate of our stores. Style Advisors that know you and how to put it all together. One-stop shopping!

We believe the best way to build a well thought-out wardrobe

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is with the guidance, selection and expertise of a store with multiple brands. With a selection of over 400 designers in our collective stores and network, our multibrand stores offer an opportunity to dress all in one brand or mix many different designers to create

a truly signature look.

Like your very own closet, our floors and the online access to additional product we offer give you a chance to mix edgy with traditional, high with low or any combination in between for a look that’s all your own.

ZEGNA

AGAVE

JIMMY CHOO ROBERTO CAVALLI

EDGY + TRADITIONAL. A VARIETY OF PRICE POINTS. WHAT’S YOUR PERFECT MIX?

FRANK & EILEEN

J BRAND

VALENTINO

MOTHER DENIM

ISAIA ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

DEREK LAM PETER MILLAR

MANOLO BLAHNIK

HENRY BEGUELIN

THE ROW RALPH LAUREN

PT01

BONTONI TO BOOT

NAM CHO

CHLOÉ

LANVIN

SAINT LAURENT

ETON PAOLO COSTAGLI

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Stylewatch Spring 2016

MIXING METAPHORS LAYERING, MIXING, MATCHING (& UNMATCHING) PIECES TO MAKE A JEWELRY IMPRINT ALL YOUR OWN.

MATTIA CIELO EXCLUSIVELY OURS 18K ROSE GOLD AND COGNAC DIAMOND BRACELET ON A TITANIUM SPRING CORE FROM THE RUGIADA COLLECTION $15,200

EMILY & ASHLEY IN 18K YELLOW GOLD, LEFT TO RIGHT: SPIKE RING WITH GREEN TOURMALINES $3,300; PAVÉ RING WITH EMERALDS $1,500; MONOGRAM RING WITH DIAMONDS $1,795; RUFFLED RING WITH WHITE SAPPHIRES $2,230; SPIKE RING WITH MOONSTONES $2,310; PAVÉ RING WITH DIAMONDS $2,640; RUFFLED LARGE HOOPS WITH TSAVORITE $7,240

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JEWELRY Stylewatch

KWIAT DIAMOND STRINGS, TOP TO BOTTOM: ROUND BRILLIANT AND EMERALD CUT 15.75CT DIAMOND NECKLACE, SET IN PLATINUM, 35.5 INCHES; ROUND BRILLIANT 25.62CT DIAMOND NECKLACE SET IN PLATINUM, 36.25 INCHES; FANCY SHAPE 24.72CT DIAMOND NECKLACE SET IN PLATINUM, 44.5 INCHES Prices Upon Request

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BLACK & WHITE...

OSCAR HEYMAN PLATINUM INVISIBLY SET DIAMOND BRACELET 182 SQUARE DIAMONDS 43.26CT, 90 ROUND DIAMONDS 9.37CT 23 BAGUETTE DIAMONDS 3.19CT Price Upon Request

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3

JEWELRY Stylewatch

& Color!

COOMI LEFT TO RIGHT: AFFINITY 20K YELLOW GOLD RING WITH ROUND ANDULASITE AND DIAMONDS TRINITY; 18K ROSE GOLD CUSHION KUNZITE RING WITH DIAMONDS Prices Upon Request

Mixing colorful diamonds and gemstones into your jewelry wardrobe adds personality that is hard to forget. To make a real statement, don’t be afraid to wear more than one color at a time!

STEPHEN WEBSTER LADY STARDUST CRYSTAL HAZE COLLECTION: 18K WHITE GOLD GREEN AGATE PENDANT, SET WITH WHITE AND BLACK DIAMOND PAVÉ, 30” CHAIN $8,750 NAM CHO 2” BAGUETTE HOOP EARRINGS, LEFT TO RIGHT: 18K WHITE GOLD AND BLACK RHODIUM WITH 9 CT BURMESE RUBIES AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 18K YELLOW GOLD WITH 9 CT YELLOW SAPPHIRES AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 3. 18K WHITE GOLD AND BLACK RHODIUM WITH 9 CT BLUE SAPPHIRES AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 18K WHITE GOLD WITH 9 CT WHITE SAPPHIRES AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 18K WHITE GOLD AND BLACK RHODIUM WITH 8 CT EMERALDS AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 18K PINK GOLD WITH 9 CT PINK SAPPHIRES AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 18K PINK GOLD WITH 9 CT WHITE SAPPHIRES AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS; 18K WHITE GOLD AND BLACK RHODIUM WITH 9 CT BLACK DIAMONDS AND 0.20 CT WHITE DIAMONDS Prices Upon Request

