As the fall season sashays into winter, luxury labels rally their creative forces in preparation for the release of their anticipated cruise collections. Filling in the gap between November and February, each of these “mini” collections-most are made up of about half the traditional amount of looks and include limited editions and new releases-further enhances the alluring mix of dazzling frocks, bold accessories and festive holiday fashions that sound the signal for spring.

For this season, disposable trends like ombre, western wear and cutouts are ebbing, while bold colors, sleek materials and interesting shapes standout. And in a moment of uncertainty, when glad tidings and happy hues are a welcome and wonderful change, Tod’s delivers. Mixing modern, lush styles, pretty and practical necessities, and hints of appealing aristocratic joie de vivre, they’re surely a season staple.

Born in the 1970s, Tod’s business of designing and creating the perfect shoe led to a booming luxury presence, which today includes ready-to-wear, jewelry and accessories along with the company’s coveted shoes and handbags. In 2006, to the cheers of many well-heeled and elegantly ensembled ladies, the revered Italian label announced a collaboration with celebrated American designer Derek Lam, who unveiled his first full collection the following year.

Asked by CEO Diego Della Valle to join forces because of his similarly focused aesthetic, the former Michael Kors protégé and Parsons School of Design graduate was an immediate success.

Embodying an idealistic and luxurious approach to fashion, Lam, who is now the label’s Creative Director, signifies and augments Tod’s name through his contemporary angles, attention to detail, and fine use of materials. By mingling the sporty, laid-back Italian elegance that embodies the brand with his own mix of urbane sensibility, he’s honed the perfect combination of fashion-forward styling with substance.

So what can we look forward to come this winter? Thankfully Tod’s has expanded their popular Pashmy line-a collection of handbags created out of nylon, trimmed in leather, alligator and snakeskin and fitted with a plethora of pockets-to include a brand new hobo done in black and burgundy snakeskin.

In addition to their permanent collection of driving moccasins and loafers, the company has also debuted a casual and classic line of jewelry. Drawing on inspiration from art and design, the collection, which is hand molded out of sterling silver and leather, cites the lines of Mondrian’s paintings, the light and sinuous portraits of Tamara Lempicks, and the works of Lecorbusier as inspiration for their play on volume and exactness.

Other seasonal favorites include Lam’s colorful take on the classic driving shoe which he constructed in bold python, the Lulu bootie in suede with patent-leather trim and his sleek, fitted metallic jacket, which would wear well en-route to any winter destination.