Raf Simons for Eastpak: Little black backpacks and more
THE LIST
The Belgian designer uses high-tech fabrics in a line of sleek bags, available at South Willard in L.A.
IF YOU haven't sported an Eastpak backpack since you were an undergrad, you should take a fresh look at the carryall, now that white-hot designer Raf Simons has brought a chic sensibility to the brand's new line of packs, knapsacks and duffels.
Raf Simons for Eastpak brings together the Belgian designer, who helms the Jil Sander label and two signature collections, and the 50-year-old U.S. maker of canvas totes. Their collaboration runs for three seasons, and for season two, in stores now, Simons gives his Eastpak pieces a dose of his minimal aesthetic (hence, a spare logo). You'll also notice his preference for the color black and use of high-tech fabrics such as soft foam-filled nylon and "cracked" canvas.
The unisex backpack retails for $234, a shoulder bag for $144 and duffel for $252 at men's boutique South Willard.
Everything's functional -- but you'll probably refrain from lugging heavy books in these sleek bags.
8038 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles. (323) 653-6153. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.southwillard.com.
SALES
Calypso Christiane Celle: The St. Barts-inspired women's fashion boutique known for its colorful resort-ready wear is gearing up for fall with a special offer for in-store and online shoppers. Purchase one of Calypso's women's coats and jackets before Oct. 15 and get a $100 gift card or coupon toward your next purchase.
8635 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. (310) 652-4454. Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St., Unit 30, Santa Monica. (310) 434-9601. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. www.calypso-celle.com.
OPENINGS
Earnest Sewn: Thursday: Denim brand Earnest Sewn opens its first West Coast store in Malibu's Country Mart, next door to Nobu. The New York-based jean maker's 1,200-square-foot shop is chock-full of vintage Americana with early 1900s artifacts and industrial fixtures. The Country Mart location will carry the entire Earnest Sewn collection, including the popular Harlan 18 women's tapered-leg stretch jean ($198) and the straight-leg Fulton 06 ($195), a five-pocket jean for men, plus selected apothecary products.
3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu. (310) 317-9200. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. www.earnestsewn.com.