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Building a JEWELRY WARDROBE Michele Romano Diamond & Jewelry Expert, Westport Since 2000 I’ve been working with jewelry for 42 years and am proud to have helped develop our jewelry program. I get to know my clients and what they have in their jewelry wardrobes. Seeing what they have and adding to it is what I love to do best... mixing old with new to step it up a notch.

TEMPLE ST. CLAIR TOP TO BOTTOM: 18K ATHENA OWL RING WITH TANZANITE, ROYAL BLUE MOONSTONE, EMERALD, BLUE SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND; 18K ATHENA OWL RING WITH MANDARIN GARNET, ROYAL BLUE MOONSTONE, EMERALD, BLUE SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND; 18K NOMAD BRACELETS WITH DIAMOND Prices Upon Request

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JEWELRY Stylewatch

perfectly STACKed

The more bracelets, the better. Bring in bangles and bracelets you want to “play” with, casual or dressy, and we’ll help you build stunning signature ensembles.

CAROLINE ELLEN 18K YELLOW GOLD SINGLE-ROW PAVÉ DIAMOND HINGED BANGLE 2.05CT (shown twice) $18,500 18K YELLOW GOLD PAVÉ FIVEDIAMOND STATION HINGED CUFF 1CT Price Upon Request; 18K YELLOW GOLD THREE-ROW PAVÉ DIAMOND HINGED BANGLE 3.6CT Prices Upon Request

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VINTAGE

meets

MODERN

Mix exquisite new interpretations of vintage with real vintage from your grandmother’s closet.

Throw in some clean, modern pieces, too. We’ll help you create a striking balance.

SYLVA & CIE TOP TO BOTTOM: OLD MINE CUT DIAMOND DROP EARRINGS APPROX 4.42 CTS IN 18K YELLOW GOLD Price Upon Request; EMERALD SHAPE ROUGH DIAMOND EARRINGS APPROX 5.06 CTS WITH ROUND BRILLIANT CUT DIAMOND APPROX 0.65 CTS IN 18K YELLOW GOLD $11,375; DIAMOND THORN CUFF IN 18K YELLOW GOLD/OXIDIZED STERLING SILVER WITH APPROX 1.01 CTS SINGLE CUT DIAMOND $12,000; GRAY ROSE CUT DIAMOND CUFF APPROX 4.26 CTS IN 18K YELLOW GOLD $16,125

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7

INTRIGUING PEOPLE

FRIENDS OF MITCHELL STORES

SHATTERPROOF’S

GARY MENDELL

A CEO/FATHER’S VISION TO PROTECT OUR CHILDREN FROM DRUG & ALCOHOL ADDICTION.

“DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADDICTION IS THE THIRD DEADLIEST DISEASE IN THE U.S. OTHER MAJOR DISEASES ALL HAVE LARGE NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS TO COMBAT THEM. IT’S TIME WE HAD ONE FOR ADDICTION.” Sometimes, the world’s most powerful ideas are the simplest. Such was the revelation Gary Mendell experienced when distilling his pain and anguish at the loss of his son Brian into five words on a piece of paper.

The then CEO of HEI Hotels & Resorts was immobilized by his son’s suicide at age 25 after celebrating 13 months in successful recovery from drug addiction. As a promise to his son, Mendell is making sure that Brian’s tragedy was not in vain. He is channeling the power and knowledge gained on their journey into a broad, visionary approach to facing the national epidemic of addiction head on.

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HOW DID THE IDEA TO START SHATTERPROOF COME TO YOU? After losing Brian, I couldn’t move for a long time. I struggled with what I had done wrong as a father, how I had let my son down. People who knew Brian in rehab kept calling me and telling me stories about how he had stayed up all night convincing them life was worth living. One woman told me that the first day she was admitted she saw this kid walking around the track and hoped he wouldn’t stop to talk to her. She said he walked up to her, gave her a hug and whispered in her ear, “It’s going to be OK.” People begged me to send them a

memento of Brian, a shoelace, anything.

