Showing posts with label fresh designers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fresh designers. Show all posts
MIISTA Hilda GIVEAWAY with StyleCaster
OPEN CASKET @ COAT of ARMS NYC
Corpse Corps Boards presents:
"OPEN CASKET" a Halloween Group Exhibition Art Show and Party
ft. the HIGH OLLIE COSTUME CONTEST!
That's right, you gotta raise the bar with your ghoulish kit on!
*******
Todd White, Anthony Cudahy, Zachary Scheinbaum, Jonathan Donaldson, Ryan Begley, Lamour Supreme , Kris Mukai, Nick Gazin, El Barto, Jordan Walczak, Drew McKenzie, Rich Arbitelle, ESPIR, Meghan Smith, John Stortz, Craigwheat, Jon MacNair, Bill Connors, Adam Collignon, Greg Mishka, Charly Himmel, David Dresbach, Matt Parker, Mark Lucas, Kat Mukai, Graham Hamilton
the show will run through Nov. 7th and all decks will be auctioned off after the opening!
+FREE ALCOHOL+
RSVP to info@coatofarmsnyc.com
Stay tuned for CC's boards in the shop!
Fashion Friends: TJ Cowgill of Actual Pain
TJ Cowgill is the "man in black" behind the line Actual Pain. He personally designs each piece referencing the occult, fine art, and the heaviest of metal. TJ writes for Seattle's the Stranger, has his own band Book of Black Earth, and maintains a pretty solid blog of his own. TJ makes the kind of clothes guys want to wear, and their girlfriends want to steal. Also, he likes girls in platform shoes - really, he said so! Check out his amazing stuff in the store and our comical exchange below:
TJ: Not so young Roy Orbison.
Sarah: What is your favorite thing you've ever designed?TJ: I always have new favorites, but I think our Pyramid Logo is one of the best things I've ever designed. It's really half luck, I beat a lot of people to the punch on that one. And now we see where triangles and pyramids have gone... But I still believe in the importance of the hidden meaning of the trinity as an esoteric concept. People really want to understand that these days.
Sarah: If you could have Anton Lavey, Aleister Crowley, Elvira, Genesis Breyer p-orridge, Kelly Bundy, and Lil B at dinner party; what would you cook? who would you sit between?and who stays after dinner was over (wink wink)?
TJ: Geez, ha ha! I don't know. Probably pizza. Everybody likes pizza right? And I wouldn't cook it I would order it for delivery. I'd sit between B and Kelly because I would want to watch everyone else very closely. I know that Crowley would want to stay over because Kelly Bundy and Elvira would be there, and since he'd have a big bag of dope I'd probably let him. Then Anton would want to stay because Crowley was staying, and that would make Gen P want to stay and ask Anton questions about the Process or something, and Lil B would probably be on my computer recording a video of himself... So I guess everyone would stay over. I would try and get 1980s Zeena's telephone number from her dad.
Sarah: If you were trapped in a room for the rest of your life watching one director's films on loop, who would it be?
TJ: Easy. Werner Herzog.
Sarah: Are there any musicians or artists who have influenced you so greatly over the years, that now you can see/feel a connection to them in your designs?
TJ: I rip off Raymond Pettibon a lot when I draw. Also if it weren't for the Blues, Rock n' Roll, and consequently Heavy Metal I would never have drawn anything beyond comic book characters.
Sarah: Do you have any style "pet peeves"?
TJ: Not really. I really don't care what other people wear. I do like this trend of women in platform heels, like Jeffery Campbells. It makes girls like 10 times hotter.
Sarah: Lastly, and super important of course, any advice for girls who want to wear fitted caps and not look so..."bro"?
TJ: There's only a few girls that can pull this one off. Having really long hair helps. Also dress the rest of your body really girly and you should be fine. I hope that helps.
Actual Pain, TJ's graphic tee and accessories line, is available HERE
FALL IS HAPPENING IN THE SHOP: Miista Boots shot by Saga Sig
Miista is a fashion foward footwear brand based in Hackney, London. They've made waves doing incredible weaving and "drool worthy" heels. The Zelda boot is one of our favorite pieces for fall, shot above by fashion photographer/blogger Saga Sig. Saga's site is full of amazing ethereal work, and compliments the Zelda boot perfectly. A little bit mystical, a little bad-ass, and totally statement making. Follow our links to see Saga's site, and to shop the Zelda in the store!
