Bargain Cavalli Tomorrow

That's right, tomorrow is the day that Roberto Cavalli's fashions arrive at H&M stores around the country, including our very own Indy outpost at Circle Center Mall. From everything I've seen, we can expect plenty of Roberto's signature animal prints; I only hope that somehow they've managed to translate his phenomenal leathers at a more reasonable price point.

I'm going out on a limb. If the Roberto for H&M stuff disappoints, I might just have to admit that this whole designer/discounter partnership trend has jumped the shark. (I know, I know...saying "jumped the shark" has probably jumped the shark). But I digress. I have high hopes for this collection, since the price points are actually quite high for H&M. From what I understand, several of the pieces are well into the three figures - not exactly the $29.99 - $49.99 H&M sweet spot. But that's a good thing, IMHO. My problem with these partnerships lately has been that the quality/detailing of a designer line just doesn't translate to really cheap prices. Part of the joy of buying a designer something is that there is some luxury involved - good fabrics, nice details, quality workmanship. You just can't get that for under a hundred bucks, no matter how many little Chinese kids you've got sweating for you in the factory.

So it is with high hopes that I will trek to Circle Center tomorrow at lunchtime. Of course, I'll keep you posted...

P.S. Early warning on an upcoming Indianapolis Art Center benefit: On Friday, November 16, the Art Center will be hosting "Fiesta Friday" at Adobo Grill, starting at 10 p.m. It promises to be a very spicy evening, with salsa dancing lessons from 10 - 10:30 p.m., followed by an open floor for more salsa. So go get your mambo on - if Jane Seymour and Marie Osmond can do it, you know you can, too.

FAB Party Coming Up

Mark your calendars, fashionistas. On Thursday, October 11, the Indianapolis Art Center hosts "Amuse Bouche: An outdoor affair of French Food, Fine Wine and Fun," featuring the latest in fall fashions from IndyStyle's fave haunt, French Pharmacie. Held in the little courtyard in front of French Pharmacie and Petite Chou, the party will feature a tasting menu from Petite Chou and rare French wines from National Wine and Spirits. Wine, food...fashion - all of IndyStyle's favorite things together in a single event! Trust me, after a few glasses of wine, it's a lot easier to write the check for a fabulous frock from French Pharmacie.

The event runs from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.; tickets are $75/person, available online at indplsartcenter.org. You can also call Tammy Bowman at 317-255-2464. Come early, wear something great...I'll be there checking everyone out and reporting on the best dressed.