So, let’s see, where were we? Oh yes, I left you wondering about what exactly was in that package from Lanvin. Well, the wait is finally over! Here’s the “big” reveal…

I had ordered two hardback notebooks featuring original sketches by Lanvin’s artistic director Alber Elbaz. I gave Susan the slightly larger one that commemorates the house’s 120th anniversary. I picture her keeping it on her new nightstand.

Meanwhile, I kept the smaller “Dresses” notebook that came with a gift bag.

Portable journal: where I plan on jotting down blog ideas during my commute

Close-up of the “Dresses” sketch

The back of the notebook with an elastic closure

The “Faces” sketch on the complimentary gift bag

Apparently, Mr. Elbaz loves having stacks of blank white paper around for “drawing and dreaming.”  If even a small fraction of his whimsy and creativity rubs off on me as I use my notebook, I’ll be set in 2012!

P.S. This spring, look for Mr. Elbaz’s new book “Lanvin” which documents the creative process of a single collection from its beginnings on a blank page to its final presentation on the runway.