FABbergasted

happy weekend!

2008-09-19T12:44:00.006-04:00

<

Wow... this week flew and passed me by! Here's to weekends! Don't we need it?

Just a couple finds this week...
The first is Shumaq "a sister act by Peruvian natives Vanessa Barrantes and her business partner sister Jacqueline Barrantes." My husband is Peruvian, so I have to admit I do have a persuasion towards Peruvian artists. But these clothes don't need any extra persuasion. How perfect for the "back to school" feel of Fall? Of course, they're too pricey for just one season, but I find them really versatile for long-term wear.

Next is my favorite Etsy find of the week - bloomers! Channel your inner Josephine March with these dainties that would make any winter night way brighter with those lacy frills. You can check out the selection here.

Lastly, a crafter's paradise: Purl Soho. One browse through the fabrics and fibers has me dreaming up projects for days. Complete with a project-blog and patterns, this is a fantastic resource. Take their beautiful selection of Japanese fabrics including this one from Yuwa with hand-drawn characters

And this one Globalweave Textiles

knit wits

2008-09-11T13:24:00.008-04:00

Fall makes me so excited for sweaters and boots and jeans. It's definitely my very favorite time of the year weather-wise because it makes me think of hiking, crackling fires, apples and pumpkins, oh, the list goes on and on. Since learning to knit a year ago, I know have a new thing to look forward to with Fall: all the knitting projects I can work on! So here's a round-up of some knitting news and ideas....

Tom Scott is a designer W magazine featured in this month's issue, and his work is so lighthearted! My mantra for this year is "don't take yourself so seriously", and it seems Mr. Scott is a kindred spirit.

This is a gorgeous sweater from etsy seller astronette that has me inspired to remix salvaged sweaters.

As of yesterday, I've been checking out ravelry and WOW. If you are a knitter or crocheter, JOIN NOW! You have to sign-up for a list to receive an invitation into the community (probably to keep out spam email addresses).

City Knitting is our Grand Rapids one-stop amazing shop for all things knit. Their yarn selection is endless (and the clearance section is superb), there are free patterns available to all comers, their classes are the best ever, and the ladies who work there are very kind and helpful. It's located on that little street behind Wolfgang's.

If you are a beginner knitter or want to learn, keep a lookout for Purl Jam events through the Student Activities OFfice. I'm planning our first one for October, and I'll advertise the date once I have it. This will be an evening event where you can show up and learn from really experienced knitters all that you need to know to get started!

f-troupe shoes

2008-09-10T16:31:00.005-04:00

F-Troupe shoes deliver a subtle vintage vibe but stay really modern. According to Daily Candy, founder Mick Hoyle creates based on flea-market finds. They can be difficult to find in the U.S. but that shouldn't stop you from looking! There are some at tobi and creatures of comfort.

Back in action!

2008-09-10T14:27:00.004-04:00

Welcome back! I'm here again and I'll do my best to keep this blog updated with all the FABulous news and goings-ons. First things first: thanks for a great cokes and clubs! I can't wait to work with all you newbies to FAB.

Today is the opening of another great thing: Topshop for the U.S.! This is Kate Moss's store based in the UK and there's some great clothing here. Kate makes all clothing look effortless, doesn't she? Enjoy and send me any news you'd like to have posted!

get smart

2008-04-18T12:48:00.002-04:00

Bikes may not have THAT much to do with fashion, but recently Vogue ran a photo shoot claiming bikes are the newest, greatest accessories, so I'll make it work. This is the coolest bike through an amazing project (Bamboo Bike Project). Unfortunately for us, the bamboo bike costs like thousands of dollars. But what's amazing is this bamboo bike can be made by people who have lots of bamboo and little money. Check out Calfee Design for more of the story.

spring sewing

2008-04-15T12:14:00.002-04:00

This is a pretty easy project from Purl Soho that may be just what you need to calm end of the year nerves. Not to mention, the colors are incredible. It's the Trip around the Wool blanket.

Aprons.

2008-04-07T17:20:00.002-04:00

This may only be feeding my tendency towards living in a Jane Austin world, but these aprons seem like such a great idea for this time of year! Well - any time of the year! What with yard work, cooler weather, and the desire to shed my androgynous skinny jeans and sweaters of the winter for more feminine sandals and skirts, aprons are perfect.

This is from Lotta Jansdotter (who has great fabric as well) and it's onsale for $51.20

This is from Pamela Tang's etsy shop ($70) and there are more colors available as well.

