luxetigers.com International Fashion, Design and Better Living Magazine
Boxer II bag in natural and black leather, $1,490 and natural boar hair ankle cuff sandals, $795.
Both by Reed Krakoff at Reed Krakoff Boutiques, New York, Las Vegas and Tokyo. Call toll-free (877) 733.3525.
Photographed exclusively for LUXETIGERS by Michael Williams Styling by Victor Vargas at Stockland Martel
Makeup by Steve Marino at Ray Brown Hair by Richard Keogh. Model: Fanny at MC2 Model Management.
Photographed on location at the Gramercy Park Hotel, New York City. Call toll free (866) 784.1300


Reed Krakoff, Las Vegas by Victor Vargas

With an established tradition in hedonism, Las Vegas has always been known as a place for gambling, entertainment and spending a fortune. Visitors arrive with goals such as having a few crazy nights before getting married, celebrating a milestone birthday and winning a ton of cash. Given the party culture that reigns here, it is easy to understand the demand for Gucci bling, sexy Versace dresses and Dolce e Gabbana leopard-printed extravaganzas. Not surprisingly, these brands have all installed their luxury outposts in The Forum Shops at Caesar's Palace — one of the most successful premier shopping destinations in the United States. Yet, as the economy's cosmic shift has changed the decadent climate in fashion, a resurgence in minimalism is taking the fashion world by storm and in Las Vegas, the new Reed Krakoff Boutique champions the look.

The American designer, who is widely credited for taking American accessories company Coach from around $500 million in annual sales upon his arrival in 1996 to more than $3 billion last year, is in essence a modernist. In his namesake collection, Krakoff blends utilitarian references such as aprons and military uniform details with ultra luxe fabrics and exotic skins. The cutting-edge look is irresistible to cool girls yet refined and appealing for sophisticated women.

Upon entering the boutique's gunmetal doorway, Caesar's opulent ancient Roman décor fades away and is replaced by 2,000 square feet of chic modernism. The walls and ceiling in signature RK Gray lacquer are offset by antique parquet flooring, hand-finished plaster tables and bespoke gunmetal vitrines — all creating an environment of contemporary high style. The store's interior has a spacious and modern residential feel, incorporating furniture by Krakoff's favorite designer, Paris-based Mattia Bonetti as well Amsterdam-based Joris Laarman. Krakoff also collaborated on the design of felt couches and chairs in signature RK Gray with his wife, interior designer Delphine Krakoff, who owns the Manhattan-based firm Pamplemousse Design, Inc.

After visiting the recently opened Reed Krakoff Boutique in Las Vegas, we caught up with Mr. Krakoff via email to learn more about the new boutique and his future plans for the collection.