My Signature Look

Nana Boutique Clothing Swap

2012-01-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

Start your Spring cleaning early by collecting all of your gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, and handbags and lug them to Nana for the second annual clothing swap this Sunday, Jan. 22. Purchase the $20 ticket prior to the event and drop off items from 1 - 2 p.m. Swapping begins at 4 p.m., so get their early for the best selection!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-11T12:23:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Albeit a few weeks in, I hope 2012 is treating you kindly. I am still processing a very challenging 2011 beginning with the transition to boutique owner. I acquired CARBON boutique with the intent of bringing more eco-friendly fashions to the DC area. I jumped into the role wholeheartedly despite a steep learning curve, which led me to new discoveries about myself and my endurance. I garnered media attention for our local and eco-friendly designers, getting products placed in such esteem publications as the Washingtonian magazine, DC Modern Luxury, and Fashion Washington. I hosted events bi-monthly in an effort to promote our designers as well as introduce new and welcome back existing clients to the store. Sadly, my 115% attitude and effort succumbed to the weak economy. I closed the store on December 30th with a feeling of accomplishment, not defeat. I left a secure job (yes, My Signature Look is a devoted side business) to take a leap of faith. Absolutely, no regrets. I met a cadre of talented, creative professionals along the way in addition to supportive neighborhood shoppers. I still have plenty of shoes to unload so watch for us pop up at local stores and events to sell you our remaining stock.

My commitment to ethical fashion continues through My Signature Look. I will introduce you to emerging green designers and turn your attention to the fashion industry's efforts to reduce its impact on the environment and protect worker rights. I have a few projects swirling in my head to further demonstrate this commitment, so stay tuned! In the meantime, please consider us for helping you develop your eco-wardrobe and/or a more functional, figure-flattering, versatile style.

So what does 2012 bring? An enlightened (eco)fashion sense and commitment to tread a little bit lighter on earth. Peace and joy.

Green Your Holiday Fashion

2011-12-12T15:58:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of giving this holiday season, don fashions made with a low carbon footprint. Thanks to a growing trend in eco-conscious consumerism in 2011, there are more options when it comes to your wardrobe to ring in the New Year. I have rounded up my favorite online and brick-and-mortar stores catering to eco-friendly and fair trade holiday attire.

Nana – A beloved source for sustainable fashion and accessories, the locally-owned boutique favors the likes of Preloved, Meg, and Dagg & Stacey. Jackie, Nana’s owner, has curated a beautiful collection of dresses and locally-made jewelry worthy of wearing to a performance of the Nutcracker to an office party. We especially love the Hollywood-esque satin side triangle dress by Meg, pair with strappy silver heels and a beaded clutch.

3068 Mt. Pleasant Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
www.nanadc.com (you can now shop online, too!)

Caramel – Sarah Watkins stocks her store with men’s and women’s apparel and accessories made with urban dweller in mind. Her collection of vegan and eco-friendly products proves that eco + fashion forward is an organic combination. For her, I recommend a little black dress by Theme. For him, go bold with a blue-plaid dress shirt by local menswear designer, Andrew Nowell.

1603 U Street NW
Washington, DC
www.caramelfashion.com

Ginger Root – When besties Erin and Kristin opened their alterations studio a year ago, you could hear a collective sigh of relief. Their creative spirit and determination to retrofit our wardrobe has received praise and admiration. The design duo recently added their own collection to the mix in addition to showcasing local eco-friendly designers. Update your go-to holiday dress with a vintage-inspired ascot or bolo necklace made from a computer circuit board! Guys, don’t fret there is an ascot and tie for you, too! I love the Preston, made from reclaimed materials.

1530 U Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
www.gingerrootdesign.com

Adolfo Dominguez – Exquisite doesn’t even begin to describe the Spanish designer’s custom-made cocktail and floor-length gowns. The luxe fabrics may not include 100% organic cotton but are produced in the slow fashion category. However, the store boasts eco-friendly ready-to-wear options for him and her. What also makes them an eco-shopping destination? The store’s organic feel is reflected in the recycled fixtures, reclaimed wood for shelving, and pledge to support the environment.

5310 Western Ave
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
www.adolfodominguez.com

VirtuArte – Debbie Miller scours the globe for unique, handmade crafts for her online fair-trade boutique, VirtuArte. Warning: Shopping the world with a click of the mouse can be dangerous. The temptation is great to want to support each designer whose story is as compelling as the product they make. What is on my wish list? A faux-leather, fabric shoulder bag by Yvette Floro from the Philippines and acai bead wrap bracelet by the Andean Collection from Ecuador.
www.virtuarte.com

Guy Alert: Oliberte shoes offer comfort and style

2011-09-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

Guys, wish you could pull off your "Casual Friday" look every day of the week? The gest is in the shoes. Update the khakis and polo ensemble or add interest to your pinstripe suit with a pair of Oliberte shoes. The handcrafted, leather shoes offer comfort, functionality, but also a beautiful statement. The Canadian-based company operates in socially-responsible factories in Africa in an effort to promote economic development. Their "eco-consciousness" goes so far as to ensure the cows consumed are grass-fed, guaranteeing a higher quality leather. All the factories adhere to a strict code of conduct and protect their worker's rights. So while you like to keep the outfits simple, let the shoes do the talking.

Oliberte is sold at CARBON (2643 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC).

Green + Blue Runway Show and Fundraiser

2011-09-07T13:48:00.001-07:00

CARBON rolls out its “green” runway to showcase the fall eco-collection of women’s ready to wear label by a.d.o. clothing and vegan shoe label, Neuaura. The collections will appeal to the Washingtonian professional woman interested in fashion that is sleek, with tailored construction, and comfort.

Join us on Friday, September 23, 2011 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Carbon located at 2643 Connecticut Ave NW in Woodley Park for an eco-fashion experience. Meet New York-based eco-fashion and shoe designers Anjelika Krishna, of a.d.o. clothing and Arti Upadhyay, of Neuaura, respectively. Enjoy vegan treats!

Who doesn’t love a little blue to go with their green? That’s why we’ve invited our friends from The Ocean Foundation to help us celebrate the other 71% of our planet that regulates our climate, provides us with fresh air to breathe and sustains us with delectable delights. We’ve been putting a lot of pressure on our oceans and taking more than we give back. Join us on Friday and come talk to a representative from The Ocean Foundation, learn about all of the new and innovative approaches their community of donors, projects and grantees are taking to ocean conservation, and find out how you can be a part of the solution.

CARBON will be collecting a suggested donation of $10 to $20 in addition to selling $2 raffle tickets for a pair of Neuaura shoes. Money raised will be benefit The Ocean Foundation.

Both a.d.o. clothing and Neuaura create collections sensitive to the impact on the environment. Ms. Krishna uses primarily plant-based fabrics and non-chemical dyes where Neuaura favors sustainable manufacturing and materials. The designers also approach production responsibly by hiring skilled artisans in the New York garment district and an eco-certified factory in Brazil.

Lillybee for CARBON

2011-08-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

CARBON welcomes local shoe heroine, Kassie Rempel of Simply Soles, to its fall/winter line-up. Her line of professional, smart, and sassy shoes give the working women (and Super Mom) a lift in her stride throughout the day. All are made with leather upper and soles, made in Brazil. Kassie travels frequently to Brazil to ensure product quality and worker fairness (yay!). Pair these darlings with a CeciG (local designer, Cecilia Guerra) signature shift dresses for day and throw on some sparkly jewels for glam evening!

CeciG Dresses at CARBON

Mid-City Dog Days Weekend, Aug 6-7

2011-07-30T09:51:00.001-07:00

Over 100 stores, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries throughout MidCity will participate in the 12th Annual Dog Days of August Sidewalk Sale on August 6-7. Much more than a sidewalk sale, Dog Days of August features special events, sales, family events and restaurant deals throughout the 14th Street (MidCity) Corridor, which comprises the area up 14th Street from Florida Avenue to Thomas Circle and just off U Street from 9th to 17th Street.

The weekend is anchored by cultural events including the Studio Theatre Prop & Costume Sale, the highly anticipated annual sell-off from the 2010-2011 season.

On the fashion front, area boutiques including Junction, Urban Essentials, and Rue 14 will feature sales of up to 60% on current season clothing and accessories and other sidewalk specials. Restaurants will be holding special events and offering patrons Dog Days specials on food and libations including Busboys & Poets, CakeLove, and Policy. In addition to the great sales, Dog Days will also feature art, literature and cultural exhibits and performances from Twins Jazz Club and The DC Center for the LGBT Community amongst others.

“Dog Days showcases the incredibly vibrant destination MidCity has become,” says Pixie Windsor, owner of Miss Pixie’s Furnishings and Whatnot. “In one weekend, it brings together all of the best things about the area. It's a yearly tradition for local residents. For visitors, it’s a great weekend to get to know one of DC’s most unique, thriving, and historically rich districts.”

The MidCity district is home to many of Washington’s most historical and well-known cultural landmarks, such Ben’s Chili Bowl, the Lincoln Theatre and the Taylor Motors Building that is now home to Room & Board.

From its origination as home to the city’s motor dealerships at the turn of the century, the MidCity district evolved into the preeminent jazz corridor, anchored by the world-renowned Club Bali during the 1940’s; the area fell into disrepair after the riots of 1968. Now, MidCity is one of the rare Washington neighborhoods that features both thriving business and residential streets, filled with original brick rowhouses, along with murals, parks, music clubs, art galleries, restaurants and retailers, which together have made MidCity a burgeoning arts district.

In 2010, the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington honored several MidCity restaurants with its highest accolades including Best New Restaurant (Birch& Barley), Best Neighborhood Restaurant (Cork Wine Bar) and Hottest Restaurant Bar Scene (Churchkey). This year, Birch & Barley’s Kyle Bailey was awarded Rising Culinary Star.

Organized by the MidCity Business Association, Dog Days of August brings together a diverse group of businesses, developers, community and arts groups. Dog Days is sponsored by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Cork Market & Tasting Room, Cork Wine Bar, Vida Fitness, Miss Pixie’s, Room & Board, Busboys & Poets, Bar Pilar, Café Saint-Ex, and Whole Foods.

Photography Opening Reception at CARBON

2011-03-28T13:21:00.001-07:00

In our continuing commitment to feature local talent, CARBON has invited local artists and photographers to grace our walls with their masterpieces! CARBON is currently showing photography by Melissa Lew and Joshua Hoover. Melissa's nature upclose series complements Joshua's black and whites of Atlanta's city life. View their series on display until May 21. Opening Reception, Friday, April 1; 7 - 9 p.m. Light refreshments served.

Pre-Valentine's Day Event at Carbon

2011-02-10T16:32:00.000-08:00

As you may know, I am expanding the My Signature Look empire (hehehe) to include boutique ownership! Starting March 1, MSL will operate at Carbon boutique (2643 Connecticut Ave., NW; across from Woodley Zoo Metro station), DC's home for high-quality, affordable, functional-yet chic men's and women's shoes such as Gidigio, Tsubo, Blackstone, and more. I plan to round out the store with eco-clothing, accessories, and handbags produced by independent designers, local as much as possible. Of course, MSL is available by appointment. Stay tuned for new Website, www.carbondc.com.

Upcoming store events
Saturday, Feb. 12 - Pre-Valentine's Day shopping event
Saturday, March 19 - Melissa Lew Jewelry Trunk Show, proceeds benefiting Becky's Fund
Saturday, April 9 - Grand Opening party
Friday, April 22 - Eco-fashion show featuring NY-based eco-designer, Auralis Studio

See you at Carbon!

Mochilas for Sunshine, relief effort for Colombian artisans

2010-12-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

As you know, I am a huge supporter of Calamarie - a DC-based fashion house working with Colombian artisans to produce handcrafted jewelry and handbags. This past month, El Nina is drenching Colombia, leaving devastating results. In an effort to provide economic relief to the artisans living in these affected areas, Catalina Lemaitre, founder of Calamarie, has created Mochila for Sunshine. The following is a letter she sent her colleagues that I would like to share with you with hope that you support this very worthy cause. I plan to spend three weeks in Colombia with Catalina and her husband (Dec. 28 - Jan. 17) meeting the artisans and surveying the devastation. Stay tuned for an account of our travels.

Dear Friends,

I am writing to you all this holiday season, at a time of joy and celebration, to ask you to help us make a small difference in the lives of the thousands of victims of Colombia’s worst natural disaster in recorded history. Looking at the images of my country, under water is so reminiscent of Katrina, and I can’t believe this is happening again, to so many, and that it is happening right now. It has been raining for weeks and no end is in sight. Forecasters predict it will continue to rain until February—it’s just so hard to believe. (Video of the unimaginable devastation from the air: http://www.semana.com/wf_multimedia.aspx?idmlt=3641)

For weeks now I have been feeling powerless to help and have been racking my brain thinking about ways Calamarie can be used as a vehicle to raise funds for the victims of this terrible disaster. A few days ago the answer came to me in a dream, I immediately went into action and started making calls to Colombia and the Mochila for Sunshine was born. The Mochila, a crossover traditional handwoven bag, and one of colombia’s most recognized cultural symbols was the answer. Artisans are now busy weaving a custom limited edition mochila similar to the one shown below but with the addition of a few simple words: Cuando salga el sol…(when the sun shines through). With your support, when the rains cease, and the sun shines through again people will have the help they will need to rebuild their homes and lives.
Starting now, you can reserve your own Mochila for Sunshine, which we will ship to you or whomever you designate on January 20th here:

To Order: http://www.calamarie.com/pb/wp_2adc48f0/wp_2adc48f0.html
If this is a gift, I am happy to email the recipient an email post card on Christmas Eve, letting them know their gift has been purchased, the story behind it and delivery date. Each Mochila is unisex, will be handwoven in cotton in unique combinations of gray, black and/or white and will showcase different designs, reflecting the inspiration of each individual artisan. These are really fun and comfortable bags and cool enough to have been profiled in Vogue this past June. All proceeds from your $50 contribution will be channeled to the Colombian Red Cross by our good friends at Caring for Colombia, a New York based foundation dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities in Colombia.

We will have 150 Mochilas available so please share with your friends and family and help us raise close to $7500 by December 31st. Every dollar counts.
I thank each and every one of you for your support. A special thanks to my husband Juan, my aunt and godmother Vivian and my mom and dad, without whose help, we couldn’t have started to produce these mochilas in such a short time frame.

With gratitude,
Catalina

MSL Hosts Trunk Shows at Carbon

2010-12-06T20:20:00.001-08:00

My Signature Look is teaming up with Carbon boutique to host a series of trunk shows featuring local independent designers - clothing, handbags, and accessories.

Stop by and meet the designers!

Sunday, Dec. 5, 2011; 1 - 4 p.m.
Calamarie - Colombian handcrafted jewelry

Saturday, Dec. 11, 2011; 1 - 4 p.m.
Diamantina leather handbags and jackets produced in Argentina.

Kim Schalk clothing - re-purposed and vintage-inspired chic womenswear.

Saturday, Dec. 18, 2011; 1 - 4 p.m.
Nora Fischer Designs - the local jewelry designer creates contemporary but timeless pieces for that special occasion and/or just to feel glam for the day!

Save the Date: Es Lo Mio! (It's My Style) Fashion Eventl

2010-11-21T18:14:00.000-08:00

I'm proud to announce the formation of Five4Fashion, a consortium of fashion stylists and designers (including yours truly) created to inspire, motivate, and propel our fashion careers. This endeavor includes bringing quality fashions and fashion services to the greater Washington area.

What: Our first collaborative event-- Es Lo Mio! It's My Style - 10 hours of styling, shopping, and wine tasting
Where: beautifully renovated Argentine Embassy (1600 New Hampshire Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20009 Metro: Red Line (Dupont Circle)
When: Thursday, December 2, 2010
Time: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. (evening shopping, wine tasting, and informal modeling - 5 - 8 p.m.)
RSVP: space is limited, five4fashiondc@gmail.com (name must be on list for entry) - last call Wednesday, 8 p.m. EST.
Description:

Celebrate Argentina’s bicentennial with a fashionable focus on Argentine leather!

The centerpiece of the day: Diamantina gives you the first look at its latest collection of handmade, Argentine leather handbags. Diamantina’s showcase will teach you about the luxury of Argentine leather, its quality and care. The production of cattle for leather exports has greatly contributed to the development of “the Pampas”—one of the most important commercial centers since the country’s origins. Leather sustains a key part of Argentina’s economy.

To complement Diamantina handbags, the hip, new fashion consortium Five4Fashion will jointly sponsor informal modeling, shopping, a fashion salon, and wine-tasting at the newly renovated Argentine Embassy!

Taste rich, full-bodied Argentine wines.

Shop exotic and sophisticated new jewelry designs and accessories by Nora Fischer Designs and Calamarie: Traditional Art Reinterpreted.

Need holiday outfits? Bring clothes from your closet to our Fashion Salon: Bayou Muse and My Signature Look will help you build chic ensembles around them.

Schedule of Events:
Retailers have a daytime preview from 10 a.m.–noon; appointments available all day
Schedule your appointment at the Fashion Salon beginning at 11 a.m.
Informal modeling at 6:30 p.m.
Holiday shopping open from 5–8:00 p.m.

See you there!

Designer Spotlight: Kim Schalk

2010-11-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

Kim Schalk is at peace. The creator of the whimsical line “God Help Miss Agnes” has quietly retired her label after eight years to launch a new label simply called, Kim Schalk. But there is nothing simple about her new direction—edge is the new Kim Schalk.

Endearingly referenced as a “fierce designer” from the “fiercest” designer to grace Project Runway, Schalk has taken Christian Siriano’s words to heart and channeled them into body-con silhouettes such as her signature wrap skirt engineered for a universal fit. A piece of leather in unexpected places is an extension of her experimentation with combining fabrics akin to her God Help Miss Agnes line which featured reclaimed materials and reworked vintage.

The day we meet, the mother of three had just finished a photo shoot. “I don’t normally have this much make-up on,” she says candidly. “But it’s fun.” She could have easily built a career in modeling, but you instantly feel the presence of a fashion designer. Upon entering her modest family home in Alexandria, Virginia, a dress form showcasing a reworked dress greets you to the left – standing guard over a kitchen table that serves sketches and fabric swatches. Kim disappears for a moment to remind her children in the next room that it is “mommy time” and returns eagerly to talk about her upcoming collection. The self-taught pattern maker-turned-designer is excited to expand upon her DC-success.

MSL: When did you know you wanted to become a fashion designer?

KS: In the early 90s, I was working at Barneys New York and was doing pattern-making on the side and all of a sudden, I found myself creating pieces for some of our customers. I knew then that that is what I wanted to do.

MSL: How do you approach your design-work?

KS: The design has to meet four needs: innovation, high quality, affordably priced, and great fit. I don’t want to produce something that doesn’t meet all four elements.

MSL: Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

KS: It could be a photograph or an image I’ve come across and where someone may see one think, I immediately think “there is a garment there.” Right now, I’m loving the fashion Faye Dunaway wore in her 1970 cult films and of course, Mad Men. I like to take references from the past and introduce them in a new, progressive way.

MSL: You launched your label, “God Help Miss Agnes” following the closure of your boutique store, Betty in Adams Morgan. Who is Miss Agnes?

KS: Miss Agnes is actually a metaphor. My design partner at that time suggested the name after her grandmother, who was quite the character. Tennessee born and bred, Mama Helen would say such expressions as “God Help Miss Agnes” in place of saying “Oh My God!” She evoked so much passion into her words and we are passionate about our designs.

MSL: I must admit--I’m the proud owner of several God Help Miss Agnes pieces that I bought at Nana. I love them for their innovation, but more so, their eco-factor. Do you consider yourself an eco-designer?

KS: I do use eco-friendly materials when I can such as recycled and vintage fabrics. I am conscious about the amount of waste that is often associated with fashion design and production so I am precise in my yardage and choice of materials. One thing to note is that eco-fabrics such as hemp, bamboo, and 100% organic cotton are still very expensive and as a small-independent designer, it becomes a bottom-line issue.

MSL: You produce in the U.S., is that important to you?

KS: Yes! I produce here locally and in Los Angeles. The manufacturers are good guys and they are willing to produce in small quantities, which is huge for small-independent designers like me.

MSL: How would you describe your new line?

KS: It’s definitely cutting-edge. I’m ready to take my design work to the next level.

Herban Lifestyle unveils Naked

2010-10-23T17:21:00.000-07:00

On the eve of the DC Green Festival, the eco-minded flocked to One Lounge to get Naked.

Mary Kearns, creator of Herban Lifestyle, unveiled her new line of all-natural, certified-organic bath and body products aptly titled, Naked. The line includes lip balms, soaps, and essentials oils free of fragrance and other harmful chemicals. Proceeds from the sales benefited Miriam’s Kitchen.

Kearns teamed with Ferragut Event Group, an eco-event planning firm, to launch the line two years in the making. To take “green to the next level” she stripped the essential oils into a user-friendlier product for consumers with allergies and in doing so restored the oils natural medicinal properties. “Naked is very much gentle for the earth and people,” she says. The final green stamp of approval is in the packaging. Products are sealed in recyclable containers with 100% recycled paper labels - a huge plus for Sarah Matheson, an attendee at the launch.

Kearns connection to Miriam’s Kitchen began with a request for soap.

Her initial donation of body soaps five years ago quickly followed with serving breakfast along with other volunteers on a regular basis. Ashley Lawson, development and volunteer manager of Miriam’s, thanks Kearns for the “best-smelling soup kitchen in DC.”

The organization feeds nearly 350 homeless men and women nutritious meals daily afforded by donations from Whole Foods and locally grown produce. The volunteer-run organization also offers its guests counseling, haircuts, postal service, and art and yoga classes.

One Lounge, a newbie to Dupont Circle’s eatery and bar scene, has played host to numerous event of late. According to PR Director Daniel Kramer, the restaurant not only wants to offer its patrons libations but draw their attention to local causes. Next Tuesday, October 26, the restaurant partners with Style Exchange of DC to host a clothing exchange to benefit Doorways for Women and Families.

Kearns, a seasoned health and wellness professional, prescribes to what festival-goers will experience this weekend: a sustainable lifestyle requires respect for all things pure.

Fashion for Hope 2010 shines bright on Women for Women International

2010-10-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

The second annual Fashion for Hope 2010 gala raised more than hope for its benefactor, Women for Women International; it solidified support. Fashionistas and philanthropists gathered in the Renaissance Hotel ballroom Sunday night to pledge their commitment to “Change the World: One Woman at a Time.”

As the evening’s emcee, WUSA9’s Anita Brikman set the tone with one simple statement: “We [Americans] take for granted the tenets of our freedoms.” Those freedoms compromised in time of conflict. Organizations such as Women for Women International restore lives.

From its DC-office, the organization collaborates with in-country specialists to operate its 12-week job-training program for women living in conflict and post-conflict zones. In Bosnia, women cooperatives turn their skill in knitting into a business and in Africa, the women apply modern techniques to dying fabrics. To reach these women, however, organizers must go through the men first.

“Many of these villages where we work are run by male tribal leaders and we have to ask their permission and/or convince them to offer the training to the women in their community,” says Dieu Tran, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator. “We are working with women who have to overcome much adversity.”

How can a fashion show support such cause?

“Tonight’s event is very much a cultural exchange,” Tran said. “We are here to learn about each other.”

If 80s ruled the fall 2010 shows, then House of Kas dominated the 70s. The local fashion house showcased ready-to-wear and cocktail hour ensembles in tradition of wide-leg trousers, lots of satin and sheen, and Italian-cut suits anchored by floral wide-ties. One Lenny Kravitz-look alike modeled a cream trench coat worn over cream wide-legged trousers and paisley button-down top with confidence and cool.

MinnaK, a New York designer, wooed the audience with airy cocktail and bride dresses. Several models floated down the runway in floor-length 40’s glam bridal gowns – white accented with black beading or belts - while her counterpart walked steadily not to be missed in her jewel-tone thigh-grazing cocktail dress.

The remaining four emerging designers drew inspiration from their contemporaries that included rocker chic, hip-hop, and the power suit.

“This is more than a fashion show,” says Denita Austin, of Inner Expressions. “This is about supporting women all over the world. It’s really a beautiful moment.”

Fashion Designer Aysha Saeed Visits DC 85 Broads

2010-10-14T17:06:00.000-07:00

New York fashioner designer Aysha Saeed is a real broad. In fact, she is among 25,000 professional 85 Broads across the United States and last night, she stopped by One Lounge to visit members of the DC Chapter.

The 85 Broads, founded by women who worked in investment firms on 85 Broad Street in New York, operates in 82 countries connecting women in a variety of careers from the for-profit to non-profit organizations. Saeed is a member of the Broads’ Power Circle.

Saeed traded her lucrative career as a financial banker on Wall Street for the fashion industry more than a decade ago. She moved to Milan to consult on embroidery design and production sourcing, working with fashion houses such as Dolce Gabbana, John Galliano and La Perla. Upon returning to New York in 2005, Saeed honed her design craft and launched her label, Signette. In 2008, she renamed the label, Aysha Saeed.

“I always loved fashion design,” said the New Jersey via Pakistan native. “Everything I have learned in financing has helped to make a great product.”

That product is a collection of coveted ready-to-wear and cocktail dresses for professional women.

“I design for real women who want clothes that are practical, well-priced, and have real value,” Saeed said. “My personal style is reflected in my collection, timeless and perfectly chic.”

For the fall 2010 collection, Saeed channels Chanel in her suiting options – bolero jackets and above the knee straight skirts in rich fabrics. Her interpretation of the little black dress also comes in chocolate brown and magenta: slimming silhouette with cutout cap sleeve on the right, creating an exaggerated asymmetrical shoulder.

