Barbara Bui

High glamour, a minimal aesthetic and absolute cool—Barbara Bui’s sleek separates are catnip for the chic Parisienne. Bui made her debut in 1983 and has since built the label to hugely popular proportions, catering to urban sophisticates with a look both sexy and smart. Impeccably tailored separates fit like a second skin and have timeless panache—and superb quality—that flies off the racks despite the hefty price tags.

For Fall/Winter 2011/2012, Bui’s riff on the classic motorcycle jacket is a huge success—an ingenious mohair-and-leather version in black or ivory with a high collar, black leather piping and a detachable bottom panel, so that it can be worn short or thigh-length. An even bigger triumph is her streamlined version of cigarette pants in patent, stretch or metallic leather with just the right fit to flatter in all the right places. They match up perfectly with Bui’s tall, velvety black-suede platform boots, or her metallic snakeskin booties. Top accessories include an oversize bag in matte gunmetal crocodile, and three-tiered leather belts to cinch an asymmetrical fur vest.

23 rue Etienne Marcel, 1st, 01.40.26.43.65. website