Elissa Santisi: Word from a Voguette
Vogue Editor at Large Elissa Santisi is known for her strikingly inventive layouts and an uncanny ability to spoteven launchan “it” shoe or bag. She also works on the runway presentations for Derek Lam, who is designing an exclusive collection on eBay. She spoke to Stephen Watson, a regular contributor to The Inside Source, eBays digital style magazine.
The Inside Source: Every season, the fashion pack claims an “it” bag or an “it” shoe. What are the current must haves?
Elissa Santisi: For Spring 2011, there is a great sense of opposites. The masculine shoe with a raised platform will be a must have. There is a great brown Prada lace-up, a chic Balenciaga biker boot, a Derek Lam flat.On the other hand, the high Parisian glamour of YSL and Givenchy also looked great. The python shoes at YSL and the leopard print shoulder bag at Givenchy were both great. As for jewelry, there is a simple knot shaped bracelet at Celine. Everyone will want to own it.
TIS: What are some of your favorite fashion and accessory classics? Items that no one should be without?
ES: My favorite watch will always be a Cartier Tank Franais. The quilted Chanel bag (especially the one I found in denim) with the chain strap will always be a classic. An Hermes H bag will always look great, especially in its new bright colors. The classic YSL heel called the Tribute is a fantastic shoet looks especially chic in white.
TIS: Have you ever made a favorite eBay purchase?
ES: Yes! When I first discovered eBay, I won a rare equestrian-style Hermes bangle bracelet. I wear it constantly. I also love eBay for replacing a favorite item that is no longer produced. I have a favorite pair of Balenciaga trousers from a few seasons back, and I just found a new pairits such a great resource.
TIS: You work with the designer Derek Lam who is creating an exclusive collection for eBay. Any inside scoop on what we might expect to see?
ES: The collection is totally underway, and will be shown in February during New York Fashion Week. Its a collection of great dresses, classic and flattering shapes, all your favorite styles. The best part of the show is that the online viewers will be immediately be able to click on their favorites, helping to decide which styles will go into final production.
TIS: Vintage accessories are such a great eBay purchase, with great deals to be found. Have any tips for fabulous forgotten brands or trends that might be back again this season?
ES: Finding a deal for a special item seems to be getting harder and harder. Lesser known brands or companies that are no longer around is a great way to go. Keep a look out for brands like Mark Cross, Bonnie Cashin, ’90s Helmut Lang, 80s Perry Ellis (particularly the Marc Jacobs years), Roberta di Camerino accessories, vintage Il Bisonte.
Meredith Barnett is the Editorial Director for The Inside Source, a digital style magazine presented by eBay. The Inside Source writer Stephen Watson authored this article in its original form. Click here to read it in full.
