THE REBIRTH OF VENUS: NICOLA LUCCARINI INTRODUCES HIS SPRING/SUMMER 2006 COLLECTION OF FINE CASHMERE KNITS Written by Janet Perisa Photographed by Mary Blanco

Legend holds that from the froth of the azure sea came a goddess whose beauty enraptured and set ablaze the hearts of both god and mortal man — her name was Venus. For centuries Venus has been venerated through works of fine art; most notably, Botticelli’s infamous painting, The Birth of Venus, which draws enormous crowds as museum goers gather to gaze upon one of the most priceless pieces of work to have ever been created on canvas. It goes without question that this ancient goddess continues to arouse the creativity of artists around the world. Especially, that of Italian designer, Nicola Luccarini, whose spring/summer 2006 line of woman’s ready-to-wear apparel is a representation of the divine goddess that lies within all women.

Luccarini’s spring/summer 2006 showcase gave New Yorkers a chance to browse the collection and meet with the handsome designer at an intimate venue held in lower Manhattan on September 15, 2005, “It does not matter the age, a woman should feel good… [and] be at her best at any time of the day. That is why I have decided to create a collection that represents the spirits of Venus: romantic, elegant, serious, sexy, and free. This collection allows the woman to be perfect in any situation, while wearing these precise and unique knits” states Luccarini.

His spring/summer 2006 line is produced from a blending of fine cashmere and silk that is both weightless and soft to the touch. And his use of color and intricate patterns capture the essence of the warm and rejuvenating seasons that bring about new life after the long, frigid weeks of winter. Luccarini’s unique and fashionable style concepts have brought him international success in the realm of fashion design where his name is synonymously associated with the term “high quality. These gorgeous knits are a wardrobe essential and would befit any occasion. To brows the Nicola Luccarini collection online, or for retail and purchasing information, log on to: www.nicolaluccarini.com.