Ryzenberg On: Joseph Altuzarra visits SF’s Neiman Marcus

I was so lucky to attend a Joseph Altuzarra trunk show and personal appearance last week at Neiman Marcus. I do have to say that at first I was a little bit intimidated, but Altuzarra is the sweetest, nicest and approachable designer out there. Oh yeah, did I mention that I want everything from his S/S 2012 collection? Well if you want to gift me something really special, there is your cue.

But here is the deal on how it all went down — I got to Neimans super early and started walking around aimlessly (although I was secretly looking for the Stella McCartney Falabella bag) until I asked three sales gals if the Altuzarra event was taking place. One of them kindly took me to the Rotunda, where they were having a VIP brunch and Q&A, and clearly I was not invited to.

So be it! I enjoyed the Q&A and got to find out some of the most interesting and candid facts about Altuzarra. It was delightful and when the event ended, I went downstairs and chatted with some fellow bloggers from Refinery 29 and Amber Lane, mastermind behind Amber’s Notebook. Of course, after much anticipation, waiting and brunch crashing, I finally had a chance to talk and take a picture with the superstar designer himself!

Not a bad day for a gal who started blogging regularly only a few months ago. 

There is something so desirable about ALTUZARRA. His clothes are not only tailored to perfection, but they also contrast utility, masculinity and feminity with amazing knits and to die-for draping. To me, this is a great contrast that works for the most ladylike socialite to even an edgier downtown gal.

Did I mention the quality of the knits. When trying one of their chunky knits from the Fall 2011 collection, it was like satin and completely light. (A girl can only dream) & of course he used one of my personal prints — argyle! By the time I saw those sweaters, it was heaven indeed.

His S/S 2012 collection was one of the most talked-about during New York Fashion Week. His eclectic combination of leather, outerwear, bold prints and active wear made a very cohesive thoughtful collection. I was really impressed with his attention to detail in each piece.

No wonder he just received the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund! This sartorial visionary is certainly going places and can’t wait to see what’s in stock for the future, which hopefully includes owning one of his coveted garments.

PHOTOS: Gustavo Fernandez for Drew Altizer Photography

Ryzenberg On, is Signing off