When in Rome…

Gabrielle Union attending the Playstation Oasis during Super Bowl XLI weekend at the Raleigh Hotel February 2, 2007 Miami, Florida.

Top: Alloa, $89.99, www.aldoshoes.com; French Twist, $38, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Tena, $29.99, www.bakersshoes.com
Middle 1: Michael Kors “Gavi” Conac Sandal, $130, www.neimanmarcus.com; Via Spiga “Glaza” Sandal, $109, www.nordstrom.com; Enzo Angiolini “Marseille” Sandal $92.95, www.zappos.com
Middle 2: Franco Sarto “Kyra” Sandal, $59.90, www.nordstrom.com; Gladiator Sandal, $29.50, www.alloy.com; Glaze Sandal, www.viaspiga.com
Bottom: Nice Touch, $29.99, www.bandolino.com; Ankle Wrap Sandal, $34, www.urbanoutfiitters.com; Benefit 22b Sandal, $12.99, www.gojane.com

Picture walking along the streets of Rome on your way to the imposing Colosseum or taking a leisurely gondola ride along a canal in Venice. Are you thinking what I’m thinking?... You need the perfect pair of sandals! I’ve been on a mission to locate the perfect Romanesque sandal, reminiscent of the footwear gladiators used to wear in battle but don’t worry, you won’t be doing any fighting in these wonderful creations. Make like Ms. Union and let your ancient Roman-style sandals do all the talking. Just make sure your toes are perfectly polished, these sandals leave nothing to the imagination!

Note: Also check out these Chain Sandals from www.alloy.com at jus$29.50!

AquaPoni

Theresa Michelle and Kelli Marie of AquaPoni.

Above and below are the unique and colorful pieces from AquaPoni’s line (also see slideshow below).

Atlanta natives may be up on these two designers but the rest of the world may still be in the dark. Fear not, in my ongoing quest to bring to you emerging talent I present the delectable AquaPoni (well actually, I have to thank Ashley for this one ;). Theresa Michelle and Kelli Marie hail from Los Angeles but the pair have brought their Californian perspective to the South. Think vintage inspired hoodies, retro prints and eclectic fabrics – there’s something for everyone. The duo describe their design aesthetic as follows:

“Providing a fresh melee of rare vintage and repurposed clothing, ethnic jewelry and Boho-chic accessories, and undeniable couture style, AquaPonis unique selection affords reasonable prices for the most high-end shopper to the fashionista on a budget. We want to attract eclectic customers who aren’t afraid to stray far from the norm; people who can actually appreciate one-of-a-kind pieces.”

The line is currently available via boutiques throughout Atlanta, specifically Bombay Gal, P. Valentine, Urban Fusion and Pieces of Adrene. Visit www.aquaponi.com and their MySpace page for more info.

Patrick Robinson for Target…

Designer Patrick Robinson.

Looks from Patrick Robinson’s line for Target.

Be sure to support a young, black designer and check out Patrick Robinson’s one-off collection for Target. The line is in stores now and you can view some of his pieces here. According to a press release from Target’s web site:

“Robinson started his fashion career at the age of 14, creating surfer clothes for friends in Southern California. Taking his fashion aspirations to the East Coast, Robinson graduated from Parsons School of Design in NewYork and went on to design for some of the most recognized names in the industry including Giorgio Armani, Anne Klein, Perry Ellis and Paco Rabanne. Robinson's modern take on classic silhouettes has won him praise among the fashion elite. He has been a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America since 1994 and was voted one of Vogue's 100 rising stars in 1996.”

Clothes range from $12.99 to $44.99 so the line doesn’t hurt the purse strings! His collection of women’ fashion and accessories will be available starting July 15th, 2007.

Note: See Proenza Schouler’s line for Target which is still available if I’m not mistaken.