The Haute Kiddie: Ridicule-or-Relevant
When you were a kid, were you obsessed with wearing a million friendship bracelets? Did your punk friends wear safety pins in their ears in high school? Well now those things are available at a much higher price point. It seemed fine jewelry designers had a nostalgic summer. Proenza Schouler did a high-end surfer style neon friendship bracelet? And we are seeing diamond smiley face pendants (above) from Ileana Makri. This is an optimistic trend, quite chipper, even uplifting, but is it sage to invest in a diamond safety pin? Something to think about...Maybe you piled em' on this summer, but what is your fall forecast? Will you be over it?
images above: Ileana Makri, Poillotstatus, Aurelie Bidermann, Delfina Delettrez, Venessa Arizaga
FASHION FRIENDS: Jared Zachary of Freedom From Doubt
Freedom From Doubt hits the fashion world with a fresh take on the dapper gentleman. Designer Jared Zachary developed his eye for design studying architecture, but his interest in creating spaces soon translated into fashion. He began his neckwear line Freedom From Doubt in 2009 featuring handmade bow and neckties. He has keen sense of both style and quality. We asked Jared about some of his style opinions and influences:
Sarah: Your designs are very dapper and polished. It seems more and more men are returning to a cleaner look. What do you think it is about a boy in a bowtie, or a suit that's so compelling?
Jared: Boys grow up playing in the dirt, but at some point they are expected to present themselves as an adult. I try to create pieces that will allow the look of the well polished, sensible man without giving up the playfulness of the boy he once was.
S:Your work is handmade. That's very important. They also reference a time when things were more well made and tailoring was considered carefully. Could you speak about quality in clothing, how does that effect you personally when you shop?
J: I think of every piece that I acquire as having some sort of personality. Its life begins when it is conceived; it gains its charm, in my mind, from its material, its construction, and where it was produced. All of these inform me of its quality, which affects the way I take care of it. When an item is made by hand, it has an inherent sentimental value passed down from the maker to the purchaser. The highest quality pieces I have purchased are the most important to me because I know that the labor that goes into each detail is priceless.
S: What are some tragic trends that you feel should be done away with?
J: T-shirts with 55 graphics, studs, and rivets isn't tough, tough guys. Keep it simple. Also, wearing multiple neon colors is for road construction, so you don't get hit by a car--which is ironic for those who find their outfit looking like Jackson Pollock painted them with glow sticks. Classic isn't boring, it's timeless for a reason.
S: Amazing! Whats your advice to a woman who wants to wear a bow tie, how should it be done?
J: With confidence. A woman in a bow tie is a very powerful look. My favorite is with the bow worn off to one side, a strapless or off-the-shoulder top, and hair pulled around to the other shoulder to really show it off. No matter what you do, ladies, just own it.
S: What generated you fascination with neck wear? Who are your style icons?
J: When I was getting into fashion, I found that like a lot of art and design, the power was in the details. In fashion, the details are accessories. There aren't as many accessories out there for men as there are for women, and that is a problem. One place where men are likely to sport an accessory is around the neck and that is where my ideas come into the picture. I began designing solely for myself. I wanted a leather bow tie so I asked my girlfriend at the time to teach me how to sew. Soon after, my friends complimented the handcrafted bows I wore around town and began requesting to buy them. I am slowly branching out into other menswear accessories and hope to one day have a full menswear line. As for style icons, I'm trying to not be too cliché when I say I think the Freedom From Doubt man is James Dean meets Frank Sinatra. You can have an attitude about your classiness--party like a rock star, dress like a gentleman.
S: Who are some of your favorite designers to wear?
J: Some of my favorites include John Varvatos (one of my first inspirations in becoming a designer), Karl Lagerfeld, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Band of Outsiders, and Siki Im (who I've assisted in production of his NY Fashion Week shows in 2010 and 2011). They are all different, but they all leave something special and meaningful in the design of their garments that I have learned from.
Shop Freedom From Doubt Bowties, available here.
Sarah: Your designs are very dapper and polished. It seems more and more men are returning to a cleaner look. What do you think it is about a boy in a bowtie, or a suit that's so compelling?
Jared: Boys grow up playing in the dirt, but at some point they are expected to present themselves as an adult. I try to create pieces that will allow the look of the well polished, sensible man without giving up the playfulness of the boy he once was.
S:Your work is handmade. That's very important. They also reference a time when things were more well made and tailoring was considered carefully. Could you speak about quality in clothing, how does that effect you personally when you shop?
J: I think of every piece that I acquire as having some sort of personality. Its life begins when it is conceived; it gains its charm, in my mind, from its material, its construction, and where it was produced. All of these inform me of its quality, which affects the way I take care of it. When an item is made by hand, it has an inherent sentimental value passed down from the maker to the purchaser. The highest quality pieces I have purchased are the most important to me because I know that the labor that goes into each detail is priceless.
S: What are some tragic trends that you feel should be done away with?
J: T-shirts with 55 graphics, studs, and rivets isn't tough, tough guys. Keep it simple. Also, wearing multiple neon colors is for road construction, so you don't get hit by a car--which is ironic for those who find their outfit looking like Jackson Pollock painted them with glow sticks. Classic isn't boring, it's timeless for a reason.
