Editor's choice: Bea Valdes Jet Black Cassanova Clutch

by David Pedroza, Editor and Chief

One of my favorite artisan houses at Couture Lab is Bea Valdes, a company based in Manila, Philippines. They support local craftsmanship that focus on traditional embroidery, creating elaborate, precious, pieces that can take up to eight weeks to make. There latest confection is the Cassanova clutch. Hand-beaded in Jet Black beads and Stones, in a half-moon shape; a perfect little bag for those special moments. $2,326 at Couturelab.com

Balenciaga and Spain at de Young Museum

Christine Suppes (in a vintage, 1950's Balenciaga Haute Couture gown) with Hamish Bowles

by David Pedroza, Editor in Chief

Now on view at the de Young Museum of Arts in San Francisco, 'Balenciaga and Spain'. An exhibition celebrating the work of Haute Couture Master Cristobal Balenciaga. The collection was curated by Hamish Bowles, showcasing Spain's impact on Balenciaga's work, and Spanish references that he maintained through out his career. Major patrons of the show are Nieman Marcus and our very own Editor at Large, Christine Suppes, who hosted a gala for the opening. The exhibition shows about 120 pieces of precious haute couture by Balenciaga, from both the museum and private collections, along with a book of the exhibition. Balenciaga and Spain is open till July 4, 2011.

Photos by Drew Altizer, 2011