So I got an email introducing me to Shabby Apple yesterday and had to share with you guys immediately...why? It just made sense! I think Emily and CK say it best... ' a return to what dresses were always meant to be- a one piece outfit. No tanks, no tops, no cardigans, nothing... except accessories' And best of all ladies...it's very affordable. My favorite cat's cradle dress (above) is $62! And the Shabby Baby is too cute as well, that little number below is $37. I'm going shopping!
I'm unable to find much information on designer Michelle Sackson of Cirque du Cheval, but isn't the collection pretty. These images are from Spring 07, but I adore the soft jersey pieces with trim and zipper detail. Check out the collection here and let Michelle know we want to see more!
It's pretty rare to see people still employing artisan techniques to modern goods so I was excited when Sara emailed me about her collection. Trained as a jeweler, Sara also apprenticed with a leathersmith to expand her knowledge of product design. The jewelry pieces are exceptional and remind me of wearable sculptures and I found the same aesthetic in her bag collection. My favorite pieces are the Lina envelope wallets, so simple and clean in a beautiful range of colors. Check out the full collection here.
ok you'll excuse me here I'm sure when I tell you the price. So like almost everyone I read a few celeb blogs..ahem. And I see this image of Mel B on vacation in a leopard bikini, then I trot over to Target to see the goodies in the new Rogan for Target line and lo and behold...what looks like the same bikini for 16.99 per piece. There...now have at it and I'll go back to my regular topics.
image from daily mail
I came across Les Fees de Bengale at the Pool tradeshow and just loved this French line; the designer is actually a young French girl and this was their first step into the US market. I saw the Fall collection which had the most delightful varieties of eggplant, taupes and grays. Using natural dyes and organic fabrics, the collection has a hint of whimsy in the shapes and sex appeal in the beautiful details. So french eh? If you're interested in this collection for your shop, Nathalie Welch is the US Sales Manager.
I've been away from you for so long only to come back with a post about myself (for shame:) , but I just had to share the stellar experience I had this week. As cheering squad for independent designers I couldn't resist an opportunity to meet one of the founding indie labels; the designer whose name is so recognizable it could be shortened to three letters...DVF.
I got an email recently introducing Scosha NYC and absolutely loved it at first sight. Scocha is an Australian born artist and considers herself a story jeweler, using her travels and inspirations to wind tales in her pieces. Combining precious stones, metals, leather and linen to create each piece leaves a layered look that Scosha desbribes as 'soulful'...full agree there. Her styling can't be beat either.
I first saw the Roberta Oaks collection at the Pool S(eco)nd show in February, and it's just as deliciously cute up close as it is online. Photographer and collage artist Roberta Oaks Powers launched her collection in 2004, and branched into eco fabrics for Fall 2007. Comprosed mainly of bamboo and organic cotton, the Hawaii based label is made at a local sewing shop in Honolulu. I love the sweet pairings of print, buttons, rouching details, and unique shapes...just right for island living or pretend island living.
Love the sweet and simple collection from Peligrosa. Born from a love story (collective awww:), designers Adam & Nico met in 2004 and combined their experience and affections to create Peligrosa. The company uses certified organic, sustainable, and reclaimed materials to produce the collection and have moved 80% of their production stateside to reduce their carbon footprint. Check out the collection here.
Today I felt for some lighthearted style with it being almost...gasp...60 degrees! in New York. Flowie is a new lifestyle collection of home goods and accessories. Everything is printed onto linen or cotton, made in the U.S., and pretty adorable to boot. California based Yaling Hou is based in California and applies her nature inspired prints to this easy going collection. That cute little bag is fully lined and all of $66.
Love the tailored but edgy pieces that designer Corinne Grassini designs for Society for Rational Dress. Deceptively simple pieces are finished with details like leather, brass buckles or buttons. SRD is one of few lines deviating from prints for Spring 2008 but has instead focused on exxagerated shapes; my fave is the tent style tank top with a super skinny racerback...with buttons of course! 
I came across Lush Bella after reading Holly's interview with her for the "What to do" series (a great read if you're thinking of pursuing a design career and/or working for yourself). Designer Kerry Pitt-Hart creates some beautiful pieces using bits and pieces of different materials; one tem can include everything from a snail shell to lace and ribbon. I love the vintage quality and the simple photographs to boot. Check Lush Bella out here; Kerry also sells wholesale and does custom orders. 
Camilla Norrback creates a beautiful collection of 'eco-luxury' clothing, a phrase the company uses to describe the process and clothing. The cultivation, processing, and colouring of the fabric has as little impact on the environment as possible using natural alternatives to toxins and chemicals. Spring/Summer 08 is inspired by the clash of responsible adulthood and carefree childhood; mixing classic tailored garments and simple jersey pieces. See the new collection here...loving the muted colors.
I've heard of Love Rocks NY before but I finally got a chance to check it out in depth. Love Rocks NY is a unique combination of fine jewelry meets contemporary style. Designer Limor Ratzabi Senker uses ethically sourced micro-pave diamonds embedded in 14k gold and platinum pieces. I love the application of high end materials to a youthful style and detail.
Pepa Delight launched Spring 2007 by London based designer Hamish Fairfax Ramsey. The brand seeks to redefine jersey with a tailored approach; making it no longer a complement to the outfit but rather the statement. I love when anyone chooses to "redefine"anything but with Pepa Delight they have made statements with jersey that I didn't even know were possible. Check out here to see the collections...love the delicious summer colors. Eva also has a few fall pieces available still right here.
I discovered Loyal Loot through a post on D*S today; turns out they are a collective of clothing, product, and furniture design from Canada. Their products are all really sweet with a unique perspective, but of course I'm checking out the clothes. A collaboration between two of the artists, Loyal Loot clothing is all about distinct pieces with the intent of layering and creating a very individual look. Check out the full Loyal Loot offerings here.
Today's Daily Candy had me at Turks & Caicos. Daughter to former chief minister of the islands, Kathy Misick's new collection is at once tailored and refined with an organic influence. Each item from the small intro collection is finished with handmade silk rope...I love it all. 
As the temp inches a little higher each week I've got one thing on my mind (besides french fires which are always on my mind :). Shoes. So today, to show you gals (and a guy or two?) how much I love you I'm sharing my probably not so secret place for shoes. Great prices, even better shoes, and serious compliments everytime I get a new pair. Deep breath...click here. And please reserve a few size 7's for me...thanks.
Check out the Spring/Summer assortment from Antoinette Lee. I love that coral ostrich color of the Dolcita and the beachy, casual vibe of the new canvas Stella. I have a sudden urge to be strolling in the Hamptons after a long, leisurely lunch. Check out the collection and the newly revamped site right here.
