(CNN) — As recognizable as the brand itself, Donatella Versace is adamant about one thing in fashion: “Fashion is not frivolous,” she told CNN.
It may not be frivolous, but in many respects it is a form of fantasy, something that Versace has developed as head of the Italian fashion house since taking over the reigns after the tragic death of her brother Gianni.
After Denise Honeycutt sashayed down the catwalk modeling a sleek sleeveless black dress with a blue lace jacket, she felt so good she bought the outfit.
“I got those two pieces and a skirt for $20,” she said. “How’s that for a deal?”
Such bargains may not be haute couture, but during a recession they are a thrifty shopper’s dream.
As budgets tighten during the economic crunch, buying used clothing is no longer just for fans of vintage wear.
Many are discovering the hidden treasures in consignment shops, as well as thrift stores and other places once thought to be only for the destitute.
That’s a message that Brendan Hurley, senior vice president of Marketing and Communications for Goodwill of Greater Washington, has been working hard to get out.
DAVID L. RYAN/GLOBE STAFFRoseanna Ansaldi (left) is a leather designer and teacher at two schools. (DAVID L. RYAN/GLOBE STAFF)
Not many designers can boast they’ve created for Steven Tyler, Snoop Dogg, and Mariah Carey’s Jack Russell terriers. But Roseanna Ansaldi – one half of the Antonio Ansaldi hip-hop design team and a teacher at the School of Fashion Design and Bay State College – has enjoyed an incredibly diverse two-decade career. A leather specialist, Ansaldi has created upscale children’s clothing and major league sports jerseys. She now divides her time between the Antonio Ansaldi shop in Dorchester, her Andover studio – where she also does custom work and alterations for Louis Boston and Coach – and her students. She talked with us recently about her love of leather.