Over the next several months, trying to make sense of what happened, I wrote down several words that were haunting me. The first was “big.” When Brian was alive, I had no conception of how big this was. I thought I was one of only a few in my town with an addicted child, always wondering, “What did I do wrong?” I learned there are at least 22 to 25 million people addicted in the U.S. That’s 1 in 10 people above the age of 12! With 4 people in a family, that’s approximately 85 million people who have addiction in their immediate family, 1/4 of American families.

It’s the third largest cause of death, with 135,000 people dying alcohol and drugrelated deaths every year.

The second word was “children.” I learned that over 80% of those addicted had become addicted before their 18th birthday. We as a society were not protecting our teens, when their brains were not fully developed, and so vulnerable to becoming addicted.

The third word was “tragic.” Our national institutes of health have spent over $20 billion in research and successfully created programs proven to 1) reduce the number of teens that become addicted and 2) improve outcomes in treatment. All this information was sitting in medical journals, however most of it was not being implemented.

I crossed out “tragic” and wrote “hope.”

I didn’t have to recreate the wheel, just implement what we already knew, which I knew I could do with my background in business.

The fourth word was “stigma.” I realized the reason the nation hasn’t mobilized these efforts is because of the stigma of addiction.

Most people blame those with this disease and think it’s fine if they go ahead and kill themselves. 30% of those addicted won’t even consider treatment because they’re so ashamed. I believe Brian took his life because of the shame he felt.

The fifth word, or words, were “national organization.” There were well-funded national organizations pioneering research, advocating for public policies, working to implement research that has proven to be effective, reducing unjust stigma, and providing information, support and hope for other major diseases. Except no such organization existed for addiction.

I looked down at the five words and then up

Russ Mitchell rappelling at the Fairfield County Shatterproof Challenge fundraising event at One Landmark Square in Stamford, CT.

at the last picture ever taken of Brian alive, a picture I had taken when he stopped to help someone on the street while we were biking to dinner in California, and it all came together. I spoke to my wife, called my investors, tapped my successor and dedicated the rest of my life to building an organization committed to protecting our loved ones from addiction to illicit and prescription drugs and alcohol, and ending the stigma and suffering of those affected by this disease.

IN BOLD STROKES, THE LARGE AREAS TO FOCUS ON ARE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT. WHAT IS SHATTERPROOF DOING IN THE WAY OF PREVENTION? Right now the largest national program for prevention is D.A.R.E., which is in 75% of middle schools. Town by town, local policemen come in and educate kids about drugs. Studies have proven that D.A.R.E. doesn’t work. One program that was developed for middle school, Life Skills, combined with a family program entitled Strengthening Families, has been proven in controlled tests to be much more effective. Only 4% of schools use Life Skills and hardly any are combining it with Strengthening Families. When you put these together they can decrease the rate of addiction by 20 to 30%. Two years ago a woman in Chicago whose son had died of an overdose asked me what she could do. I said to convince her school to switch to Life Skills. She did it. Another program called SBIRT is very effective for early intervention for youth with risky behavior. We are working hard to get it implemented on a larger, national scale.

ANY IDEAS ON STRENGTHENING TREATMENT OPTIONS? IT SEEMS MANY ADDICTS ARE ALWAYS IN AND OUT OF REHAB PROGRAMS. The treatment system in the U.S. started in the 1930s when AA was founded by middle-aged men who were struggling with the addiction to alcohol.

This become the treatment system for alcohol and drugs that took hold based on abstinence and 12 steps, which has proven very effective for alcohol and many other addictions. However in the last 20 years, the National Institute for Drug Abuse has conducted billions of dollars in research to improve outcomes in treating addiction.

The results have been significant. For example, if someone is addicted to opiates, research indicates that the probability of successful recovery is significantly improved with Medication Assisted Treatment.

BUT TREATMENT ISN’T COVERED BY INSURANCE, IS IT? Actually, now, thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, it is. It was landmark legislation passed in 2008 which became effective in 2015, that recognizes addiction and mental health as diseases and mandates insurance companies insure them “in parity” with physical diseases: same cost and same quality of care.

WHAT ARE SOME THINGS WE CAN ALL DO TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Engage with Shatterproof as advocates, volunteers and donors, or participate in our fundraising events.

