Dot Franny: Altuzarra/Vanessa Traina

I'm baaaaack.

After being gone for a whole month, I'm trying to get myself back in. I was in Indiana and more on that in another blog.

Joseph Altuzarra: It's so exciting to see someone young put it out there and succeed. His designs are super sexy and fresh.

First Collection: Fall 09

Spring 2010:

Fall 2010:

Altuzarra's muse is Vanessa Traina, daughter of novelist, Danielle Steele. When I was living in San Francisco, I remember speaking to a head hunter who was looking for an assistant for Ms. Steele. I turned it down because it sounded like a handful.

Later while working at Ron Herman (now having an online summer sale!) she came through town with her kids and I got to help her. I have to say she was lovely and her kids were great. I was also impressed by her gorgeous array of giant (probably real) cocktail rings on each finger.

From top to bottom:

Dior “Incroyables et Merveilleuses” Cerise Ring, Dior “Diorette” Ring with Amethyst, Harry Winston Marquesa Mandarin Garnet Cocktail Ring

She had rented a tour bus to take the family from SF to LA. I'm thinking of studying her latest book, Family Ties: A Novel, to see if I can be inspired to do the same.

Vanessa Traina in Altuzarra:

Vanessa as Muse (along with her equally stylish sisters) - who also wears Balenciaga, Givenchy, Alexander Wang and Proenza Schouler so well:

most pics from Style.com, others from either The Sartorialist or Jak & Jil (some others too sorry for not crediting)

I once saw Vanessa in Whole Foods shopping wearing a vintage silk jersey Pucci shift with long straight bangs, super FABULOUS!!!!