Well it is going to be Tee time before we know it, at least once all this winter weather disappears. The one good thing is that it is always Tee time almost everywhere. The tee shirt has become an all year item whether it is layered or worn on its own. This week is about two companies which offer tees and some complimentary items which might be of interest.

Rizumu ( www.rizumuplanet.com ) is the brain child of a former movie marketing executive who started this lifestyle brand of tees and accessories after being drawn back to his first love, fashion. The company focuses on the DJ culture with special attention paid to comic book art complete with featured graphic artists. There are even pieces of jewelry which are included and now Pauly D from The Jersey Shore (MTV) has been caught wearing it. It’s a must have for yourself or the totally connected music lover in your life. My favorite piece is the multi zip sweat jacket, and the best part is that it is totally unisex so everyone can have it.

Manaomakani ( www.manaomakani.com ) is the brainchild of an industry veteran who has spent his life creating clothes for the Gap, Express, and Esprit to name a few. Now he wants to give back to the environment and has created this collection of TOTALLY ecologically and environmentally friendly tees and hoodies. It is amazing that the entire manufacture is “green” as well as all the part and materials, which is really rare as most companies boast eco-friendly materials and then are made in the hell hole factories of China, but these products are 100% green and made in San Francisco. The company even gives back financially after each purchase. The bottom line is, you get to do your part for the environment as well as own a truly spiritual article of clothing. Read the history on their site and be motivated to help beautify the world in the literal and figurative sense. ALOHA for this week.

Don’t forget to look for me on Facebook, www.examiner.com/ ,or http://datingsymbol.com/category/beauty-and-fashion/.

MANAOMAKANI

MANAOMAKANI

MANAOMAKANI

RIZUMU

RIZUMU

RIZUMU

The name is Camilla Wellton and her location is the unlikely Stockholm, Sweden. It is not the first place you think of when you think of fashion but as we find come to find out, fashion is alive and well in Scandinavia. Ms. Wellton is quite young by the standards of fashion but mature to enough to render surprisingly sophisticated designs which are both eco-friendly and bespoke.

The clothing reminds one of Balenciaga with the nipped waists, echoes some of the architecture and structure of Montana and the late Ferre and yet retains much of the softness that is Italian in nature. The coats are of extreme proportions and still very elegant while the dresses are clearly for the more body conscious of customers.

The organic shapes within the collection clearly remind us of the art of origami but the clothes are distinctly modern in their line and inspiration. There is great promise here and with continued energy, these clothes will be on the international radar screen as well as on the local Stockholm fashion scene. Keep your eyes open for her and see if you can score a coat or dress by visiting her namesake website as well as http://www.notjustalabel.com/camillawellton.

As for me, you can find me at my usual places on Facebook or at http://jeffybruce.blogspot.com/. Till next time when I will bring news of New York Fashion Week.

When is a basic anything but? When it’s an eco-friendly tee from Generation Love, the NYC-based t-shirt line by designers Audrey Bressa-Valcourt and Roni Hirshberg. With a philosophy that comfortable can also be chic and exponentially sexy, the designing duo’s line of 100% organic cotton t-shirts can hold their own on their own or peeking out from under a cardie or structured jacket. According to their website Audrey and Roni love Paris, room service, sunny days, and making a difference, just to name a few things. Like I said, what’s not to love about Generation Love?

Oligoville: In five words or less, Generation Love is. . .

Audrey & Roni: Chic, cool, comfortable, off-beat, eco-friendly.

Oligoville: How would you describe your ideal customer?

Audrey & Roni: Someone who can appreciate that our product is made in New York City, who pays attention to detail, and who likes to be comfortable but jazzed up.

Oligoville: How’d you end up as designers?

Audrey & Roni: We literally decided in one day we would start a t-shirt line, and we did! We have always had entrepreneurial spirits with a desire to create. One day we were listening to music and having fun, and it dawned on us to put that energy into a clothing line as a way to share our point of view and spread the love!

Oligoville: How/when did you launch your brand?

Audrey & Roni: We started two years ago from scratch while working full time. We literally went from store to store to show the line with a suitcase and a pair of heels.

Oligoville: Why t-shirts?

Audrey & Roni: We LOVE t-shirts! That is who we are, what we wear every day, and what we feel the most sexy and cool in.

Oligoville: Who and/or what inspires you?

Audrey & Roni: Music, people in the street, cities, and our friend Gio.

Oligoville: What’s 24 hours like in your life?

Audrey & Roni: Craziness. There is always something to do and usually not enough time in the day to do it all.