S: Amazing! Whats your advice to a woman who wants to wear a bow tie, how should it be done?
J: With confidence. A woman in a bow tie is a very powerful look. My favorite is with the bow worn off to one side, a strapless or off-the-shoulder top, and hair pulled around to the other shoulder to really show it off. No matter what you do, ladies, just own it.
S: What generated you fascination with neck wear? Who are your style icons?
J: When I was getting into fashion, I found that like a lot of art and design, the power was in the details. In fashion, the details are accessories. There aren't as many accessories out there for men as there are for women, and that is a problem. One place where men are likely to sport an accessory is around the neck and that is where my ideas come into the picture. I began designing solely for myself. I wanted a leather bow tie so I asked my girlfriend at the time to teach me how to sew. Soon after, my friends complimented the handcrafted bows I wore around town and began requesting to buy them. I am slowly branching out into other menswear accessories and hope to one day have a full menswear line. As for style icons, I'm trying to not be too cliché when I say I think the Freedom From Doubt man is James Dean meets Frank Sinatra. You can have an attitude about your classiness--party like a rock star, dress like a gentleman.
S: Who are some of your favorite designers to wear?
J: Some of my favorites include John Varvatos (one of my first inspirations in becoming a designer), Karl Lagerfeld, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Band of Outsiders, and Siki Im (who I've assisted in production of his NY Fashion Week shows in 2010 and 2011). They are all different, but they all leave something special and meaningful in the design of their garments that I have learned from.
Shop Freedom From Doubt Bowties, available here.
designer spotlight: littledoe
Chase Cohl is a one-woman powerhouse, managing both a solo music career and and an accessory project that has been featured in Vogue, Rolling Stone, Nylon, and WWD. She's designed four of her ornate and handmade Littledoe headpieces for our IDLM Gallery. Here's a chance to peer into the inspiration and creative process behind her work.
IDLM Your pieces feature a very organic, tribal feel that's refreshing in the current fashion climate. Where do you draw your inspiration for these looks from?
CHASE COHL I can find inspiration in pretty much any setting. Since moving out to California I have found myself more inspired to create than ever before. There's something about excess energies that resonates when the body is close to nature, it brings such an organic creativity to art.
IDLM You split your time between both coasts. How has your time in New York and California affected you? Which elements of each place do you like and dislike?
CC New York: I love to be able to ride my bike, lay in Tompkins park and watch people go by. Hate the summer heat, hate the snotty fashion set.
Los Angeles: I love the sunshine, canyon living, the old tree houses and the historic energies...
I hate the isolation of having to drive everywhere, plus it's so hard to meet people!
IDLM Who do you imagine as your ideal customer?
CC Willie Nelson, Zooey Deschanel & Drew Barrymore.
IDLM How does the production of your pieces work? Since everything is custom and handmade, what kind of relationship do you have with your customer?
CC I am able to hold the customers hand throughout the creative process in order to create something that suits their desires. This is metaphorical hand holding, Im not a creep, I swear!
IDLM How did you get your start in producing headpieces and jewelry, and how did you develop your skills?
CC Boredom mostly got me started, idle hands. And practice makes perfect! Just the more I made things the more I wanted to...
IDLM How did the complete creative license of the IDLM gallery project affect the way you designed and constructed the signature crown? Do you think it acts as a statement of your overall design philosophy?
CC Sure! I love the fact that I was given the time to go further with my creations than I maybe had before. I'm not sure whether I'd like to commit to one particular statement, I think creativity should be a continuous evolution.
IDLM What was the inspiration behind the other gallery headpieces?
CC I was living in new York at the time that I made the pieces, I love the idea of an urban witch traipsing around Manhattan.
IDLM You've been exposed to music from a very young age and have also pursued your own musical projects. How has this affected your perspective and aesthetic?
CC I think growing up in rock n roll, having had a sort of gypsy childhood and traveling to loads of different places allows me to be a bit fearless when it comes to fashion. Rock n roll sort of allows for being able to wear costumes every day, which I love.
IDLM What events in your career have you seen as major turning points for your designs?
CC It's been incredible from the very beginning. The first person who actually ever bought one of my pieces was Fergie, I couldn't believe it, and more recently my pieces were shot for the cover of Spanish vogue by Patrick Demarchelier in a shoot meant to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Jimi Hendrix death, it was very exciting for me.
IDLM What plans do you have for the future? Any aspirations of doing a widespread, mass-produced line?
CC I have a really special collaboration in the works for spring 2011 that I'm excited about. It's looking like it's going in a really nice direction, I'm not sure about mass production, kind of just taking things as they come.
IDLM With the multiple projects you have in progress, what leisure activities do you make time for?
CC I try to travel as much as I can, it helps mix the inspiration and work up, just trying to remember to enjoy it while I'm young and don't have strings attached in too many places.