My personal favorite, from Selvedge (in the UK, sadly), Fog Linen Work apron (L30, which is maybe about $50)

If you're feeling crafty, Favorite Things has a great pattern here. And, Amy Butler have a fun apron pattern included in her Barcelona Skirt pattern here. If you're in Grand Rapids, Field's Fabrics (on 44th St ) has many of her patterns and many other fun apron patterns!

oops

2008-04-07T17:07:00.003-04:00

Still stuck on the airbrushed thing... this is the funniest blog I've seen in a while (the best since my tall friend, Emily, introduced me to Stuff White People Like). It's called Photoshop Disasters. The name says it all...

an unachievable aesthetic

2008-04-02T14:10:00.004-04:00

That's the problem with air-brushing, according to the British Fashion Council... "an unachievable aesthetic". So their answer? Label accordingly. If an image has been airbrushed, the BFC wants the magazine to indicate this information. Read this article from New York Magazine for more info. Would this make a difference? Images are powerful; what happens when it's image vs. word?

subtle Bottega Venetta

2008-03-27T13:18:00.003-04:00

I'm currently reading a GREAT book for anyone interested in the fashion industry... it's the much commented on Deluxe: How Luxury Lost it's Lustre. Author Dana Thomas really takes a fascinating dive into the underbelly of the luxury industry. It's a reality check for any fashionista or designer, and it's making me rethink how we define luxury, access, labels, etc.

So imagine how great it is to acquire all this insider business knowledge of the luxury industry, then find this article in the NY Times today. Titled "You'll know how much you spent", the article reveals how the high standards of Tomas Maier have become almost subversive in a market that wants more fast. But - wonder of wonders! - he has a strong market. It's a great article in light of Deluxe's presentation of aluxury industry that perhaps has dictated more than it's listened. Maybe Bottega Venetta's success (and I would include Prada's success as well) is a testimony to what happens when we let creative directors (as designers) run fashion houses - instead of interior decorators and aggressive business men.

trashy fashion

2008-03-26T15:09:00.002-04:00

Check out this amazing (student) fashion show

Also, this page has some really great minimalist designs like this coat.

sartorialist goes to India

2008-03-17T12:31:00.002-04:00

And the results are stunning. I can't get enough of the young lady in black with the yellow silk slippers. and these eyes. Check it out HERE.

"April can wait"

2008-03-17T11:57:00.004-04:00

This is a great little street fashion feature from the NY Times.
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/fashion/20080315_ONSTREET_FEATURE/index.html

And who else LOVES the Diane VonFurstenberg Am. express commercial?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rgu7tZtQLvc

etsy treasures

2008-03-05T14:16:00.004-05:00

There have been so many great etsy finds recently, a LOT including magical felting. here are a few to consider...
(the necklace above is from the ever amazing kjoo. $65)

Florals are all the rage! A happy find from Mid West Vintage for just $15)

These are cute and bright, without being too precious. Choose 3 for $10 from The funky felter

Dino LOVE from Monster Hoodies for $49.99

This shop is endlessly creative. from Squidlicks for $18

stardust

2008-03-05T14:13:00.002-05:00

These cloth shoes are adorable. What a fantastic DYI project just in time for spring break. You can find the pattern here. Thanks to K. for sharing!

chic and antique bags

2008-02-20T13:32:00.003-05:00

Daniel and I are both crazy about nice, sleek, strange bags, so we are always on the lookout. Here's a few favorites of late...

This bag from Delight.com (found via Outblush) is great because it's so chic and girly! ($58)

This vintage Czech bag is an antique find from P.O.S.H. in Chicago - one of my favorite Chicago stores. ($40) The Swiss Glacier goggles ($22) are just too fun.

This is an exciting etsy find from upaproject. The bag is called Oito

hoodies remixed

2008-02-19T14:15:00.002-05:00

Rose La Biche has created some amazing new "hoodies". Much much more on her site HERE.

etsy find

2008-02-14T17:07:00.002-05:00

A great etsy find! Gaia Conceptions has wonderful, imaginative pieces made from locally produced/dyed organic fabric.

radio edit

2008-02-12T13:11:00.000-05:00

There are some wonderful npr programs lately covering the fashion industry that have a lot to do with the past several articles I've posted (several have author Dana Thomas as a contributor!).

Made in a Sweatshop?

the economy and fashion week

can accessability turn luxury dull?