Oligoville: What’s in your closet? What are you wearing right now?

Audrey & Roni: In our closets there are lot of jackets and blazers. We pretty much wear one of our tees with some sort of jacket all the time. Right now Audrey is wearing one of our old-school hoodies that we made. Maybe it will make a come back.

Oligoville: Tell us about some unexpected setbacks you have faced since starting your business and what you learned.

Audrey & Roni: The list of set backs is wayyy too long to start! In any business you have to be prepared for the unexpected, and in this industry there is a lot of unexpected!   We have to remind ourselves that if we would have given up at the first bump in the road we would have stopped a long time ago. We have learned there is always a solution to everything.

Oligoville: What has been the most rewarding part of your career?

Audrey & Roni: Having clients contact us to tell us how much they love the brand and want to support us.

Oligoville: Tell us where you expect to see your business in the next five years.

Audrey & Roni: We are launching our online store this week, so hopefully it will be established and well known at that point!

Oligoville: Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Audrey & Roni: Don’t take anything personally.

Oligoville: What’s on your playlist right now?

Audrey & Roni: Passion Pit, La Roux, Brahms, Empire of the Sun…

Oligoville: Any last words?

Audrey & Roni: LOVE IS FANTASTICO!

FASHION BY THE RULES

TO GREEN or NOT TO GREEN !!

Given that this is one of the hottest topics around, It comes as no shock that “Being Green” can also apply to what we wear.

I believe that one of the most common misconceptions is that “going green” will only apply to cotton items where the reality is that the whole idea encompasses cotton , silk and baby alpaca.  One must keep in mind that the articles of clothing must be manufactured in an environmentally  sound way whether or not the material is sustainable.  Simple terms, no chemical wastes and eco friendly whether or not the raw material was made from recycled material.

OK so now I hope you have a rough idea of “What makes it green” so we can move onto how can you spend your green to own it!!

The internet  is brimming with opportunities to learn about it and purchase it.  Take for example, SHOPWIKI which provides an entire explanation of the concept as well as a reasonably thorough brand listing.  If you are into the celebrity of the going green, then the perfect brand for you is ERDUN which is a socially conscious clothing company started by Bono and his wife Ali.  You will find all classifications of apparel and accessories including jewelry I have featured  a collection of jewelry which I am responsible for which is made primarily of sustainable materials as well as many other items which I found while researching the idea of “Eco-friendly” apparel… so now it is your decision “to be green or not to be green!!!!”

The reason fashion is a billion dollar industry is because it is constantly reinventing itself.  Innovative designers find remarkable ways to recreate the classics. Katerena Alkhimova is one of those brilliant designers.

Kat‘s debut collection “Body” offers a new twist on two necessary wardrobe pieces: the little black dress, and the bodysuit. These ingenious creations are made with the highest quality eco-friendly European fabrics. The little black dress has been transformed into a sleek, sexy dress that will have any man on his knees.  While the dress is revealing it still maintains the classic little black dress look.

Kat has recently launched her Cashmere Collection; it includes sweater dresses, halter tops and scarves. She has worked with the world-famous designer, John Galliano and continues to be a model in New York City. I have no doubt that we will being seeing great things from this visionary designers.

Terry Graziano makes “beautiful multifunctional hats for women using eco-friendly mill-end surplus fabrics.” A 15-year veteran hat designer, Graziano personally handcrafts each hat with individualized care and attention in her New York City studio. Each hat is purposefully designed to be worn in many different ways allowing its wearer to custom-create her hat to fit her mood and outfit. Eclectic and eco-savvy, Terry uses only surplus fabrics. Every hat is silk-lined for comfort and adjustable for big heads to small heads. “For me, it’s all about flexibility. A shirt, a skirt, a pair of pants: these can be worn many ways— why should hats be any different?” They shouldn’t! Thank you for artistically and eco-friendlily teaching us that, Ms. Graziano!

For Bonnie Siefers, the designer behind the brand Jonäno, eco-consciousness is not just a buzz word, it’s a lifestyle. With a wide range of offerings–from romantically shirred maxi dresses to soft, slouchy tees to flirty, figure-flattering skirts–in a slew of environmentally friendly fabrics, Jonäno is the perfect one-stop shop for fashionistas seeking stylishly “green” wardrobes. What makes Jonäno especially unique is that in addition to a line for baby ecostylistas, the site also features a line of mix ‘n’ match hospital scrubs made from bamboo and hemp linen. Here’s more from the Pittsburgh native on her mindful interpretation of ecochic.