THE ARTIST'S STUDIO:
INSPIRATION IMAGES:
designer spotlight: lady grey
Sabine Le Guyader and Jill Martinelli are taking the jewelry market by storm with their handmade line, Lady Grey. Their moody, geometrical patterns have won them major accolades and even a spot on Teen Vogue's list of eight indie jewelry designers to watch. They've just landed on the site, so here's a behind the scenes introduction of the girls.
-Where did you get the name for your line?
Lady Jane Grey, “The Nine Day Queen” has a quite fascinating story. The mood that her name and the story of her life evoke really worked well with the vision we had for our line.
-Where or who do you draw your inspiration from?
Overall, we are inspired by the basic idea and history of adornment, questioning it as well as embracing it. We have always really been into symbolic imagery such as crosses, crystals, bones and pendulums. Our current collection "Sacred Geometry" breaks down naturally occurring geometric forms (geodes, crystals, molecular structures) and reconfigures them into abstracted pieces of jewelry.
-How did you establish your line and start growing as a brand?
We moved to New York together after studying Metalsmithing at Massachusetts College of Art. After setting up a full jewelry studio in our loft in Brooklyn, we designed and produced our first collection. That collection was immediately picked up by some really amazing boutiques in New York and London, so we figured we were on to something…
-Your collection is called "Sacred Geometry," what gives you both such a commitment to structure in your designs?
We wanted to create a collection that felt both historical and futuristic. In previous collections we had worked in a very raw and organic nature, “Sacred Geometry” was a personal challenge to us. We wanted to see how well we could completely hand make structures that were precise and geometric- never using any prefabricated parts or materials. We metalsmiths get off on meticulous work and craftsmanship.
-You also styled your own look book, which other aspects of your line are of a do-it-yourself nature?
We are total creative control-freaks, so we basically design and create everything involved with Lady Grey that your eyes will ever see. We have our blog, Lady Grey Lair, where we share a lot of behind the scenes, inspirations, and just plain wacky stuff we’re into.
-Getting a Gen Art award was a major achievement for your young line; how do you think their shuttering will affect young designers?
Gen Art was amazingly supportive of us and we were so sad to hear of them closing down. It is extremely difficult to start up and sustain a young brand, especially without funding, so young designers need all the support they can get. Gen Art provided all sorts of opportunities, we just hope another organization will surface that will be able fill that void.
-How do you keep yourselves entertained in the studio?
We perform elementary science experiments, for example: “Hey Sabine, what do you think will happen to your sister’s first communion pearls if we soak them in this bottle of hydrochloric acid?”. Once we forgot about one of our “experiments” and months later found it under our bench, it had overgrown into turquoise and yellow crystals. We also have a lot of friends coming in and out of the studio - which is always fun - but usually we make them grab a piece of sandpaper or polishing cloth and help us work! If not, they might get kicked out.
-Making everything by hand is one of your brand signatures. Have you ever faced any injuries or impossible deadlines in construction?
When we really get into the zone and are intensely focused on our work, sometimes we become a bit careless and forget about the existence of our hands. We end up sawing into our fingers, burning our eyebrows off, or some bloody disaster. At some point you barely notice it. Sometimes we photograph our injuries, we take pride in them, they are battle wounds!
-Is your musical taste as dark as your design aesthetic? What are you into?
We listen to a lot of dark, moody, psychedelic music, but sometimes we totally girly-out to The Cranberries or something. Our favorites to listen to while working are Washed Out, The Cramps, Severed Heads, Sebastien Tellier, and lots and lots of Phil Collins.
-Both of you worked with prosthetic dentistry and orthodontics... any stories?
We learned a lot of what we know working in the dental field at a very young age. The techniques are very similar with jewelry and dentistry, believe it or not, so we use a lot of dental tools, materials and tricks while working.
We use this metal in our jewelry called Chrome Cobalt, which is a type of surgical steel that turns into oil-slick iridescent colors when torched, but it is usually used in prosthetic dentistry for partial dentures and implants. It is quite difficult to work with for jewelers, since it has such a melting temperature and requires completely different tools and equipment, but luckily we are able to take trips to Sabine’s father’s office to make all of our Chrome Cobalt jewels-- while he’s making the framework for dentures!
Shop the Lady Grey collection here
pleet tv
Check out this public-access style clip by Samantha Pleet and We Make It Good; it's a video lookbook for Pleet's Fall collection, featuring music by Chairlift and appearances by model Coco Young, artist Dan Estabrook, photographer Jacqueline Di Milia, friends Carlen Altman and Peggy Wang (The Pains of Being Pure at Heart), Heather d'Angelo (Au Revoir Simone), and others, if you can catch them. Between the tap-dancing, champagne and off-kilter antics, look out for pieces from Pleet's new line available now in the I Dont Like Mondays Store!
designer q&a: stolen girlfriends club
Stolen Girlfriends Club is a pop culture label built on vision and creativity. Their innovative ideas are based on the influences of fashion, art and music. Youthfulness, irreverence and a tongue-in-chic attitude are the driving forces behind the New-Zealand made brand. This attitude has earned the Club a celebrity following that includes Juliette Lewis, Kate Bosworth, Daisy Lowe, & The Cobra Snake alongside cool kids everywhere.