Members noshed on chicken skewers and veggies while perusing Saeed’s fall collection. Several guests stepped into the 8-foot portable pink tent to try on one of her designs, emerging in awe of the figure-flattering silhouettes. At a special 40% discount, guests walked away with more than a new garment, they just bought empowerment.

Photo: Aysha Saeed, in red dress, flanked by members of DC Chapter of 85 Broads

Moroccan Ambassador teams with Nest to promote Moroccan artisans

2010-10-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Marrakesh Palace served as the gateway to NESTINATION 2010: Morocco last Thursday, treating guests to a light fare of Moroccan dishes and shopping for a good cause.

The event, aptly titled "Midnight in Marrakesh," brought attention to the local customs and artisan traditions of Morocco in conjunction with Nest, a nonprofit organization providing interest-free, micro-finance loans to women in developing countries, among them three Moroccan cooperatives.

In the mix of social do-gooders, world travelers, and Nest supporters, was His Excellency Mr. Aziz Mekouar, Moroccan Ambassador to the United States. He addressed the 300+ audience with words of gratitude for their interest in his country.

“Morocco has 32 million people and many very poor living in small villages,” the Ambassador said. “We welcome organizations such as Nest who are helping to generate income for our people.”

A sentiment shared by Hamza Zraqi from Casablanca. “We are not a rich country,” he says, “but we make beautiful crafts and these women want to work and sell.”

The country boasts natural resources in gold and copper, which are fashioned into jewelry and belts. Leather and wood also count among the materials used in artisan goods.

NESTINATION, an experiential journey in the lives of Nest’s loan recipients, is the brainchild of the DC Nest Board of Directors. In April, DC Board Co-President Summer Amin joined 14 other Board members on a trip to Morocco to monitor their projects. They returned humbled and proud of Nest’s accomplishments. “The women we visited invited us into their homes and entertained us with food, dancing and storytelling,” Amin said, “We felt so honored, especially since these women have so little.”

Guests shopped exclusive handcrafted items made by Nest’s loan recipients and bid on a silent auction.

SoBe Unique shoe store offers the timeless espadrille

2010-10-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

King Street in Old Town Alexandria is far from the sands of South Beach Miami but both areas are home for SoBe Unique shoe store. Owner Juan Cortes stocks his stores with handcrafted espadrilles, sandals, and handbags designed and produced in Spain and Brazil. And residents alike connect to the timeless tradition of shoe-making.

One bright Saturday afternoon in August, customers stream into the 300-square foot Alexandria location eager to check out the latest arrival, most of which are lying in open boxes vying for space. Cortes maneuvers through the maze like a pro – pulling and suggesting alternatives without skipping a beat. His fast-pace nature softens when he takes a breath to point out the features of his new designs.

“You have to try on these sandals,” he excitedly tells one of his patrons. “Your feet will love you.” The patron walked around with a grin: sold.

Of the 12 styles Cortes carries, all vary in material and color and crafted from the traditional European and modern techniques – hand-stitching, recycled rubber, natural stone, and genuine leather.

“There is a reason our color scheme mirrors earth tones,” he says. “It is symbolic of feeling grounded and being connected with the past, the tradition of shoe-making.”

Cortes, a former investigator for the music industry, launched SoBe Unique in 1995 to reconnect with his love of fashion, shoes in particular. “I grew up around family who worked in the garment factories,” Cortes explains, “and I wanted to go back to my Spanish roots to preserve the art of shoe-making.”

When not splitting his time between stores, Cortes is visiting his factories in Spain and Brazil to ensure fair working conditions and experimenting with new environmental-friendly materials. In Brazil, he works with his partners at TRADEF on the handbag collection, a non-governmental organization assisting people with disabilities in employment. Each handbag is crafted from the remaining leather used from the shoes.

Cortes is not ready to dismiss the espadrilles just because temperatures are cooling. His female Washington clients still have a few weeks longer to sport the shoe with a pair of jeans and a light cardigan. For him, the fall collection of neutral-colored loafers offers warmth and comfort. With soles made from recycled rubber guaranteeing a 10-year life span, SoBe Unique shoes are not going anywhere.

Upstairs on 7th hosts trunk show to benefit Ovarian Cancer National Alliance

2010-09-30T19:35:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, as suited employees rushed out of their high-rise office building on 12th and F Street NW to start their weekend, a distinct group of women a la bohème streamed into Upstairs on 7th boutique, located ground-floor, to let loose while shopping for a cause.

Owner Ricki Peltzman hosted London fashion designer Ray Harris and local jewelry designer Sissy Yates in a two-day trunk show to benefit the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance. The event, plus a month-long donation drive, raised $2,000.

For his spring/summer 2011 collection, Ray Harris delved into our dreams and sorrows to reveal beauty in the search for personal meaning. How does that translate into ready-to-wear? A range of textured fabrics in a palette of vibrant colors molded into the form of a v-neck blouse, floor-length skirt, and button-less “coat.” His trademark technique – a perfected wrinkle – appeals to a tactile woman who appreciates an artistic point of view.

“I love so many of Ray's pieces that I cannot decide,” says Peltzman. “They all work so well for both dressy and casual situations just by adding a casual shoe or a different necklace, a belt, etc and they are so light weight, easy to travel with and care for. I just love the line!”

Peltzman is a Harris-convert. “I found him at a show in New York that represents like designers and I actually walked by and saw all this crinkle and kept walking. But then I saw a woman wearing one of his dresses and I ran right back there and bought the line,” she says. “I have been buying it ever since and he always is changing and doing new pieces in new materials.” His velvet crush garments sold out in the first three hours of the show.

A regular featured designer, Sissy Yates returned to the boutique to showcase her collection, which sold equally as well. However, Yates needs no introductions. The designer is a favorite among Washingtonian tastemakers for her selection of rare stones and gems fashioned into necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Yates’ counts Ms. Oprah Winfrey among her admirers with features in three recent O Magazine editions.

Andrea Glazer of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance couldn’t resist trying on items from the designers’ collection herself. But she remained focused on her mission for the evening: to raise awareness about ovarian cancer. More than 21,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed annually, making it the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death among women, and is the deadliest of gynecologic cancers, according to the Alliance.

To learn more about the Alliance and how you can get involved, contact Ms. Glazer at 202.331.1332.

This is article is dedicated to my Aunt Kennie - we love you!

VirtuArte Launches Virtual Shopping 2.0

2010-09-22T20:12:00.000-07:00

VirtuArte, the online upscale fair trade boutique, launches its revamped Web site for a bigger and more educational shopping experience.

The first experience: Meet the Artisan. VirtuArte exists for its artisans who are located worldwide producing items with local materials and traditional methods. The customer visits their world through detailed artisan profiles, sharp photos, interactive videos and a Google map directing them to the artisan’s residence.

The second experience: Attend a VirtuArte Event. Check online for upcoming trunk shows, a new feature on the site. The shows promise an opportunity to meet the designers while perusing inventory for your wardrobe or home.

The third experience: Introduce an Artisan to VirtuArte. Nominate an artisan – local or international – who you think fit the VirtuArte mission. Submit their information and images of their products for consideration.

Founder Debbie Myers refers to the improved site as a labor of love. “This second iteration takes us closer to our vision, which is to promote artisans who might not otherwise have an opportunity to contribute to the international market,” says Myers.

The instant gratification online shopping brings now delivers a human connection, thanks to VirtuArte.

Fashion's Night Out DC Style

2010-09-11T16:04:00.001-07:00

At the stroke of 6 p.m. EST yesterday, DC kicked off its second annual Fashion's Night Out party with nearly 100 stores - boutiques and department stores - participating in the world's biggest fashion party.

Georgetown
First stop, M29 Lifestyle boutique. Guests gnoshed on miniature cupcakes and sipped on champagne as they shopped the store's unique collection of apparel, accessories, and gifts.

Hu's Wear customers ignored the late-night construction on the store's expansion project and poured through the racks of the industry's most coveted designers such dsquared, Cacharel, Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, and most recently Proenza Schouler.

While over at Simply Soles, shoe-lovers received a complimentary Stiruppz, gifted in person by founder Lisa Church and shopped DeNada's fall collection of cozy scarves, knit caps and gloves. Simply Soles owner Kassie Kempel will continue the festivities to next Saturday, when she celebrates the grand opening of her second store at the National Harbor.

Two hours later and my trusty Tsubos carried me three miles west to the U and 14th Street corridor to check out the scene there. Lettie Gooch owner Theresa Watts rolled out the red carpet with the requisite "paparazzi" eagerly snapping away - I couldn't help but feel like a fashionista SuperStar! Not surprisingly, Theresa and her staff pumped up the volume and created a nightclub environment where customers rocked pieces from her fall collections.

At Rue 14, the crowd grooved to a live DJ, waiting patiently for local band U.S. Royalty frontman/GANT model John Thornley to grace the store with his presence. I walked away with a Eryn cute tee by Eryn Brinie and headed across the street for Redeem, my final stop of the night.

Entering Redeem is like walking into a den inhabited by creative spirits. Greeting guests was one of them, Thomas Griffeths, local designer behind Couture Saboteur. He is the reason for Fashion's Night Out, to celebrate the industry's talented artists. His collection of intricate, bold designs casts a shadow over his silent demeanor. But ask Thomas about each piece, and behold an animated response. More on Thomas in a forthcoming blog. I would be remiss though not to acknowledge Lori's other special guest, artist Shawn Helton. His interpretation of the human condition leaves you mesmerized - fitting for a night intent on celebrating the arts on a global stage.

Fashion's Night Out - DC

2010-09-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

DC fashion-minded retailers roll out the red carpet for an evening of shopping and socializing this Friday, September 10, from 6 – 11 p.m. Fashion's Night Out, heralded by New York City’s fashion elites last year in response to the industry’s economic blow, returns this year to celebrate the industry’s talent. The event’s gone global with stores participating from London, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo to our nation’s capital.

Shop and mingle among local celebrities and stylists at any one of the 100 stores and restaurants in the Georgetown and U Street retail district. My Signature Look will be there to capture the night’s festivities.

Here’s a sampling of what to expect:

Alchimie Forever – Ada Polla treats guests to complimentary facials and makeovers and a discount on Alchimie Forever products.

Caramel – Indulge your love for art and clothes by shopping new styles while viewing art by MidCity artist Dave Peterson (www.branddave.com) (opening reception).

Lettie Gooch – Preview local designer Artistic Aya by Dana Greaves’s fall collection and be placed on Lettie Gooch's "Best Dressed" List by wearing your favorite Lettie Gooch wear!!! Special Guest "Muse" Anji Corley - On-Air Radio Personality of WPGC.

Lost Boys – Kelly’s got the guys covered with “Going Out Lost Boys Style: The Lost Art of the Pre-Game”. Guys get traditional straight razor shaves, shoeshines, Bourbon tastings, and Jeff Dufour's "Top Secret Destination Picks" for an unforgettable night-out on the town.

M29 Lifestyle Boutique – Enter a drawing for a Moyna LBB (little black bag) while shopping the store’s mix of home décor, clothing, and accessories.

Redeem – Fall 2010 Preview Party with special guest appearance by local jewelry designer Thomas Griffeths of Couture Saboteur, showcasing his one-of-a-kind hand-constructed collection. Also, DC artist Shawn Helton presents The Red Thread... mixed media paintings about myth and the human condition.

Reiss – Stop by this store from the UK for 10% off all full-price clothing and a free gift with purchase. Meet men's style bloggers Grant Harris from Image Granted, LLC, Klay Williams of Harrison Williams and style editors from The District Cut, who will be giving one-on-one style advice and showcasing their favorite looks from the REISS 2010 Autumn/Winter Men's Collection.

Rue 14 – Shop the GANT trunk show to live music, including a DJ set from John Thornley, the lead singer of U.S. Royalty and GANT model. Also meet with stylist Victor Price to create a fresh look with our new fall merchandise, and receive complimentary mini-makeovers from a professional make-up artist.

Simply Soles – Shop the fall collection and De*Nada Designs trunk show while sipping on cocktails and meet Lisa Church, the inventor of Stiruppz.

For a list of participating stores in Georgetown and U Street corridor.

Designer Spotlight: David Joseph Designs

2010-09-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

In the quiet solitude of his studio apartment, David Fisher sculpts fabrics into couture. The self-taught designer contemplates over fabric choice when creating his custom-made designs for Washington’s socialites and tastemakers. He calculates how he will turn a concept into a finished product, operating on a 3-week start to finish timeframe for ready-to-wear and 4 – 6 weeks for bridal or couture. He is a one-man show.

The 23-year-old native Nebraskan arrived in DC two years ago after a journey across the states in search of the ideal location to launch his label, David Joseph Designs. It began in the costume department, where he interned at Creighton University. Under the direction of the head costume designer, he learned to sew and one costume design class later, he turned entrepreneur and started selling vintage clothing and worked on textile conservation projects for private collections.

I sat down with David in the lobby of his historic apartment building, a luxurious space restored to its original 1920s decor. Said place, in addition to DC’s museums and architecture, serves as inspiration for his vintage-inspired design aesthetic and reverence for the curvaceous silhouette. We talked about his design process, the Mad Men craze, and his green lifestyle.

MSL: What does the collection say about your own personal style?
DF: I love the styles from the 1930s through the 1950s, and every design reflects that. I personally own a large collection of WWII jackets and wear them for special occasions in the colder months. They are definitely my favorite article of clothing. I also like the 1950s aesthetic where men dressed very sharp and tailored and women's clothing was fitted yet feminine. I think it was the last era where clothing was truly beautiful, and I try to encapsulate that in my design aesthetic.

MSL: Where do you acquire your materials?
DF: I acquire my materials from all over the globe. For day-to-cocktail ensembles, I procure materials both locally and through online fabric retailers. For bridal and couture designs, I often important one-of-a-kind fabrics and trims from Europe. For one couture gown, I purchased a custom silk produced in the same shop that made the costumes for the HBO series, The Tudors.

MSL: How many pieces are typically in a collection?
DF: Since each design is custom-made, I do not produce a typical collection. Each season, I choose a theme and make a select number of designs based off the inspiration. This usually ranges from six to twelve pieces per collection.

MSL: Who is your target audience?
DF: My target audience is modern women who are on the move. When I established my label, I wanted to create designs that could seamlessly transition from the workplace to a cocktail party to any type of formal event. The modern woman does not want to waste time and money constantly changing her wardrobe. For my ready-to-wear designs, I create fashion-forward pieces that work in a variety of settings, assuring my client is effortlessly chic at every stage of her day.

MSL: What has been one of your most elaborate designs to date?
DF: One of my favorite designs is the Lake Gown I made inspired by the one Natalie Portman wears in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Movie reproductions are always magical, as it is a labor of love to see a masterpiece on screen, and then see your inspired creation come to life. The minute I saw the gown, I knew it was extraordinary. It took three attempts and nine months to create the ombre effect with the dye. Start to finish, it took nearly a year to make. I sent it to a photographer in Ohio for a photo shoot and was absolutely mesmerized by the photographs. They are so beautiful, it looks like a dream.

MSL: Where do you see yourself in five years?
DF: Over the next five years, I hope to see my business grow into a thriving label. I am very happy living in DC and hope my fashions forever find a home in this wonderful city. It has always been a dream of mine to open a flagship store in New York, and I hope to achieve that within the next few years.

MSL: How does your green living influence your profession?
DF: I don’t waste anything! I measure my fabric carefully as not to waste and use fabrics that are high in quality and going to last. I recycle everything. And personally, I want to be healthy so I eat organic produce and walk everywhere.

Diamantina’s sustainable-spin on its leather goods

2010-08-25T17:21:00.000-07:00

Rarely does one put leather and eco-friendly fashion in the same sentence. Then came along Diamantina, a Washington, DC-based leather handbag company that righteously claims sustainability as its moniker.

“I’m not going to tell you that leather production is completely free of toxins. ” Claudia Diamante says about her leather handbags. “However, the leather we use comes from a sustainable cycle where our trusted Argentine producers treat their cows very humanely.”

Such statement raises a conundrum for vegan fashionistas. If the purpose for not wearing leather is founded on the treatment of animals, does the assurance that designers and apparel companies such as Diamante purport of ethical conditions take precedent?

Argentina, known for its quality leather, produces cowhide from cows raised for consumption and not leather products, per se. A cow’s diet consists of high quality vitamin and cereal mix and pesticide-free grass. For production, every part of the cow goes unwasted.

There are environmental implications in the tanning process, which includes vegetable tanning, as there are in the production of any synthetic product. Diamante counters the argument by saying, “The tanning process itself does not yield toxins, as in air pollution, however the by-products of the process can be toxic and it is up to the producers to ensure proper disposal of contaminants. The main reason this process is done is to toughen the leather to ensure our products longevity. That’s where we hope to make an ecological difference. By producing long lasting products through a humane unwasteful process. ”

Diamante returns to her native Argentina bi-annually where she meets her design partner to discuss designs and manufacturer to survey working conditions and the production process.

Capitalizing on Argentina’s diverse geography and beauty, the Diamantina collection evokes luxury akin to the earth’s elements. The leather, fashioned from full grain, embossed, patent or suede, is complemented with detailed silver hardware, all hand-crafted by Argentinian artisans. The collection includes oversized handbags, hobos, and day and evening clutches.

“What we do is create beautiful handbags that will last you a lifetime,” Diamante says. Initially starting with leather jackets and handbags, the collection focuses on handbags and will expand to wallets in its spring/summer 2011 collection.

Visit the Diamantina Trunk Show this Saturday, August 28th at the Diamantina showroom (406 G Street NE, Washington, DC). RSVP, Claudia@diamantina.net.

Neiman Marcus Hosts Fall Fashion Preview

2010-08-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

Aptly timed with fall’s beckoning presence, Neiman Marcus at Mazza Gallerie hosted an evening of fashion’s fall trends courtesy of two DC resident fashionistas. Andrea Rodgers of Ask Miss A and model Katie Rost styled six models each in their favorite fall trends.

Rodgers, an admitted Chanel aficionado, opted for classic, tailored day and cocktail dresses with the necessary pop of hot pink such as a pink marabou shrug worn over a knee-length black fitted dress.

Rost, on the contrary, pulled separates that could be worn from day to night. Her first look introduced this season’s “jeggings”, aka denim leggings, paired with a Theory t-shirt and Diane vonFurstenberg leather jacket.

At the top of their list ranks 50s redux, sequined and gold studded embellishments, statement necklaces, and leather jackets.

“Although Katie and I have different styles,” Rodgers said, “we both incorporated similar fall trends.”

Common designers among their picks were dresses by Diane vonFurstenberg and Carmen Marc Valvo, Chanel jackets and handbags, Tory Burch suede knee-high wedge boots, St. John skirt suits, Alexis Bittar jewelry, and emerging designers, Aidan Mattox and Sue Wong, cocktail dresses.

For good measure, Liberty Jones, PR Manager for Neiman Marcus, suggested adding lace, capes or a poncho, and boots to your fall wardrobe. “Consider incorporating lace whether in a shoe or hair piece,” says Jones. “Trilogy offers an amazing fur poncho and Rebecca Taylor’s faux fur vest.” For boots, she seconds Tory Burch’s knee-high boots. "These are all smart DC looks."

Following the presentation, guests took advantage of free makeovers and noshed on cupcakes while listening to the jams of DJ Neekola.

Rodgers and Rost’s spotlight continues with their upcoming profiles in the September issue of Vogue. The magazine features women who are making a difference in their communities through their charitable work. Both Rodgers and Rost lead foundations committed to improving the lives of children in need, Courage for Kids and Ronald F. Rost Foundation, respectively.

Jason Wu Fall 2010 Collection Pays Homage to American Artist, Robert Ryman

2010-08-14T17:37:00.001-07:00

In the art world, contemporary American artist Robert Ryman is revered for his use of mix-media, the fashion community can say the same for the impressionable Jason Wu. The two worlds paid their respects in a special one-night only event as part of the After 5 series at The Phillips Collection.

Great minds think a like. The museum partnered with Neiman Marcus and Project Beltway’s Rachel Cothran to illustrate the relationship between art and fashion, proving a visual sensation for the patrons and its subject.

Ryman’s Variations and Improvisations exhibit currently on display at The Phillips serves as the inspiration for Wu’s fall 2010 TSE cashmere collection. Wu, 27, captures Ryman’s quiet montage in a 13-piece collection of textured coats, dresses and separates. The event’s organizers garnered half of the collection for a live model demonstration while a video of Wu’s fall runway show streamed in the cafe.

A departure from previous collections in terms of color (with of course, the unforgettable off-white Grecian one-shouldered gown he designed for Ms. Michelle Obama), Wu inherits Ryman’s somber palette of cream, white, black with accents of soft pastels or variation of shades. The luxe fabrics and textures combined with color choice stimulated rather than deafened the senses. What can be more beautiful in the onset of winter than a lightness of being?

Real Estate agent Claire Welsh now knows what to wear this fall. “The collection is just amazing and I’m excited about wearing creaming, it looks very clean and sharp.”

Hosts Cothran (wearing a heavenly chiffon Vena Cava dress) and Neiman Marcus’s Liberty Jones opted for elegant ensembles in muted taupe and black, respectively, in spirit of Wu and Ryman, while the sold-out crowd dressed in this season’s bright hues. Yours truly donned a customized red cocktail dress designed by local designer, David Fisher, another talented independent designer who celebrates a woman’s hourglass silhouette. (More on Fisher in a forthcoming article.)

The Ryman exhibit ends September 12 and view Wu’s fall 2010 runway show streamed on his Web site.

models, T.H.E. Modeling Agency

Claire Welsh, fashion notable: adding sparkle to her ensemble with strappy heels by Giuseppe Zanotti and vintage Gucci purse

Orinda Basha, fashion notable: heels with ostrich feathers, purchased in South Africa

Project Beltway's Rachel Cothran, David Fisher of David Joseph Designs, and yours truly

Shop the hottest summer sales during Dog Days in MidCity

2010-08-04T18:30:00.000-07:00

DC and summer unanimously equals sticky hotness. Rather than wither away indoors this weekend, grab your friend and/or more aptly Sparky and cool off in MidCity. The 11th annual Dog Days in MidCity is here and the neighborhood stores and restaurants are gearing up for the season’s hottest sales.

Take advantage of major markdowns on spring and summer apparel and accessories and then pamper your pooch at Green Pets before a play date at Shaw Dog Park.

DC just got a bit cooler…

Caramel, suiting DC’s professionals in work and casual wear, offers up to 75% off on summer styles and 10% on fall preview items, plus shop an ADMK trunk show from 3 – 7 p.m. with special discounts on Saturday. Located: 1603 U Street NW.

Junction is the intersection between then and now. Vintage aficionados modernize classic trends with local artisans’ jewelry. Take advantage of $5 rack and $2 bins. Located: 1510 U Street NW.

Hip hop your way to Lettie Gooch, the street chic outpost for designers such as Orion, Beth Bowley, Prairie Underground and AG Denim, for discounts as much as 90% off. The Early Bird special, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., offers 30% off on select jewelry. Play a game of hopscotch for a chance to win extra discounts starting at noon. The sidewalk sale includes 50% off selected handbags, 50 – 75% off selected denim, 30% off summer dresses and shirts, 50% off all menswear and 50 – 90% of clearance items. You will need Letti’s famous lemonade after working up a shopping sweat! Located: 1517 U Street NW.

Nana crams racks with spring and summer apparel marked down up to 50% off. Can’t leave without nabbing a vintage dress for $25 or less...and that’s why Nana was voted DC Favorite Boutique of 2010! Located: 1528 U Street NW.

Add edge to your wardrobe from Redeem. Owner Lori Parkerson stocks her 4-year-old store with independent designers such as Feral Childe, Wrath Arcane, and Kaylee Tankus. Take 25% off spring and summer apparel, plus an additional 25% off previously marked down merchandise for up to 60% off select items. Jesse Walker, designer behind REALM jewelry, will be onsite. Located: 1743 14th Street NW.

Rue 14, the creation of two former fashion insiders for Polo Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers, opens its loft space for patrons and dogs alike. Discounts on brands such as Free People, Penguin, and Gant. Located: 1803a 14th Street NW.

Treasury,another vintage haven, offers 20% off summer items (excluding jewelry) and a sidewalk bargain rack, where everything is $5. Preview the exclusive in-house line Ouroboros, handmade in DC from deadstock vintage textiles. Your ensemble is not complete without accessorizing from the LITHICS collection. You can have any ring customized to your size and finish specifications. Located: 1843 14th Street NW.

For a full list of participating stores and restaurants, visit MidCity, a business trade association promoting businesses in the U Street corridor.

Create your Mad Men look at Uesa Goods Vintage

2010-08-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday marked the fourth season of AMC’s Mad Men and in true fashion, the drama delivered a thoughtful depiction of fashion history’s most colorful decade: the 60s. In forthcoming episodes, will costume designer Janie Bryant put Betty in a geometric print shift dress and Peggy in a mini skirt? Perhaps, Don will embrace the color orange? Oh, those rebels!

For the vintage aficionados and Mad Men fans, leave the drama in the boardroom and create your own retro glam with the era’s finest at Uesa Goods Vintage, the DC-based online vintage store.

Owner and vintage-connoisseur Uesa Robinson scours estate sales to offer her clients a treasure trove of decades past rare apparel, footwear, and accessories. Pick your Mad Men beauty and Uesa has an accommodating ensemble. For those dark and stormy summer nights, don’t leave the house without a tailored trench, perfected by Bill Blass. Going to an after-hours office party? Throw on a Pucci mini-dress and bold-colored low wedges. Accessorize with large beaded necklaces and bracelets.