2008-02-12T12:16:00.000-05:00

"never has storytelling been so central and quality so peripheral to the business."

This is an other fantastic article about the fashion industry and the position of "luxury" brands that should accompany your thoughts as you pick up your next issue of Vogue, W, Elle, or any of those publications. There is so much in here - including the author of the article, Kerry Howley, who is reviewing and responding to the book Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Lustre by Dana Thomas. I highly recommend you read the article here. Below are some quotes from the article that reveal the author's ideas about class and where (or, to whom) fashion belongs.

"Democratization is a dangerous game, and the executive who misjudges the balance between accessibility and positional value can destroy a brand’s cachet in a single season"
It's hard to believe there will ever be a time that an $800 bag will not be sold to a person with $800 to spend. That doesn't mean "democratization". To the people in the stores and industry, it may seem like such audacity for a ripped-jean wearing bum to stroll in and buy their stuff. But the issue is that not that the industry has somehow started having the concerns of the masses in mind (maybe the wallets of the masses). We are placing "positional value" - the status that comes with buying Louis Vuitton or Gucci - over the reality of our life. Sure, as Howley states, "Buying into a dream has always been part of high fashion’s allure"; the difference is we started believing it more than anything else. If we believe the storytelling of advertisements - that Prada really makes me the urban sophosticate, or Versace somehow makes me more sexually liberated - we literally are sold to the business and give up a lot more than $800.

And to keep those stories going, consumers must be able to find places to insert themselves in a narrative that selectively reflects the realities of their life. Just like the fashion shoots in magazines where women in $6000 furs are grocery shopping or pumping gas, it seems major labels are walking a fine line between building their brand to impossible heights and trivializing themselves.
"Fashion is more celebrity driven than it used to be, and the editors at US Weekly never tire of revealing how celebrities are 'just like us.' Pictures of Renee Zellweger taking out the garbage are as important as pictures of her on the red carpet. You can pull off a Carolina Herrera dress too, or at least a wallet. You both do chores. You’re practically twins."

What an observation. The other side is the celebrities who pair a white t-shirt with an Oscar de la Renta full-length skirt (or the like) on the red carpet. The juxtaposition of a ridiculously pricey, handmade piece with a basic one (also handmade, but most likely in a sweatshop) could undermine the luxury or bring it to wider distribution.

Read the article for yourself and let me know what you think.

Every wondered if those campaigns work?

2008-02-11T16:17:00.000-05:00

"There is a broadening concern that business marketing is taking on the patina of philanthropy and crowding out philanthropic activity and even substituting for it"

“We’re not encouraging people to buy more, but if they’re going to buy a pair of Armani sunglasses, we’re trying to get a cut of that for a good cause”

“Red is not a charity; it’s a business”

These are all quotes from a great article on Product(RED) from the New York Times this past weekend exploring the details and facts about the campaign. You can read it here.
Every time I see a GAP commercial promoting their (RED) campaign, I've wondered if it's really working. This article may not exactly answer that question as much as complicate it, but maybe it's good to be reminded that saving the world is not as easy as buying a shirt or bracelet.

swimming beauty

2008-02-07T13:23:00.001-05:00

These are almost fun enough to make me want to start swimming again! found here.

the best

2008-02-07T13:09:00.001-05:00

even though I usually don't get that excited about valentine's day, I do LOVE the color red and think this is too cute to miss...

$16 at the curiosity shop

the search continues

2008-02-06T16:28:00.000-05:00

Found a fantastic article on the ethics of clothing from Linda Grant (of The Guardian). It ends with some "beautiful ethical" labels including the UK's popular People Tree.

enviro clothing

2008-02-06T11:58:00.000-05:00

Dwell magazine usually sticks to modern home design, but they had a great article about Nau, an environmentally progressive clothing company out of Portland (not Canada, as I said earlier). The clothing won't fix any color longings you may be having during the dreary February stretch, but there's some very inventive and fun stuff. (I've been informed that the color choices are also rooted in environmental initiatives AND there's some brighter looks for spring on the way!)

urban outfitters inspiration

2008-02-05T15:57:00.000-05:00

this dress is made by recycling men's plaid shirts. Urban Outfitters is finally doing the actual recycling thing instead of just making this dress LOOK like it's recycled.

hable construction

2008-02-05T15:27:00.001-05:00

beautiful fabric! Hable Construction is a favorite of interior designers... but I can see dresses and bags in these lovely prints.

tulle and AA Super Tuesday

2008-02-05T14:56:00.001-05:00

Fashion is Spinach has some great photos from Elle (shot by Karl Lagerfield). Looks like it's all about tulle this spring.