Co-founders and directors Marc Moore, Luke Harwood and Dan Gosling want people to interpret Stolen Girlfriends Club in their own way. "It’s a way of life – the brand represents a lifestyle we live and share with our friends”. All three come from a background in the commercial surf industry – Marc and Luke are both ex pro surfers – and all have worked with international fashion forward brands. In time the boys outgrew their boardies (surf shorts), each taking their attributes in creative marketing, distribution, and business knowledge to form Stolen Girlfriends Club in 2005.
IDLM - Skeletor or Hordak?
Marc Moore - Skeletor, mainly because I don't even remember Hordak so he mustn't be that memorable.
When and how did you become interested in fashion?
About 4 years ago. I grew up in this tiny seaside surf town called raglan. I decided to move up to the city for work. And from then on I got really inspired. There was so much going on, all these different people with their own forms of style and expression. I got pretty hooked!! I started experimenting with art and that soon turned in to fashion. Making clothes that me and my friends wanted to wear. 4 years on and it is now more than a hobby - but we still have a lot of fun!
Where did the name "Stolen Girlfriends Club" come from?
It came from my first art show. Stolen Girlfriends Club was the theme and title of that exhibition. It sold out on the opening night which was amazing! Everyone seemed to love the name so we thought it was the obvious choice for our brands name.
How do you sleep @ night?
Well mostly, I sleep well. Except when it's coming up to range release. I get pretty stressed out with new collections. It always seems like your running out of time - there's such an urgency to it!! Once the collection is complete I sleep much better!! We are about 2 weeks from finishing our next collection so I'm a walking zombie at the moment.
What famous designers have influenced you, and how?
Hedi Slimane influenced us early on. Mainly because we felt we could relate to what he was doing. He wasn't just a fashion designer. He was heavily into music, art, his photography. We also loved the aesthetic and detailing of his work. So polished and refined, yet had this gritty rock & roll feel that was very wearable and timeless.
What’s the most played song on your iPod?
At the moment it would be 'Now Wow' by The Kills.
How would you describe your personal style?
Hmm that's a hard one. I kinda change depending on my mood/feeling. A little bit rock & roll, a little bit nerdy/preppy, and a touch fruity.
What brands or designers are currently on your radar?
Christophe Decarin at Balmain, Ricardo Tisci at Givenchy, Stefano Pilati at Yves Saint Laurent, and Alber Elbaz at Lanvin - all seriously nuts!
Describe the Pretty Vacant collection in a Haiku.
The rebellious
grunge punk sensibility
ripped plaid leopard lace
Outside of fashion what inspires you?
Music. Escapism. Romance.
What's your favorite childhood movie?
E.T. I cried like a mofo.
In your eyes what makes a good collection?
Beautiful fabrics, good shapes, wearability, clever detailing, a clear concept that runs right throughout, with a bold identity.
View the Stolen Girlfriends Club collection in the store.
Visit the Stolen Girlfriends Club Website.
designer q&a: kenzo minami
Kenzo Minami, originally from Hyogo, Japan, graduated from Parsons School of Design with a BFA in Product Design after majoring in Western Philosophy in Japan. Before he established himself as an artist / designer, he started his career as a set designer for TV broadcast networks, working with MTV, the Sci-Fi Channel and others. This lead to shooting his own shorts and TV spots, and working in broadcast as an art director, director, and motion graphic designer for 7 years.
When and how did you become interested in illustration and visual art?
When I was very little, at my father's die-cast metal factory, because there was nothing else to do. I also think that the fact that I grew up surrounded by metal parts my father's factory was producing, which was essentially a bunch of abstract shapes since they are different parts for larger whole of machinery or products, did have a huge influence and impact on me getting interested in and become visual person - considering that I grew up watching those different shapes and imagined how they all fit and function after they are packaged and shipped. Combined with the fact that my parents didn't really give me any pre-made toys, except Lego Blocks (this is Lego before they had too many pre-made, pre-molded specific shapes) and plastic models to build, I was bound to become someone who automatically start building things out of different parts in different shapes and colours.
What’s the most played song on your iPod?
Even though what I listen to is all over the place in genre, the most played song always come back to be one of the songs by Bob Dylan. At the moment, They are "Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" and "One of Us Must Know", for some reasons.
How would you describe your personal style?
Old Fashioned, in a darker hue.