As much as we love the show, remember, it is 2010. Consider adding a modern twist to your outfit with a metallic belt, skinny jeans, or gladiator sandals such as the “Cassandra” by Modern Vintage (sold online at Simply Soles). Alternatively, ladies, retro-fy your Theory suit with a psychedelic-print blouse and gents, wear a wide tie in a bold color and add The Kinks and The Who on your iPod for good measure.

So, what will Joan wear in tonight’s episode? I predict a shorter hemline.

Photos courtesy of Uesa Robinson

Indonesian designers use traditional textiles in U.S. debut collection at fashion show

2010-07-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

Indonesian fashion takes center stage at the Indonesian Integrated Investment: Remarkable Indonesia event Wednesday, July 7. Cita Tenun Indonesia/Indonesian Woven Cloths Association (CTI), with support from the Indonesian Embassy, brings Indonesian’s top designers to showcase traditional textiles in an effort to promote Indonesia as a central market for woven textiles.

The event will be held at the Ritz Carlton, 1150 22nd Street NW, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a reception followed by a gala dinner and fashion show.

Designers Oscar Lawalata and Denny Wirawan launched their collections in the 90s, garnering immediate attention for their modern interpretations of traditional Indonesian clothing, without sacrificing their cultural identity. The designers integrate traditional textiles, fabrics such as tenun and ikat, natural dyes, and detailing to unite the two worlds. In doing so, the designers support communities to engage textile weavers across Indonesia.

Lawalata is the recipient of the British Council International Young Creative Entrepreneur (IYCE) Fashion Award 2009. He is noted for resurrecting cultural references through modern fashion, creating powerful fashion statements.

Denny Wirawan, who has an “ethnic ready-to-wear label”, equally claims several prestigious awards. Among them, the Fashion Designer Contest organized by the Femina Group (one of Indonesia’s leading fashion magazines), nominated for Designer of the Year by NOKIA & A+ Magazine, and was selected as one of the 5 Best Indonesian Fashion Designers by JAKARTA POST. He is also a member of CTI. His latest collection: “A Fascinating Journey of Sumatera” explores his fascination with the hand-woven blongsong cloth. The fabric, produced in South Sumatra, has unique designs similar to ikat with combined lines, checks, and range of colors and shades from soft pastels to bright and light tones.

RSVP to Kadrieka Maiden at kmaiden@nediamconsultants.com or 240-446-8148.

MSL styles for Vintage to Vogue Summer Fashion Show

2010-06-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

My Signature Look teamed with fellow stylist, Bayou Muse, to showcase our styling talent at the Art Soiree's Summer Fashion Show last Friday. Yours truly outfitted the guys in vintage and contemporary clothes - taking him from the halls of Congress to Happy Hour to poolside. The event was held on the rooftop of the eco-friendly WestEnd 25 luxury apartments near Georgetown. The breath-taking view served as the perfect backdrop for an elegant evening of style. Here are some pics of the guys in one of three looks...check the MSL Facebook page for more pics.

Roarke NYC shows in DC

2010-06-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, DC fashionistas transformed their government attire from conservative to glam with one necklace. Laetitia Stanfield, one-half of the duo design team behind Roarke NYC, showcased the fall collection of bib necklaces, bracelets and garters in the chic confines of Napoleon Bistro in Adams Morgan.

The event brought out mom and local supporters of the one-year-old collection donning the line’s signature bib necklace “Le Charlot” adorned with intricate beading and weightless beaded bracelets. Each made-to-order piece begins in an Indian factory known for its beadwork, Oscar de la Renta and Balmain among its clients. The delicate detailing is paired with nontraditional fabrics such as chiffon and pomp mesh. The collection is not to be admired from afar, yet experienced.

The guests gushed over the Aztec and Ikat patterns and the nifty attachable braided chiffon extensions. However, the real showstopper is the bib necklace’s versatility – appropriate for both a day and evening ensemble – and its graceful draping.

“We scrutinize each piece for how the necklace lays,” Stanfield says. “The draping should appear without effort.”

The contrast between structure and fluidity equally describes the designers’ personalities. Stanfield, a former buyer for Bergdorf Goodman, admires her design partner’s ability to create from a blank canvas where she prefers an evolutionary process. Their complimentary nature has redefined statement accessories, propelled by innovation and design. Perhaps, the next iteration will involve recycled materials increasingly being embraced by the jewelry industry.

In their short history, Stanfield and partner, Mignonne Gavigan, have expanded their collection from one design to four, garnering wave reviews by celebrities and industry insiders. Undeterred by the potential lure for mass production, Roarke NYC remains a niche, exclusive to online and trunk shows. To show in DC was a logical choice for Stanfield, a native Virginian and George Washington graduate.

“DC fashion is really blossoming as evident by the number of retailers and designers they are carrying,” Stanfield says.

In the spirit of a good-neighbor policy, DC welcomes Roarke NYC.

Old Town Alexandria Boutique - 3 Days of Sales

2010-06-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

Members of The Old Town Boutique District are welcoming summer with three days of sales, gifts and events. Stop by participating stores June 11, 12 and 13 for special discounts, gifts with purchase and other fun.

The Old Town Boutique District is a collection of 28 independent, locally-owned businesses located within walking distance of each other in historic Alexandria. Located just outside Washington, D.C. and easily accessible to the King Street Metro, these Old Town merchants offer a unique shopping experience. Shoppers can find everything from home décor items, fashion, jewelry, beauty items, children’s apparel and gifts.

Events and discounts include designer trunk shows at The Shoe Hive and The Full Cup, storytimes and craft classes for children at Hooray for Books, pick your own discounts at Monday’s Child and Pink and Brown, discounts on summer clothes at Treat, Gossypia and Apple Seed, free gifts with purchase from Arts Afire, The Christmas Attic and The Little Monogram Shop, free interior design consultations at Red Barn Mercantile, tastings at The Sugar Cube and free coffee at Grape + Bean, and chances to win classes from Fibre Space and La Cuisine.

Other participating merchants include:
Apple Seed, 703.535.5446, 115 S. Columbus Street
Arts Afire, 703.838.9785, 1117 King Street
Bellacara, 703.299.9652, 1000 King Street
Bloomers, 571.312.0852, 924 King Street
Diva, 703.683.1022, 116 S. Pitt Street
Fibre Space, 703.664.0344, 102 North Fayette Street
Fitness on the Run, 703.299.9333, 109 S. Alfred Street
Gossypia, 703.836-6969, 325 Cameron Street
Grape + Bean, 703.664.0214, 118 South Royal Street
Hooray for Books, 703.548.4092, 1555 King Street
Hysteria, 703.548.1615, 125 S. Fairfax Street
Imperfections, 703.837.1670, 1210 King Street
La Cuisine, 703.836.4435, 323 Cameron Street
Lauren B Gallery, 703.535.7880, 1316 King Street
Lawrence Miller & Co, 703.548.0659, 121 S. Royal Street
Little Monogram Shop, 703.549.3777, 106 ½ N. Columbus Street
Mint Condition, 703.836.6468, 114 S. Royal Street
Monday's Child, 703.548.3505, 218 N. Lee Street
Mystique Jewelers, 703.836.1401, 211 The Strand
Periwinkle, 703.519.5242, 1557 Potomac Greens Drive
Pink & Brown, 703.684.1050, 1212 King Street
Red Barn Mercantile, 703.838.0355, 113 S. Columbus Street
Stanton Gallery, 703.299.3055, 121 S. Royal Street
The Christmas Attic, 703.548.2829, 125 S. Union Street
The Full Cup, 703.836.9441, 218 N. Lee Street, Suite 206
The Shoe Hive, 703.548.7105, 127 S. Fairfax Street
The Sugar Cube, 703.548.2868, 210 N. Lee Street
Treat, 703.535.3294, 103 S. St. Asaph Street

To learn more about the Old Town Boutique District or to join its mailing list, visit www.OldTownBoutiqueDistrict.com.

Fashion Show Round-Up, May 25 and 27th

2010-05-31T11:51:00.000-07:00

Last week, designer labels hit the runway for two charity events benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Dress for Success.

The Woolly Mammoth Theater transformed itself into Bryant Park for the DKNY Spring 2010 collection as part of the second annual Couture for a Cure. Founders DC United’s Bryan Namoff and wife Nadine secured the collection through the generosity of Ms. Karan. Karan, who lost both her husband and friend to the disease, stated her support in a release, “Cancer has touched all of our lives in one way or another. To fight this dreadful disease, we have to come together as a community of compassion and consciousness.” The event attracted 400 on-trend guests to celebrate survivors and honor those who lost their battle. A percentage of the ticket sales will help underwrite the medical expenses for Joe Vide, Bryan’s former DC United teammate who was diagnosed with the disease in April.

At the National Museum of Women in the Arts, models walked gingerly through the main lobby in vintage French couture to raise funds for Dress for Success. The French-American Chamber of Commerce teamed with local fashion stylist Elizabeth Gibbens, to stage a fashion retrospect. The ensembles, apparel and accessories selected from Uesa Goods Vintage, Second Time Around, and Art & Soul, incorporated vintage pieces into a modern-day look. The event also included a silent auction and raffle for a trip for two to Paris. C’etait magnifique!

GWFCC hosts a day of fashion advocacy on Capitol Hill

2010-05-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

The Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce (GWFCC) has spent the last year hobnobbing with the politicos to draw their attention to the district’s fashion interests. Their efforts have recently paid off with the formation of the Congressional Apparel Manufacturing and Fashion Business Caucus. To celebrate, the GWFCC in collaboration with Fashion Washington, DC50 home of the CW and Yelp DC are hosting the first annual State of Style Awards and Advocacy Day on Thursday, May 20, 2010 at the U.S. Capitol, Room H-137 from 8:30a.m. – 2:00p.m.

Global radio/TV personality Jeannie “Kitty of the City” Jones of WKYS will host a fashion benefit at The District in Adams Morgan, proceeds going to the DC Fashion Foundation, Thursday, May 20 from 7 to 11p.m. presented by House of Echo and Curtis & Amanda Polk. The evening includes a fashion show featuring collections by Tashia Senn, Evelyn Brooks, Tsyndyma, Cecilia Guerra of Ceci G, and Kenny “Kas” Flanagan. Guests will nosh on hors d’oeuvres by Gina Chersevani of PS7’s Restaurant and drink signature cocktails by Versailles King’s Vodka and Emperor Vodka mixed by Famed Mixologists. The DC Fashion Foundation supports fashion student scholarships “Project Fundway” and student fashion camp “DC Camp Runway” in the greater Washington area. To purchase tickets to attend the awards luncheon and evening fundraiser please visit: http://stateofstyleonthehill2010.eventbrite.com/.

Honorees who will be accepting an award from GWFCC on Thursday, May 20, 2010 from 12p.m. – 2p.m. in the Capitol Visitor’s Center (CVC) building on Capitol Hill include the following:

o Elements of Fashion Legacy Award – Fern Mallis, President of Fern Mallis LLC, Fashion Business Pioneer
o Honorary leadership award – Rep. Diane E. Watson (CA) D-33, Co-Chair of Congressional Apparel Manufacturing and Fashion Business Caucus
o Fashion Advocacy of the Year award – Save the Garment Center, Inc.
o Leadership in Emerging Business Award – Lara Miller, Executive Director, Chicago Fashion Incubator & Emerging Designer
o GWFCC Fashion Scholarship award – Adegbemisola Ademisoye, 2009 Project Fundway Winner
o GWFCC Fashion Chamber Choice award – Evelyn Brooks Designs, GWFCC Member of the Year

The annual State of Style awards reception and advocacy day brings together the efforts of major national trade organizations, non-profits, industry veterans and designers involved in the development and preservation of the American fashion industry. To register for Advocacy day forums, meetings and activities please visit: http://www.gwfcc.org/index.php/component/content/article/41-rotator-news/401-state-of-style-save-the-date

The GWFCC is a 501(c)(6) trade association that serves the greater Washington metropolitan area. Its purpose is to promote the business interests of the national fashion industry in addition to promoting Washington as a Global Fashion Capital.

The simplicity of a tee

2010-05-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a definition of “comfortable” wear. For some it is a breezy cotton dress that moves with them and another a fitted velour tracksuit. We’ll withhold judgment on the latter, but consensus says there is nothing better than the feel and simplicity of a basic tee.

Unlike other garments, the tee translates across socio-economic boundaries; therefore making it a wardrobe essential. There is a price point for everyone, a shade complementary to any skin tone, and necklines fitting for long and short necks. And in the spirit of entrepreneurship, the tee has ventured into the realm of dresses (i.e., Alexander Wang’s slim halter tank dress) and promotion of social issues (i.e., The Gap’s RED Campaign or celebrity designed graphics to support a cause).

But there are a few rules to get the most for your buck.

o Invest in quality fabrics – think about it, spending $80 on a high-quality tee is cheaper in the long run: last longer than the $10 tees you end up replacing bi-monthly (high quality doesn’t necessarily mean thick fabric)
o Choose tees that are tailored, rather than boxy
o Shoulder seam should sit right at the widest part of your natural shoulder
o No extra fabric under your arm
o Cap sleeves flatter most figures (broadens shoulders)
o Long sleeves should hit at the heel of your hand
o Ribbing is a big no-no – it loses shape after a few washes (again, always think in terms of clothes as an investment) and adds bulk
o A lightweight, fitted cotton tank worn as an undergarment will save you from soiling your top and additional trips to the dry cleaners!

Ladies, when aiming for a “comfortable” outfit, consider a well-cut tee with jeans, a pencil skirt, or shorts and add interest with jewelry and appropriate bag depending on the occasion. For guys, there is nothing wrong with jeans and a tee but opt for vintage tees to enhance that cool factor.

Tees making the cut

The Atlanta-based Alternative Apparel has dominated the tee market since 1995 with their über-soft fabrics and bright colors. The Alternative Earth eco line includes tees and pants made from organic cotton, recycled polyesther and man-made fibers derived from sustainable raw materials. Sold at Rue14, 1803A 14th Street NW, Washington DC.

Guys, stock up on tees by Comune, sold at South Moon Under (2700 Clarendon Ave., Arlington, VA), and Worn Free vintage tees and Nudie Jeans “Miles the Night Before” tee at the Denim Bar (Pentagon Row and 4939 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, MD). While there, surprise her with a Worn Free tee as well or the “Kathi Wrap top” by Velvet.
Comune
Worn Free

Nudie Jeans

Velvet

Eco-gifts for Mother's Day

2010-05-02T17:08:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, we celebrate the family matriarch with breakfast-in-bed, flowers, or a long-awaited phone call. Mother’s Day is payback day. After years of being told to turn off the lights when not in the room or wearing hand-me-downs, you’ve become the poster child for environmental stewardship. Thank her with an eco-friendly gift.

Give her that Calgon "take me away"-moment with a gift-set of natural bath salts from Joyful Bath Co. Chief Bath Mixologist, Rochel Roland, creates organic concoctions with therapeutic benefits from healing muscle aches and pains to promoting energy and mental clarity. The Bethesda-based company has six signature bath salts (8 – 10 oz. jars).

Say I Love You with an “Envelope Letter” charm necklace by Lanyapi Designs. The repurposed charm holds a fingernail-size thin gold-filled sheet revealing a secret message (of course, we can’t tell you or else it wouldn’t be a secret!). All charm necklaces from Lanyapi Designs are one-of-a-kind.

Even mom’s can look sexy. The figure-flattering Twistflower Dress by ecoSkin hugs the curves while playing it modest with the arm and hem lengths. The super-soft, environmentally sustainable fabric is woven, dyed and sewn in the USA. ecoSkin is sold at Hysteria.

Complement the ecoSkin dress with an oversize clutch by Nazly Villamizar. Working with Colombian artisans, Villamizar uses jute, a natural fiber sustainably grown in Colombia. The clutch is fully lined and hand dyed with 100% vegetable products. Sold online at Virtuarte.

Better yet, treat her to an eco-fashion styling service by My Signature Look. After a mini-lesson on “eco-fashion”, she will be introduced to DC retailers stocked with eco-friendly clothes and accessories. She will walk away eco-chic!

michaelTHOMAS Menswear is a House of Style

2010-04-25T10:36:00.001-07:00

Menswear designer Michael Warren feels the weight of a house on his shoulders. The 26- year-old designer hails from a family of trendsetters, following their lead to create a smart collection of the ultimate men’s accessory: the bowtie.

The DC native affectionately labeled his line, michaelTHOMAS, after his cousin, Thomas. “michaelTHOMAS is the direct extension of not just my personal style but character,” Warren says. “The bowtie and necktie are traditional items, but my evolved style allows them to speak a new language to the new modern gentleman around town.”

Warren uses fabrics ranging in natural and synthetic fibers from denim to colored linen, sourced from Los Angeles, New York and DC, cut to the tie’s iconic angular shape. The collection, produced in New York, features prints and bold colors to suit every man’s point of view.

Of course, the question begs, can a young professional male sport a bowtie without appearing grandfatherly?

He only has to follow Warren’s lead. Warren modernizes the style by pairing his ties with a vest, sweater, button-downs tucked squarely into fitted jeans and sneakers.

“My target audience is the young modern man of the great metropolitan cities. These gentlemen range from the age 19 to 33 years of age. These gentlemen are the pace-setters amongst their friends, the staple of style in their office, and the gentleman that turns the eyes when he walks in any room.

“The gentlemen of this age segment are gaining much momentum in their career and don’t intend to stop. From fashion to government to entertainment. These men within the next 10 years will be the major influencers of their fields and michaelTHOMAS is that brand that will grow with them. Everyman my not be for michaelTHOMAS, but I there is piece of the brand in every man outside of the target audience, I just seek them out,” Warren explains. Point taken.

When Warren is not designing, he is working as a visual curator and independent wardrobe consultant in Los Angeles. Warren recently showcased his collection at DC’s vintage treasure trove, Treasury.

M29 Lifestyle Boutique

2010-04-09T18:20:00.000-07:00

Stay-cation holds new meaning after visiting M29 Lifestyle boutique. Georgetown’s newest shopping destination localizes its parent company, Strategic Hotels Inc., international presence to give the customer a resort experience without leaving home.

Visually speaking, the store’s décor successfully invites the consumer to romanticize about long walks on the beach donning a flowing kaftan (for her) and summer-appropriate tees (for him) or taking a bike ride on an Areaware bike (lightweight and foldable!). A faint breeze reminiscent of Cabo San Lucas or the Bahamas permeates the 1,000 square foot space. Think haute gypsy jetsetters versus Lily Pulitzer-bound for the Hamptons. Art commissioned from two national galleries juxtaposes the industrial walls, complementing the colorful print floor pillows and rugs. Candles and scented soaps by Lucia and coffee-table books disguise as set props. All for sale, of course.

That is the danger M29 presents to the consumer’s wallet. Everything is for sale when everything works perfectly into your ideal resort-inspired home and lifestyle.

The staff’s selection of clothing, jewelry, and home accessories highlights their panache for luxury goods while being eco-conscious. You will find tunics by Calypso, one-of-a-kind tanks and tees by Alp-N-Rock, and kaftans by Chan Luu. There is something for him, too. Sunglasses by Beryll and Robert Charles’ silver cufflinks increases the cool-factor. For tots, dress in darling tees or watch them play with handmade Jess Brown dolls or doodle on the “White” box.

“Every designer we bring in has a story and we want our consumers to have that dialogue with them when they buy their product,” says store manager, Allison Wylder. “We carry limited items to ensure shoppers have something exclusive.” The store plans to host monthly trunk and meet the designer events.

Mental note: Stay-cation at M29 Lifestyle allows you to escape without the airfare. Shopping for yourself or a loved one just got easier. M29 is located at 2900 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.

Aveda raises funds for clean water

2010-04-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

Aveda continues its support of clean water initiatives this month by raising funds for local projects. What began as a day of awareness in 1990 has grown into a month-long international effort, raising $14.2 million.

Did you know that 1 in 7 people lack access to clean water? The Aveda Institute of DC draws attention to this alarming statistic through an awareness campaign aptly during Earth Day month. The eco-friendly salon and retail chain is hosting store events to raise money for Potomac Conservancy. The Institute aims to raise $12,000.

Events (Gallery Place location, 7th Street NW)

April 14: $15 haircuts at 5:30 p.m., RSVP 202.824.1624

April 17: Belle Couleur Jewelry Trunk Show – handmade wire wrapped, pearl and beaded jewelry.

April 20: Special services only from 5:30-8:00 pm, RSVP required:
• $10 express facials,
• $10 shampoo blow-outs,
• $10 cuticle treatments and polish change with our new luxury vegan nail lacquers,
• Umbrellas for first 40 guests that come in.

May 1: Earth Day Fashion Show - $20 tickets; 7:30-10:00 p.m. featuring DC Fashion Week designers, drink specials, door prizes and a silent auction. Call Aveda for tickets, (202) 824 -1624.

The Potomac Conservancy aims to protect water quality through land protection and land use practices in the greater Washington area. On Saturday, April 10, the Conservancy will be hosting clean-up events at several sites throughout the watershed, including:

• The River Center at Lockhouse 8, Cabin John, MD
• Bear Branch Stream Valley, Adamstown, MD
• Fletcher’s Boathouse, Washington, DC
• Theodore Roosevelt Island, Washington, DC
• Tenfoot and Sharpshin Islands via Algonkian Regional Park, Sterling, VA

To volunteer, contact Deanna Tricarico, tricarico@potomac.org of (301) 608-1188 x204.

Spring forward with a Bohemian-inspired wardrobe

2010-03-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

Peace, love and happiness. Spring weather simply commands liberation, unapologetically. Say goodbye to your wool sweaters and trousers and knee-high boots and hello to flower-induced spring dresses, cork wedges, and cross-body strapped purses. Capture that spirit by springing forward with a Bohemian-inspired wardrobe a la eco-chic fashion.

For Her – dress, shoes, handbag, and Melissa Lew necklace from Cherry Blossom collection

Calypso St. Barth

Calypso’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection builds upon the brand’s appeal to the global woman with clothes and accessories perfect for cherry blossom viewing. It boasts light-weight trousers, long tees, and maxi and knee-length cotton dresses. Personal favorite is the Lourdes dress, all-figure flattering with a flower print, pockets and capped sleeves.

Calypso is sold at Ginger.

Katie Kalsi Handbags

Designer Katie Kalsi channels her Bohemian spirit into a collection of handbags that are both whimsical and bold. The minimalist sneaks in with limited shapes and colors (boho, doctor, messenger, and clutch) but teased with touches of rivets, fabric choice, or hardware such as solid brass and nickel. Kalsi’s “IT” bag is the interchangeable strap bag featuring signature designs from her contemporary art – a favorite among entertainment celebrities.

Far from the Hollywood glitz, Kalsi works in a converted barn on her parents’ estate in Tennessee. There, she develops the concept which is then sent to production in factories in both Texas and New Jersey. The Kalsi collection is sold online and in specialty boutiques.

Salpy

Slip into a pair of Salpy clogs and tread lightly on Mother Earth. Husband and wife duo Salpy Kalaidjian and Kevork Kalaidjian create designer women’s shoes made with feather light wood bases and hand-tooled leather. Salpy shoes are available as high heels, clogs, and slides. Opt for bright colors such as “ocean” and mango.

Salpy is sold at Simply Soles.

For Him – trousers, shoes, and cuff

Panda Snack and Red Engine

Wear your eco-sensibilities with Panda Snack sportswear. The husband/wife designer duo produces a collection of polo shirts, jackets and trousers made from bamboo.

Up the cool factor with a pair of vintage denim jeans by Red Engine. The LA-based company may import denim from across the pond (Europe) but keeps production at home.

Panda Snack and Red Engine are sold at Caramel.

TOMS Shoes

Spread the love every time you wear your TOMS. Founder and head designer, Blake Mycoskie, donates a pair of TOMS shoes to children in developing countries for every pair sold. Choose from the new vegan collection, shoes made from a blend of recycled products, faux suede insoles and rubber outsoles. TOMS is sold at Nordstrom, Sassanova, Shoe Fly and online.

Fisticuffs

Local designer John Davis takes vintage belts and other second-hand leather and fashions into edgy cuffs. Fisticuffs is sold at Meeps Vintage.

Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Mojee Design

2010-03-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

It is 10 p.m. and Mojee Shokri’s creative juices begin to percolate. The luxe jewelry designer retreats to her design studio to mull over an inventory of semi-precious stones and fresh-water pearls scavenged from her travels in Southeast Asia, Turkey, and Iran. She remains steadfast weighing her options until inspiration strikes and the pattern is sketched in memory. Only then does she call it a day – as dawn breaks.

Shokri’s non-traditional work hours suit her personality and equally her collections: bold and ambitious. Her restless spirit led her to DC from Iran to study ten years ago and one art class later, she found her vocation as an artist.

She honed her skills in photography and painting before perfecting her craft in jewelry design. The only thing missing was her enterprise.

In true entrepreneurial-fashion, she knocked on the doors of the nation’s capital most reputable jewelry stores and introduced herself to Washington’s elite.

“I was young but persistent,” says the now 30-year-old. “If you love what you do then you just have to get yourself out there.”

Her collections are sold at Keith Lipert Gallery, Wink, and Muleh, and have been featured in Lucky, DC Modern Luxury, and Washingtonian Magazine, the latter crowning her as one of DC’s most beautiful people.

“Like my collections, I tend to have an eye for unique pieces, whether it is shoes, clothing, or jewelry. I describe my own personal style as chic and edgy. I always like to include a touch of something unique to accent what I’m wearing, just as my designs tend to have a touch of flare that makes the jewelry standout,” Shokri says.

When she is not attending to her jewelry (all produced by hand), she consults with her sister in Iran regarding their wedding planning business or scours artisan markets in remote parts of the world or studies the latest trends.

Shokri’s spring/summer 2010 collection, available online , borrows from Roman architecture and decadence reined in by softer colors and one statement stone or pendant.