As a first step, the easiest thing for someone to do is go to our website at shatterproof.org and enter your email address and zipcode to start receiving

our monthly updates. This fall we will be launching a new website with comprehensive evidence-based information on how to prevent, treat and recover from this disease. Related to advocacy, the key issues we are currently focused on are supporting the CDC in their issuance of Guidelines on the Prescribing of Opioids for Chronic Pain. The CDC spent the last year developing guidelines for primary care doctors on when the benefits outweigh the risks of prescribing the very addictive prescription opioid painkillers. They were supposed to be issued in January 2016, and have been delayed under intense lobbying funded by the companies that profit from the sale of these frequently deadly pills.

HOW DO YOU KNOW THE MITCHELLS? I’ve always shopped in their stores and love how they treat their customers. I was in the general manager’s office at one of my hotels a few years ago and saw Hug Your Customer by Jack Mitchell on his shelf. I took a picture and emailed Jack, and we had lunch together.

When I described Shatterproof, it led to me introducing the family to what we’re doing.

A year and half ago, Russ Mitchell was coincidentally introduced by a friend and he’s now on our Advisory Board.

HOW DO YOU RAISE FUNDS FOR SHATTERPROOF? Instead of doing 5Ks or bike rides, we hold rapelling events, in which people get sponsored to rapel public buildings, which is a lot of fun. The Mitchells will be hosting a big fundraiser at Richards in fall 2016, details to come. I hope to see you all there!

To make a donation, become a corporate sponsor or get involved with Shatterproof, see shatterproof.org or contact Rick Lund, rlund@shatterproof.org.

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ROMANCE IN THE AIR PHOT OGRA PHY: SERGIO KU R H A JE C HA IR/M A K EUP: GREGG H U B B A R D ST YLING: WENDY M CNE T T

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Opposite page LACE BLOUSE: BRUNELLO CUCINELLI OVERLAY: L’AGENCE JEANS: AMO ESPADRILLE: GUCCI This page BLAZER: BRUNELLO CUCINELLI SHIRT: L’AGENCE JEANS: RE/DONE CLUTCH: GUCCI

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TOP: WES GORDON PANTS: BRUNELLO CUCINELLI HANDBAG: CELINE SWEATER: THE ROW SANDALS: PRADA

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This page DRESS: LANVIN WATCH: CARTIER SHOES: JIMMY CHOO Opposite page TOP & PANT: IRIS VON ARNIM SHOES & HANDBAG: BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

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This page TWO-PIECE TOP: NINA RICCI Opposite page ROMPER: ZIMMERMAN EARRINGS: LORI ANN

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DRESS: L’AGENCE SNEAKERS: BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

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TOP: IRIS VON ARNIM EARRINGS & BRACELET: STEPHEN WEBSTER

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WORKWEAR ESSENTIALS FOR SPRING ’16 AND HOW TO WEAR THEM

LOSE THESE OUTDATED LOOKS AND UPGRADE NOW!

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1.

WHAT TO WEAR NOW

TEXTURE ADDS VISUAL INTEREST

SEASONAL FABRIC AND UNLINED INTERIOR KEEP YOU COOL

THE KNIT BLAZER

2.

3.

NARROW LAPELS MAKE IT MODERN

Some guys have taken the “casual” part too far. Stay professional in a linencotton blend sportcoat that keeps you cool under pressure. This versatile knit blazer is unlike anything else in your wardrobe: polished and sophisticated without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. Tailored fivepocket pants in lightweight wool are just formal enough, and a dress shirt and knit tie complete the look.

BUSINESS CASUAL 4. LET ABOUT HALF AN

INCH OF YOUR SHIRT SLEEVES PEEK OUT

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WHAT TO WEAR NOW

P R O D U C E R / S T Y L I S T: M I C H A E L F U S C O . P H O T O G R A P H E R : E VA N TAY L O R G U N V I L L E . G R O O M E R : A M Y Z D U N O W S K I - R O E D E R . M O D E L : J U S T I N M C M A N U S @ F O R D . C O P Y: J I L L I A N L A R O C H E L L E .

THE NEW BLUE SUIT Black and charcoal feel too heavy for the warmer months, and the fit of your older suits is likely doing you a disservice.

To show you mean business, choose a blue slim-fit suit that follows the natural slope of your shoulder, nips in at the waist and breaks just slightly at the shoe. This color is less inky than traditional navy but is just as easy to wear. Pair with brown monkstraps and furnishings in seasonal hues.