Describe your spring collection.
After the end, before the beginning.
Outside of art and fashion what inspires you?
Words.
What’s your favorite childhood movie?
Ghostbusters.
Must art have a relationship with fashion?
Within my understanding of definition of fashion, I think that it is bound to have some level of relationship.
View the Kenzo Minami collection in the store.
Visit the Kenzo Minami Website.
designer q&a: maurie and eve
Maurie and Eve is the Australian brand from Kelly Davies, Scott Davies and Maya Clemmensen. Kel and Scott are brother and sister, Scott and Maya are partners while Kel and Maya are best friends. Kel began a few years back sewing singlets and selling to a few boutiques around the country. And in 2006 Scott and Maya came on board, designing and helping run the business.
The brand is named after Kel and Scott's grandparents. Maurice and Evelyn Williams passed away in 2001, their deaths caused by a tragic car accident. Eve was a model in the 40s and her old Singer Sewing machine was left to Kel. Inspired by this, Kel began making singlets for friends and family and before she knew it was selling to boutiques across Australia and around the world.
Kel was sweet enough to share with us some insight on her life and the new spring collection.
Brenda all the way… You've got to keep things interesting!
When and how did you become interested in fashion
I think it's fair to say that all girls love dressing up, Madonna in Desperately Seeking Susan was definitely an opener to a little girl! It's interesting to see how different people interpret fashion, the way they put themselves together… Girls dress for other girls, everyone wants to look the best, and with that kind of market, who could resist giving it a go!!
How would you describe your personal style?
I'm not sure if it's a good thing, but I'm pretty over the top… more more more of everything…. A fist full of rings, oversized handbags, high high high heels, scarves, big hair, the whole bit!!
What brands or designers are currently on your radar?
Alexander Wang is definitely on our radar at the moment, we love his relaxed tailoring, while still having that hard edge. We're all about mixing styles and seeing how far we can push it… Jeremy Scott is another, he's just crazy and it just works!
Do you sing in the shower and what song?
No… and I've never actually come across a person that does!!
What is the inspiration behind your Spring collection?
The Spring Collection we were in a real Woodstock haze… tie dyes, flowy dresses, bleached ripped denim, midriffs… it's all about the 70's.
What's the most played song on your iPod?
It changes pretty often, but at the moment I have Send Him Back – The Pointer Sisters Pilooski edit on repeat!
What's your favorite childhood movie?
The Labyrinth… I don't know how as I child I could watch that movie and not have nightmares… It scares the hell out of me now!! David Bowie in tights…. I don't know about that!!!
In your eyes what makes a good collection?
We always try to make sure there are enough elements to each collection… make sure we cover all bases with colours, prints, short, long, day, night. We always have 3 or 4 different stories running through each range and tie them together with colours or fabrics. And it has to be easy to wear…
What do you enjoy most about being a fashion designer and having your own label?
Working for ourselves is such a luxury, everyone wants to be their own boss! But its so cool to be able to make EXACTLY what you want to wear, and it's even better when people want to wear it too! We also get to travel a lot; and the 3 of us are so lucky we get to do it all together!
View the Maurie and Eve collection in the store.
Visit the Maurie and Eve Website.
Friend Maurie and Eve on MySpace.
designer q&a: priestess nyc
Cody Ross is the ballsy brains and talent behind the cult label Priestess NYC. The quirky womenswear label has become an overnight sensation since its launch in late 2007. Cody's unique creations have been worn by celebrities and models, donned by everyone from Bjork to Juliette Lewis.
Cody grew up in Dallas, Texas, and went on to earn a BSc from the London School of Economics as well as credentials in Pattern-Construction+Design from London's Central Saint Martins.
After working as a financial analyst in China for several years, he returned to the states and launched Priestess NYC. Cody currently designs and manages his line out of his West Village townhouse-cum-atelier in NYC.
What famous designers have influenced you, and how?
1. Bernhard Willhelm. For his ingenious pop references, his use of toys and video games to trash and freaky-minimalism, he has a swashbuckling approach to design, hands-down.
2. Jeremy Scott. He is King of exaggeration and visual-razzmatazz. I love his satirical and tong-and-cheek approach, especially his new stuff.
3. Rick Owens. For his subversive, sartorial style that is raw and refined, haunted and haute. I know he’s a super-star but he seems to always operate on the fringe. His goth-androgyny is weird and cool.
4. Walter Van Beirendonck. For his audacious shock-and-awe, fetish-fantasies, kaleidoscopic color-ways, crazy materials and total rejection of mainstream stuff. He’s the maverick risk-taker -- and always has been.
5. Marjan Pejoski/KTZ. Because he’s the master of unisex and conveys happy-absurdity in all his stuff.
Describe your Spring Collection in a Haiku:
Goth-glam punk girl stuff
Colorful kitschy soft screams
Silky-smooth yummy
What brands or designers are currently on your radar?