There's a nice interview on shiny squirrel with artist Julianna Swanney (from oh my cavalier). She's a Michigan artist!

Are you on the American Apparel email list? Usually I try to avoid them because I could spend too much money too easily, but today is different.

"We urge voters to consider Obama on the Democratic side."
There's information on their website and you can see all their ads and read articles... AA is by default a more political company than many in that they have taken their commitment to responsibly made clothing very seriously (without waiting for government sanctions). Immigration is a large concern to them because it really effects their workforce, but also because they are invested and working in the LA garment industry. In LA alone it's estimated there are more than 5,000 sweatshops. AA has done a lot to expose the needs of workers and immigrants.

"We urge voters to consider McCain on the Republican side"

whimsical details and straight-up crazy

2008-02-04T16:35:00.000-05:00

I love this yellow flower belt! (from jcrew)

amazing balloon dresses!! via Abbey

classic fashion favorites

2008-01-30T12:17:00.000-05:00

These are some of my favorites... who are yours??

Katharine Hepburn

Grace Kelly

Billie Holiday (for great "fashion flashbacks" in African American fashion, check out I Like Her Style blog)

newsweek

2008-01-30T11:45:00.000-05:00

There's a great article in this week's Newsweek called "Rise of the Real People". Writer Jennie Yabroff discusses the influence of FAB favorite, The Sartorialist, and how his work taking photos of street fashion. It's not only effecting style choices... it's effecting body image in a good way.

have a read and let me know what you think:
"Rise of Real People"

auld lang syne

2008-01-03T15:17:00.000-05:00

Welcome back! Interim at Calvin is probably the best time of year. Everyone is laid-back, spending time together, with one class to concentrate on... so plenty of time for design inspiration. To start the new year off, I thought we could use an Etsy round-up of great fashion finds. Most of these are vintage, but a few are really great designers.

Ramona West Vintage Shop has a great collection of vintage finds with great 60's styles.

Mid West Vintage has amazing deals (like the dress above for $12!). But her photo-shoots are the best.

Alison Rose's "Ohio Mixtape"

Can you believe this color from Liinok She also has beautiful dresses.

These are more on the "dream list"... what inspiration from kjoo*

Merry Christmas from FAB

2007-12-12T10:51:00.003-05:00

Have a wonderful holiday! See you in January! (image via Sartorialist)

speaking of old fads...

2007-11-14T11:53:00.000-05:00

I know I just posted about a fanny pack, but a scrunchy? For real? What do you think... will this one come back or will you run for the nearest neutral hair band? (via Free People)

Betty Crocker style make-up

2007-11-14T11:45:00.000-05:00

It's all in a box! Just add... face, I guess. Beauty in a Box looks like a great solution for someone who might get a bit stressed walking through the counters in department stores. The sales pressure can get as strong as the perfume smell.

not-your-mom's fannypack

2007-11-13T17:09:00.000-05:00

This Shuttle Bag is a great, classy update on a much-ridiculed/regretted accessory... the fannypack. Aside from the price tag ($98), would you wear this?

gifting

2007-11-08T16:07:00.000-05:00

As we start thinking of gifts, Oh Happy Day has been having a great collection of posts about "Gifts under $30". I especially love these scissors for the sewer/knitter/crafter in your life... or for yourself. At $14, with signed brass-handles, this could be the prettiest practical purchase.

Knickers

2007-11-08T15:57:00.000-05:00

Most of my posts might be considered more "girly-girl" (ie: the jewelry, skirts, etc.) But here is a must-see for all the guys with some fashion sense and bikes. The word Knickers makes me giggle... so do these. But it's a joyous giggle because these knickers from Bicycle Fixation are the most fun. If I saw a guy wearing them, I'd probably hug him.

sigh

2007-11-08T12:25:00.000-05:00

how beautiful... via SeamSters
These are by designer Thea Tolsma and guess what the material is??? rubber inner tubing!

Sew, Mama, Sew

2007-11-06T15:42:00.000-05:00

Sew Mama Sew is a treat to explore. They've compiled tutorials for gifts... all are fabulous, like the above pictured lunch bag.

embroidery

2007-11-06T15:37:00.001-05:00

be astounded.
Julia Swan's work in embroidery is fantastic!

purl

2007-11-06T15:00:00.000-05:00

Bobbi Bear pattern from Purl fro $5.50

What with our knitting events lately, not to mention, learning to knit for myself, I'm noticing knitting projects more.