“The collections evolve over time,” Shokri says. “But this season’s pieces are some of my most proud designs.” Just another’s day work.

Earthworks cites eco-luxe jewelry designer Alberto Parada in recent report

2010-03-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

In February, Earthworks released its findings on how jewelers and retailers fared in ethical sourcing of metals. The DC-based advocacy group behind the No Dirty Gold Campaign rated 39 jewelers between February and October 2009.

Among the small jewelry designers was Alberto Parada. The award-winning eco-luxe designer received a B grade, which translates to 11 points earned in 16 areas. His signatory to the No Dirty Gold Campaign puts him in the company of 20 retailers and designers in the small to medium-sized jewelers category. Brilliant Earth earned top billing with 13 points (grade A).

The signatories of the No Dirty Gold campaign’s “Golden Rules” principles agree to use cleaner gold suppliers. These suppliers must adhere to 10 tenants of protecting workers, communities and the environment. Parada uses 100% recycled gold and buys metals and diamonds from certified mines in Canada. His gems are sourced from Brazil in raw and cut locally.

In two-short years, Parada has gained national attention for his luxurious line thanks to collaboration on the runway with leading fashion designers and features in national publications such as Organic Spa and Boho. For the former jewelry appraiser turned designer, the real achievement is raising the profile of eco-jewelry.

“It is not enough to educate retailers on the importance of sustainable jewelry, but the consumers must be equally aware,” the DC designer says.

Consumers have played a critical role in exposing the fashion industry’s supply practices through anti-sweatshop and “shaming” campaigns. The jewelry industry is not indifferent to the repercussions of societal impacts. Earthworks’ depiction of the gold industry as “one of the dirtiest industries” is supported by claims that the average large gold mine uses 1,900 tons of cyanide per year and a single gold ring generates 20 tons of mine waste.

“It is amazing the amount of waste that occurs,” Parada echoes. “I choose to use recycled gold because I believe it is the right thing to do.”

In addition to signing the Golden Rules (GR), Parada has conduced a supply audit, shared the audit results with the No Dirty Campaign, and incorporated the GR into his policies and contracts.

The self-taught designer carries that spirit of transparency into the design process from the initial sketch to the goldsmith’s touch. His sketches are a study in architecture and color – a Frank Lloyd Wright meets Georgia O’Keefe – creating a visual for honesty and self-expression. The “Roman” ring, in particular, demonstrates the harmonic blend of three gold bands (yellow, white and rose) fastened by a strip of three inset diamonds, perhaps a symbolic gesture for creating a platform for different worldviews working toward a common good.

In May, Parada will launch his spring/summer collection with an unveiling at Mystique Jewelers. The collection boasts more rose gold, moonstone, and onyx, the latter a new addition to Parada’s oeuvre of stones.

To learn more about Earthworks, visit their Web site and download the Tarnished Gold? Assessing the jewelry industry’s progress on ethical sourcing of metals report.

Lanyapi Designs: Repurposed vintage jewelry with a soul

2010-02-26T16:57:00.000-08:00

Vintage is inherently immortal. Furniture collectors flock to antique stores to restore weathered centuries-old chairs and armorers. U.S. cities like Reno, Nevada host week-long festivals in honor of the “vintage” car. Fashionistas shop “vintage” stores for original Chanel suits and one-of-a-kind concert tees. Etsy has cornered the repurposed and vintage jewelry market, and among its designers is D.C. resident, Daisy Bandera-Duplantier.

Bandera-Duplantier, 24, launched Lanyapi Designs two years ago when her collection of charms required a new lease on life.

Lanyapi, in reference to the act of giving something extra, honors relics and quarter-size charms such as lockets, a key, or even a tiny harmonica by fashioning them into necklaces, earrings, bracelets and keychains. They are memories worn close to the heart.

You can say that Bandera-Duplantier is a romantic, unlocking personal sentiments experienced in association with a time, person or place.

“I don’t necessarily follow trends when I am making my pieces,” Bandera-Duplantier said. “I love turning something old into new and knowing that a piece is going to evoke an emotion in someone.”

Case in point, I fell in love with the brass-plated cut out of France and attached Eiffel Tower necklace, recalling fond memories of my study abroad there in college.

She approaches each collection with a memory of her own.

“I am inspired by nature and travel so you will find many pieces from places I’ve been to such as India, Peru or Japan, or I develop a theme around love,” she says.

Other sources are from vendors on Web sites like Etsy, fairs, flea markets, and Eastern Market, where a special section is reserved for vintage.

Repurpose your own special token with Bandera-Duplantier’s help by placing a custom order on her Etsy site, www.lanyapi.etsy.com.

While some humans like to think they are immortal, vintage has found its fountain of youth with a little help from jewelry designers like Bandera-Duplantier.

Lanyapi Designs Trunk Show, Friday, February 26; 5 – 9 p.m. at Nana

DC Fashion Shows Spotlight Ethical Designers

2010-02-23T17:05:00.000-08:00

Ethical fashion shared the spotlight at DC Fashion Week 2010 thanks to Avani Ribbon. The organization introduced nearly 150 eco-fashionistas and fashionistas alike to six designers and fair trade companies, proving that eco and ethical fashion is ready-to-wear and au courant.

The Textile Museum served as the backdrop for the runway complementing the current exhibition of contemporary Japanese fashion. Gowns by Japanese designers Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto were suspended in air while DC designers showcased green jewelry, fair-traded handbags and scarves, and clothes produced by women co-ops grounding the fundamentals of style and innovative design.

For the parents of one of the models, the show debunked the idea that eco-fashion means hemp tees.

“The name “eco-fashion” can suggest clothes that are unattractive, but the designers showed how eco-fashion can be great looking,” Jim Sandman said with his wife, Beth Mullin, adding “you could really see yourself wearing some of the pieces.”

Model Bridgett Bassett, 21, sported a sheer tank and sheath top by Rupalee over black leggings (her own) and a necklace by Calamarie in the show. “I love the boho feel of this look. It is very light and flowy,” she said. “I would not suspect this top is “green.” This is something I can dress up or down.”

Cecilia Guerra dressed models in her new collection, Ceci G. The jewelry designer recently turned her skills to apparel, combining her reverence for the 60s and bold colors. The simple A-line construction factored into casual and cocktail-ish sheaths that could be dressed up or down with a pair of shoes.

Thick wool scarves by Peruvian Trends substituted for menswear as male models boldly walked passed spectators naked sans covered from waist to thigh (although most donned scarves around the neck with or without the pants).
Going green looked chic when accessorized with jewelry by Melissa Lew or handbags by fair-trade companies Calamarie and Blumpari.

Avani Ribbon works with local and international eco-designers and fair-trade companies in educating consumers about ethical fashion. The DC-based organization has produced shows for DC Fashion Week and Street Glam Fashion Event.

DC Ethical Fashion Runway Show kicks off DC Fashion Week on Monday, Feb. 15

2010-02-11T08:52:00.000-08:00

DC Ethical Fashion Runway Show kicks off DC Fashion Week this Monday, February 15 at the Textile Museum. The Ethical Fashion Show features local and international ethical designers who take an ethical approach to their design and production. Avani Ribbon, in collaboration with Social Butterfly Events and DC Fashion Week, marks its return as organizer of the show.

Avani Ribbon’s main objective is to promote sustainable development in the fashion industry. It achieves this through education and marketing services to small businesses (retailers) and designers. Priya Downes, founder and President of Avani Ribbon, requires their clients to adhere to an ethical code of conduct.

“Being part of the DC Fashion Week demonstrates that ethical can set trends and that green designers can compete with the mainstream,” Downes says.

The show will feature six jewelry and accessories designers.

Designers

Blumpari
Winner of the NYC Design Competition for “Most Socially Responsible Handbag,” Blumpari designs handbags inspired by the Thai culture and traditions. Blumpari, pronounced bloom-pari, means the “the eternal heavenly blossoming flower.” Designer Cherry Kwunyeun studied at Parsons where she received a Fulbright grant to study and consult on microfinanced handicraft/textile groups in Thailand.

CG Originals
Since 2003, Cecilia Guerra is creating chic and fun pieces of jewelry, her collection includes pieces made from materials such as sterling silver .950, turquoise, spondilus and avalon In 2005 she combined her lifelong interest in the handcrafted arts with her niece Patricia Real forming CG originals. The pieces are designed for women of all ages to make them feel sophisticated and stylish.

In February 2009 CG originals introduced a ready to wear clothing line Ceci G. The designer Cecilia Guerra get her inspiration from the late 60's, as well as the different colors and textures of the fabrics.

Calamarie
Traditional Art Reinterpreted was founded in 2009 by Catalina Lemaitre in Washington DC. Calamarie works with artists across Colombia to preserve traditional art forms by purchasing and developing products that use traditional materials and techniques but are reinterpreted for the contemporary woman. At DC Fashion Week 2010, Calamarie will showcase the recently arrived winter collection, including virgin wool and hand woven hammock cloth bags, iraca palm clutches, ground coffee, seed and orange peel necklaces and many more hand-made and earth-friendly accessories.

Melissa Lew Jewelry
Melissa Lew is an award winning DC Metro area artist and designer whose work is strongly influenced by her Chinese heritage, especially the culture’s deep respect and esteem for nature. She uses various green and sustainable materials, including recycled silver (precious metal clays) and bamboo, to create unique eco-friendly, sculptural jewelry to wear and/or display. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art and Visual Technology from George Mason University in 2005; her work has received numerous awards and has been exhibited throughout the D.C. Metro area, including at the Bead Museum of Washington D.C.

Peruvian Trend
Peruvian Trend Co. represents the fine art and crafts of Peruvian indigenous women artisans. Using ancestral techniques, PT Co. showcases clothing, accessories and home accents using 100% natural fibers as Baby Alpaca wool, Pima organic cotton among natural elements as semi-precious stones from the Andean region of Peru.

PT Co supports the artwork of women artisans from the Andean and Northern region in a NGO called Myta Kipu, where 90% of the money goes to them and 5% is used to organize preventative and public health campaigns in their communities. This partnership provides these women with income and needed health services.

Rupalee
Rupalee presents figure flattering, contemporary women's apparel conceived to make its wearer look fabulous, feminine and graceful at all times. Rupalee's sustainable and fair-trade clothing is eco-friendly, made from hand-woven and hand-block printed fabrics, earth friendly dyes and hand embroidered. Fabrics are 100% cotton, cotton silk blend and 100% silk is used. Rupalee is a member of Fair Trade Federation.

The event is free but reservations are highly recommended (space is limited). Doors open at 6 p.m. for networking and show begins at 7 p.m. RSVP at info@avaniribbon.com.

For an education in vintage, shop Treasury

2010-01-26T20:20:00.000-08:00

For an education in vintage, one only has to turn to Treasury. The Logan Circle boutique covers the spectrum of fashion’s most celebrated to lesser-known designers thanks to owners Katerina Herodotou and Cathy Chung’s keen eye. The fashion historians carry clothing, shoes and accessories as early as the turn of the century to the 80s, all sourced from private collections and estate sales.

Herodotou and Chung’s vintage repertoire culminated in 2007 with Listopad, the name of their traveling collection sold at venues across the district akin to trunk shows. The duo opened their brick and mortar on 14th Street NW in July 2009.

So, what is considered vintage? For starters, its age: a garment/accessory 20 years or older. Secondly, it’s status as a one-of-a-kind. But it is more than a time period, Herodotou cautions, “it is a feel.” Herodotou describes her own style in terms of an era’s best fashionable moments: 70s earthy elements, the 50s tailored suiting, and the 30s classics.

Thirdly, vintage is inherently a sustainable product, a virtue Herodotou supports. “Eco-fabrics are wonderful, but they still use new resources and create waste,” explains Herodotou. “Vintage doesn’t require new resources, it is already made and often lasts longer.”

Herodotou, 25, and Chung, 32, demonstrated their environmental stewardship by remodeling the second floor space with salvaged materials from Community Forklift, a Hyattsville-based thrift store for building materials. Treasury’s charm rests in the rustic décor and wooden-framed encased jewelry displays complimenting the exposed brick walls and soft lighting.

Treasury not only excels in reversing time but also enlightens its clients on how to wear vintage in the present and future. Now that’s a sustainable model.

Upcoming store event: “Music For Lovers” – the unveiling of Lithics by Treasury, an exclusive custom line of metal rings produced by Treasury from vintage casts. Local DJs Kim and Sara (Kicks!, Black Cat) will set the tempo for the party. Saturday, January 30, 2010 from 1 – 4 p.m.

Upstairs on 7th grounded by earthy collection

2010-01-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

Upstairs on 7th is one of those boutiques that move you. Grounded by a collection of earthy clothing, it appeals to the woman who needs her clothes to either propel her or ease her through the day.

The upscale boutique offers a myriad of international and national designers who speak the same language of comfort chic. Perhaps that is why its demographic resonates with the Washingtonian professional who wants to relax on the weekends in a loose-fitting knit sweater by Dress to Kill, a “fits every figure” Butter by Nadia dress, or floor-grazing tunic by Planet.

While not all apparel and accessories are produced with alternative materials save the faux-leather Buddha Bags, owner Ricki Peltzman has introduced her clients to independent designers who produce “slow fashion” (small volume and laborious craftsmanship) goods in shades of white and black. The pop of color aided by handbags, jewelry, and belts.

“I love that there are eco-friendly garments and accessories, but they must be interesting first and foremost,” Peltzman says. “We’ve had products made from bamboo and we had at one point sold accessories made completely out of soda bottles and caps.” Peltzman’s most recent commitment to going “green” has been switching to recycled paper shopping bags.

The store’s location has equally been on the move until it landed in the lobby of an office building in downtown Washington last summer. Prior locations included space at two area art galleries – an indication of Peltzman’s aesthetic for wearable art. To access the store on a weekend, it is advised to walk through the Potbelly’s on 11th Street NW and exit the back door, turn left and a few feet ahead is the store, where Peltzman invites you to rest a minute on the comfy chairs and offers a glass champagne before you peruse the collection. Just as down to earth as can be.

Until January 31, selected items are up to 40% off – a bargain that won’t be resurrected until July (two sales per year). While at the register, put your savings into the “Charity bowl”, a donation drive benefiting a different charity each month.

Save the Date: February 27, 2010; 12 – 5 p.m. Jewelry designer Justin Giunta stops by to talk about his new lower-priced line, Deviated. Proceeds from the line benefits the SOHO (Space of Her Own) program.

MSL Client Appreciation/Support Local Fete, Dec. 8, 2009

2010-01-09T16:26:00.000-08:00

How does MSL thank their clients, colleagues, and friends for years of support? With a fete, bien sur! We returned to our favorite shoe store, Carbon (a perfect stand-in for a European discotheque sans the disco ball), to treat guests to a fashion show, wine tasting, and store-wide discount. The fashion show featured six local models donning styles fitting for "The Office," "Saturday Errands," and "Holiday Soiree." Redeem boutique graciously loaned the clothes and CG Originals and Carbon completed the ensembles with accessories and shoes, respectively. Here are a few pictures from the fabulous event and be sure to view our images from this fashion show and others on our Portfolio Web page. Read GWFCC's great coverage of the event, here.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! We hope to see you at future events and please remember MSL for signature looks!

Melissa Lew green jewelry Part 2

2010-01-04T17:12:00.001-08:00

Melissa Lew, 27, is a local jewelry designer among other talents in art and photography. She is the recipient of numerous competitions for her use of recycled fine silver and bamboo.

The following is part 2 of a recent two-part interview.

KL: Is each piece unique or do you create multiples of the same design?
ML: While I do create multiples of some of my work (i.e. bamboo tile pendants), each piece of silver jewelry I create is unique because nothing is cast. There are no patterns to follow; I hand carve each one individually.

KL: Why is it important to you to use alternative materials?
ML: Because with each piece I create, it is one less thing that ends up in a landfill. It's taking something that was considered trash and turning it into something that someone can love and wear. It also raises awareness, and I love it when customers ask questions about the materials when I'm at art shows/events.

KL: Do you consider yourself an "eco" or "green" jewelry designer?
ML: Yes, most definitely. Not only do I use eco-friendly materials such as recycled fine silver and bamboo, but I also steer away from using chemicals as much as possible. For example, I love adding patinas to my silver work and most artists use a chemical called Liver of Sulfur to tarnish their silver. I don't - it smells horrible and is a hazardous material for both transport and disposal. I use a boiled egg! The sulfur in the yolk is enough to tarnish silver within hours. Liver of Sulfur is instant, but I don't think it's worth using. I'd rather wait! I also use linen or recycled boxes to package my recycled fine silver work, and reusable tins for my bamboo pendants. Linen comes from the flax plant and takes very little chemical fertilizer and MUCH less water than cotton to cultivate; once the fiber has been extracted from the plant, the rest of the plant is used to make other goods such as soap, cosmetics, inks, etc. Nothing goes to waste.

KL: Your jewelry truly captures the spirit of nature, where does that come from?
ML: My design aesthetic is organic, modern, and deeply rooted in my Chinese heritage, especially the culture's deep respect and esteem for nature. I love flowers, especially cherry blossoms.

KL: How is working with alternative materials different from conventional materials?
ML: Because I work with the fine silver clays, I feel like I have more freedom to work organically. I can get a lot more detail into my cherry blossoms. I'm not restricted by hard/harsh metals. Other than that, it's not really different!

KL: How do you personally lead a "green" lifestyle?
ML: By day, I'm a graphic designer for an engineering firm that specializes in sustainable, green engineering solutions. It starts with the little things - like watching paper waste, recycling, and considering green alternatives (no lamination, 100% recyclable paper, linen binders, etc). My husband and I also purchased a home close to our employers and I drive a fuel efficient car. And then there are the small things at home - like using reusable lunch containers and those nifty Nalgene bottles. Going green really makes you think about your choices/decisions.

Part 1 posted on 1/2/10

Melissa Lew’s green jewelry springs into full blossom (Part 1)

2010-01-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Melissa Lew’s jewelry springs into full blossom in an upcoming collection honoring the Chinese symbol of dominance and strength, the Cherry Blossom flower. The designer draws upon her Chinese heritage for inspiration in her collection of eco-sound jewelry.

In a recent two-part interview, the designer shares what being a “green” jewelry designer means and living “green.” She says she launched her line (2005) after acknowledging an affection for working with her hands. Lew returned to her love for sculpture and began to design pendants and bracelets using recycled fine silver and bamboo. Her collection is sold at DEKKA Showroom and online.
Part 2 of this interview will be posted 1/4/2010

KL: When did you add "wearable art" to your resume?
ML: After finishing my thesis in 2005 (a series of artist books and scrolls about women’s rights in China), I started researching other materials that could be used to create artist books. I discovered recycled fine silver, and fell in love with it! I am a self-taught jewelry designer (I earned a Bachelor of Arts from George Mason University in Art and Visual Technology, with a concentration in Digital Arts in 2005), but have loved beads, shiny components, and anything jewelry related since childhood (what can I say, I’m a magpie!).

KL: Why did you decide to use alternative materials in your design?
ML: I am a researcher by heart; I love to read, I love to learn new things, so I was interested in finding alternatives to the traditional mined metals and gemstones. I guess you could say, my aesthetic is by no means traditional and I wanted to be able to create wearable art that I had never seen before. When I discovered the recycled fine silver, it was a no brainer for me. The fine silver I use was doomed to become trash – and it appealed to me that I could take something someone else thought was trash and turn it into a work of art that people could admire and cherish. Trash into treasure. I definitely design with the alternative material in mind.

KL: What materials do you work with and why?
ML: I mainly work with recycled fine silver and bamboo.
The recycled fine silver I work with comes in a clay format – fine silver particles (taken from disposed photograph development solution) mixed with a clay organic binder. I come from a fine arts background (with sculpture experience), so I feel especially comfortable working with the clay. I sculpt each one of my pieces individually and after they dry, I kiln fire them – this is where all of the organic binder is burned away and the fine silver particles are fused together. After the pieces cool down, I shape, polish, and finish them.
I love working with bamboo because it is such a sustainable plant (there’s an abundance of this plant worldwide) and because of it’s beautiful rich amber color. I also incorporate my ink paintings into my jewelry, and the bamboo’s natural color lends itself beautifully to my work (like an aged Chinese painting).

KL: Where do you buy your materials?
ML: Mostly online; unfortunately, because these are not “traditional” materials, they are not readily available in the area. I have not mastered the art of drying my own bamboo – yet!

Where to find?
DEKKA Showroom – 1338 U Street NW, 2nd Fl
Balston Farmer’s Market - May – October
Crystal Couture fashion expo on Feb. 5
www.melissalew.com

Part 2 of this interview will be posted 1/4/2010

Nest fair trade products promises to change the world

2009-12-28T18:20:00.000-08:00

In three days, we will usher in a new year with hope for peace and prosperity. And for one fair trade organization, it continues its pledge to change the world one product at a time.

Build a Nest founder and executive director Rebecca Kousky has a simple vision for the future: empower artisans to rebuild their lives and communities.

Kousky offers "microbarting", a process she created that advances interest-free loans for materials, manufacturing space, and personal income in exchange for products that are sold through Nest's Web site and selected retail outlets. Products include jewelry, clothing, and home décor accessories.

"We wanted to provide a full transformative process," Kousky said. "It is everything from education to product development to sustained income."

Nest relies on in-country partners to assist the artisans in managing their microloans. Local non-governmental organizations and Peace Corps volunteers ensure delivery of training, receipt of loan, and supplies purchased.

The loan recipients are primarily women from a handful of developing countries who face economic hardship. Their status also prevents many from an education and business opportunities. Loan recipients Regina Kubiru and Elena Felipe Felix are worlds apart but bonded by their art. Kubiru, a 41-year-old Tanzanian seamstress, sells her dresses and traditional African baskets with the dream of owning a store. In Mexico, Felipe Felix draws upon her family craft of pottery making to create bowls worthy of a museum exhibit. The delicate designs and bright colors are signature traits of Mexican artistry.

The artisan relationship extends to a contingent of independent U.S. artisans who contribute their wares with proceeds supporting funds for additional artisans. They engage in a cultural exchange themselves by mentoring the established artisans cultivating a community of artists worldwide.

Nest comprises five employees and an advisory board in 12 U.S. cities, including Washington, DC. All contribute to the promotion of the company and its mission to enhance the lives of its participating artisans.

"We definitely want to grow in number of artisans we promote," Kousky says. "And in doing so, we get to preserve traditional craftsmanship and ensure sustainable livelihoods."

Image: Courtesy of Build A Nest
Mini-dress. 100% Cotton. By Rectangle Designs

Todd Reed Jewelry: uncut to perfection

2009-12-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

At I. Gorman Jewelers in downtown DC, encased are the world's most precious natural resources: diamonds, pearls, gold, and silver. Some are sourced from the most exotic places in the world. Several are produced under ethical practices.

Among the store's best sellers is Todd Reed Jewelry, a label synonymous with turning rough diamonds into morsels of perfection.

Reed, a self-taught blacksmith, embarked on an ambitious endeavor 22 years ago when he decided to immortalize the diamond's purest form. He started his journey by sourcing the raw diamonds from private collections and ethical mines in Sierra Leone (PRIDE Mine), Western Australia (Argyle) and Canada.

Reed designs and handcrafts each piece in his Colorado studio. There he studies the diamond's characteristics, informing him on which direction he should take. Perhaps, it is a bracelet reminiscent of a cobblestone street in old Europe where each diamond haphazardly placed yet protected by the strength of recycled gold. Or it is a cluster of rose cut and black raw diamonds fastened eternally by a band of 18k gold. In exchange, Reed's innovative designs have earned him industry awards and honors.

"I honestly make what I like," Reed said. "What is important is that the design is connected to the material and my customers make that connection, too."

Before green was the new black, Reed has lived and created with the environment and humanity in mind. A "right relationship", a term Reed coined, guarantees the authenticity, premium value, and social responsibility garnered from years of sourcing from the same suppliers.

Albeit reluctant to wear the "green" badge himself, Reed encourages consumers to research diamond suppliers before making their purchase.

Thanks to initiatives such as the Kimberley Process, retailers and designers pledge to source conflict-free diamonds. [The Kimberley Process, a joint government, industry and civil societies initiative, curtails buyers and designers from using potential conflict diamonds - diamonds used in exchange for weapons in war-torn countries such as Angola, Cote d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sierra Leone. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) imposes extensive requirements on its members to enable them to certify shipments of rough diamonds as 'conflict-free'.]

"There is nothing more sustainable than using recycled diamonds or new diamonds mined in ethical conditions," Reed says. "They are truly the most beautiful resource we have."

Photos courtesy of Todd Reed Jewelry

Calamarie Promotes Colombian Artisans

2009-12-14T18:26:00.000-08:00

Fair trade products often conjure images of hemp bracelets and "hippy-fied" macabre purses made from artisans in remote villages in South America or Africa. However, that was yesterday. Today, buyers are creating a market for artisans using recycled materials from metals to plant seeds fashioned into modern accessories and apparel.

Catalina Lemaitre, founder of Calamarie, has returned to her native Colombia to promote eight artisans whose designs evolve from all things organic.

For instance, dried orange peels, watermelon seeds, silk cocoon, groundcoffee beans, and Bombona and tagua seeds - indigenous to Colombia - are ingredients for beautifully crafted necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Weavers use woven hammock and fique fabric to create handbags and clutches embellished with flowers and/or dyed in bold hues, vegetable dye that is.

Calamarie's products are to be experienced.

"The items have a real tactile feel to them because they are made from materials you would normally eat," Lemaitre says. "Our designers use discarded coffeegrounds or other materials to make something really beautiful. And still smell good."

Lemaitre draws upon her experience in economic development and art to advise artisans on product development and marketing in addition to supporting financially through microloans. For the majority of artists, their craft is their sole income.