Oligoville: Tell us about your brand and how it is different from your competition.

Bonnie Siefers: In a nutshell I think the best adjective that describes the uniqueness of the Jonäno brand and lifestyle would be mindful. At Jonäno we strive to make thoughtful and ethical choices everyday. For example, Jonano chooses only organically grown natural fibers to create our trademark eco fabric collections. Jonäno is constantly searching out the cutting edge of new eco fabrics—like our ecoKashmere organic bamboo and eColorgrown organic cotton collections—both awarded the best of the best by Material ConneXions.

The elements and materials used in the Jonäno product lines come from crops like bamboo, flax, cotton, coconut, and, coming this fall, corn and peace silk. All of these raw materials are carefully chosen and are certified organically grown, renewable, biodegradable, and sustainable. Jonäno’s choice of a green and socially responsible fulfillment center emphasizes our commitment to implementing environmental sustainability and social responsibility along every step of the path. From the material elements that we select to create Jonäno eco chic collections to the recycled tissue paper and reusable zip packaging we use to protect garments for shipping, we strive to make mindful choices everyday.

Oligoville: How did your career or interest in design begin?

Bonnie: A personal passion to make an impact that speaks to my values and ethics is the driving force behind our company. I began the Jonäno brands at a point in my personal life when I took pause to reevaluate what is really important to me in life. True happiness does not come from without but instead from within. As I reflected on what had shaped my values and talents the wonderful inheritance that I have received from my parents stood out. Raised in a family that placed high value on honesty, work, frugality, and all things natural/ long-lasting/creative, I developed an enduring belief that clean, hard, and honest work that also celebrates creative talents can ultimately bring true joy to my daily life and give long-term satisfaction that life has been a meaningful journey. The concept of Jonäno evolved out of this personal inner exploration, and a company that strives to be innovative and forward thinking in terms of fabrics, style, and business ethics became my personal passion.

Oligoville:  What’s your design inspiration?

Bonnie: As an eco-designer, I’m inspired by my love for the environment, Scandinavian Modern styling, and timeless fashion. I worked as an artist, product designer, and entrepreneur in Paris, Stockholm, and Los Angeles and currently reside with musician-husband and life partner, Mark Huggins, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Raised in a family that placed a high value on honesty, work, frugality, and all things natural, long-lasting, and creative, I credit my Scandinavian Modern styling to the wonderful inheritance of values I received from my family, friends, and teachers.

My style is sleek and minimalistic with a focus on the architecture of the body. I strive to impact the world of fashion with organic clothing creations for the body and soul that are timeless in design, long lasting, and that become those wardrobe favorites you reach for time and time again.

Oligoville:  Describe a typical day for you.

Bonnie: I live and work in a treehouse-style studio in Pennsylvania, not far from where I was born and raised. My routine always begins with a french press of organic and fair trade coffee, and yes, I drink a whole french press—my only drug of choice. I ground and focus while giving love to my family of furry friends and wonderful partner. As a designer and entrepreneur my work day is different every day.  Tasks range from developing collections to connecting with media and buyers to traveling to our manufacturing facilities worldwide.  I’ve been traveling extensively throughout the USA, Central and South America, Asia, and Africa searching out the best farms, mills, and factories to create our collections. These visits are very important to me as I strive to incorporate local talents and crafts into each collection in honor of the artisans who keep the craft alive. A great example of this can be found in the fields of Brazil, where Jonäno eColorgrown Collections were created, drawing inspiration for the hand-tied embroidery from skilled artisans who offer handcrafted tatting, embroidery, and macramé learned and passed down through the generations.

Oligoville:  Describe your fashion style.

Bonnie: It has evolved over time, but a common thread, if you’ll pardon the pun, is the incorporation of handmade and found elements into my personal style.  As far back as I can remember my own mother taught me to knit and sew free form. By the time I reached adolescence I was creating my own fashion, from sketch illustration to finished piece. Streamlined design has always inspired me and lies at the heart of my creativity. Jonäno collections reflect the mélange of romantic ecochic with Scandinavian streamlined styling that is the brand signature.

Oligoville: Tell us about some unexpected setbacks you have faced since starting your business and what you learned from that.

Bonnie: Definitely the most challenging hurdle I have faced so far is the tough economic climate. This has affected not only me and our growing brand but also my work partners, my friends, and my family.  My husband and I try hard to work together with our work partners to find solutions to our challenges. The best part of my job lies in connecting with wonderful people who share my core values and desire to make positive changes. For this I am very thankful.

Oligoville: What has been the most rewarding part of your career?