5.

STICK TO YOUR NATURAL SHOULDER

6. JACKET HITS AT TOP OF THIGH

BIG MEETING 7.

ADD MONKSTRAPS TO YOUR FOOTWEAR ARSENAL

TAPERED TROUSERS SHOULD BREAK SLIGHTLY AT THE TOP OF YOUR SHOE

8.

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profile Samuelsohn:

The Big Reveal

Tailored clothing’s best-kept secret comes out of the closet!

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

These days, as business dress codes remain relaxed, men are choosing to wear fine tailored clothing because they want to, not because they have to. And men in the know are choosing Samuelsohn, an exceptional but low-profile clothing company that’s been crafting beautiful suits in Montreal since 1923.

But low profile no more, new ownership at this Canadian company relaunched the brand in 2011 and business has more than doubled. Much of the credit goes to the company’s new president and chief creative officer, Arnold Brant Silverstone, a talented designer and visionary executive who lives and breathes the clothing business. Upon taking over, he quickly recognized a “diamond in the rough” and immediately updated the label, the logo, the fabrics, the fits, the colors, the buttons, the linings, the marketing and more. What

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remains constant: Samuelsohn’s commitment to exceptional quality, and the “expression” of its full-canvas hand-tailored suits that both fit and flatter the wearer.

“I feel like I’ve come full circle,” says Silverstone, a third-generation clothing guy who grew up in his father’s suit factory in Montreal. “I’d always known and respected the Samuelsohn brand, Canada’s quintessential quality suit maker. (My father wore Samuelsohn suits!) As my career moved forward—from my father’s company to launching my own clothing label (that I ultimately sold to Oxford) to becoming design director at Nordstrom—I always dreamed of returning to manufacturing.

When Samuelsohn was bought by Stephen Granovsky in 2010, I was recommended for the job of president, and felt it was exactly where I belonged.” hat makes Samuelsohn clothing so special? Silverstone could go on for hours.

“First of all, the suits are a rare combination of modern styling and classic tailoring, featuring fully basted canvas construction and hand-tailored details. Since all garments are produced in our own factory, we control every step of the process. Second, we are known for innovation, e.g. we were the first to come out with luxury performance fabrics that are cool, comfortable and wrinkle resistant; we’ve even developed clothing with carbon fiber!

Third, we have the cleanest distribution in the industry: we don’t sell to outlets, only the best specialty stores in North America.

Fourth of course is our tremendous intrinsic value: there’s more craftsmanship in a Samuelsohn garment than in most Italian brands that are double the price. (Canada’s duty advantages and exchange rates offer additional value for American customers.)

Fifth, our made-to-measure programs are the best in the industry. Sixth is our company culture: although we’re privately owned, we’re run more like a family business than a large corporation, with emphasis on customer service, personal relationships and employee appreciation.

“I know it sounds counterintuitive, but making money is not our number-one priority; we’re more concerned with providing the best goods at the best value and satisfying our customers so they’ll keep coming back.”

And come back they do! For spring ’16, check out the beautifully tailored Samuelsohn clothing arriving on our selling floor now. For practical types, we love the performance suit in a Loro Piana Storm System fabric with stretch. (It’s waterproof, wrinkle resistant and amazingly comfortable!) Or try the updated luxury travel blazer with 12 pockets and extra zippers. For nights and weekends, there’s an amazing washed cashmere sportcoat. And to make a bold fashion statement, why not a beautifully tailored striped DB suit in a hot shade of blue?

Which is his favorite? “It’s like asking a parent to choose his favorite child,” Silverstone responds. So we’ll let you, our customers, be the judge…

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S S 16 . B E A N E W G E N T L E M A N .

PHOTOGRAPHY: SERGIO KURHAJEC H A I R : M A R C E L I N O G O N Z A L E Z M A K E U P : C L A I R E B AY L E Y S T Y L I N G : W E N D Y M C N E T T

FLIGHTS of

COLOR Bring on the high-flying colors.

Strong hues meet light, flowy fabrics for looks that are ready to take off.

Brighten your palette everywhere, jewelry and accessories, too.

This season, let your colors fly!