Changing the image of "fair trade" products starts with the relationship between the customer and the designer, according to Lemaitre.

"Art softens people," she says. "Calamarie is about making the connection between art and culture. And hopefully, people will want to support artisans when they understand their story, when they know a little something about where the item came from and what it means."

Calamarie products are sold online and available for local trunk shows priced affordably under $100.

Simply Soles Gives Simply From the Heart

2009-12-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

This holiday season will bring a ray of light to patients at Children’s National Medical Center thanks to the kindness of strangers. Leading that charge is Kassie Rempel of Simply Soles who kicked off December with a toy drive to benefit Dr. Bear®’s Closet at the Children’s National Medical Center of Washington, DC.

“I offered to do a toy drive because I wanted to give back this holiday season,” Rempel says. “A friend of mine told me about the Dr. Bear®’s Closet at the Children’s Hospital and I found it fitting since the hospital is in the neighborhood and personally-speaking, my family recently had a positive experience with the doctors and staff there.”

The closet provides items to patients who are treated in Children’s inpatient units, the Emergency Department and Regional Outpatient Centers, and the Health Centers. Toys also help stock playrooms in the hospital.

Rempel’s altruism is not seasonal. Since launching the accessories company, she has partnered with Suited for Change, a national non-profit helping low-income women transition to the workforce, for numerous fundraisers and offers a 10% discount when customers (online and in-store) donate a pair of gently used dress shoes.

If the mission of Simply Soles is to use fashion to enhance a woman’s style and confidence, then Rempel is a woman’s conscience.

“I look for unique accessories that are refined and well-crafted,” says the former accountant. “I have a responsibility to my customer and that means selecting shoes that offer both fit and comfort.”

And considering the supply chains’ impact on the environment and paying workers a fair wage is a non-negotiable. You won’t see Made in China. Rempel’s own line, lillybee by Kassie, is manufactured and packaged in Brazil. Come Spring, Rempel will offer a vegan line by Charmone.

Clients are encouraged to recycle their Simply Soles catalogs and reuse the stylish totes used for packaging, dubbed the “shoe shuttle” for heels and flats and the “boot bus” for boots.

Yes, Simply Soles is simply doing its part to better the world.

Toy Drive: Drop off a new toy, game, or book at the showroom now through Saturday, December 19 and receive 20% off any purchase. Showroom located at 1438 Park Rd NW, Washington, DC.

VirtuArte Promotes Artisan Fine Arts and Fashion

2009-12-03T19:02:00.000-08:00

VirtuArte is not just another source of fair trade products. It is a social business. Its online presence promotes artisans from the developing world in an effort to preserve their craftsmanship.

Scrolling through the Web site is akin to a virtual traveling museum. Start your journey in Niger where the Koumama family strings hand-engraved silver plates onto a fine leather cord worthy of any globetrotter’s neck. Venture next to Laos and stop at Lao Textiles to find Carol Cassidy, an American ex-pat, working with her 32 full-time weavers produce silk scarves embellished with traditional designs for the modern woman.

A. Jabbar Khatri employs the Indian tradition of Bandhani textiles, a tie and dying technique, to create delicate silk shawls complementary for an evening dress or worn to glam up a turtleneck and jeans outfit. From India head to Brazil to acquire a chic clutch made entirely from soda can tabs or Colombia for jewelry fashioned out of tagua seeds and stained with vegetable dyes.

VirtuArte founder Debbie Myers promotes artisans she has encountered through her travels or referred by ex-pats living and working among artisans worldwide. Myers pays the artisans their asking price directly sans negotiating. Profits from sales are reinvested into the company’s education and outreach program and a percentage invested in the artists’ communities.

For Myers, it is more than alleviating artisans out of poverty, it is marketing beautiful art.

“Helping artisans from developing countries generate a sustainable income is definitely an added value,” Myers says. “But we are also about offering high quality fine crafts and art to people who are looking for something unique and have an appreciation for customs and culture.”

It is only fitting that VirtuArte takes its namesake to heart: “the quality of being artistic, beautiful, rare or otherwise such as to interest a collector.” Webster’s Dictionary said it best.

VirtuArte Trunk Shows in December:

The Wintergreen Performing Arts Home Tour
Sunday, 6th of December 2009
1:00 - 5:00pm
Wintergreen , Virginia

Holiday Trunk Show
Saturday, 20th of December 2009
1:00 - 5:00pm
2800 Forest Hills Court
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454

KoolEarth cools the earth with chic tees

2009-11-22T15:17:00.000-08:00

Shaima Ismati has a lot of ideas about how to save the planet. It is the little things like trading plastic bags for reusable canvas totes or using stainless steel water bottles instead of plastic. Her green lifestyle has even earned her the title of “The Green Monster” by friends. So, it was not a stretch when she decided to leave her 25-year career in the airline industry to pursue a future in eco-fashion.

The Virginia resident launched KoolEarth to promote sustainable clothing two years ago. The collection includes tees, sweatshirts, tunics, scarves, and totes all produced in the United States and made from alternative and natural fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and soy.

“KoolEarth enables me to educate the public on sustainable clothing and make something that is ‘American-made’,” Ismati said.

Sporting KoolEarth are teens to elderly ladies, Ismati says, an indication of the design’s versatility and “cool” factor.

“The majority of people buying KoolEarth products do not pay attention to the fact that they are sustainable,” she continues. “They simply like the design and fit.”

When Ismati is not showcasing her wares at local festivals and trade shows, she can be found at Eastern Market on Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

What to Pack for Your Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-11-15T16:56:00.000-08:00

Next week, we will break bread (and a turkey leg or two) with family and friends on a day observed to give thanks. Some will travel across town while others several states or even a country to mark the Thanksgiving holiday. Perhaps, the festive weekend will include a museum or art gallery walk, a night at the movies, or a mean game of Trivial pursuit.

Not sure what to pack for multiple activities surrounding the holiday?

Take your cues from the racks at Treat, Old Town Alexandria’s resident outlet boutique. Owner Jennifer Donahue has stocked her store with cozy knits, cashmere dresses, jeans and a variety of shoe options perfect for the fall season. What will she be wearing this Thanksgiving holiday?

“The holiday is always about comfort, relaxation and eating good food,” Donahue replies. “So, it means wearing a sweater dress, tights and tall boots. Clothes easy to throw on and expandable for all the eating!”

Whether you are traveling or having a stay-cation, here are a few simple rules and clothing suggestions to consider.

1. Comfort is the key. If traveling, take garments with fabrics that stretch like cotton knits or blends (nylon/lycra/spandex). These items pack better and come out wrinkle-free.

2. Colors should be basic with one or two warm hues for interest. Mix and match grays, browns, and off-whites with burgundy, forest green or midnight blue.

Her Essentials:

1. One carry-on tote
2. One pair of sexy undergarments and pajamas
3. Two pairs of pants – one jean and one trouser
4. Two wrinkle-free blouses/tops
5. One cardigan – Light- to mid-weight knit cardigans in basic black, white or beige can be tossed around the shoulders, layered over a T-shirt or dress, or worn alone with dressy pants for dinner.
6. Two dresses – one casual and one dressy
7. Two pairs of shoes – one casual and one dressy
8. Statement necklace – opt for costume jewelry and leave the real gems safely at home
9. Trench coat or wool-blend jacket like a peacoat
10. Something scented - bring a favorite scented candle or sash

Treat Client Appreciation Sale Nov. 20 – 22. Pick from the “Turkey Platter” and your wrapped chocolate turkey holds the discount amount you’ll receive at the register.

And don’t forget Black Friday sales (Nov. 27th)!

(Photos: items from Treat)

Limon Piel Handbags Carry a Message of Goodwill

2009-11-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

In Colombia’s remote highlands, there is a child who is receiving medical attention for the first time. Their family and friends also get the care they need thanks to Colombia Missions, a volunteer medical program akin to Doctors Without Borders. A team of American physicians and non-medical volunteers spend six days in communities throughout the year treating everything that is requested.

Three years ago Baltimore native Lisa Garrett joined a team and met Liliana Montero, a local artisan. Garrett returned home sporting one of Montero’s handcrafted bags and hatched a plan that would support the medical missions and alleviate the local artisans out of poverty.

Limon Piel International was born.

Garrett began to import Montero’s bag and sells primarily online and specialty boutiques. Each collection is named after an Indian tribe whose history is recreated through delicate fabrications. The Shinye Collection, for example, pays homage to tradition enriched by bold colors (deep reds and brown and bright lime green – perhaps, revealing their sense of humor) and embellishments (ancestral guanga weavings). Retailing between $200 - $400, proceeds from the bags go to the medical missions.

While shopping in Old Town Alexandria, Garrett stopped by Hysteria and shared the story of Limon Piel Handbags. Manager Alicia McCaslin could not say no to the idea of hosting a trunk show.

Hysteria, as many know, offers contemporary high fashion to Washington’s tastemakers. So, how would a bohemian-natured aesthetic fare alongside wares by Trina Turk, Diane vonFurstenberg, and Nanette Lepore?

“The handbags appeal to the woman who wants something different,” McCaslin said. “But the bags themselves are simply beautifully made and have a great story.

“Fashion should make people feel good about themselves but also aware,” she continued. “And we like that Limon Piel gives back to the community.”

Handbags from the trunk show are still available at Hysteria or visit the Limon Piel Web site. To learn more about the missions, go to Colombia Mission.

Young Designers Wise Beyond Their Years

2009-11-04T20:34:00.000-08:00

Terra boutique recently hosted the creative talent behind independent label Eva Khurshid, Fatima Monkush and Nyla Hashmi. The lifelong friends brought their first collection to DC in hope of finding an audience – they left with an instant fan base.

Upon my arrival, a few minutes past the start of the event, I sensed community forming. Perhaps it was the eagerness of the two young designers to introduce themselves or seeing how the Washingtonian woman could have easily been the designers’ muse translated into conservative construction but bold in color and fabrication. Guests touched, inquired and tried on every garment in the roughly 15-piece collection to the delight of the designers and boutique owner, Oriana Khatso (who has a trained eye for quality and innovative styles).

“The Eva Khurshid woman is confident and always on the go,” Monkush, 26, and Hashmi, 24, said practically in unison. “She wants pieces that are easy to wear and simply are a great fit.” Oh, and don’t forget sexy.

“We really considered our line as sexy rediscovered,” they continued. “Being sexy really comes from confidence.”

The New York-based designers’ fate was sealed as childhood friends growing up in Connecticut in Muslim households. They both pursued their interest in fashion by majoring in design - Monkush specializing in printmaking and jewelry and Hashmi in knitwear. Despite choosing different schools to hone their skills, they remained committed to a design partnership.

A year ago they honored that commitment by starting Eva Khurshid, named after their grandmothers. The line appeals to young women, and Muslim women in particular, who want fashionable clothing without compromising their faith or modesty. They unveiled tailored pants, billowy blouses in bold hues and signature prints and pleating, and shirt-dresses that could be worn over leggings or skinny jeans to accommodate those who prefer not to show bare legs. The collection describes the design duo's nature - thoughtful and respectful. And fabric choice is not spared.

Monkush and Hashmi present a fresh alternative to business attire this city so wholeheartedly embraces while maintaining the integrity of what has so affectionately been dubbed the sisterhood of traveling pantsuits (a la Hillary!). Similarly, the line evokes the qualities we seek in community: familiarity and acceptance. Kudos to Terra for recognizing genuine talent and making Monkush and Hashmi feel at home.

Walish Gooshe = Class and Sophistication

2009-10-27T18:51:00.000-07:00

For his new label, WG for Walish Gooshe, Greg Taylor turns to his trusted source of inspiration for the yet-to-release collection of men and women casual wear. Since the launch of his company in 2004, Greg’s designs mimic his surroundings. “I grew up in a very stylish family,” says the DC native. “But I seek inspiration from architectural buildings and nature.”

The collection will unveil Greg’s introduction to menswear, an audience he hopes is receptive to the line of jeans, hoodies and tees – simple shapes with a hint of buzz.

And buzz is what has followed Greg since opening his showroom in his adopted Philadelphia in 2007. What started as custom tailoring with Greg as the designer, sewer, and manager has expanded to a staff of eight coordinating client consultations, events, and of course, three collections to date. All thanks in large part to Greg’s exposure in the Philadelphia and Washington media and red-carpet gowns for celebrities such as Laila Ali, Sheinelle Jones, Angela Russell, and former America’s Next Top Model winner Naima Mora.

Humbly, Greg appears unfazed by the accolades given by the models and spectators alike at his recent showing at the CW Beauty and Style Expo in Washington. I for one gushed at the origami-shaped crop jackets and a pair of black cigarette pants made of silk layered in intricately woven tulle. Ok, poor description but trust me, these pants were amazing!

Underneath his mild nature is an ambitious designer. He is currently scouting the DC area for a second showroom and a third in Boston. His team is feverishly working on a fashion show to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a partnership established two years ago with the first fashion charity event. The show will be held in December in DC. After a holiday break, Greg returns to DC in February for the 2nd annual Northern Virginia Fashion Week (NOVA Fashion Week).

Walish Gooshe is exclusively sold in small boutiques (five in Philadelphia) just as Greg intends. “We are a very special brand meaning we don’t want to work in large quantities,” says the young designer. Greg travels to NY for his fabrics and production.

“I think happy people take more risks,” Greg says. And by any indication of his new collection and company expansion, Greg is pretty happy.

Beth Bowley Trunk Show at Lettie Gooch

2009-10-22T17:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight’s unseasonably warm night (a much welcomed reprieve from days of rain) sent me indoors, uncharacteristically of me, to view the Beth Bowley fall collection at Lettie Gooch. The one-night only trunk show unveiled classic pieces on trend with faux fur, jewel embellishments, and Mad Men-esque influence. The hammered silk bird top and zebra print halter dress appealed to my sweet-natured side; however, it was the range of coats and cropped jackets that set my heart aflutter. Alissyn Gettenberg, a Beth Bowley Account Executive present for the only trunk show, confirmed this sensation. “An essential for this fall is a great coat,” she said emphatically. And from the pictures below, I think you will agree.
Cropped Leopard
Teal houndstooth, $414
Teal mohair vest, $352
Teal pullover, $308
Black coat, $450

Shop the collection through October 25. Love an item but not in your size? The sales associates will place an order. Beth Bowley is carried only at boutiques and in the DC area, Lettie Gooch and Sugar,

DC Fashion Shows Spotlight Ethical Designers

2009-10-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Carolina Herrera left me breathless. And the designers showcased at the 5th Annual Fashion Fights Poverty Fashion Show reaffirmed a role for independent designers in the industry. A handful of local and international designers, among them Nudie Jeans from Sweden and local newbie MPerial, previewed collections inspired by the environment's social and economic landscape. And some showed us a completely different world. Each conveyed a story rich in detail, perspective and the unimaginable - ideals Washington nurtures. I had the fortune of working with the representative, Diego, for Nudie Jeans. The models channeled James Dean in the ethically-produced premium jeans, organic tees and lumberjack shirts, and sporty jackets and coats. He emerged as a cool cat too cool to notice the cheers by both male and female guests. Let's just say I didn't complain dressing the models!!!! The night also introduced the guests to model/environmental activist Summer Rayne Oakes as she shared co-hosting duties with Fox anchorman, Will Thomas. Her commitment to environmental advocacy as earned the recognition of the international community and multiple awards. Her presence reminded us all why were there to support the organization - eco-chic plays a vital role in alleviating poverty and saving the planet one garment at a time.

A few weeks ago, I found myself working backstage again at another show - multiple shows that is during the CW Beauty and Style Expo. The GWFCC and cable network, CW-sponsored event attracted fashionistas and inquirers alike to shop local beauty and fashion vendors as well as be treated to on-the-spot hair and make up demonstrations and fashion shows. The line up of shows included local designers Tashia Senn, Chez Kevito, Walish Gooshe, CG Originals (congrats to jewelry designers Cecilia and Patricia for venturing into clothing!), jewelry designer Evelyn Brooks, Tsyndyma, and wedding couture designer Helen Kimmer and retailers Betsy Johnson (the designer herself made an appearance at her store earlier in the week - and yes, the hair is real!), South Moon Under (I love this Annapolis-outpost for it's west coast feel - ahh, how I miss California at times...), and Ed Hardy. America's Next Top Model fans gushed at the sight of previous contestants walk the catwalk, and perhaps, the most eye-catching was Bravo TV filming Washingtonian socialites in the upcoming Housewives of DC "socialize". And yes, that is me dressing the models for the CG Originals collection behind two stars of the gab about something.....

What's next for MSL? Well, find us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/mysignaturelook tweet about store sales, fashion dos and don'ts, and shows behind the scenes. See us mingle at an upcoming fashion event in support of Suited for Change at Old City Taven in Georgetown on Oct. 21 and check out the Eva Khurshid Trunk Show at Terra in Dupont Circle on Oct. 23. Also, save the date: Tuesday, December 1 as MSL celebrates 3 Years at Carbon. Consider this a Client Appreciation and Support Local event! RSVP at katherine@mysignaturelook.com.

MSL Enters the Big Tent

2009-09-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I lost my fashion virginity to Bryant Park. The dream of entering a tent reserved for the fashion privileged – bestowed either by their editorial cred, buyer status, trade association, or fame – was realized with anticipated breath. As a member of Fashion Group International, I was able to obtain a coveted “Standing” ticket for the Carolina Herrera Spring/Summer 2010 show. If time and space allowed, a weeks worth of shows may have led to an internal combustion. In hindsight, I don’t think my constitution could have handled such fashion overdose – I was content with the one show and who better to see than one of the most respected designers in the industry.

While waiting to enter, I was aroused by the sighting of fashion’s elite. To my left, I viewed Anna Wintour breeze pass security with such force that her hair flew in the wind only to quickly land gently in its place. A few minutes later, celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe tried to pull a Wintour but was recalled to the check-in table. She may have forgotten her ticket but she kept true to her fashion sense donning a light moss jumpsuit that draped beautifully over her lithe frame. Fellow celebrity stylist Robert Verdi marched in with his signature sunglasses planted firmly on his forehead. Socialites and other industry insiders careened by until finally the “seatless” could make their entrance.

We filed into “the tent” reserved for larger productions, blinded by the photographers trigger-happy flashes, walked up a series of steps with heads perked up to catch a glimpse of the front row. I stationed myself in the middle giving me full view of the runway (sans stage). Before the show even started, my heart began racing at the sight of my fashion icons seated in the front row – a who’s who of the publishing world: Vogue (Anna Wintour, Grace Goddington, and Thomas Florio), Vanity Fair (Graydon Carter), Elle (Joe Zee and Anne Slowey), and Marie Claire (Nina Garcia) mixed in with Carolina Herrera’s husband and daughter, celebrity stylists, and department store buyers.

The lights dimmed, music cued (a mix of bossa nova tempos), and the first of 38 models initiates the story of a woman holidaying in Monaco or Rio, perhaps. She resists a tank and shorts for a sophisticated summer suit (jacquard linen shorts, bustier, and woven vest or cropped jacket). For an evening at the casino or theater, she wears a chiffon or quartz striped organza dress. A natural color palate of amber, rose, and caramel mimic a setting sun. I was truly enamored by the rich fabrics, intricate detailing and belts (woven or leather rope) combined to create a clean silhouette. The gowns flawlessly depicted Carolina’s inspiration from Japanese baskets and a warm summer day.

Carolina presented a strong yet graceful collection for the woman who knows she has arrived.

Photos by InStyle Magazine

Peace, Love, and Harmony, Baby

2009-09-06T17:55:00.000-07:00

Last month, Woodstock turned 40. After seeing Taking Woodstock, director Ang Lee’s interpretation of how 500,000 peace-loving Americans descended on a field in upstate New York, I am compelled to revisit my “hippie” phase (sans obligatory doobies). I outed my inner-hippie with a pair of brown Birkenstocks I bought with my first paycheck from Cinnamon Sam’s at 16. The shoes, which lasted well into college albeit smelly and frayed, accompanied a wardrobe of long flowing skirts, peasant tops, handmade hemp bracelets, and macabre belts.

The desire to be “free”, as what Woodstock signified to many, continues to linger in my closet. You will not find a skirt or pant suit, rather a deconstructed suit to ensure versatility and ownership. I’ve upgraded from Birkenstocks to several gladiator sandals positioned alongside Converse All-Stars and Coach loafers on my shoe rack. While I still favor a vintage maxi dress in flower-power prints, I pair it with a black blazer or leather jacket just to be rebellious. One of my five signature looks is Modern Bohemian, a sophisticated tribute to a movement that encouraged creativity, free-thinking, and social responsibility.

Now a second generation of designers is continuing the legacy. John Patrick uses organic materials and production methods to create beautiful ready-to-wear. Matthew Williamson has brought his ethereal collection to affordable chain-store H&M. Alice Temperley oozes avant-garde but her nature treads lightly in reverence to our planet. Their perspective builds on where Woodstock left off – it’s what freedom looks like in 2009.

We don’t need another Woodstock. But we do need a forum for self-expression and in words, we embellish with the clothes, accessories, and shoes that illustrate a world-view – a personal point of view – conscious of our impact on the environment, the economy, and on others.

John Patrick

Missoni

Anna Sui

Martin Margiela

The Luxury of a Healthier Environment

2009-08-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

In what could be his final fashion show, Christian Lacroix presented an extravagant collection to the delight of fashion insiders and loyal customers in Paris in July. It was a demonstration of couture beyond reach. The intricate detailing and construction was a product of the ingenuity Mr. Lacroix has delivered for more than thirty years. It is reported that the collection took an unprecedented few weeks produced by a handful of unpaid staff.

This atypical achievement is typical in the world of luxury apparel – countless hours spent on creating an original design. From an environmental perspective, the luxury industry inherently is the new green economy.

In the case of luxury goods (apparel, speaking) versus mass production, the former scores higher points in terms of the environment. A bit ironic, no? Both can be viewed as exorbitant, unpractical (more of a want than a need), wasteful, and guaranteed a death sentence (purgatory = landfill). Ok, perhaps harsh choice of adjectives, but fair considering America’s appetite for the Big-Mac (i.e., all things materialistic).

[I am sensitive to the fact that a consumer’s wallet dictates what is a luxury item (clothes, jewelry, handbags, belts and shoes) or not. I am talking about ready-to-wear and haute couture retailing in the thousands - the items featured in Vogue or GQ that make you salivate but don’t come within reach of a non-profit salary.]

I’m not sure if Mr. Lacroix identifies himself as an environmentalist, but his method of production reinforces environmental and labor considerations. By employing a small team of sewers, pattern makers, and artisans, Mr. Lacroix preserves the role of the local artisan (and traditional craftsmanship) in lieu of outsourcing to another country, which would incur carbon emissions from the transportation of goods (or partially-assembled). Creating limited and/or custom-made goods prevents an inventory of unsold goods. And adhering to exact measurements eliminates the waste of fabrics.

Thanks to the growing impact of “eco-friendly” and “ethically-made” fashion, workers are being less exposed to harmful chemicals used in dying processes, landfills are shrinking, and consumers are turning green (environmental stewards, that is). Progress is being made. [It is not a stretch to say Stella McCartney for Chloe and Linda Loudermilk are the Queen Greens – luxurious and luxuriously-priced “eco” garments and accessories.]

But what if every designer adopted a holistic approach to its design process? In Cradle-to-Cradle, authors Michael Braungart and William McDonough advocate for the “up-cycling” of materials and replacing “less bad” design with good design. Alistar Fuad-Luke, noted for spearheading the slow design movement, emphasizes experience over speed. The resources available to designers are only good if the designer values the creative process equal to production.

On September 17, Women’s Wear Daily publication will be holding a forum addressing the future of the luxury industry in the new economy. I urge those in attendance to draw upon the very creativity and innovation it conceives for a solution and spare the notion of changing its current practices at the expense of the environment.

Can Menswear Save the Luxury Market?

2009-07-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

In Dana Thomas’ Deluxe, the luxury market is in peril. The fashion industry’s matriarch is showing signs of aging and her offspring have merged into conglomerates leaving her wondering if her legacy is coming to an end.

The imagery is not far-fetched. The luxury market has fallen prey to salivating counterfeiters (despite courtroom battles and appeals to Congress for protection) and further wounded by major designers publicly stating their amusement of being copied. It has been losing its elite customers to the global recession and the Madoffs of the world, but what is probably most disconcerting is the art of craftsmanship replaced by machines and severely under-paid worker bees.

Who will come to her rescue? It appears this is a man’s job and a second-generation at that.

Haute couture’s little brother, menswear, has increasingly emerged as the luxury market’s saving grace.

Locally, menswear clothing stores such as Everard's Clothing, Redeem, and Lost Boys are experiencing relative progress when their womenswear counterparts are feeling the pinch.

The fact is men need clothes, too, and a suit from Men’s Warehouse is not landing or securing the job or the casual pair of jeans lasting for more than a season. So, they are turning to local ateliers or clothing stores to invest in quality brands or customized pieces that bring longevity and style.

Lost Boys is the visual for Dana Thomas’s summation that “luxury wasn’t simply a product, it was a lifestyle, one that denoted a history of tradition, superior quality and offered a pampered buying experience.” Kelly’s interpretation is a light-filled space in a row-house modernized by what a guy wants: a plasma TV, King-size sofa chairs, a refrigerator stocked with Stella Artois, off-set by exposed brick walls and hardwood floors – an updated lair.

Kelly Muccio, the 28-year-old fashion wunderkind behind Lost Boys, disagrees with the growing perception of the luxury markets’ demise. “This is the best time for independent designers and local businesses who offer what is considered a luxury good because the consumer realizes that they need to invest in a style and the luxury market gives you that.

“It is more important than ever to define your style,” continued the former financier. “This is the time to outperform and show yourself as a commodity and the easiest way to do that is to dress the part.”

