Modern Moves

Lately I’ve been noticing that the second floor of my Neiman Marcus is quite popular. And while this could be attributed to their ever-expanding shoe section and striking visual displays, it’s not. The second floor is home to contemporary fashion, an area so chock full of fresh and exciting talent that’s it’s a wonder any of us are still buying designer.

It’s known throughout the industry that the contemporary market is both highly profitable and extremely savvy. It’s the average woman’s answer to attainable designer clothing. And with the influx of new talent—not to mention second labels from established names like Vera Wang and Phillip Lim—it’s quickly becoming an industry favorite with its affordable prices, high-end quality and consistent style direction.

In the past few years the market has resembled a revolving door of names. Places like ActiveEndeavors.com and Shopbop.com have popped up on the radar to support and promote lines like Diane von Furstenberg, Theory, Ella Moss, Rebecca Taylor and Catherine Malandrino, to name a few. Likewise, Barneys Co-Op, Bergdorf Goodman’s 5F, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom’s Savvy and a bevy of other stores, boutiques and online shops, have also been developing a presence with more space and better exposure. Even Bloomingdale’s, the venerable department store giant, has devoted itself to the movement. In a recent press release it was noted that the store was in the process of devoting more space and energy to the contemporary lines, which in turn was leading an expansion at the store's flagship on 59th Street in New York. This almost doubled the department’s space.

And this dedication is only the beginning. The talent drives the clothes and from the look of things it’s never ending. I was recently out shopping at a local high-end boutique. This place is filled to the brim with labels like Paul Smith, Brian Reyes, Miu Miu and Lanvin, so it’s incredibly rare to stumble upon anything that isn’t under $450. As I was wading through the racks of their new spring stuff I discovered (in plain view, next to a gown worth $2650) the contemporary line Sunner. Oh my, this was quite the find! For those that don’t know it, Sunner is an incredible company with the most wonderful feminine tops and dresses. They’re attention to detail is superior and their prices are worth noting. A white wrap dress with cascading ruffles checked in at $240, respectively.

Other labels that prove equally exciting and a lot more recognizable are: McQ by Alexander McQueen, Velvet, Susana Monaco, Twinkle by Wenlan and Nieves Levi, whose textile prints are truly inspiring. Each of these lines is affordable, fashion-forward and dependable. And just like they’re designer label siblings, they’re bold and glamorous. Which is just what us women need…another reason to spend.