Georgy Baratashvili. . . Henrik Vibskov. . . Marjan Pejoski . . .Comme des Garcons . . .
If you were a letter of the alphabet, which would best describe you and why?
“Z” . . .because it’s the last one . .and ‘the best stuff comes at the end of the sequence.’
Outside of fashion what inspires you?
Mathematics. . .Japanese toys, David LaChapelle’s photography. . . I’m interested in finance and economic history. . .and all things kitsch.
In your eyes what makes a good collection?
A broad range of selection . . . ability to ‘transcend demographics’ . . .versatility.
E.T. or ALF?
Both are cool!
What do you enjoy most about being a fashion designer and having your own label?
Creative freedom.
What's your favorite piece of clothing you own?
Biker Jacket in silver-metallic finish.
What advice would you give to a designer just starting out?
Don’t spend beyond your means.
View the Priestess collection in the store.
Read Cody's blog.
Visit the Priestess NYC Website.
Friend Priestess NYC on MySpace.
Friend Cody on Facebook.
sneak peek spring (part two)
Here's a few more peeks of new designers and their Spring 09 collections, arriving soon!
T by Alexander Wang
The new diffusion line from CFDA winner Alexander Wang feature just about the comfiest tees, tanks, and T-shirt dresses we’ve seen yet. Armholes are lowered, necklines are stretched, all cut in the designers fetchingly enervated style with colors like white, gray, charcoal, black and chartreuse. As the designer describes, “'It’s like sleeping in a T-shirt and then wearing it the next day.” All pieces are under $100.
5Preview
Swedish/Italian designers Emeli and Diego have screened iconic tongue-in-cheek prints onto unisex tees and tanks.
Anzevino and Florence
Using silk and twill blends, L.A. based designers Richard Florence and William Anzevino have created a sophisticated yet edgy collection of womenswear, menswear, and unisexwear.
Something and Something Else
The new collection "Spirit World" from Melbourne-bred designer Natalie Wood is downtown-cool with a feminine touch.
Sign up for our email newsletter to be notified when collections arrive.
T by Alexander Wang
The new diffusion line from CFDA winner Alexander Wang feature just about the comfiest tees, tanks, and T-shirt dresses we’ve seen yet. Armholes are lowered, necklines are stretched, all cut in the designers fetchingly enervated style with colors like white, gray, charcoal, black and chartreuse. As the designer describes, “'It’s like sleeping in a T-shirt and then wearing it the next day.” All pieces are under $100.
5Preview
Swedish/Italian designers Emeli and Diego have screened iconic tongue-in-cheek prints onto unisex tees and tanks.
Anzevino and Florence
Using silk and twill blends, L.A. based designers Richard Florence and William Anzevino have created a sophisticated yet edgy collection of womenswear, menswear, and unisexwear.
Something and Something Else
The new collection "Spirit World" from Melbourne-bred designer Natalie Wood is downtown-cool with a feminine touch.
Sign up for our email newsletter to be notified when collections arrive.
sneak peek spring (part one)
Spring is just around the corner and the new pieces arriving soon are so stunning, they've got us delirious and down-right obsessed. Here's a tiny taste of things to come:
Stolen Girlfriends Club
The New Zealand music/art group have created a dark and brooding collection of sultry pieces for men and women, featuring subtle lace finishes and ox-blood plaid.
Kenzo Minami
Japanese visual artist Kenzo Minami has created another sleek collection of bold geometric graphics for his super soft unisex tees for Spring. As usual the tee shirts are enzyme washed to give them that vintage worn-in feel, and the detail and color variety in the silk-screened graphics are phenomenal.
Scout
The L.A. store’s spring collection of contemporary womenswear is a street-chic ensemble of baggy tee dresses, leaf print leggings and the occasional hunting and trapping motif.
Brian Lichtenberg
The new collection by celebrity-darling Brian Lichtenberg is a fiery hot blaze of lace and sequins. Welcome to the future.
Ground-Zero
The Chu brothers have returned with a whimsical collection of high-end unisex "pajama-wear as outer-wear." Their Spring 09 collection titled “Lazy, naughty n Sleepy” features cheeky and subversive graphics involving...Care Bears!
Sharon Brunsher
The Israeli fashion designer and Tel Aviv Design Institute graduate has formed a beautiful and well crafted set of hand-dyed dresses and feminine tops.
Maurie and Eve
Young Aussie designers Kelly Davies and Maya Clemmenson have smartly fused beachwear and evening wear into a debonair collection brimming with free and easy femininity.
Stay tuned for more featurettes on upcoming collections...
Stolen Girlfriends Club
The New Zealand music/art group have created a dark and brooding collection of sultry pieces for men and women, featuring subtle lace finishes and ox-blood plaid.