Although Kelly considers her clothier as part of the luxury market, she does not equate it with “high-end.” The average cost of a pair of jeans sets him back $200 (i.e., Earnest Sewn), which is cheaper when you consider spending twice that much on jeans that are replaced year after year.

The “pampering” may come in the form of a beer and personal styling, but more so her trained eye for the highest quality pieces with style and brand authencity. Among the shortlist of designers she carries is eco-conscious designer Rogan Gregory, of Loomstate and Edun. The designer plans to design a t-shirt in collaboration with the store to be revealed this fall. Stay tuned for a future trunk show.

“We intentionally carry few designers because we believe in an minimalist wardrobe,” Kelly says. “I have personally edited the selection process for you where you are only going to find the best cut of jean or well-constructed shirt.”

Time will only tell how the luxury market survives this economic impasse. Perhaps, it’s fate rests in the hands of the little brother or its role in the environment (more on that in a following blog i.e., luxury goods sustainable through its slow production process and lifespan), but let’s not be too quick to write its obituary.

(Photos courtesy of Kelly Muccio, Lost Boys)

Redeem Us

2009-07-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

Every city has its hotspots. For DC, the jazz scene dominated 14th Street NW in the early twentieth century. Speakeasies and other club dens attracted jazz legends and men who wore fedoras and wingtips and women who donned bold-colored dresses and hats with plumes.

This was where fashion and music synchronized.

Today, the historic HR-57 jazz club now calls upscale wine bars, clothing boutiques, and art galleries its neighbors. Dress code not apply.

In 2006, Lori Parkerson opened Redeem, a men’s and women’s clothing store located fortuitously a few blocks north of the club.

“I always saw fashion and music as equals,” says Lori, a DC native. Such revelation stems from her innate sense of style coupled with a career in the entertainment industry.

If we can learn anything from the fashion and music industry it is the notion that self-expression can take many forms – lyrically and figuratively. We sing and dress according to events and influences that were inspired by or resulted from change.

Henceforth, Redeem. Anointed on the storefront’s window is a modern depiction (etching) of the Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God. A gear replaces the halo. Christ, the redeemer. It intrigues by-passers who note this is not your ordinary clothing store. Walking by is simply not an option.

Upon entering, your senses are stimulated. The alternative rock music juxtaposes with vintage furniture instantly puts you in a groove. This is what urban renewal looks like.

“My friend who is a designer said once that you can’t choose your customer, and it is so true,” Lori exclaims. “Who we thought would be a customer turned out to be so much more than that. Our youngest customer was a 10-year-old girl who fit into a small-cut jean and then we have men and women well into their 60s.”

Age is irrelative when you consider a shared desire to own a luxury garment that takes the guessing out of “how to style.” Lori’s style influences her selection of timeless pieces where the attention is in the details.

Take the Wrath Arcane mens’ slim fitting black pants Lori sports with confidence. The menswear label takes a traditional design and embellishes it with buttons, frayed hemlines, or haphazardly-placed pockets. Religion, a UK-label, creates cinematic flare in its tailored mens and womens shirts.

“Confidence is what makes our pieces work,” Lori says, whose own style she describes as edgy.

You will not find the basic t-shirt here or mass-produced items, with the exception of the popular jean label, Earnest Sewn. Lori and her staff buy from independent designers, many of whom run in-house productions. Of late, Love Brigade, a Brooklyn-based design duo and DC-label, Plastic Heaven, are new additions exclusive to the store. Eco-fashionistas can find items from Covet’s spring 2009 collection, while Recession Rags’s Bermuda shorts made from vintage fabrics stay in stock for about a day (guys, more size 32 are on en route!). Think concert wear for neighboring 9:30 Club or Black Cat or just channeling your inner rock star.

The store actively participates in the Mid-City Business Association and has partnered with the Corcoran Gallery of Art in a project to promote the creative economy. And the first Thursday of each month, it hosts a knitters social club thanks to the store’s resident knitter, Christi.

For all its prosperity, Lori is humbled given the current economy. Her neighbor, Circle Boutique, was not so fortunate. The vacant space is a harsh reminder of the instability many small businesses are facing. In an effort to save local businesses in the U and 14th Street corridor, Redeem is part of a grassroots campaign encouraging customers to shop. The 350 Project asks customers to commit to spending $50 a month at any three favorite stores.

They didn’t have to twist my arm. After eyeing a taupe sleeveless shirt-dress by Covet, I was won over by a gold chain necklace with reclaimed strips of grey leather by AK Vintage (Portland-based jewelry designer). The necklace had a few strong contenders: Stolen Girlfriends Club (New Zealand) and the Realm collection by Jesse Walker (DC).

After my visit, I left feeling hopeful. I not only supported a local business and an independent (eco) designer, but found a deeper appreciation of our creative talents and in those that inspire change.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get your groove on.

Nana Boutique Stocks Sweet (and eco-friendly) Designs

2009-05-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

How does a girl acquaint herself to a new city? Explore the shopping district, of course. And that is what I set out to do six years ago on a spring day in DC’s U Street Cordoza area. The shops were sparse unlike today’s sprawl of locally owned boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. At the edge of 15th and U Street I descended a set of stairs and walked into Nana, a gem named after the owner’s grandmother.

My heart melted over the eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary. My first purchase was a consigned 1970s flower print floor length skirt that I had altered to the knee. It indulged my inner flower child and growing ethical fashion maven. Since then, the store has taken a progressive stance by incorporating more ethically produced fashions.

It started with Preloved, then Dagg and Stacey and has grown to include Peel, Kelly Lane, and newly inducted Mata Traders. All passing owner Jackie Flanagan and manager Sarah Spies’s design aesthetic challenge: innovative. And the fact that the designers utilize organic fabrics, safe dying processes and/or employ sustainable and fair working conditions is value added.

But does Nana consider itself an “ecoboutique”?

“We carry lines that give a nod to ethical fashion and are gravitating toward designers who use organic fabrics or fair labor,” says Spies. “Nana is really about smart designs and we want to promote designers who offer that.”

"It's not just "do we love the looks," added Flanagan, "it's do we love the looks AND they minimize the environmental impact or are creatively using the resources already available."

Designer Stats
Dagg and St a cey – Toronto, Canadian designers Karen Dagg and Stacey Paterson launched their line in 2001 with the intention of uniting quality and style. Designed and manufactured exclusively in Toronto working with independent trades people, Dagg and Stacey is a socially conscious company focusing on ecological issues and their community.

Preloved – Designer Julie Grieve and Creative Director Peter Friesen bring new meaning to reclaimed materials. The duo transforms vintage fabric/garments into modern styles (a vintage blazer turned into a high-waist skirt, par exemple). Watch for a home collection, an accessories line, and new clothing lines including a children’s line called me*me.

Peel – The Vancouver-based company produces 100% organic cotton tunics, loose-fitting blouses (with side pockets!) and dresses.

Kelly Lane – A newbie to the fashion world, Kelly Lane launched her line in 2007 to illustrate her talent for creating a soft and structured feminine silhouette. She uses eco-friendly materials and ethical practices with the assistance of local artisans. Kelly Lane is based in Pittsburgh, PA.

Mata Traders – The company maintains its Fair Trade Federation membership by working with women and artisan co-ops in India to produce clothes and jewelry.

So, will we see more? Flanagan says, "I like to think that by continuing to feature vintage clothing, we are highlighting fantastic clothing that is not using new materials. I also hope that by seeking out innovative local designs we are minimizing the impact of shipping goods from long distances. We are stocking more & more labels that use eco-friendly materials -- we are fortunate to see more & more labels that are not just eco-conscious but have a timeless, detail-driven look."

Are you new to the area? Then you must visit Nana, now located above ground.

Beautifying Mother Earth Goes More than Skin Deep

2009-05-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Last month we paused to reflect on our personal and global impact on Mother Earth. Truth be told, gathering for a concert to listen to eco-minded musicians and politicians doesn’t plant a tree or train a skilled laborer to wire a “smart” home. Recognition months or one-day observances mark a-ha moments and then quickly fade from our radar save practitioners (= individuals, organizations, governments, and private entities) who are committed to cultivating a more sustainable world.

Aveda is one such practitioner.

For years I have treated myself to spa services at the Aveda Institute. Their budget-friendly rates (practitioners are students in training) is merely a bonus in comparison to the rich variety of certified organic ingredients used in everything from make-up to hair treatments to body lotions. You genuinely feel the company’s philosophy “that authentic beauty is one that works in harmony with the greater web of life.”

Aveda’s social responsible-laden agenda includes monthly environmental and human rights campaigns that have raised millions of dollars for organizations and incited public action. Local and global clean water is at the heart their Earth Month campaign, an issue that is severely unreported in mainstream media despite its threat against the environment and the poor.

Just how threatening is clean water’s scarcity? According to UNICEF, 2.5 billion citizens lack sanitation facilities and 884 million use unsafe water sources. Meanwhile, pesticides and pollution strip our streams of its natural properties, harming the fragile ecosystem.

Since 2007, Aveda has brought clean water to our attention through special events and educational resources. In April, there was the Aveda Walk for Water and throughout May, proceeds of the Light the Way™ Candle, made with certified organic French lavender, go to support Global Greengrants Fund's (GGF) water-related projects.

I recently purchased the candle and a body cleanser made with certified lavender as a birthday gift for a friend. This small act reached beyond one individual – it supported a company that aims to do good by supporting others, which includes the greatest “other” – our planet.

For more information on water issues, visit Clean Water Fund, Water Advocates and The Natural Resources Defense Council.

E-Commerce In Time for Earth Day

2009-04-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

Earth Day in Washington is like a mini-Woodstock revival. The concerts and information tents on the Mall attract a garden variety of locals and tourists fashioning colorful statement wear. Regardless of the era, everyone wants to make Mother Nature happy. And the fashion industry is no exception.

A year ago, My Signature Look introduced you to its favorite eco-fashion designers. And while we don’t believe wearing eco-fashion is a once-a-year event, we wanted to continue the “green” tradition by spotlighting a few e-commerce sites that unearths independent eco-labels taking root in the industry.

One site of special note is YOOX.com. The darling of the discounted designer sites has just launched YOOXYGEN, a new site featuring ethically conscious products. Its top sellers include jewelry designer Ilaria Venturini Fendi’s accessories and jewelry line made from recycled materials; Katharine Hamnett's organic cotton slogan tees, Caboclo jewelry, made from natural objects found on the Brazilian Amazon rainforest floors, and Leny, the eco-friendly brand whose profits support Al Gore's Climate Project.

The company has also partnered with AzzeroCO2 to offset 100% of its shipping carbon footprint by the use of clean energy and reforestation. Now, that is corporate social responsibility!

Here are a few other favorite gateways to eco-fashion pioneers and emerging talent:

Embodies – e-commerce and boutique, located in Larksuper, CA
Fashion Ethic
Green Edge Kids – organic children’s clothes
Juno and Jove – e-commerce and boutique, located in Sarasota, FL
Loomstate for Target – 100% organic tees, dresses, and pants
Olsenhaus – vegan shoes
Shop Envi
Verdessence

If you have a favorite eco-fashion e-commerce site or brick-and-mortar store, please do let us know! We will post a comprehensive list (well, it may be a never-ending list!) and future articles on eco-fashion designers, books, and other products that promote a “green” lifestyle.

Inaugural Moments for All

2009-01-24T11:50:00.000-08:00

The My Signature Look blog has awaken from a long winter's nap since its last entry in December, but its commentary on today's fashion industry lived on through other writing mediums. As many of you know, I have been actively involved in the Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce for more than a year serving as the writer/editor of its monthly newsletter and in event promotion. In late December, the GWFCC partnered with ShockTheory, an Atlanta-based communications firm, to launch LuxStyle DC, a new and improved online newsletter. The billed "Inaugural" edition featured new members, trend reports, interviews from the red carpet at several inaugural balls, and a cover story on Kai Milla, fashion designer and wife of Stevie Wonder. I had the fortune of interviewing Ms. Milla, albeit through email correspondence, about the inspiration behind her Presidential Inaugural Collection 2009. The Washington-native also offered advice to aspiring designers worth reprinting here, "My husband once told me, 'Designing is the same thing as music. When you do something, it's forever recorded. Do it right and you will never be bothered by it.' As a result of that good advice I never compromise on the detail."

[Detail was not lost in the flawless inaugural ensembles the Obamas sported on Inauguration Day. Congratulations to Isabel Toledo, Jason Wu, Loree Rodkin and Jimmy Choo for capturing Michelle Obama's elegance and sophistication, and to J Crew for matching Malia's and Sasha's youthful charm and innocence].

Milla's remarks apply not only to designers but everyone who strives to excel at what they do. I hope LuxStyle achieves its mission by bringing thoughtful, in-depth coverage to the DC-area fashion community and the My Signature Look blog to continue to offer a unique perspective on the fashion scene locally and worldwide. Here is to dreaming big but not forgetting the details along the way.

Where Fashion Meets Nature and all Wild Things In Between

2008-12-16T16:19:00.000-08:00

I’m a fan of animal print – zebra, snakeskin, and leopard. I have two snakeskin heels that have seen some days. All I need is a hint of it – bag, shoes, and belts – to stir my wild side and feel a bit sexy. And I love that I don’t have to sacrifice the source of these embellishments. I go faux. Which is not a faux-pas these days thanks to the increasing acceptance (and encouragement) of ethical/sustainable fashion.

This Friday, Dec. 19, Washingtonians and visitors will learn more about the role fashion can play in preserving the environment and protection of animals through a special event at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.

The Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce (GWFCC) is hosting this one night event aptly called Fashion Night at ZooLights. In collaboration with Avani Ribbon, an organization dedicated to working with socially responsible fashion designers and retailers, the GWFCC aims to draw attention to the issues impacting our earth and promote corporate social responsibility.

Ethical fashion designers will be featured throughout the evening as part of the Zoo's educational component, "Love the Skin you are in - how animals dress for the winter." Organic and recycled clothing by fashion designer Ryann and new boutique Fashion Philanthropy will be displayed. GWFCC will also present designs made from recycled clothing by fashion design students from the West Potomac High School Academy.

I have the perfect vintage dress and faux-leather oxford heels to show off my own sustainable savvies. I can feel the wild child stirring now……

For tickets, go to www.fonz.org.

Meet the Designers: Elizabeth Wilson, Byron Lars and Daniel Vosovic

2008-12-04T18:33:00.000-08:00

When I started this company, I knew the perks: witnessing a client’s transformation from blah to glam, attending fashion events, and meeting fellow fashion insiders. And I wouldn’t have to leave D.C.!

Most recently, I had the chance to cross paths with a few designers worth mentioning.

In late October, I met Elizabeth Wilson, creator of Asiatica. Her annual trip to D.C. is more than business; it’s a reunion for the secret society of Asiaticats. What is an Asiaticat you may wonder? As Elizabeth describes them, women who “derive satisfaction from filling their lives with things that have visual interest and feel that one’s quality of life is increased by sipping coffee from the perfect cup or wearing a exquisitely detailed textile.”

This woman is definitely resourceful. If she didn’t discover the collection from stopping by at Elizabeth’s showroom in Kansas City, then she stumbled upon a trunk show held in one of the 17 designated metropolitan cities. Then she becomes hooked - hooked to the rare fabric. [Asiatica is the only company outside of Japan to use fabric, which is made from high-tech weaving and design processes, from the company Nuno.] She doesn’t need to see the label to know you are wearing a kindred patchworked jacket or silk shirt, Asiatica’s signature pieces. Elizabeth employs a small team of women in-house who can spend months on one garment.

In the hour spent at Elizabeth’s trunk show, you can feel the Asiaticat rising from within. Elizabeth and her business partner entrance you with their graceful movement from one garment to the next. She’s the Chinese art historian by trade and you’re the awe-inspired student gushing over the intricate design work molded out of ancient materials. Even if you are not called to the society, then you are sure to leave impressed.

A few days later, I found myself in front of Everard’s Clothing boutique in Georgetown excited to meet celebrity designer, Byron Lars. Upon entering the boutique, I made a beeline for upstairs where Byron stood among a crowd of women adorning him and his collection of dresses, skirts, and signature blouses. Let’s just say it was hard not to be distracted by his charm. But back to his clothes. Since his launch in 1991, Lars has received praise for his artistic interpretation of the classics (i.e., men’s cotton dress shirt meets Dior) and penchant for the extreme. He made androgyny cool. He accentuated curves. He made Barbie a fashion icon (he designed a limited edition for the It girl, herself).

Byron’s current label of eight years, Beauty Mark, is homage to his earlier work. But it is the built-in features of a bodice, high collar, and pouffy sleeves that evoke a sense of royalty. Mixed in this collection are sweet floral shift dresses and pencil skirts with a hint of peek-a-boo pleats. The detailing is simply thoughtful and exquisite.

It was Byron’s first visit to the nation’s capital and he wondered what took him so long. And hopefully not his last. Did I mention that he was charming?

(First Lady-elect, if you are reading this, I highly recommend donning an original by Byron for the Inaugural ceremony – you will surely be on the “best dressed” list!)

Earlier this week, Daniel Vosovic graced the stage at the Corcoran Gallery of Art to promote his first publication, Fashion Inside Out: Guide to How Style Happens from Inspiration to Runway and Beyond. About 100 fashion mavens sat relaxed, laughing even, but attentive to the small-framed designer who entertained his audience with anecdotes that pieced together his journey into fashion. We were in the presence of an ingénue, a humbled ingénue.

Before there was Bravo’s Project Runway Season 2, there was recognition garnered as a student at FIT and abroad in Milan, Paris and London. The show catapulted him into the hearts of amateur designers and trendsetters. He has deferred launching his own line to collaborate with established designers and design staff uniforms for employees of a new hotel chain, NYLO. Oh, and design outfits for the NBC drama, Lipstick Jungle and its fictitious magazine – Bonfire Magazine.

The lights dimmed in the auditorium and we sank into our seats a little deeper as he took us through a slide show featuring the inside pages of his book. Not the picture book he jokingly referred to, but a photographer’s lens into the design process. Each page unfolded a truth about him and his worldview. Yes, it is a how-to guide relevant to the aspiring designer, but fashion aficionados like myself, can appreciate the ability to give life to an idea.

DC Designer Lenny Yorke Leaves Beautiful Legacy

2008-11-30T17:39:00.000-08:00

While vacationing in Nevada, I received news that Lenny Yorke, a prominent fashion designer in the local fashion and African American community, had passed unexpectedly.

I had the fortune of working with Lenny on several local fashion shows, the most recent being a charity fashion show to raise awareness on human trafficking. His energy was not to be mistaken for the chaotic energy that ensued behind the scenes. He brought the kind of energy that attracts passion, commitment, and enthusiasm for the creative arts.

In our brief acquaintance, I observed a gentle soul on the quest to bridge contrasting perspectives so eloquently portrayed through his designs – exaggerated hem lengths, opposing colors, and complex shapes. To me, his muse was a worldly woman who dared to be different in a time when being different was not always welcomed with open arms.

In an industry that has the tendency to draw lines, Lenny crossed him with his warm personality and creative ingenuity. He leaves behind an invaluable lesson: dream and dream big.

Thank you, Lenny.

A tribute to Lenny Yorke will be held on Sunday, Dec 14 from 2-6 pm at The Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center in Baltimore, MD. The address is 847 North Howard Street, Baltimore MD 21201. If you are able to attend, please RSVP with Larry Allen at 215-817-4499 or larry@lastyle4u.com.

Make a Statement With Jewelry

2008-10-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Last time I checked it was 2008, but we are in the midst of a fashion flashback - circa 1980. No, shoulder pads have not resurfaced (although I gasped when I pulled a pair of stirrups from a rack at Macy's!) or neon-colored bandanas - thank goodness. Rather, bling-bling fortified. Statement jewelry is the IT factor this fall.

Ok, I know what you are thinking. This is probably not the time to flaunt your luxury décor given the current economy. People are losing their homes, college students can’t get student loans, and unemployment is rising. We should be conserving not spending.

I am by no means an economist (um, I barely passed Economics 101 and 102 my freshman year in college), but the economy has a life cycle of its own and we can choose to either respect it or steer it off course. I suggest we do the former.

Remember, life is about taking risks. And self-expression is the perfect place to start. So, inject some fun and humor into your daily attire and give people something to talk about.

Go easy. Choose one piece (take Coco Chanel's cue) - either a necklace, earrings, or bracelet - and create depth by layering necklaces, or wearing chandeler earrings, or chunky bracelets/wide cuffs. And make a louder statement by purchasing your item from a local jewelry designer. Here are a few of MSL’s favorites:

Ana Joa
CG Originals
Dancing Flamingos
Elaine Robnett Moore
Evelyn Brooks Designs
Kene Kae Jewelry

Nora Fischer Designs
Rachelle Celine

Statement jewelry is simply making your presence known. Reveal your personality – or maybe just a glimpse. You decide.

(And remember to wear your statement jewelry on Election Day – Tuesday, Nov. 4th!)

Fall In Love with Color

2008-09-01T15:14:00.000-07:00

The next few weeks are going to be hard to say goodbye. Goodbye to summer, that is. The go-to strapless cotton dress and gladiator sandals that served well for barbecues and walks along the beach must now retreat to that cold, sad plastic storage bin. But don't fret, the memories will soon be an after-thought overshadowed by a new season of deep, rich hues evoking luxury and glamour.

Complement a cool starry night by opting for a gold wrap dress or violet houndstooth square neck shift dress (with this season's musts have textured black tights, see Marc Jacobs) and for him, pair a cobalt blue thin sweater with charcoal gray pants. All genders should take stock in purple, dark brown, golds, and gray.

So, farewell my summer clothes and hello fall coolness. Shades [still] required.

Take on the Heat with Hot Pants (and I don't mean short shorts)

2008-08-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Washingtonians have reason to suffer. Not only are they conformists to the navy suit and tie, but they are nonexempt from such attire even in the hottest of all months, August.

Well, take your cues from the lighter side of fabrics and opt for natural fabrics like soy, hemp, and bamboo. And yes, you can find stylish clothes made from these "green" fabrics.

For the busy woman, try the wide leg sailor pant which can be worn in the work place and happy hour after work. For day, pair it with a loose fitting blouse - retro style adds character, and close-toed heels (avoid slingback as the back of the pant will most likely get caught in between the heel and the shoe). For evening, pair with a boat-neck fitted tee and dangly earrings and bangles.

For a casual afternoon, straight khakis is the perfect alternative for both men and women. For her, pair with Benetton vertical striped button-down in hot pink or purple and wedges. And for him, a polo shirt tucked in with bright colored belt and canvas shoes.

For the young hipster, the cropped skinny pant is the answer. The pant can take you in any direction your mood dictates: (1) rebellious when paired with converse hightops, metallic belt, tee with graphic, (2) preppy when paired with fitted waist-length pinstriped jacket and polo shirt with collar up and Toms canvas shoes, or (2) sweet when paired with low pointy heels, soft bamboo or jersey hip-length tank.

And don't stray too far from the pool!

China's Top Designers Scoring Gold

2008-07-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

Next month the international community will descend upon mainland China to cheer their compatriots to victory. Representing our fearless shoes, jackets, and gear are the ambassadors of sportswear labels, Adidas and Puma. However, beyond the track and field, pools, and gymnasiums, there are emerging designers in China that are striking gold in the competition for trendsetter.

Rated favorably among their peers in China’s fashion industry, the following designers have become serious contenders for creating luxury in the form of haute couture, ready-to-wear, and sportswear. Equally, each outshine in their interpretation of East meets West. My Signature Look has been tallying their stats:

At the ripe age of 22, Cho Cheng has captured the attention of China and now New York’s elite with his glamorous red carpet gowns. After honing his craft at Parson’s School of Design, he became the creative director for Maggie Norris Couture. His most prominent benefactor, and muse (as featured on his anticipated Web site), is Carmen Dell' Orifice – who will surely launch his career into household stardom. Points: Technique and creativity

When not acting on the small screen, Liu Yang, 34, designs. His collection of dresses have generated excitement among China’s young fashionistas who are breaking from tradition and incorporating other elements of their culture into their wardrobe. In Yang’s 2007 collection, for example, he chose black over red to emphasize a new cultural identity, citing “black is mysterious, sexy, and charismatic."

Points: Innovation and elegance

Noted as the first designer to participate in New York Fashion Week, menswear designer Danny Yang, has bridged nations with his familiar-friendly label, Cabbeen. Unlike his contemporaries, the line caters more to Western influences with cargo pants, jersey knit tops and caps akin to Abercrombie & Finch, but the difference being higher quality material and shapes.

Points: Inclusiveness and tailored

Ji Wenbo may not only be known for his fantastical designs but now known as the designer who could. Ji conquered the European fashion industry by being the first Asian brand represented at Milan Fashion Week last year. His determination won the admiration of the president of the Italy National Garment Association who welcomed Ji to the runway. The show proved Ji’s talent for complex silhouettes and flare for creating drama.

Points: Technique and eccentric

Where Benetton and Nascar meet is where you’ll find Chaoyue Liu Lin-Jin Hui Sportswear. The collection of fitted leather jackets, multi-colored striped jerseys and down vests ignite heat when wore separately or together. The men who wear them evoke a bit of edge tempered with layers of approachable coolness.

Points: Originality and fun

Earning the Asahi Kasei Chinese Prize for fashion design last year has catapulted Liu Wei to the next level. Her ode to impressionism finds its focus in a colorful ready-to-wear collection. To her, beautiful dresses can, and should, be worn at the office.

Points: Cohesion and relevant

Fashion Shifts Spotlight from Runway to Charity

2008-06-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

Forget about September and February as the designated months for fashion shows, in D.C. almost every month there are two to three to choose from. This month alone, there are four shows that My Signature Look is thrilled to be part of in some capacity whether coordinating and dressing models, doing a little PR, and/or simply being in the audience.

So, I must take a moment from these duties to draw your attention to two of them.

When Evelyn Brooks, a local Peruvian jewelry designer, asked if I would coordinate her fashion show, I was honored. To know Evelyn is to witness a master storyteller communicate in precious stones, metal, and indigenous seeds. Her connection to the past, informed by a family of jewelers, dictates her vision for the future – hope and beauty. Her latest collection, aptly named Moschik after the Mosche culture whose craftsmanship included complex geometric designs in pottery and metal work, will accessorize designer suits and casual wear.

The show is an example of a growing trend in uniting fashion with charitable giving. Evelyn pays tribute to the “men in our lives” (perfect timing for Father’s Day, I may add) through the recognition of a program that instills values in our young adults. Proceeds from the silent auction will go to the Sew-N-Know Program. I had the pleasure of interviewing Janice Rankins, the creator and director of the program, for the Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce’s newsletter a few months ago. Her career as a costume designer landed her in D.C. several years ago where she traded in dressing celebrities for teaching our inner-city youth fashion design. Twelve years later, the program has produced college-bound students and entrepreneurs who learned how to invest in themselves and in others.

Evelyn’s commitment to social change evolved after discovering her purpose in life, she says. She found her answer through her jewelry making and the life form it took. Her mission is simple: to bring light and beauty into the world and help others do the same.

Margo Schlossberg is on mission of her own. She is taking her success as a handbag designer (KuraDesign) to draw attention to human rights issues. Of greatest concern is human trafficking. As a witness to this issue that affects 1.2 million children worldwide, she was stunned to learn that victims of trafficking reside in the greater Washington area. On June 25th, Margo and four other local designers in collaboration with local business leaders and activists have staged a fashion event called Stop Traffick with Fashion to raise awareness. Sharing the spotlight will be the event’s benefactor, Charity Networks, Inc., a humanitarian initiative that works to prevent the trafficking of children. According to CNI, human trafficking crosses all borders, the United States being no exception. “For example, Latvian girls trafficked into sexual slavery in Chicago, or Ukrainian girls trafficked in Los Angeles, and Maryland, or Thai, Korean, Malaysian and Vietnamese girls trafficked in Georgia, or and Mexican girls trafficked in California, New Jersey and Florida,” the organization reports.

As noted in previous blogs, fashion is more than what you wear - it inspires change and recognizes the beauty in everyone.

And come Tuesday, June 17th, I will honor one of the most important individuals in my life: my dad.

For more information and to RSVP:

Art in Fashion – Saturday, June 14th
Moschik Men’s Jewelry Fashion Show – Tuesday, June 17th
Stop Traffick with Fashion – Wednesday, June 25th
Fashion Fusion – Saturday, June 28th

A Mother's Lasting Impression, Her Sense of Style

2008-05-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

This Sunday marks the 94th year since becoming a national holiday we celebrate our mothers. Granted its original purpose to celebrate mothers who had dedicated themselves to peace probably didn’t include offerings of cards, flowers, and breakfast-in-bed, but it does require a note of thanks.

The last time I saw my mother was in December. After an all day flight from the West coast, she unloaded her impressively packed suitcase containing 6 - 8 outfits and 4 pairs of shoes to stretch a three-week visit.

Her mastery of packing is a result of having raised ten children who all demanded a bit of organization collectively and individually. Food and toys were rationed carefully just as our wardrobe options. We shared clothes for sleepovers, camping trips, and family visits, amounting to a few duffle bags amongst us. The parents were no exception. Presentable? Always. Designer label-wearers? Not so much.

Mom dressed herself in trends fitting of the era, mostly in flowing long dresses if memory serves. She would deny claims as ever being a trendsetter, but has recalled fondly images of a more fashionable young adult before entering motherhood. She hailed from a family of socialites who entertained regularly, where the ladies adorned themselves in costume jewelry and form-fitting cocktail dresses all appropriate of course by Texas standards. My grandmother - a wife, mother, and businesswoman - dressed my mom and her sisters in petticoats and delicate laced gloves for Sunday Mass. Mom once confided in me she dreamed of being Rosalind Russell's version of Auntie Mame – always coiffed and dressed for a party.

That dream may not have been realized but mom can hardly fault herself. As with all mothers of the world, investing in clothes – and just the act of shopping for herself – becomes less a priority. The stress of finding time and the finances to keep current gives new meaning to the word "comfortable." Mothers find comfort in a tracksuit because it requires no dry cleaning. Why button when you can slip on elastic waist jeans? Saturday Night Live immortalized the "Mommy Jeans" and fashion designers responded feverishly by introducing hip designer options at more affordable prices (thank you, GAP).

Regardless of our family's meager means, mom always evoked elegance. Sure, she may have felt crazy on in the inside (did I mention that she raised ten kids?!), but her appearance signaled a different message. Her slender silhouette akin to Katharine Hepburn accommodated a classic look of tailored blouses and trousers and dresses on special occasions. Even her yoga uniform of leotard and tights and a turban-like head wrap oozed chic. We knew we were in the presence of someone grand, confident, and strong. It was in those early years that I learned the difference between fashion and style.

Now that her children are leading adult lives, she has resurrected the image of a modern-day Auntie Mame. Albeit resigned to a palette of black, grey and white, she sports designer jeans, heels, and the occasional bold-colored blouse. Her signature look; however, is jewelry. Each piece – ring, necklace or bracelet – draws you into her world to discover a woman who constantly gives and produces life. Just the way Auntie Mame lived (life is truly a banquet).

Mom and I braved the cold weather that December to participate in a shared favorite activity: shopping. She was my Fashion Guru. I sounded like a client questioning colors, prints, and shapes. "Perhaps, you may want to try a bolder shade to enhance your coloring," she would respond with diplomacy. In between changing rooms, we exchanged views on what constituted as age-appropriate clothing, the demand for green production in the fashion industry, and if yellow was going to be the new black this spring season.

We had a wonderful visit, as to be expected. However, our goodbye brought a sense of comfort. My mom left proud of my success to date and from her, I realized that I still had lots to learn about style and grace.

Happy Mother's Day, mom.

CROW Opens for (Online) Business

2008-05-05T18:37:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I've been working with CROW Clothing, a new kind of clothing company that creates eco-friendly fashion and offers its customers incredible resources on social justice and health and fitness. My role has been as an Advisory Bird, offering my expert advice to it's fearless CEO damali ayo. You can find my picture and bio on our "team" page. We began this exciting and daring new venture in November of last year and it's been a really inspiring few months leading to our grand opening, today.

Please join us in our debut by visiting crow-clothing.com <http://www.crow-clothing.com/>.

Here are a few things that make CROW a unique "evolutionary" company that I am proud to be a part of (you can find this and more on our 'about' page):

* We make our clothes with eco-friendly, sustainable fabrics that are made in harmony with the environment. We use a diversity of fibers, which is key to avoiding the "replace and drain" phenomenon that plagues many "green" practices.

* Our sliding-scale pricing means that a wide variety of people can afford to wear. We may be the first retail clothing company to attempt this fresh approach to sales.

* We donate 1% of all sales to Now Art Grants, a program started by damali ayo that funds artists creating work that engages social change.

* Visit our learn page and our links section for resources and inspiration. Find everything from 10 ways to combat racism to 163 things you can compost.

* Physical well-being is part of building a strong community. You can find resources on health, fitness, and nutrition on our site.

* Our designers, advisors, models, and partners work as a team. We all contribute to the resources on the site and share our expertise on our blog. When you step out on a limb to interrupt racism, help the environment, or create a healthy life for yourself you can feel the support of the Crow Clothing team through the soft fibers of our clothing. (Check out my blog "Change Begins with CROW")

* We believe in "co-opetition" - adding the spirit of cooperation to a competitive marketplace. On our Web site you'll find links aplenty including to other designers and products that we love.

*...AND the clothes are hot.

What else is there to say? It's time to get your CROW on! Visit http://crow-clothing.com

When Green Means More than a Look

2008-04-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

In full disclosure, I am a green follower for all the wrong reasons. My initiation into the environmental social club was in my sophomore year in high school when my “hippy” phase was blessed by a pair of Birkenstocks paid with my first check from Cinnamon Sams. My ankle-length peasant skirts circa 1986 and handmade hemp bracelets secured my spot amongst classmates who passed out flyers about recycling around campus. [At this time, I was also actively involved in Amnesty International so the image of an activist defined my choice of attire.] Sure, I believed in the importance of saving the planet but it was more about looking the part than really comprehending the impact of my actions.

Eco-fashion is finally getting the attention it deserves with help from big-name designers such as Calvin Klein and Marni commissioned by Barney’s New York to design limited eco-garments. Phillip Lim started his eco line, Go Green Go, as a result of watching a National Geographic special on the impact of global warming on polar bears. Their visibility leads consumers to research and discover other designers who have pioneered the green market or in the process of building eco clothing.

They are all leaders in every right – taking the initiative to produce earth-friendly products that consumers – whether environmental conscious or not – would buy.

The admirability falls short though when a collection remains a limited edition. For eco-fashion to be truly sustainable, a fashion house must implement sound environmental policies. It must be part of the core mission that dictates how the company – big or small – operates.

One such company is Patagonia. Its 30+ year trademark represents the success a social responsible business model can achieve. Its commitment to the environment frames every aspect of the company from product development to the workplace. The company is also a member of the Fair Labor Association, which ensure compliance of a code of conduct in facilities used by Patagonia.

Patagonia’s preservation of the environment begins with education. Employees are granted sabbaticals to exotic destinations to learn and work with local artisans, activists, scientists, and educators. Their knowledge is then transferred to product development and field reports describing accounts of their experience.

And of course, the clothing is pesticide-free cotton and recycled polyester and 1% of sales is donated to national and international grassroots environmental groups.

Similarly in its approach to the environment is Loomstate. The four-year-old label has captured the nation’s youth with stylish jeans and thought-provoking tees and the heart of the environmental movement. The design team oversees the manufacturing process from beginning to end to ensure integrity of the materials and labor conditions.

What gives a social responsible model credibility is transparency. While it is wonderful to see the explosion of “organic” materials surface in big box department stores to independent labels, it must be an institutional change. Green promotes life and the life of a business should be fruitful without depleting the source.

Tomorrow we give thanks to the Earth for giving us the resources to live. How we choose to celebrate depends on our conscience. Do we watch a program on global warming and then throw away our soda cans in the garbage can? Or do we make a commitment to conserve and invest in sustainable products – which includes clothes? For the latter, simplify your closet by investing in pieces of the highest quality fabric for longevity of wear, vintage/reclaimed materials and of course, natural organic materials. It’s the least we can do.

So, dress up for the party in your sustainable-best and remember to say thank you.

The Power of YOSOY

2008-04-06T17:33:00.000-07:00

When Luciana Tiktin arrived in D.C. last summer she came with a dream to start her own fashion co-operative, she just didn’t realize it would happen so fast.

Yesterday, Saturday, April 5, D.C. welcomed its first designer showroom featuring local fashion and jewelry designers as well as oeuvres by musicians and artists. DEKKA, which stands for DC Area Fashion Art Music, is Titkin’s love child, second of course to her toddler son. The location’s second floor space on 13th and U Street features nine designers who pay a monthly rental fee. Nearly 90 designers applied within the first month of Tiktin’s advertisement.

“DEKKA is about working with creative minds and to help ignite that creative process,” Tiktin says.

Tiktin’s own creative process began after working for retail giant Stone Island in her native Buenos Aires, Argentina. Luciana left her home for Miami where she studied Fashion Design at the International Fine Arts College. From, she traveled the globe and ultimately returned to Miami to work as a professional wardrobe stylist for Eduardo Berastegui and agency photographers. Her experiences culiminated in the creation of her own label, YOSOY, in 2001.

YOSOY embodies the nature of movement – propelling you in the future with a bit of edge. One must be bold to wear YOSOY, the label means I AM after all. Making a presence or rather acknowledging your power exudes from the sultry dresses and tops not to be worn at home on a Saturday night.

And D.C. women are all about the power of I AM.

“I have women buying my dresses to wear out to the clubs who you never thought would wear them from by looking at their day clothes,” Tiktin says. “D.C. does have a reputation for being conservative, but that is not true for an evening look.”

While the D.C. market is still playing catch up to YOSOY, other major cities such as Miami, New York and Buenos Aires have embraced the label.

Tiktin is optimistic about her future in D.C., citing the environmental perspective of buy local as the key to keeping her business, as well as other local designers.

“Some bridges need to be built to bring local buyers and local designers together,” Tiktin says. “But most importantly, local designers need to network within the fashion community.”

It was evident that Tiktin’s wish came true.

Change Begins with CROW

2008-03-16T18:23:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t noticed, change is “in.” It’s the hottest word since “hope” became synonymous with optimism. Everyone wants it from our presidential candidates, to social activists and now to fashion designers.

damali ayo (lowercase is intentional) not only wants change spoken but she wants it worn too. The conceptual artist has recently added fashion designer to her titles to demonstrate the power of change. Her introductory label, CROW features a line of casual glam – all gender hoodies, a 3-way shirt, and tiebreakers – communicating real world issues.

As CROW's tagline suggests “it’s more than what you wear. It’s who you are.” CROW offers its customers a complete lifestyle. On the CROW Web site, you can find out about social issues, health and fitness, get a second opinion from a naturopath, learn how to compost, and even how to join the textile workers union. All CROW clothing is tagged with a vow card customers sign and return to be counted among those who are committed to engaging this new lifestyle where we “enter into a relationship with our world and the people in it.”

What does this new CROW world where social change is no longer segmented, but integrated world look like? Clay, a shade of grey formed when two opposite colors on the color wheel are mixed. That symbolism, or I should say “realism”, is CROW’s signature color projecting a world beautiful in all its complexities.

A portion of all sales of the Portland, Oregon-based label goes to artists creating work that engages social change, through ayo’s Now Art Grants program.

What distinguishes CROW from other social responsible business models is its progressive formula of economics, social justice and the environment. The CROW customer can name its price in a sliding scale on all garments. Love the CROW Hoodie? Love it at the price you choose, from $40 to $75, as suggested by the site; now when was the last time you saw that offered by a retail clothing company?

ayo plans to enlist the services of seamstresses through its nest-egg program. “We believe that even social justice business provides an opportunity for financial gain and independence, not just for us, but everyone who works on our product,” ayo says.

The label equally promotes environmental sustainability and fair labor practices. ayo uses a variety of soft on the earth fibers such as soy, organic cotton, lyocell and hemp to ensure sustainability of resources. This stance extends to its unique line of “scrapology” garments, one-of- a-kind garments made from leftover fabrics. To offset its transportation carbon emissions, items are shipped through Uship, a partnership with TerraPass.com.

Sadly, not everyone believes in change. Change must be seen for a conversion to occur. ayo has built a business model on transparency unlike its predecessors in the fashion industry.

“We want our customers to trust every thing we say and everything we sell,” ayo says. “In this era of corporate distrust, CROW will emerge as a leader that ‘breaks the mold’ when it comes to how a company is run and how it views the bottom line(s) which include not only profit but cultural impact and the growing of relationships and resources at every step in our process.”

ayo’s own acceptance of change began at birth. Her innate skill and talent for cultivating change has earned praise from the social justice community. In 2005, she followed her critically acclaimed web-art-performance rent-a-negro.com with the book version, How to Rent a Negro, which received awards and favorable media attention. When ayo is not designing her CROW Clothing collection, she directs her Now Art Grants, a program that combines small donations of a large number of individuals then grants that money to artists engaged in social change.

My Signature Look is one of eight "advisory birds" throughout the country that support ayo in her approach to creating change through fashion. Her ambitious business model has raised the bar for ethical fashion, proving co-opetition can bring real change for all those who participate.

Dress Your Age, Which Is?

2008-02-23T14:01:00.000-08:00

In late January, I celebrated my 34th birthday. I treated myself to a morning jog and then gratefully slipped into a new pair of 7 For All Mankind jeans I bought myself as a birthday gift. I paired the high-waisted flared jeans with a cream blouse made out of recyclable materials by eco-friendly designer label God Help Miss Agnes. I felt stylish. I looked stylish. But that was a good day.

As a stylist, I strive to look my best everyday regardless the occasion, I aim for that perfect outfit that flatters my figure while reflects my quirky personality. I am the first to advocate for finding your own unique style – break the rules, take risks, make your own statement!

Well, maybe that was in haste. There are some rules that really shouldn't be broken. Please ladies, no black nylons with white heels or black heels (period) with light-washed jeans. Gents, no socks with your Birks or company-logoed polo shirts worn out to a nice restaurant.

Aside from the arguments of what constitutes as style, ooh, I cringe writing the next statement, but can a fashionista be agewear-conscious? It seems that we are living in an identity crisis. Teeny-boppers are dressing provocatively (even at 34, I blush at what I've seen), our mothers wearing mini-skirts (an Ally McBeal flashback, skinny or not) and young professional males are wearing their father's blazers and cardigans (well, kudos to U.K. retailer Reiss for modernizing a classic trend).

It's hard to know what's considered age-appropriate clothing when the fashion world seems geared toward young women and men.

I recently attended a fashion show where the featured Japanese designer created a collection inspired by the 1930s. As I watched the young models parade in fringe and trains of billowing garbage bags (pure aesthetics, folks), I too wanted to play dress up. Vintage worn by young people can look fresh and modern and vintage worn by someone of that same era, well, looks vintage.

Recent reviews of the Bill Blass spring 2008 show politely described it as homage to decades of party dresses. What you saw were dresses restored from archives brought to life by young models. Again, who should be wearing such dresses? The young debutante runs the risk of looking too matronly but then too predictable for the woman who wore the original Bill Blass gown.

Each week, the fashion victims on How Do I Look on the Style network cable channel appear to be just as confused. Last week, a mother felt the sting of her 20-year-old daughter’s embarrassment. The mother built a wardrobe around spandex and off-the-shoulder mini dresses that sadly brought gasps by the daughter and her friends. Her defense? She wanted to look young and sexy. Or there was the episode where the 24-year-old mother of two layered herself in fabric akin to muumuus and out-dated ankle-length Sunday dresses that not even a church elder would wear.

The other day my inner child got the best of me. I entered Urban Outfitters. I blame it on the huge SALE sign on the glass window, but honestly, it was my hold on youthful urban wear. I immediately found myself drawn to babydoll dresses (they are so versatile – layer in the cooler months and wear as a summer dress with flats) and graphic t-shirts. Never mind the fact that I just purchased a floral-patterned babydoll dress earlier in the week! I was weak. But I resisted temptation and put the dress back on the rack. Victory.

Admittedly, I didn’t like the idea of turning 34 and perhaps this article is more about my own acceptance of getting older. Yet, my personal observations of people in general have led to the conclusion that we either live in the moment or in the past, regardless of age.

If there is one strength I have, it is the ability to change. As I evolve so should my own look. I must believe that it's really not about the age you are, but about the age that you appear.

Here are a few tips this stylist promises to keep herself:

1. Body-appropriate – wear clothes that are form fitting, which doesn’t mean tight enough to see an overflow of flesh.
2. One trendy item – clothing item or accessory – per outfit.
3. No mini-skirts or midriff tops past the age of 35, unless you are Tina Turner. (See rule #1)
4. Upgrade your shoes – no flip-flops (other than for gym showers), no chunky platforms, no plastic, after your early 30s.
5. Class act – take pride in your appearance and reserve your youthful energy for the shopping!

Emerging Designers Bring Class and Sophistication to D.C.

2008-02-03T12:32:00.000-08:00

When D.C. lost über-cool Unsung Designers last December to New York City, the fashion community was heartbroken. The boutique’s claim on emerging designers introduced local fashionistas to a world of hip culture and couture. It was a refuge for bold, funky, and edgy styles that attracted even the shiest of characters. Thankfully, online sales are still possible but if a shopping excursion to New York is not in your future, then where does that leave the designers? The departure may have left L.A.-based designers Stephanie Verrières and Kimi Sako of Verrières-Sako without a second home, but the duo wants to ensure D.C. fashionistas are well stocked with their film noir-inspired collection of pencil skirts and cocktail dresses.

“We fell in love with D.C. and were sad to learn that the store was closing,” Verrières said recently from her California design studio. “We would really like to be in the D.C. [retail] market.”

And there is plenty of room.

The designers’ skill for manipulating fabric to create dramatic lines as demonstrated in the double collar blouse or signature defined waist dress appeals to the femme fatale gone glam. The organza dress coats worn over a sultry little cream dress would be the perfect attire for a night at the Kennedy Center. The collection’s palette of neutral hues and quality fabrics, which includes bamboo, invokes elegance and sophistication – a perfect description of the modern D.C. woman.

In the months to come, Verrières-Sako plans to return to D.C. to participate in trunk shows. In the meantime, My Signature Look, a local wardrobe consulting company, has acquired items from the collection for private viewings. My Signature Look held the first viewing last week to rave reviews by clients and colleagues.

The District’s recent expansion of boutiques and couture living appears ripe for an Unsung Designer replacement, if not the answer to emerging designers east-coast hub.

Contact My Signature Look at 202-445-0590 or katherine@mysignaturelook.com to schedule an appointment to view the collection. Offer is available through the month of February 2008.

Plain Jane Who?

2008-01-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Plain Jane Who?

A few weeks ago I sat in my hairstylist’s chair ready to take another plunge. The first plunge was my senior year in high school before graduation when I thought it would be a nice bonding experience if my dad cut my hair. No, my dad doesn’t cut hair for a living and the last time I had shoulder length hair was when I was about 11 and my mother and I cried all the way home. Anyway, my long brown locks were my signature look. Then in early August of 2007 I needed a change. Initially, I blamed the heat and humidity as the source of my irritability, but honestly, I have a love-hate relationship with my hair. This time, I wanted to go short, really short – No, not the Brittany Spears short, but Audrey Hepburn in the movie Sabrina, or Natalie Portman post V for Vendetta. My stylist listened sympathetically as I showed him pictures of celebrities and with his magic touch gave me a happy medium. Now, four months later, I was ready to go a tad bit shorter. I walked in with my pictures and left in an inspired 1940’s bob with bangs (think Catherine Zeta-Jones in Chicago or Mary J. Blige’s current ‘do). I found a new me.

What really happened that day was an acknowledgement to the real me. I love change. I honor my quirky personality by being a guinea pig for new lipsticks, eye shadow, haircuts and of course, fashion trends. Through this process I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t – moss green eye shadow, no, but purple makes my hazel eyes pop. Capri pants, not so much (well, not a favored a look for anyone in my opinion), but skinny jeans create a long lean silhouette. In other words, change does not mean a sacrifice. It is a personal characteristic.

This past year I have had the pleasure of working with clients who all possessed a je ne sais quoi. Their impressive resume of life experiences spoke volumes but unflattering clothing was stifling their colorful spirit. Take my client Damali Ayo. An artist/activist by trade, she travels frequently giving lectures and workshops. Her suitcase contained non-descriptive “easy” outfits that were safe, and well frankly, plain. When she contacted My Signature Look she said she lost something important to her: her identity. She had gone from wearing urban chic to a jacket and pant uniform in black, grey and navy. An upgrade in the quality of her garments and sophistication would give her that “It” factor, but most importantly, send a bold statement about everything she is and represents. And the reviews have been positive. She now dons clothing that gets mentioned in articles about her – just what every stylist likes to hear! She has even started her own clothing line called CROW (more about the collection in a future blog), a venture she says inspired by her transformation.

Working with Damali and other clients has led me to the conclusion that there is no such thing as a plain Jane or Joe. Our individual talents are expressed daily through dialogue, an instrument, a science formula, a research project, and a piece of art. However, it should not stop at personal appearance. Think of it in terms of the whole package – would you send a proposal without a cover? Would you show up for a job interview wearing shorts? The danger plain Jane’s or Joe’s face is apathy. Financially-speaking aside, a poor appearance says you don’t care about yourself and/or it’s not important. I have a hard time believing that this is true and rather believe it is an issue of capability.

2008 is here, bringing with it an invitation to transform our lives for the better. I challenge you to spend January envisioning a new you or even reclaiming a lost sense of style. Write down your talents and ask how your appearance compliments the same passion you have for that talent. Reassess what you have in your closet (and of course, My Signature Look is happy to help with this process!) and pass along items that don’t fit to someone else and keep those that have potential. This goes for beauty products, too. Observe colleagues, people on the streets, friends, and family members who have that complete package for inspiration. Finally, start mapping out your plan which should include extra time in the morning for assembling a new outfit with existing clothes, coiffing your hair, or applying makeup that accentuates either your eyes or lips. Whether it is a new haircut or wearing a piece of jewelry, the extra effort truly does leave a lasting impression. Who knows what this process may just reveal….

Fashion’s Cause Célèbre: World Peace

2007-12-04T20:49:00.000-08:00

Ask me how I would define fashion and I’ll provide you a sketch. Albeit poorly drawn, it would be a spectrum of images beginning with draping fabric (aka “Toga” or “Grecian Goddess”) fastened by an ornate brooch or fancy knot paired with sole to the earth sandals, followed by corsets and men in tights, then delicate Victorian collars and tweed suits, the little black dress (thank you, Audrey!), the little black mini (thank you, Madonna!), and then menswear for women feminized with Manolo Blahniks or Christian Louboutins.

I’m not a fashion designer but I suspect our definition would be similar. Fashion is a perspective, social commentary, and personal dialogue with his/her muses. Fashion is also a mood that influences what you put on in the morning. Today, I want to channel Audrey, so I’ll slip on my Givenchy-inspired black dress.

What is definitive is that fashion speaks volumes. It sends messages daily of who we are through the clothes we wear and how they are worn. Its fashion personified.