Purl is an amazing resource for fabric (especially print) and yarn, but it also has patterns... some for free!

fabric from Amy Butler

farmhouse yarns, andy's merino in grashopper
These are too much fun! More felting than knitting.

This is a very fun project for the scarf-beginners like me. via favorite colors

rose la biche

2007-11-06T14:06:00.000-05:00

These are a little pricey... although they ARE made from American Apparel material (meaning they are sweatshop free). Rose la Biche has a shop, a blog, and some very nice photo shoots.

this is my favorite

I can't decide if the shirt or the feathery hair piece is better! (click on the photo for a bigger look)

tied up

2007-11-03T10:57:00.000-04:00

I love this picture from the Sartorialist. Notice the tie for a belt. And the suitcase purse... I could go on but I won't.

make-up

2007-10-30T13:58:00.000-04:00

Yes, this is still the same blog... just did a little make-over... less eye clutter the better right now.

paper fashion

2007-10-30T13:28:00.000-04:00

Now this isn't exactly fashion, but it's more about patterns... French Paper is a paper mill, yes. I found this company (via design*sponge) and because it's a Michigan company, I got really happy and couldn't resist posting about it. It's family owned and operated, not to mention, everything runs on hydroelectric power. Talk about reshaping an industry...

Also, a designer who uses this paper mill has lovely prints available on etsy here. I wish this was fabric so I could recover my couch in it!

Knit Picks

2007-10-29T16:56:00.001-04:00

This Saturday, November 3, we are having a Purl Jam Knitting Circle in the Fish House! Come at 8:00 PM and bring needles or crochet hooks if you have them... if you don't, it's okay.

This site is for inspiration.

the milky way

2007-10-24T16:07:00.000-04:00

Meg from Faking Good Breeding has a thoughtful post on the lack of diversity in the modeling world titled Whitewashed Runways. This is so interesting in light of the recent Vogue India release - the first cover? Gemma Ward (white and blonde) front-and-center flanked by two Indian models.

Catapult magazine

2007-10-23T20:35:00.000-04:00

The newest issue of the online magazine Catapult is all about "Dressing Up". There are some great resources for sparking your thoughts on how fashion interacts with our culture and the decisions we make, etc. Every issue of Catapult is great anyways, so if you are not a member yet - I highly recommend joining!!

art you can wear?

2007-10-22T22:52:00.001-04:00

whether these could weather actual wear, I think they are great! yellow house art is a great site (via designsponge) for some amazing, affordable art.

approach with a spririt of restraint

2007-10-17T17:44:00.000-04:00

refinery 29

sillery

2007-10-17T17:43:00.001-04:00

too fun (via creatures of comfort)

amazing

2007-10-17T17:32:00.001-04:00

Kirsten showed me this blog: A Dress A Day.
You will LOVE reading her "Secret Lives of Dresses" stories... I can't get over how fun this whole blog is, so check it out.

coat season

2007-10-17T10:58:00.001-04:00

I'm such a coat person... more than shoes, more than bags. These are some favorites (via topshop)

Sock Dreams - Company of the week

2007-10-11T13:17:00.000-04:00

Sock Dreams is the company of the week and you will LOVE what you get from them. The site sells a variety of labels for socks, leg-warmers, ARM warmers (yes, they exist), and tights/leggings, and all of them are sweatshop free sources with a lot from the U.S.

'tween fashion

2007-09-21T13:46:00.000-04:00

When I was in this 'tweens age group, my fashion role models were from the show Kids Incorporated. yikes. glad that phase ended! Most of them have grown into more graceful fashions (Jennifer Love Hewitt) or into their own fashion blunders (Fergie, ahem)

For my sister, a senior in high school, it was more Mary Kate and Ashley...

Now maybe it's Hannah Montana?

But it seems that early teen fashion is bordering more on the Brittney Spears side of ugly than the bubblegum sparkling kaleidoscope of Disney. Obviously, most Calvin students are past this fashion phase (let's HOPE we are), but this is a fun article from Slate on the state of clothing for our younger counterparts. It's enough to make me pray for a FABber to tackle the 'tweens industry and get some amazingly creative, responsibly made, and affirming designs in those malls!!!

company of the week!

