Much of the time, we tend to focus on bold contrasts, like this, this and this. Though, subtleties are just as interesting, if not more wearable. Here are a few pieces from Steven Alan‘s spring delivery – the collection’s a sophisticated menagerie of neutrals. We’re particularly keen on the blue cotton geometric slack and the pale pink polyester/cotton dress. What do you think? Are you ready to toss the winter wardrobe in the under-bed bins? We certainly are…
How many of you know how hard it is to make a fabric swatch? While we often focus on the printed surface here at Pattern Pulp, it’s always fascinating to hear how various designers approach their craft. Last Wednesday, I accompanied the fine folks at Steven Alan to interview Jenna Wilson and Cary Vaughan, the talented duo behind Ace & Jig at their studio in Cobble Hill. We spent an afternoon sifting through texture, munching on cupcakes and diving into the incredible story behind their brand and business.
While it’s understood that most designers buy their fabric- Jenna and Cary do everything from scratch, a laborious (but rewarding!) process that utilizes their years of industry experience and involves ongoing trips to India. The ladies work with a textile guru who’s as obsessive about the outcome as they are, “it’s a great process working together, it’s really fun and inspiring. He’s as meticulous as we are, and we respect each other’s expertise.”
So what’s a day in the life like when the ladies are at the factory working alongside the weavers and dyers? Follow along with our Q&A as we dissect the success that’s been their past year, how they’ve set a high ethical standard and what a dream collaboration would look like (a little teaser, it’s pattern based)…click here to read the interview.
Photos courtesy of Steven Alan & Ace & Jig
In preparation for Valentines day, I thought I’d do something a little different this year. Rather than ignore societal norms with Chinese take-out and a loving post-it note (a yearly tradition with my husband and I), I figured I’d throw the spotlight beyond the typical gift guide.
I reached out to many of the colorful characters I call friends, and got some fantastic responses back. Enjoy their picks, as we’d all love to give and get a little love, recognition and support throughout the year, not just next tuesday. And don’t worry we’re still going for Chinese!
I’ll kick it off!
What I’d Love to Give: My husband‘s stressed out. Work’s never-ending, the to-do list’s forever mounting. He deserves a Sunday afternoon of relaxation. I recently received a gift certificate to Great Jones Spa, here in NYC and spent a few hours just lounging in the pools. It was heavenly. I want him to do the same.
What I’d Love to Get: I’ve had my eye on this Claire Vivier bag for two months now. I saw it on a buyer’s blog and I’ve been anticipating it’s arrival at Steven Alan. I love that it’s practical and casual with colorful purpose. I might even gift it to myself this coming month.
Fashion Week’s in full swing here in New York and to kick off, I’m sharing some photos I took at this morning’s Fall Winter 2012 presentation at Steven Alan.
The theme encompassed 1940’s Mexico City and the mix of metallics, textures and warm detailing translated into a beautifully cohesive collection throughout. This brand is one of my favorites (not because I did a bit of consulting work with them late last year), but because the team behind the clothing is one of the nicest, smartest, most down-to-earth teams I’ve encountered in the fashion business.
The backdrop mimicked cement in a soft and fluid way, providing the subtle texture needed to bounce off the fabrics. It made you feel like you could be within a cityscape or even an abstract painting.
And finally, I’ll leave you with the lovely and chic Maleeha Khan who’s recently joined the SA family to run social creative content.
For better photos, click here.
While I frequently write about color, it’s hard to find me in anything but black and white. Angela‘s the same way and she produces colorful prints on a daily basis, go figure. Today’s gift guide focuses on the lady in your life from a monochromatic angle. From kitty coasters and Lana Del Ray to Sandro sneaks and Steven Alan stripes, here’s the gift guide for the girl who makes you smile on the glummest of days.
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1. Dupenny English Garden Pinny | 2. Anha Verdugo Kitty Coasters | 3. Hermes Recycled Scarf Necklace | 4. Lana Del Ray Born to Die Album | 5. Sandro Albatorock Sneakers | 6. La Liberacion Dance Mix | 7. Theyskens’ Theory Embellished Clutch
Color blocked palettes, playful patterns and a cool subdued backdrop were all in play at Steven Alan’s Spring 2012 showcase this morning.
While a majority of the crowd wore black to usher in the beginning of Fall, the models presented combinations of citrus, aqua and khaki hues.
Utilizing classic shapes and minimal accents, bold color and all-over pattern was abundant throughout. The show opened with a black and white suit, a bold, wearable, tailored statement.
Proving pattern can descend gender, this seashell design translated beautifully on cotton as much as it did on silk.