"Mad for Max"

Looks from the spring 2010 collection

For spring, we’re coveting this flirty sandal ($495) and purple leather bag ($735). Tysons Galleria, 703-556-6962


left: Dania Ramirez; Maria Bello; Debra Messing



In 1951, Achille Maramotti—born into a line of tailors and clothiers—launched Max Mara as a menswear label in postwar Italy. He soon expanded to include womenswear, specializing in chic, high-fashion looks for customers who couldn’t easily afford couture (we can relate).

Over the years and in the skilled hands of such designers as Karl Lagerfeld, Jean-Charles de Castelbajac and Narciso Rodriguez, Max Mara has grown into a huge player in the fashion world, spawned more than 35 labels and graced the frames of celebs like Debra Messing, Maria Bello and Heroes’ Dania Ramirez on the red carpet. Now that winter’s here we can indulge in the brand’s beautifully cut coats, coveted by fashion mavens the world over, but we’re already looking forward to spring and summer, just to wear the silk tops and slouchy trousers from the ready-to-wear collection that recently showed at Milan Fashion Week. (Capitol File magazine)