2007-09-20T14:24:00.000-04:00

Tom Shoes is a really fun company we discovered last year. For every pair of shoes you buy, a pair is donated to a child in need... right now they are working towards a "South African shoe drop" with the goal of distributing more than 50,000 pairs! These are casual and comfortable enough that they would make amazing gifts for special people in your life! There's also a "style your sole" shoe party?? hmmmm....

Lylou Design

2007-09-19T15:25:00.001-04:00

Okay, the bags are cute, but I have to admit what caught my eye was the clothes on the girl holding the bag. But the bags at Lylou are very nice - especially because she's a Georgia designer! wooohoo!

Alabama Chanin

2007-09-12T17:04:00.001-04:00

Alabama Chanin is a designer who does not always design clothing (although what she does do is fun), but I LOVE her uses of clothing in other projects. Check out more of her work here.

Welcome back!

2007-08-27T13:18:00.000-04:00

I am so excited that the FAB crew is on their way back to Calvin this week! There are new students who don't even know about FAB yet, there are FAB veterans ready to create and teach, and there's lots of in-betweeners. For a little inspiration, here's a new vintage clothing site that is wonderfully affordable.

enjoy!

favorite things

2007-06-05T11:14:00.000-04:00

drooling over wonderful patterns from Built by Wendy at simplicity...

gorgeous shoes made by Hetty Rose from kimono fabric - via shiny squirrel

this outfit is so plain but really lovely... The Sartorialist is a new favorite! More uppity than Face Hunter, but great nonetheless.

Last but not least - check out these "Fashion Predictions" circa 1930. Looks like the one thing the "top" designers couldn't predict was FEMINISM! yikes.

N.E.E.T.

2007-06-05T11:11:00.000-04:00

Have you looked at the latest issue of N.E.E.T. magazine?? I LOVE these D.I.Y. bracelets.

great goodness

2007-06-04T13:19:00.000-04:00

Looking for some FABulous designs for this summer? look at Eva Dress. The coolest vintage patterns available.

This one is circa 1934.

this one is a Katharine Hepburn "frock" circa 1933

2007-05-03T21:40:00.000-04:00

Check out Ornamentea's amazing site! Relatively affordable with unexpected details... Oh, the possibilities.

felt rings...

birds on a wire...

2007-05-03T11:27:00.000-04:00

What do you think? This is the "new rave" look, and it's catching, according to Seamsters. The bag is Fendi and the shoe is Pierre Hardy, and on the left is a French Connection dress/tunic. The colors are peppy, but maybe too much?

to market, to market

2007-05-03T11:09:00.000-04:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm really geeked about the Fulton St. farmers market opening this Saturday. Yesterday I ran across Etsy store twotrees. Shanna Murray is the owner and her May}to Market theme is so happy.

love the apron

check out the bags - so simple

drool...

2007-04-05T23:45:00.000-04:00

I almost feel some Calvinist guilt creeping in when I look at the textiles from Print & Pattern because they look so rich. And you will love them.

Quiz: art or crap?

2007-04-05T12:11:00.000-04:00

This is so fun and revealing... Art or Crap? can you tell the difference? After you fail miserably, find out "why you sucked so bad" at this, and learn about some of the movements and explanations from artists. I'd love to see this about fashion!

I found this on my favorite new blog: How about orange... Definitely becoming a quick daily read with DIY attitude... hence the adorable tacks below.

facehunter

2007-03-29T14:15:00.000-04:00

this is such a great idea for a blog! Face Hunter makes me dream of going to Paris someday, but there's some great style here in GR... anyone want to start a GR blog of street-fashion-photos?

Discussion

2007-03-29T13:58:00.000-04:00

This coming Tuesday FAB is hosting a discussion in the Fish House at 7:30pm. The plan is to open up a conversation about the way the church and Christian publications have handled an idea of "sanctified" fashion. We will be looking at the Brio article I posted about earlier in the year. This is our first of a series of discussions we'd like to host. So, please come by the Fish House on Tuesday and join us!

sun beam

2007-02-21T17:02:00.000-05:00

This website makes my day.

Lovely

2007-02-21T15:43:00.000-05:00

This recycled-leather bag is making me think of the ugly leather coats I see at Goodwill and all the possiblities... Thank you, Ashley Watson

Modesty for teens?

