I’m not going to delve into the Trayvon Martin case here. So much has been written already— presumably much more eloquently than I ever could. However, Trayvon and his life/death has been on my mind for a lot of different reasons. So I will speak about hoodies for just a second. I LOVE HOODIES. Some would say my business was literally launched on hoodies. We’ve hooked them up for years, almost since the very beginning. We make them, add them to existing tops, embellish them with studs—leather—paint, and trim them with fur. A hoodie can dress an outfit up or down, and is the perfect canvas for creative expression. Here are a few of my faves. I’m not posting them because to try to get you to buy one. And no, we won’t be doing a Trayvon tribute hood. But I will say this…Hoodies are for everyone.
Yeah, I admit it. I like Cassie. No, I don’t want to hear her sing…EVER. And I could care less if she’s Diddy’s side-piece or main chick (although, yuck). But girl can dress her ass off. In fact, in a celeb-world that is increasingly homogeneous, her style stands out. You never get the idea that Cassie has a stylist. Maybe I’m naiive. But she reminds me of friends I had at that age (and now) who love to play around with different looks; street-style, vintage, and designer. I caught this pic of her on some blog the other day, and it reminded me of this sweet vintage piece we shot the other day for our site. It is technically a men’s shirt, hand made in Kuwait. We have it shown as a dress on the utterly vivacious Miz Lian. She literally stopped traffic as we were shooting this. Some wierdo almost had an accident as he broke his neck to get a look. That’s what I call making a statement. What do you think of the iconic Versace (and Versace-inspired) prints? So great, or too “Kanye”?
Last weekend we visited Atlanta for Fro Fashion Week, a celebration of women who rock their hair naturally. I vended our wares, as well as being a featured designer for their Spring Fashion Show. Took a ton of pics, but check out this recap, which captures the vibe better than I could.
It was just one hell of a time from start to finish. And the experience completely reinforced my passion for “the hustle”. We shall spread the word one piece of clothing at a time if need be. I am convinced now more than ever that I am on the right path. Whatever it takes…By any means necessary. (well, maybe not by using guns, but you know what I’m sayin’)
Modeled by Nickie D. Image by Leah Beane.
Customers are always drawn to the caftan section at the shop (yes, I have a caftan section). They look at them longingly. They discuss them with their friends. They even try them on. But too often they don’t sell as quickly as I think they should. My theory is that a lot of women fear the caftan. And I kinda get it. No one wants to channel Mrs. Roper. (oops, did I just show my age?)
To me there are 2 simple factors in caftan consideration:
1. Print vs Color. Vibrant colors work well with subtle prints. Dynamic prints work with delicate colors.
2. Fit. Caftans & muumuus are not synonymous. There must be structure of some sort to highlight (not hide) your body.
What do ya think; do you have any caftan fear? Do you own a caftan? If so, do you actually wear it? This one is 70’s vintage with kimono sleeves, and perfect for the model, Miz Nickie D. Marvelous, don’t ya think? It sold to a chica in Belgium, who I can only imagine is werking the hell out of it as we speak.
Images: Leah Beane
Right now I SHOULD be fully immersed in getting our Spring 2012 pieces right. But it is so damned cold out that my mind keeps floating back to anything snuggly… It made me laugh to discover that we recently got in 2 identical vintage blue print “Cosby” sweaters at the shop. That NEVA happens. So I couldn’t resist using them to make this sweater dress, modeled with ferocity by the lovely Miz Afton.
Mohair. Vibrant print. Giant hood. Backless. It makes me happy on so many different levels. For the record, people always ask me how to wear this type of dress since the sweater seems in conflict with the backless. I say, throw on a denim jacket and keep it movin’.
What do you think? Would you rock a giant hooded Cosby sweater dress?
Truth be told, I have been “thinking about” blogging for longer than I care to admit. Excuses abound, but really I just wasn’t in any hurry to add yet another commitment to an already heavy work load.
Six months ago I got the opportunity to relocate my shop after 13 years. And even though the move was literally just a few doors down, the difference has been transformative. The space is magnificent, if I do say so myself. Cove ceilings & art deco moldings & hardwood floors & room to breathe. Finally room to breathe.
There has been a shift. Something is percolating. Not sure yet what is coming, but am definitely intrigued by the prospect of expanding my boutique and my fashion line. It’s an exciting time, and one I’d like to share with those whose support made it possible.
The photos are of my old store the day we finally cleared it out, along with a few of the new. One of my favorite customers proclaimed it, “not an upgrade…it’s an UPLIFT!”
So here we go.
Thanks for joining me.