Bonnie: I am blessed with a wonderful interconnection with others that has developed along every step the path. Every day I have opportunities to engage in creative dialogue, a conversation, metaphorically speaking, that I have not only with my family, friends, and work partners but also the people who choose Jonäno eco fashion to be a part of their own wardrobes. They give me the energy and fuel my own personal passion and creative drive. My musician husband is a big part of the conversation.  The love that we share for the arts has only strengthened our individual talents, his in music and mine in design. Often when I develop the written descriptions of pieces I reach for musical adjectives as a way of stepping outside of my visually based sensory comfort zone. Each day when I wake up I reflect that if I stay connected in the moment and strive to make mindful choices I cannot fail.

Oligoville: Tell us where you expect to see your business in the next five years and some of the goals that you have for your brand.

Bonnie: “Eco” is not just a buzz word anymore. Ecodesign is mainstream and growing. Jonäno is involved in the introduction of new sustainable fabric collections, such as Begonia Silk and Energy Satin, and our fall collection, BLOOM, was recognized by Womens Wear Daily in their fall fashion focus.  Additionally, Jonäno has been approached by a major celebrity to work on a licensed deal for specialty tee shirts. We believe that the Jonäno brand is well-positioned to lead the way in this next generation of ecofashion.

Oligoville: What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Bonnie Siefers: I credit much of the building of the Jonäno brand to local Pittsburgh talent and nonprofit organizations who invested time and effort into helping local small businesses achieve success. There is a real advantage to starting and developing a business in a region that cares enough to support small businesses and that has organizations that are dedicated to helping small businesses grow.  The real strength of a business is its foundation. By drawing from the expertise of seasoned entrepreneurs and professionals we were able to avoid making costly mistakes.

Oligoville:  What song never fails to make you happy?

Bonnie: “What a Wonderful World” sung by Louis Armstrong.

LBD: [little black dress] n.

1. an essential item in every woman’s wardrobe

2. can be dressed up, dressed down; can be worn to work and then to happy hour

3. a perfect example, the Christine dress by CMarchuska

I just found my new favorite LBD—a momentous occasion for any woman. For me, it was even more momentous. I ordered it sight unseen, a risky decision for a 5′1″ girl with a 32G sized chest. As soon as I opened my fed-ex box, it was love at first sight.  The LBD fit me perfectly. Plus, it’s completely eco-friendly. I wore it out Friday night and I plan to wear it out again tonight. (Don’t laugh—I don’t smell.)

CMarchuska was created by siblings, Justin and Christine. They were perplexed about the quantity of luxury duds that were uncomfortable and made with eco-unconscious fabrics. Their inspiration was simple: conservation, style, and substance. With cut, comfort, and consciousness as their muse, Marchuska was born. From Obama’s creation of green-jobs to the shrinking glaciers, the need for sustainability is urgent. The crafts of a clothing designer in New York must take in to account the environmental impact their manufacturing methods take on penguins in Alaska; it’s just the responsible decision.

Green fashion is traditionally uncomfortable, slightly odd smelling, and void of high fashion. If it is fashion-forward, it’s only affordable to the Gwenyths, SJPs, and Penelopes. Christine, namesake and creator of CMarchuska saw this neglected niche and filled it with sustainably made, comfortably fashionable, and enticingly affordable pieces. She left her high-flying career in finance and never looked back. The cmarchuska line consists of impeccably cut and incredibly fashionable basic pieces from their mseries tees to their super-soft hunter scarf.

My new LBD is possibly the most famous piece from the CMarchuska Signature Collection, the Christine dress. It’s a black long-sleeved, button-front, A-line frock. It’s made of 50 percent cotton and 50 percent modal fabric (a bio-based fiber made by spinning reconstituted cellulose from beech trees, says wikipedia.com). The eclectic, yet chic brown buttons are made of recycled Italian polyester. It feels sooooooo good against my skin. Its like I’m draped in jersey-knit sheets. Yet, it looks like I’m wearing vintage Chanel. Even my stylishly ignorant boyfriend said, “Damn, you look hot!” I felt very Audrey Hepburn meets Sienna Miller at the recycling center.

Besides looking good and feeling comfortable, I felt good. The same way I feel good when I remember to drop recycling off on my way to my yoga class. The same way I feel good when I have the balls to just say no to cookies and cream ice cream. Similarly, I felt good when I wore a dress that I knew wasn’t made by a child in Asia and wasn’t increasing my carbon footprint.

Justin and Christine say, “We have never been afraid of failure, but we are afraid of not living out our dream.”