2007-02-13T15:38:00.000-05:00

In my search for the possible existence of fashion magazines with Christian/environmental/social justice issues at its possible core, I ran across an article from the popular Focus on the Family Brio magazine... the Christian teen magazine claiming it is "teaching, entertaining and challenging teen girls toward a healthy self-concept and closer relationship with Jesus Christ."

Take a look at this article on "Modeling Modesty" - their take on what's important in fashion. How do we respond to this? What is this communicating to girls about their bodies? What is it communicating concerning God's thoughts on beauty, creativity, responsibility, or, simply, being Christians women and girls? And just check out the list of rules!

And FAB guys, what do you make of this passage:
Say your friend Brad is standing before your youth group because your youth pastor asked him to read a passage from the Bible. Brad pauses as he’s reading to make eye contact with the group, just as his speech teacher taught him to do.

The moment Brad looks up, he sees a girl wearing a tight T-shirt. Immediately, Brad’s mind is distracted from the Lord and the Bible — two things he’s truly interested in.

Even apart from just criticizing such manipulative writing targeted at maleable audiences, I have a lot to say on this article, but all I will say here is pay attention to the sense of fear. I remember reading similar articles in this very magazine back in my middle school years. They have a strong effect. Good or bad???... you decide.

I love lala...

2007-02-06T16:34:00.000-05:00

These fabrics look so inviting to me... the photography is really dreamy as well. Check out Lala for ideas and to see some great sensibilities!

We're Making a Magazine!!!

2007-02-06T16:08:00.001-05:00

The idea behind this magazine is for FAB and the larger Calvin community to have an avenue to communicate ideas and expressions of what FAB is all about. This will be an opportunity for the Fashion Advisory Board to express the core ideas behind the club, in new ways. While the fashion shows have been amazing opportunities for FAB, a magazine lends itself to additional means of expression. There are a few aspects to this project:
- Reviews – a chance to comment on the fashion industry, responding to things that we see happening, that we think need addressing. Also, this can include reviews of designers’ work, fashion shows, companies, etc.
- FAB exposure – sections of the magazine simply describing what FAB is and what it aims to accomplish. This can include editorials as well.
- D.I.Y. – (Do It Yourself) A section devoted to sharing methods and tips on different aspects of making your own clothing… everything from info on sewing machines, to jewelry making to finding places were you can get material, etc.
- Calvin Designers – This would be a section where Calvin designers can show their work. This could involve everything from photo shoots to design drawings to designers’ explanations of their work.
- Articles/Essays – This section would offer a lot of freedom. Here, we would encourage FAB members and the rest of the Calvin community to contribute articles pertaining to fashion… everything from ethical shopping to body image issues to theology.

The physical magazine we hope can be a standard magazine-sized, full-color, glossy product. In order to make this happen, we need a way to pay for the printing expenses. Advertising is one way to help offset the costs. So, be thinking about businesses, organizations, or people that would be interested in advertising in a magazine like this.

This would be a huge endeavor for the Fashion Advisory Board. So, we will need a lot of people who want to be a part of it. We will need:
- Writers for the articles
- Photographers for the shoots and for other articles
- Graphic designers for magazine layout
- Editors to make sure the content we put in the magazine is of high quality.
- People to manage advertising
- Artists to do illustrations for articles (examples: DIY instruction articles and other random drawings for articles)

Additional ideas:
- Photo Shoots – we would like to assemble teams of designers, photographers, models and hair & make-up people to do photo shoots. For example, a designer could have a theme for the shoot and work with the photographer to pick a location… The team can meet at a location to do the shoot. Get creative, bring special lighting, props, play around with working in different weather conditions and interesting locations (location ideas: GR city parks, laundromats, nature preserve, restaurants, parents’ home, attics, lake Michigan, Grand River, the heckman library, a public bus, etc.) Take lots and lots and lots of pictures.

- Articles – For the articles try to explore issues pertaining to fashion and Christianity. A big reason FAB is here is because Christians have a tendency to write-off fashion… so we’re looking for thought-provoking articles. Some examples/suggestions:
- How the fashion industry distorts our perceptions of beauty
- What are the effects of fashion on division vs. unity?
- Theological fashion – What Would Jesus Wear?
- What are we saying with what we wear? (Raising awareness? Modesty? Ect.)
- Is it ok for Christians to wear diamonds given the shady practices of jewelry companies?
- The art of fashion vs. the Christian idea of simplicity and humility
- D.I.Y. articles about thrifting, reusing old clothes and materials, alternative make-up and hair methods, knitting, embroidery, stencil art, patches, etc.
- What companies/stores support ethical manufacturing? Which don’t?
- Information about manufacturing practices.
- Expression vs. Modesty
- Gender issues
- Body image issues / eating disorders
how different clothes look on different body types
-meaning/intention of colors
-comparison/contrast of 2 outfits that are very similar... one is expensive and arduous, the other is thrift and environmentally friendly
-methods for combating the negative messages from the media
-healthy nutrition/lifestyles
-vegan fashion for dummies
modesty boundaries
-fashion ads and magazine photos: how ethical is airbrushing perfection?
-to what extent do magazines alter photographs to "perfect" the women?
-gender inequality
-telling gender roles to take a hike
There are billions of other things you can write about; these are just a few ideas.