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This page TOP: IRO SHORTS: BRUNELLO CUCINELLI Opposite page TOP: DEREK LAM HANDBAG: TOD’S Previous page SHORTS & TOP: CHLOE

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FLIGHTS of

FABRIC

Billowing skirts, blouses and even coats set the stage for a liftoff to the fashion stratosphere.

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This page C O AT & T O P : ROBERTO CAVALLI Opposite page DRESS: O S C A R D E L A R E N TA JEWELRY: SUTRA

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travel

Brijuni

The elusive islands of Croatia.

BY STAN WILLIAMS

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ne of the first decisions you’ll have to make when planning a trip to the secluded archipelago of Brijuni off the Istrian coast of Croatia is whether to book a Socialist-era room or an updated one in the only hotel on the main island of Veli Brijun. (Anyone who knows of my love of history and vintage style can guess what my Croatian-born partner and I chose for our late-summer stay.)

Part of Italy until after World War II, it was originally called Brioni, the name inspiration for the chic Italian men’s line that was founded in 1945. Previously the private getaway of the late Yugoslavian president Josip Broz Tito, the islands, designated a national park and opened to the public in 1983, now go by their Croatian name, Brijuni.

Over the years, friends who have visited this oasis urged us to prioritize it as a destination, as rumors have circulated about a large hotel chain or moneyed developer eyeing it as a prime location for an exclusive resort. So far, the chatter has been just that, and a stay today continues to recall the mid-1950s, accented with a splash of modern luxury.

But the allure of a bygone era remains, from the original

Above: An aerial view of the Brijuni islands.

Left: A column from the remains of a 1st-century Roman villa.

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light fixtures in the bar to the Midcentury headboard in our pleasant, semi-Socialist-era room in the Neptun-Istra building. It was a step up from rooms in the Karmen, where bare-boned but comfortable rooms start at €33 (about $38) a night. But even in the Istra wing, which has undergone a thorough renovation, the most expensive rooms cost €292 (about $330), a bargain for many U.S. travelers. Lodging includes a generous breakfast buffet. (Pay an extra dollar and order coffee from a waiter; it’s worth it.)

Transfers to and from Veli Brijun, the main island among 14 smaller islands, are also included. It’s reachable only by ferry from the town of

From top: An updated room in the Istra hotel; guests at the entrance to Brijuni’s Safari Park; an olive tree dating back to the 4th century.

Fažana, where those arriving by car must leave their vehicles in a private parking lot reserved for Brijuni guests.

What our room lacked in updates—no air conditioning (didn’t need it!), thin mattresses, uncoordinated furniture—it made up for in pure charm. Ceilings soared; the space was more than 450 square feet including a gigantic bathroom; and our spacious private terrace offered a to-die-for view of the entire harbor spotted with yachts bobbing dreamily in the Adriatic Sea. Besides, why spend any more time than necessary in a hotel room while vacationing in a lush national park? Days are better spent swimming, both on a nearby beach and in the many hidden nooks around Veli Brijun. There’s also a safari park that prides itself on protecting endangered species, world-class golfing and tennis, and romantic pathways among ancient Roman ruins.

The sole way to get around the island, other than on foot, is by bicycle or golf

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cart. There are few restrictions on where visitors are allowed to venture, but private residences reserved for Croatia’s political elites and areas used by the military are off limits.

Since the island can accommodate only those who arrive via ferry, overcrowding is never a problem. While riding over the paths that loop through the island, it felt as if we were the only ones there.

A rainy day is a good excuse to walk through the Tito Museum, where photographs of highprofile visitors are on view; Liz Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren and Gina Lollobrigida were among the president’s many guests.

Museum-goers can even take a spin in Tito’s restored 1952 Cadillac Eldorado, which he endeared with the name “Victoria,” or just take a photo with her for a couple of dollars.

Dining options are limited, so reserving an outdoor table for the Hotel Neptun-Istra’s evening meal is strongly suggested. While not extravagant, service is excellent and meals run about $35 per person, including a delicious glass of Istrian white Malvazia.

But then who’s thinking about food when a spectacular view of the sea beckons attention? At 11 p.m., a sudden stillness settles in as the last ferry makes its way back to the mainland, leaving us to ponder the mysteries of this magical island.

IMAGES COURTESY OF BRIJUNI NATIONAL PARK

The island, part of Italy until after World War II, was originally called Brioni, the name inspiration for the chic Italian men’s line that was founded in 1945.”