Kenzo Minami
Japanese visual artist Kenzo Minami has created another sleek collection of bold geometric graphics for his super soft unisex tees for Spring. As usual the tee shirts are enzyme washed to give them that vintage worn-in feel, and the detail and color variety in the silk-screened graphics are phenomenal.
Scout
The L.A. store’s spring collection of contemporary womenswear is a street-chic ensemble of baggy tee dresses, leaf print leggings and the occasional hunting and trapping motif.
Brian Lichtenberg
The new collection by celebrity-darling Brian Lichtenberg is a fiery hot blaze of lace and sequins. Welcome to the future.
Ground-Zero
The Chu brothers have returned with a whimsical collection of high-end unisex "pajama-wear as outer-wear." Their Spring 09 collection titled “Lazy, naughty n Sleepy” features cheeky and subversive graphics involving...Care Bears!
Sharon Brunsher
The Israeli fashion designer and Tel Aviv Design Institute graduate has formed a beautiful and well crafted set of hand-dyed dresses and feminine tops.
Maurie and Eve
Young Aussie designers Kelly Davies and Maya Clemmenson have smartly fused beachwear and evening wear into a debonair collection brimming with free and easy femininity.
Stay tuned for more featurettes on upcoming collections...
designer profile: DEER DANA
Dana Veraldi, is the ink genius behind Deer Dana. Just recently having moved to New York, her unique artwork, photography and wicked style has quickly attracted attention. Her line of illustrated t-shirts feature tongue-in-cheek and obscurely cool prints. These unisex tees celebrate everyone from her ubiquitously downtown cohorts to the idols and tastemakers not yet part of Veraldi's everexpanding circle of "It"-kid friends and admirers, but soon sure to be.
Dana was kind enough to divulge to us a bit on her artistic endeavors and her life in NYC.
How did DEER DANA begin?
I created my website years ago as a showcase for my photography. I used to live in a big artist warehouse in Baltimore and I started screen-printing shirts in my loft while in college. I then decided to put the shirts up on my website as well. It just made sense to call my line Deer Dana.
You graduated from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2007. What brought you to New York?
The people and the treasures.
DEER DANA has developed a cult following practically overnight. What is your reaction when you see people wearing your shirts?
It's very flattering and funny.
You assist some of the top stylists in New York, you are a photographer, and you run DEER DANA. Which do you find the most rewarding?
My days and weeks are always different which I love. I was never keen on having a proper 9-5 job. I am lucky to be doing what I am doing. I have met so many great friends here in New York. I learn something interesting from each thing I do.
How do you choose who to feature in your designs?
I make drawings that become shirts of people I admire. They are all important people to me - whether they are close friends or people I find interesting and inspirational.
How would you describe your personal style?
I just wear what I like.
What brands or designers are currently on your radar?
I really like Ralph Lauren, Woolrich, Bess, Stubbs and Wootton, Iosselliani
Outside of fashion, what inspires you?
Suri Cruise
Who's next to be featured on a DEER DANA tee?
Right now I am working on my two Oliviers - Olivier Zahm and Olivier Theyskens.
View the Deer Dana collection in the store.
View the Deer Dana blog.
designer profile: Ground-Zero
Ground Zero was established by brothers Eri and Philip Chu. The brothers started fashion design in high school by remaking their own vintage clothing. Eri graduated from the Design School with a major in graphic design and went on to work for a classic tailor shop. Philip chose a degree in fashion management at Middlesex University in London. The brothers then teamed up to take the fashion world heads on with Ground-Zero. They continue to find inspiration in the street fashion of London, their home-base.
Philip kindly answered a few questions we posed him about the collection.
How did you get into fashion design?
There was a time when my brother and I were doing absolutely nothing in our lives so we decided to do something that interested us, just for the hell of it. We made music, art work and t-shirt prints...Ground-Zero was just one of those projects. As time went by, I came to realize that I was really interested in fashion design so I went to the university for a course.
What does the Fall 2008 collection represent?
The Obsession. We just put it in an exaggerated and funny way, drug-taking and all.
Why did you name your company Ground-Zero, what does it mean to you?
We feel that 'ground' and 'zero' are the start of everything.
How has London street culture influenced your collections?
Nothing that you can see, but the charisma of the collections.
Outside of fashion, what inspires you?
Everything but nothing. Some things I can't really tell but they are in my body.
What brands are currently on your radar?
Jose Castro, Junn. J, and JC de Castelbajac
In your eyes what makes a good collection?
Surprise, out of the ordinary.
What kind of person do you imagine wearing your clothing?
We never think of that. We just do what we want to do, never really doing something for someone randomly.
view the Men's Collection at I Dont Like Mondays
view the Women's Collection at I Dont Like Mondays
visit Ground-Zero at www.ground-zero.co.uk
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