This magazine is an amazing opportunity for use to publicly explore issues that have often been swept under the rug. It is a chance for artists to offer up their work to the community for thoughtful consideration… And we’ll look so good doing it!

favorite things

2007-02-01T18:15:00.000-05:00

oh, I am SO addicted to Kate Spade's Behind the Curtain website! watch out!
Kate Spade is always interesting to watch. her "things we love" is quickly becoming my favorite place. The above pictures were gleaned from this page: an amazing online bookstore called Nieves and on jan von holleben's site.

A different kind of social...

2007-02-01T15:40:00.000-05:00

FAB is increasingly tackling the issue of the social justice piece of fashion. For the vast amount of consumers, spending $2400 on a Valentino cocktail dress is not an option, so we all look for the next best. Maybe it's the runway watching Forever 21, or the trendsetting H&M... we are looking for affordable in-the-moment outfit. But it often comes at the price of things much more precious than a few bucks. Our magazine will discuss these issues more in-depth, but in the meantime, here are some fair trade clothing options...

http://www.fairindigo.com/index.php?osCsid=0d7a638bac2372023307197c5711aa7a

http://www.justgarments.net/

so many sources

2007-01-12T15:45:00.000-05:00

This blog, seamsters, has amazing finds from independant designers, including this by Isabela Capeto.

gorgeous!

2007-01-12T15:36:00.000-05:00

Take a look at these lovely hats from Rosy Naylor!

Manifesto

2007-01-09T10:33:00.000-05:00

Jedidiah: Artists and Athelete Inspiring Action.

Thanks to Ruth for finding this inspiring company... Here is a paragraph from their manifesto:

In a world that changes faster than we can keep up with, we are holding on to the timeless truths of loving your fellow man, hope in the future and helping those less fortunate than us. We believe in relationships and the art of conversation. We believe everyone was created uniquely and for a purpose. We believe the world changes one person at a time. We encourage people to stop letting the world tell them who they should be, but rather, listen to the still small voice inside of them and become who they are meant to be. We believe if you truly search for the truth about yourself and your identity, you will find it. We are constantly encouraged by the strength and beauty we find in people. We firmly believe that people long to be part of something bigger than themselves. We have tremendous faith in human spirit and the heart of this generation.

A beautiful statement. It's worth taking a few minutes to look at what they are making. Their online store has some of their products. Is it possible for clothing to represent these ideas? If so, are they in fact representing? The music on the site is great as is the rest of the art.

Contributions

2007-01-09T10:25:00.000-05:00

Check out the latest from these designers... These are the names who determine what we will see the in the Spring and Summer. What do you think about where they are going?

Alexander McQueen

Chanel

Christian Dior

Viktor and Rolf

Stars: salute or scrap?

vintage gallore

2006-12-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

I found Posh Girl Vintage, and I'm having a hard time staying away! Amazing vintage finds, like this lovely silk dress.

sweet neet

2006-12-14T17:00:00.000-05:00

This online magazine, Neet, is the perfect place to start looking for some FAB finds. Featuring the work of independant designers it's bursting with creativity, and everything's so affordable, it's dangerous!

Birth

2006-12-14T16:51:00.000-05:00

What is the Fashion Advisory Board? Is this some group who is going to be "fashion police" and "advise" me on what to wear? Well, not exactly and kind-of...

The Fashion Advisory Board exists to challenge, debate, and converse with the world of fashion. "FAB" seeks to explore how Christians can impact the fashion industry by addressing advertising, marketing, gender, and social justice issues that are relevant to the Christian community. FAB seeks to explore how we can best use the gift of creative self-expression to reclaim fashion.

So, this blog will highlight "things we likey" and challenge what we don't. It's all part of the exploration.