Eventually, we evolve and so does fashion. Fashion will always be a source of personal identification, but now it challenges us to use our resources, time and awareness to invest in others. Designer Kenneth Cole pioneered a subtle yet compelling ad campaign addressing the AIDs epidemic in 1985. Honestly, I remembered learning about AIDs in freshman Health class but it was Cole’s bold ads that inspired me to act. I attribute my appreciation for cultural diversity in large part to Benetton.

Today, instead of sending a check to your favorite charity, you may opt to attend the organization’s fashion-themed fundraiser. Shop the silent auction or trunk show while learning how you can save the environment or support a group of artisans in Guatemala.

The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) is one such organization. In an effort to promote its mission, and in particular its Schools for Africa Project, the tradition of hosting a fashion show started in Japan and is now duplicated by its counterparts worldwide.

Caroline Betancourt, Vice President of the DC Chapter of WFWP, finds a commonality between fashion and peacebuilders.

“Fashion is an international art form beyond words to create a common bond,” says Caroline Betancourt, “which is similar to peace building.”

On Sunday, December 9, Washingtonians will convene at The Washington Times building to watch six international fashion designers present their designs at the 2nd Annual Fashion for World Peace fashion show.

Among them will be Ghanaian fashion designer, Afua Sam of Studio D-MAXSI.

The sought-after designer returns to the runway to present her latest collection of women’s apparel. However, the real goal is to support issues that affect women.

“The number one issue for me is female empowerment,” Ms. Sam said. “It is so important for young girls around the world to be empowered in all they do, whether it is academia or the arts. When the confidence of women are reinforced thus empowered, it makes for a better world. Women are such a source of strength for all mankind that enriching, educating and nurturing the female child is in essence making the world a better place.”

As producer of the show, Natasha Bryson of REDgemini, hopes the event draws a diverse audience.

“I think fashion is one of those things that any and everyone can identify with,” Bryson said. “Fashion essentially becomes the drawing card used to deliver the bigger message.”

Ms. Sam could not agree more.

“Fashion is a vehicle for social awareness,” Ms. Sam said. “A lot of people see fashion as fluffy and materialistic, however fashion is an industry that provides employment to so many around the world, it allows individuals to show their creativity and it serves as a source of income. My goal with Afua's Foundation is to raise awareness about issues that are important to me and utilize my work as a designer to provide as much financial support as I can through fundraisers, donations and personal contributions.”

Studio D-Maxsi will share the runway with renowned fashion designers Alek Risminic Couture, Estella Couture-Nigeria, Lenny Yorke, Magnami Style & Co, and Shaka King.

In addition to a silent auction, the WFWP will present its Ambassador of Peace award to Carol Schwartz, At-Large City Council member and Congresswoman Diane E. Watson, California’s 33rd District of the House of Representatives in recognition for their contributions to peace building, education and human rights for women and children.

WFWP, USA is based on the belief that the family is the cornerstone for peace in the world, and that mature couples are the foundation for strong and loving families. WFWP, USA encourages every woman to become a "woman of peace" through cultivating her mother’s heart, to care for all children and families throughout the world, by developing and utilizing the qualities of empathy, forgiveness, and unconditional love. For more information, visit www.fashionforpeace.org.

Ask someone what fashion means to them and hopefully you will hear the words catalyst for change.

Can Fashion Fight Poverty?

2007-10-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

Borrowing from the title of a recent forum sponsored by Fashion Fights Poverty, a Washington, D.C.-based non-profit, a panel of experts enlightened an audience of fashion mavens and activists on the global landscape of poverty.

According to UNICEF, one billion children live in poverty – half of the world’s population of children. Six million children die from malnutrition before their fifth birthday every year. 218 million children between the ages of 5 and 17 work in developing countries. Startling numbers in an age where wealth knows no boundaries.

The fashion industry - in collaboration with international humanitarian organizations and fair trade federations - have a solution: creating sustainable economic markets through employing local artisans (of working age) and using environmentally-sound methods to produce fabric. For an industry that is the mastermind behind fads, this is an idea that took root more than five years ago. However, the fad is growing in momentum and the international community sees room for improvement.

The forum provided a platform for experts to share challenges and solutions. A representative from UNESCO calls for capacity-building, investing in local markets, and creating networks for local artisans.

Kimberley Person of Gecko Traders, a Virginia-based fair trade company, cited difficulties working in developing countries but has found success in implementing sustainable employment strategies as a method to alleviate poverty. This sensible and long-term approach is at the heart of the fair trade industry, which has become a $220 billion industry – we love fair-traded products!

The panelists were quick to point out the one person not seated amongst them. That person occupied the seat across the room. An equal player in alleviating poverty is you, the consumer. Stop and think about it. Where do your clothes come from? Where was it produced? How was it produced? By whom was it produced?

It is disturbing to think that while hundreds of thousands of children take to the streets peddling everything from candy to themselves worldwide, we agonize over what to wear to an upcoming gala or whether or not we want the Prada or Louis Vitton handbag. This is not a guilt versus selfish argument I’m making. It is more an argument for responsibility. As echoed in earlier blogs, each and everyone of us has a responsibility to our environment and social infrastructure beginning with awareness. Just as you may be aware of the harmful effects of sun damage, you may want to consider the origin of that $300 blouse – was the fabric dyed or spun from 100% organic cotton? Was it sewn by the hands of a 6-year-old or working-aged adult for $1.00 an hour or a decent living wage? Was it made in the confines of a safe environment or a poorly vented warehouse?

These are not tough questions, but the answers are not always easy to find. Sure, transparency is more widely enforced than ten years ago but what anti-poverty groups want to know is where are you willing to draw the line?

If anyone or anything should raise such questions, it should be the fashion industry. These are provocative questions coming from a provocative industry. It is only fitting that an industry synonymous with self-expression, innovation and trendsetting, plays a role in alleviating artisans and communities out of poverty.

The third annual Fashion Fights Poverty Fashion Show followed on the heels of the forum, igniting further attention to global poverty and global issues.

The show featured eight international designers selected because of their commitment to ethical fashion. The designers hail from the far reaches of Russia to Brazil unified in implementing eco-friendly practices and sustainable economic development throughout its supply chain.

“This kind of fashion is just as much as Vogue as it is Greenpeace,” said Michael Dumlao, co-founder of Fight Fights Poverty.

This year’s beneficiary was Aid to Artisans, an international non-profit focused on preserving artisan traditions through sustainable economic and social development for craftspeople worldwide. Past beneficiaries included United Nations Developmental Programs and Bead for Life.

“We are fighting fashion through beauty,” said Clare Brett Smith, President Emerita of Aid to Artisans.

I would be remised if I did not comment on the fashion show itself. Rickey Medlocke from Lynyrd Skynyrd fame, led the catwalk with guitar, courtesy of Gibson Guitars (eco-wood), in hand showing off the craftsmanship of Elizabeth Muir, the self-titled clothing label. “Sweet Home Alabama” rocked the house as the models strutted in the Afghanistan-inspired cloaks and accessories met with rock, country influences. The ready-to-wear portion of the evening concluded with Organia, a collection of feminine mini frocks and loungy tracksuits created by Miami-based designer Janelle Funair and graphic artist and designer Rodrigo Londono.

The intermission did not let you off the hook. Not that you would have wanted to make a run for the restroom or chocolate room – yes, a heavenly-scented room of chocolate. Guests refrained temptation in order to learn more about the beneficiary, Aid to Artisans, and watch the wives of the NBA Wizards model accessories by local craftsmen supported by Aid to Artisans and The D.C. Fashionista Group’s very own Abigail deCasanova. The finale was reserved for designers showcasing haute couture. My Signature Look had the pleasure of assisting the design duos behind Ecliptica. Norein and Michelle Otero presented evening cocktail attire favored by celebrities such as Hilary Duff, Roselyn Sanchez, Dayanara Torres, Carmen Dominicci and 2001 Miss Universe, Denise Quinones. The use of sequins and satin fabric was timely given to the volume of sequined mini dresses and tops found in every major chain department store, but they capitalized on their Spanish culture in the chosen vibrant colors and patterns. For a second, you imagine every female the luxury of wearing a dress so pretty.

But the reality is, no stress caused dressing 15 women in a matter of seconds compares to the stress of earning enough money to feed your family daily. Awareness may reveal ugly images, which is contrary to the glamour associated with the fashion industry. However, thanks to organizations such as Fashion Fights Poverty and Bono’s One Campaign, not only is global poverty more visible, these campaigns are providing real solutions, raising awareness and bringing an ever-increasing number of fashionably responsible options to you. If buying Edun or Del Forte jeans is not realistic at this time, then act by educating yourself and others on the issues, volunteering at an organization that addresses global poverty issues, or simply make a commitment to be part of the solution.

To find out more about global poverty and ethical fashion, check out the following links:

Aid to Artisans
Bead for Life
Ethical Fashion Forum
Fashion Fights Poverty
Fair Trade Federation
Gecko Traders
United Nations Association

To shop local examples of responsible dressing, check out these D.C. retailers:

Alex Boutique - clothing
American Apparel - clothing
Pangea World Market – clothing, accessories
Relish - clothing
Setchi Boutique – clothing, accessories
Tabar Boutique - handbags

D.C. Fashion Week Goes International

2007-10-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

D.C. Fashion Week came to a close September 30, culminating in the Cojor International Fashion Show featuring a contingent of international designers such as Yosoy Fashion, Studio D-Maxsi, Motlapele, Symbat, and Sophia Ali. Runway Africa jumpstarted the week with what could be described as electrifying, followed by collections from Central Asia’s leading fashion house, Symbat, and four international designers in the Ethical Fashion Show.

Did I mention this was D.C. Fashion Week? After all, the nation’s capital is the epicenter of multiculturalism and international designers speak ready-to-wear and haute couture.

My Signature Look had the fortune of styling the Suutra collection for the International Ethical Fashion Show. Suutra was founded by two Indian women, Avni Jamdar and Mona Shah, to offer contemporary women’s apparel and accessories while creating sustainable employment opportunities for women artisans in India. Suutra’s clothing integrates a sophisticated fashion aesthetic with exquisite, age-old artisan techniques. In support of the sustainable and green movement, the fabrics are organic and eco-friendly that do not harm the environment. The models walked the runway as if they were going to a farmer’s market or meeting a friend for coffee – moderate pace, hips swaying, and smiling. The outfits were accessorized with CG Originals’ colorful beads and silver and high-quality handbags from TABAR Boutique.

Priya Pratel, founder of Avani Ribbon, produced the show in collaboration with Fashion for Development, a project started by Pratel at the World Bank. Pratel’s mission to promote ethical and emerging market designers became realized through the show’s mix of trade show and fashion show. Vendors and designers, whom all endorsed an Ethical Code of Conduct, impressed the attendees and each other with natural fabrics transformed into exquisite clothing, precious jewelry, and durable handbags. The union of creative talent sparked future business relationships and impulse purchases that validated the night’s purpose.

The week’s events brought the world to us. We sat entranced by the bold use of color and fabrics that conveyed the designer’s worldview - perhaps influenced by their cultural identity and belief system. If there were any shared views, then I hope it was in the social responsibility we have to sustain an industry built on fairness and respect for workers and the environment.

Save the Date: D.C. Fashion Week Spring 2008 February 24 - March 2, 2008. Don’t forget your passport!

For more information about Avani Ribbon and the other participating designers and vendors visit www.avaniribbon.com. Photos of Suutra collection posted above (see Avani Ribbon for more pictures of this collection).

D.C.: Mecca for Politics, Activism, and now, Fashion"

2007-08-22T16:47:00.000-07:00

Washington D.C. is a haven of sorts for the avant-garde. In the founding fathers’ wisdom, the nation’s capitol attracts lawmakers, lobbyists, social activists, entrepreneurs, and artists, bringing a worldview shaped by color, structure, the abstract, and ambition. Their activities vary depending on interests and economic means but all hand over their credit cards or cash to a sales associate who all too eagerly carefully places their boutique bargain or department store annual sale item into a bag. Here, it is who you know and how you dress that often leads to returned calls.

This “economic union” has poured millions into the district. Last year alone, the apparel industry was the fourth largest in retail revenue. That is quite impressive when DC tends to don a timeless uniform. But that is changing. The U Street Cordozo area is quickly becoming the equivalent of an urban chicdom. Drop into Lettie Gooch and strut away in a curvy pair of jeans by Salt Works, or pick up a Kara Janx dress at Pink November a couple of blocks away, or stop by Nana on upper 15th and U Street and dress yourself in independent designers like Preloved and House of Spy. While you are at it, slip your feet into a funky pair of heels at Wild Women Wear Red or vintage at The Junction.

Granted a legislative aid may not be able to afford boutique prices but that doesn’t stop them from inspecting sale items at Urban Chic, Sugar or Valise in Georgetown. The real challenge all DC residents have is finding local designer labels grace the racks of boutiques and chain retailers.

Yet, attend any DC Fashionista meeting and you leave feeling like you have just been to a tradeshow. Local designers are all too eager to show photos of their jewelery, handbags, and clothes or you might have the pleasure of seeing such works of art up close.

Such opportunity will hopefully become more mainstream if the Washington DC Council has its way. The Council is the brainchild behind the proposed Commission on Fashion Arts and Events Establishment Act (Bill 17-0173). The Council successfully gained the support of three Council members who introduced the bill in April.

The bill’s fate is now in the hands of the Committee for Economic Development before going to the full council for vote. The Act calls for a 15-member advisory commission to oversee four primary objectives: promote DC as a destination for fashion events, develop support services for local designers and stylists, create educational opportunities for students interested in the fashion industry, and designate a fashion retail corridor.

If enacted, D.C. will be joining the ranks of other major metropolitan fashion meccas such as New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago, the latter being the most recent where the city appointed a full-time member as the liaison between the fashion community and city government.

Imagine for a moment ladies going weeks without running into a peer wearing your Ann Taylor suit or H&M bold-printed jumper. Imagine saving your gas by opting to shop in DC’s version of Soho instead of trekking up to the real thing? Imagine attending a fashion show where the headliners are graduates of a DC fashion institute? These are the possibilities afforded to us if such Act was adopted.

Our fashion visionaries at the DC Fashion Council, which currently serves as an Advisory Body consisting of designers and industry leaders to promote the fashion industry in DC, is to thank. The Council is in the process of obtaining its 501c6 status which enables the group to lobby and register members. Christine Brooks Cropper and Mariessa Terrell White, founders of the Council, plan to further develop partnerships between the fashion and business communities that they believe will increase economic activity and improve quality of life.

To galvanize support for the bill, the DC Fashionistas, a consortium of fashion industry professionals, will be staging a rally Monday, September 24. Organizers of the event plan to offer demonstrations by local stylists, a fashion show, and expected speeches by council members in support of the bill. The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Freedom Plaza.

Fashionistas, and well just about anyone who shops!, are encouraged to write a letter to their Council member and Mayor Adrian M. Fenty expressing support of the bill.

The beauty of this bill is that everyone benefits. From the politician to the schoolteacher, from the consumer to the makeup artist, from the fashion-challenged to the fashion stylist, DC can and should lead the nation in being a fashion trendsetter.

Covering Up Can Save Your Life

2007-06-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

In case you didn’t get the memo, summer is in full force which means wearing tank tops and short shorts or mini-skirts have become the dress code for accommodating sweltering temperatures. (Actually, pair shorts and mini-skirts with a loose, voluminous shirt for balance; where’s the mystery in tight-fitting clothes?)

Unfortunately, I ignored the memo about the harmful effects of skin damage and may very well pay the consequences (amongst the numerous freckles on my arms and my face are varied-sized white spots, indication of skin damage). Thankfully, odd-shaped moles and/or increasing-sized brown spots have yet to surface but what about in five to 10 years from now? I don’t have to wait to hear those scary words “skin cancer” before I take action, all I need to do is look at family history. As one of ten kids, our Mexican-Irish heritage produced a range of skin tones. My likeness to Irish left me faired skin and prone to sunburns growing up. Despite my mother’s warnings, I lathered up in baby oil or Coppertone Sun Tanning lotion only to radiate in hot pink - not exactly the beautiful brown some of siblings possessed. Fast-forward 20 years and while I tend to tan instead of burn oddly enough, several of my older siblings are experiencing the results of childhood sun-bakes. Their frequent trips to the dermatologist to have pre-cancerous moles removed was the alarm I needed to change my relationship with the sun. I will always be a heat monger and rely on the sun to boost my energy and mood, but I choose to engage from a distance. That distance that separates me from my once-beloved friend is SPF moisturizers and body lotion and now fabrics that contain UVA and UVB protection.

To learn about skin cancer and how to prevent it, visit the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Web site at http://www.skincancer.org.

A few factoids: (source: Skin Cancer Foundation)

• UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing is a colorless compound that shields those parts of the body most likely to be overexposed to the sun.
• Effective sun-protective clothes have an UPF of 15 – 50+
• Darker-colored fabrics are more effective than lighter fabrics at blocking out the sun (white tees only have an average of sun protection factor SPF 7, yet a long-sleeved dark denim shirt offers an SPF 1,700!)
• When washing clothes, add specialized laundry detergents that contain sun-protective ingredients such as Rit Sun Guard test.
• Opt for high-luster polyesters and thin satiny silk due to their blocking of radiation.

Sun-Protective Clothing, Accessories and Beauty Products

BTC Innovations Casual Clothing
Clothing with UPF 30 – 50+

Solar Eclipse – http://www.solareclipse.com
Offers clothing and accessories for adults, youth, and children

Solumbra – http://www.sunprecautions.com/shop.asp
Shaun Hughes experienced the harmful effects of sun damage the hard way – skin cancer. After beating the odds, Hughes turned his experience into a fashion crusade by developing Solumbra, a line of sun-protective clothing that blocks more than 97% of UVA and UVB rays. The clothing is most advantageous for medically sun sensitive people; however, everyone can benefit from the range of hats, shirts, skirts, and accessories.

Sun Protection Clothing – http://www.sunprotectionclothing.com
Online shopping for UPF-certified tees, sweatshirts/hoodies, children’s swimwear, and accessories.

Neutrogena
SPF 15 Oil-Free Moisturizer and 30 Healthy Defense daily moisturizer light tint. I don’t leave the house without wearing this dermatological-approved moisturizer.

Kiss My Face Sun Swat – http://www.chopinchemists.com
Remember to spray on this sunscreen and natural bug repellent before heading to the beach or mountains.

Korres Yogurt After-Sun Face and Body Gel - http://www.chopinchemists.com
Cool down inflamed skin with this soothing gel.

Running in Style

2007-05-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

I recently ran in my fourth half-marathon through the scenic wine country north of Santa Barbara, California (think “Sideways”). The soft rolling hills took my breath away (Ok, some shortness of breath was on account of the steep inclines!) but it was snazzy running shoes and colorful skorts donned by fellow runners that caught my eye. Yes, I admit, even while engaging in the sport of running, I steal quick glimpses of runners from head to toe. This is not always a pleasing experience (i.e., the robust male and female in spandex shorts); however, on occasion I’m impressed by the latest high-tech sneakers paired with loose fit running shorts and a cute motif tee. Now, I’m not advocating for spending hours planning your outfit to wear running around the track but sportswear designers are making it more fun to dress the part. Walk into any running store and you are forced to pass racks of apparel before you reach the shoes. Nike, Adidas, Asics, Reebok, and Champion all offer coordinated pieces in bright hues and standard black, white and grey. Look for lightweight material such as Lycra, cotton blends and mesh stretch panels, in the case of shorts, for breathable and quick-dry wear.

Of course, not everyone is a runner, but sportswear is fast becoming synonymous with healthy lifestyles – or at least looking like it. Scarlett Johansson is a perfect example. The 22-year-old actress claims she never exercises yet she teamed up with Reebok to create a line of funky sneakers, leggings, and hooded tunics called “Scarlett Hearts RBK.” Stella McCartney and Diane von Furstenberg, real fashion designers, have designed a line of “lifestyle” shoes for adidas and tennis dresses for Reebok, respectively. The spring 2007 runways featured sports-inspired collections from the likes of Marni, Cynthia Rowley, MaxMara and Jean Paul Gaultier in tunics, leggings, and anoraks.

There is no doubt that sportswear is comfortable, but if there is one rule I can impart, sweatpants, sweatbands, spandex shorts (rather spandex anything!) should only be worn while exercising! Hit the streets in a pair of dark jeans (Levi’s Eco Jeans) with a long tee (American Apparel) under a zip-up hoodie (Scarlett Hearts RBK or Urban Outfitters) and Tom’s canvas shoes. If there is one sport conducive to designer sportswear it is walking. So take a leisurely stroll to your favorite park in style!

The majority of brands listed below participate in environmental and worker’s rights efforts.

Sportswear for Exercising
adidas - http://www.adidas.com/us/shared/home.asp
Asics – http://www.asics.com
Hincapie Sportswear - http://www.hincapiesports.com/index.php
Nike - http://www.nike.com
Reebok footwear - http://www.rbk.com/us/rbkrunning/
Run and Become – http://www.runandbecome.com
Umbro – http://www.umbro.com

Sportswear for Lifestyle
Emporio Armani for Product (RED) - http://www.joinred.com/products2.asp
Gaiam - http://www.gaiam.com/retail/Apparel?CMP=KNC-booyah&atlas=true&gcid=S18376x001&keyword=eco%20friendly%20apparel
Lucy - http://www.lucy.com/
Patagonia – http://www.patagonia.com
Scarlett Hearts RBK - http://www.rbk.com/us/scarlett/
Tom’s Shoes - http://www.tomsshoes.com/

To learn more about the sportswear industry and fair labor practices, check out the following organizations:

The Life of Football Factory Workers in Thailand. Report by Clean Clothes Campaign, http://www.cleanclothes.org/publications/06-06_tlc.htm

Fair Labor Association. http://www.fairlabor.org

Sportswear Brands ‘Offside’ on Workers’ Rights. Report by Oxfam International, http://www.oxfamamerica.org/newsandpublications/publications/research_reports/research_paper.2006-05-23.7997564894

Play Fair at the Olympics. http://www.fairolympics.org/background.html

Fashion Embraces Mother Earth

2007-05-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

On April 22, we rolled up our sleeves to give Mother Earth a much-needed facelift. We picked up trash along rivers, at parks, and in our neighborhoods, planted trees, or participated in recycling drives. Our efforts may have revealed a beauty once suffocated by layers of debris; however, the day has come and passed and the layers have re-surfaced.

The protection of our Earth is everyone’s responsibility and collectively, we can reverse, if I may use a cliché, the signs of aging. We don’t have to look farther than our closets to create change. Thankfully, the fashion industry is taking strides to develop and promote “eco-friendly” apparel and beauty products.

Join me in supporting the following designers who have demonstrated a concerted effort to use sustainable materials and fair working conditions.

Eco-Friendly Fashion Designers and Retailers

Designers/Labels

All Undesigned by Carol Young – www.undesigned.com
Carol Young designs womenswear made from recycled-clothing and activewear materials.

Ciel - www.ciel.ltd.uk/
Sarah Ratty, the designer behind Conscious Earthwear, brings Ciel – a collection of women’s wear made with organic cotton.

Del Forte Denim – www.delforte.com
Tierra Del Forte lives up to her name (Tierra in Spanish means Earth) by designing 100% organic denim jeans. This salt of the earth designer contributes to The Sustainable Cotton Project (www.sustainablecotton.org), which promotes sustainable and organic cotton. A portion of Del Forte Denim’s proceeds will go to support The SCP.

Alessandro DeVito – http://inhabitat.com/2007/01/07/sans-future-forward-fashion/
Couture designers Alessandro DeVito and Lika Volkova are the creators of SANS, an eco-conscious collection of sustainable materials such as wool, tussah silk, bamboo and soy used to produce fashion-forward garments.

Edun – www.edun.ie
Ali Hewson, her husband Bono, and menswear designer Rogan Gregory joined forces two years ago to create Edun, a socially-conscious clothing line that promotes sustainable employment for developing areas in the world.

Loomstate – www.loomstate.org
You’ll find 100% organic cotton tees with environmental motifs that are too cool to pass up.

Stewart + Brown – www.stewartbrown.com
This husband and wife designer duo live up to their title as “Organic Pioneers” by supporting “1% for the Planet,” an alliance of small businesses that pay a voluntary earth tax and donate 1% of all sales to non-profit, non-governmental environmental organizations.

Online Retailers

Azalea Online – www.azalea.com
Shop eco-Azalea for all the latest trends made of sustainable materials.

Equal Clothing - www.equaclothing.com
Eco-friendly Web site that offers stylish eco-fashion labels, including Hug jeans, People Tree and Ciel.

The Green Loop - www.thegreenloop.com
When you shop from The Green Loop you are supporting its mission: “Green Life. Green Style.”

People Tree - www.peopletree.co.uk
Since 1997, People Tree has promoted fair trade and organic materials in the production of apparel.

Traid - www.traid.org.uk
This company recycles 2,000 tons of clothes each year. Check out their summer dresses and jackets.

Eco-Friendly Beauty Products

Burt’s Bees – www.burtsbees.com

Green with Glamour - www.greenwithglamour.com

Inara – www.inaraorganic.com

John Masters Organic – www.johnmasters.com

Kiehl’s – www.kiehls.com

Articles and More Information on Eco-Fashion

What is up with Eco-Fashion?
http://environment.about.com/od/earthtalkcolumns/a/ecofashion.htm

Eco-Fashion 101
http://www.ecofashion101.com/

Green Card: Eco-Fashion Steps Up
http://news.yahoo.com/s/fwd/20070503/en_fashion_fwd/greencardecofashionstepsup

Organic and Eco-Fashion
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blast/art/articles/organic_and_eco_fashion.shtml