Reed Krakoff Opens First Flagship on Madison

Coach president and executive creative director Reed Krakoff opens his eponymous brand's first U.S. store today -- a spare, high-design, 1,800-square-foot flagship on Madison and 69th Street, in the space previously occupied by Miu Miu.

Krakoff came up with the concept of the space along with his wife, Delphine. On an exclusive walk-through with WWD last week, Krakoff described the aesthetic as a mix of the contemporary and the sensual. The primary aim was for shoppers to feel comfortable. However, Krakoff steered clear of the space looking too residential (which he proclaimed could be "mundane"), by inserting elements of industrial design.

The space is large and airy, with soaring 15-foot ceilings and walls lacqured in what the designer refers to as "RK gray." The boxes, and shopping bags, as well as the felt-covered furniture which Delphine designed for the store, are also gray. Wood flooring imported from France warms up the space.

Krakoff also commissioned top industrial designers, including Ron Arad, Mattia Bonetti, and others, to create special furnishings for the boutique, which he plans to showcase over time.

As for merchandise, the designer's well-received first collection of sportswear, along with his full line of accessories which includes shoes, handbags, sunglasses, watches, and jewelry, are all available for sale.

The New York store follows last month's opening of Krakoff's Tokyo boutique, which will be followed later this month by an outpost in Las Vegas. As for the next spot, the designer is keeping mum. Meanwile, we're looking forward to the unveiling of his sophomore collection for Spring/Summer 2011 during fashion week.

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