Textile Trends & Moon Phases

Moon phases have been a mechanism for counting from the beginning of time. The ability to track progress through shadows and light is magnificent concept, and artists from all over the globe have been harnessing this as inspiration for their work.

At the top (1), we have art printed on textiles from the Bulan Project. Bulan means “moon” in Indonesian, and is the guiding light for Elle Luna, the artist behind the series. (2) is a peasant blouse by HD in Paris, that’s a new arrival on Anthopologie’s website and (3) is one of twelve unique calendar pages by the print studio, Clementine and Pickle. To purchase, click here.

January 29, 2014 | By: Shayna Kulik

Trend: Allover Graphic Chaos

There are four brands in this mix- though it looks like one cohesive story. That folks, is a trend. At the top, we have Petter Pilotto’s fabulous new collection for Target. The prints seem a bit experimental for the Target customer, though, bright always sells, so it should be interesting to see who buys (beyond the city types).

Then we have the most eccentric footwear collaboration by Mary Katrantzou and Gianvito Rossi. Simply amazing- the print collages are loud, and the styles remind me of J.Lo, but in a fresh way. Then, in a quieter, more pared down corner, there are these sophisticated beauties by Loeffler Randall. Crisp flats or boots for monochromatic fans. I might actually buy these, I like them so much.

January 24, 2014 | By: Shayna Kulik

Around the Globe, Visiting Singapore

If you do a compare/contrast of Singapore’s creative class over the past few years, there’s been significant leaps and bounds. My brother and sister-in-law (and now baby) moved there three years ago, and over time and yearly visits, I’ve slowly watched the pages turn. Things finally feel different, like design (beyond the brand) and the appreciation of innovation is weaving it’s way into side streets, cafes and local services.

Makes sense, right? An economic and business hub can only cater to a singular culture for so long before expats and international influences mix things up. I think my brother-in-law, Steven, would agree that creatively, Singapore’s evolving into a melting pot of new ideas, catering to more than just food. Here are few photos from Books Actually, some public housing that looks architecturally interesting, Chinese New Year preparations, my sister-in-law and I on New Years Eve, sugarcane at a Hawkers Center and the most beautiful moving drop display I’ve seen at an airport.

January 9, 2014 | By: Shayna Kulik

Around the Globe, Visiting Saigon

I particularly loved Ho Chi Minh City, or more appropriately, Saigon. If we’re talking fashion, it’s a city devoted to children’s and menswear, with a nod to art and design throughout various poster stores, bookshops and cafes. I found L’usine, a concept and design store housing local and international products to be quite special, as well as Pizza 4P’s (Italian by Japanese…here’s a little video I took of some pizza making magic), Cuc Gach Quan, a vegetarian’s haven, and this very special non-profit called Mekong Creations, which employs women throughout Vietnam and Cambodia making beautiful quilts, bags, fabrics and small home goods.

If you’re looking to see how the locals live and interact with their families, a visit to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is in order. You’re merely feet away from the animals and around every bend, there’s a musical performance, engaging the children to dance and pose for pictures. This leg of travel was very special, as the energy’s palpable and the pace of globalization’s moving quickly (as opposed to the north). The French influence is evident, both in the past and the present, primarily throughout the architectural landscape. Interestingly though, Korean, Russian and Japanese culture has made significant headway, making it’s mark in fashion, media and business development. Can’t tell you how many kids were listening to and watching KPOP Music and film…

Stay tuned, I’ll be sharing the Singapore leg tomorrow!

January 8, 2014 | By: Shayna Kulik

Textiles from the Eskayel Neverworld

Yesterday we focused on hard motifs and circular themes, today’s devoted to ethereal delights. We’re highlighting the beautiful and enchanting symmetry coming out of the Eskayel Studio. Run by Shana Campanaro and Nick Chacona, this Brooklyn-based company excels in interior fabrics.

I recently spotted their couch at ABC Carpet and wished I could bring it home and make it a permanent part of my living room. There’s a freshness and a familiarity to the work that shines through the color combinations and subtle application of pattern. If you’re looking for a sophisticated gift this holiday season, I’d recommend visiting their shop, as the stationary, iPhone cases, coasters, pillows and baskets would all be stunning additions to any home.

December 19, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Textiles & Mythical Motifs from Ursidae

There’s beauty and balance to the Ursidae Collection that lives beyond the lookbook. The backstory to the mythically themed scarves reveals a commitment to family and the evolution of talent, shared though generations. The color combinations are as sophisticated as the repeats are playful. If you’re looking for a holiday gift that’s truly a show stopper, these intricate illustrations have our vote.

December 12, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik