Michael Kors has always said that his collection isn’t about the clothes themselves, but rather, a lifestyle. He designs for the upscale traveler and the chic sophisticate, and a resort feel is definitely Kors’ strong suit.

Knowing that, and how swimwear is an integral part of resort wear, it isn’t really surprising that Kors will be expanding his swimwear offerings. The designer just partnered with Swimwear Anywhere Inc after Warnac Group Inc dropped them last year.

Kors plans on debuting the new swim collection for his label, which will include several classic one-piece suits, he says, in October with a price range of $90 to $140, and will be available at Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Even though October is past the prime of summer, you’ll just have to take a fall vacay to St. Bart’s to show off your new suit.

And we’re not talking about the AMC show Mad Men – that’s on the air come this Sunday, July 27. Bloggers at Fashionista.com got a sneak peek at Kate Spade’s upcoming collection, Par L’avion, and clearly, she’s drawn on old fashions – we’re talking Mad Men, Get Smart-era fashions – because her showroom had faux fur collars, nipped waists, satin heels, elbow length gloves and lots of clutches. Kate made sure the clothes were vintage, but only in the sense of timeless elegance.

Couture isn’t too surprised that the ‘60s style is fast becoming the look of today. Michael Kors is another designer who has drawn some inspiration from the era, with his painterly cap-sleeved dresses, bone-colored big sunglasses, cashmere crewneck sweaters and animal print stacked heels. Complete this elegantly smart look by pairing it with a croc-embossed doctor-inspired bag in a vibrant, fun color like orange or purple.

New York is where I’d rather stay, I’m allergic to smelling Long Island hay, darling I love you but give me Madison Avenue... Such could be the theme song of the amazing Michael Kors, who began his fashionable career at the tender age of 19 at the Fashion Institute of Technology. He would go on to become the quintessential designer of what now is referred to as classic American Sportswear. His designs are an embodiment of the jet-set culture, both in his use of luxurious materials, precision tailoring and fabulous fits.

Kors’ classic pieces are chic, sexy and comfortable, making them the favorites of many socialites, celebrities, models and the like. Is it any wonder then that his classic handbags, fabulous shoes, and trademark stunning sunglasses are hits here on Couture.Zappos too? Our faves: Michael Kors classic Jackie O. octogonal shades, the Santorini chain flap rattan handbag, and the elegant two-piece chain detail metallic heels.

Ah, straw bags have arrived and that signals the onset of Spring. No more bulky coats, well at least not out here on the West Coast (sorry East Coast), no more boots -- other than for styling, just fabulous straw in every incarnation. Unfortunately it will also mean the sound of the Couture team's various credit cards getting a workout, because we are shopping again. I'll be picking up the Michael Kors Santorini woven tote to take with me on one of my excursions to flea markets in Paris. Ms. M has her eye on the Dolce & Gabbana Carolina woven straw small tote to take with her on her business trip to Florida, and Ms. S surely needs the Michael Kors Santorini woven clutch. Ms. S, what could be more stylish than that for meeting your friends for drinks and dancing on the Strip?

Hey, what will you be getting?