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in-store services

EXPERTISE

MADE-TO-MEASURE

Our legendary Style Advisors have been with us an average of over 10 years and are passionate about developing trusted relationships with customers and advising on all clothing, jewelry and accessory matters. They always go the extra mile to ensure that your shopping experience is efficient and enjoyable and that you are fabulously well dressed.

In all of our stores, we are known for our extraordinary Made-to-Measure Advisors, who will help you create bespoke suits, shirts, sportcoats and more. Choose from exquisite fabrics, buttons, linings and details from the world’s top fashion houses. Custom shoes, leather goods and other items are also available by request.

COMPLIMENTARY GIFT WRAP

CLOSET CLEANING

BESPOKE JEWELRY

The only thing nicer than buying our merchandise is gifting it. And we can make it even nicer with complimentary gift wrapping. You choose the perfect gift… we’ll do the rest.

To help you integrate new purchases with old, enjoy a complimentary closet consultation. A Style Advisor will visit your home and make suggestions on how to edit, mix and match your wardrobe. An expert tailor can be on hand for adjustments. If desired, we will also create a photo catalog of your wardrobe for future reference.

As a full-service jeweler, we offer custom design services and can help you design the piece of your dreams.

You can work with your own sketch, or with a famed design studio such as Kwiat or Oscar Heyman, to turn what’s in your head into something on your neck... or wrist... or ears... or finger!

CLOTHING DONATIONS Service is important to us, not only in our stores, but also in our community.

We will help you clear out unwanted items cluttering up your closet, while providing for a local charity. We will coordinate the donation and make the delivery ourselves.

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VIRTUAL CLOSET Through our new WBWorld services, we keep a visual electronic inventory of your wardrobe to remind you and your Style Advisor of what you have and in what size. A wardrobe is a serious investment. There is no substitute for building it wisely, with the guidance of someone takes the time to know your wardrobe, lifestyle and needs.

COMPLIMENTARY ALTERATIONS Whether you purchase in-store or online, we offer complimentary expert alterations on all regularly priced merchandise. Down to the last detail, we ensure that each article is tailored masterfully just for you. Alteration fees apply only on sale items 40% off or more.

AT YOUR SERVICE SERVICE IS

PARAMOUNT.

HOME DELIVERY We understand you have a busy schedule and want to do all we can to lessen the demands on your time.

This is why we provide local delivery if you live in a reasonable proximity to our stores.

CAPPUCCINO, COFFEE, WATER, & DRINK BAR In this hectic world, sometimes a hot cup of coffee is just what you need... snacks for a pick-me-up can help, too.

For a real treat, we offer signature cocktails and a Scotch Bar in the San Francisco Penthouse!

FASHION EMERGENCIES You never know when a fashion emergency will strike. We’re always prepared for them, even after hours just dial your main store number and follow the prompts to be connected to one of our family’s homes and we’ll come to your fashion rescue!

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT We understand how precious your time is. Call or email your Style Advisor for an appointment and we’ll get you in and out with record speed!

BUTTON UP A loose thread or button can be just the thing that unravels your day. Bring in any suits or outerwear with buttons that need repair and we’ll re-attach or tighten them for you, on site and free of charge.

RETURN & EXCHANGE POLICY We want you to be 100% satisfied with everything you buy. If you are not completely happy with a purchase, feel free to bring it back within a reasonable period of time. We want to make sure you love your new items as much when you get home as you did in the store!

To really understand ourIt impacts service, only everyyou facet of our business, fromto our experience ability to bring youit. worldhave classour fashions to the friendly, You, customers knowledgeable sales associates who and areYou, atour customers helpfriends, and guide you. theandheart we at the friends,of areall ultimately of all that we do, and do,heart and we strive towe strive to constantly exceed your expectations. If constantly exceed your for some reason you feel that the level expectations.

In-store of service we provide does not meet your expectations, us know. and now onlineplease as let well, we are available 24/7 to answer any of your questions or requests – big or small. Connect via email or call 415.986.4380.

CLICK & SHOP NOW! Shopping our clothing, accessory & jewelry collections, curated from the world over, has never been easier.

IRENE NEUWIRTH

IRENE NEUWIRTH

WILKESBASHFORD.COM

WILKES FORUM SPRING 2016