FAVORITES FROM (CAPSULE)

Remnants of my morning at (capsule)

My experience with trade shows is often short-lived and edged with disappointment. Perhaps it's the typical toe-to-toe proximity of booths, overwhelming crowds or the constant hustle of exhibitors. Fortunately, the founders of (capsule) have discovered a refreshingly new way of producing fashion trade shows. With elements of community and cohesiveness, each brand is set up like a small boutique and embraces the common areas embedded in the floorplan. Among the talented crop of emerging designers, have a look at a handful of my favorites....

Baserange soft velour underwear

Starting from the basics, Baserange catches my eye with its clean lines and soft fabrics. Comfort is key in serving as my daily layer of "second skin." The lightweight feel and neutral tones--of both Baserange's underwear and Ready-to-Wear lines--emphasize the company's philosophy of "clean, easy and accessible garments that exist somewhere between modern culture and the natural world. [source]" 

Baserange soft bamboo matching underpinnings

Based in France and Denmark, Baserange was founded in 2012 as a clothing brand using "high quality, organic fabrics in innovative ways that benefits both producer and consumer while minimizing environmental impact" [source]. While commercial giants like Victoria's Secret may have a leg up on packaging and lace, Baserange embodies a sustainable and sophisticated outlook with its wide range of wearables.

Intimates for women of all sizes

Baserange RTW--neutral basics

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kule stripes make fur fun!

Picasso, Alexa, Scout and Bardot share a commonality under the guise of "preppy luxe;" the customizable, bi-colored symmetry of Kule's tee and sweater lines make stripes seem unexpectedly-stylish! Kule's US-made products take classic-with-a-twist to heart, proving that simplicity is the key to casual chic. Highlights include the signature 3/4 sleeve cotton and full sleeve sweater styles along with an unusually easy to style striped fur pullover and jacket. 

Kule customizable tees

Applying successes from her time as an upscale childrenswear designer and as a guest designer for Brooks Brothers, Nikki Kule's classic American aesthetic is easily found in Kule's compendium of choices. Having spent time in Italy after attending Parsons (in both Paris and NYC), Nikki's style is enriched by Italian influences. Kyle is a member of the CFDA and launched the Kule women's collection in 2011.

Fun with fur! 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LIE Collection by Lie Sangbong

Korean design house Lie Sang Bong debuts LIE collection at (capsule) this season. With a formidable following overseas, Sang Bong brings designer Chung Ching Lee's fusion of New York minimalism and avant garde Parisian style to New York. In addition to the colored fur that has unilaterally resurfaced for 2015, bold graphic prints, laser cut sections and knitwear with a smattering of polka dots complete a strong Fall 2015 outlook. Notable silhouettes include a sleeveless black dress with an asymmetric bias, colorfully patterned sweatshirts (in red and blue hues) with fur sleeves and polka dot pantaloons. Keep your eye on this designer!

LIE Collection by Korean designer Lie Sangbong

See Spot! Connect the dots!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ellen Van Dusen (L) of DusenDusen

Since Spring 2010, Brooklyn-based Ellen Van Dusen has graced the world with abstract prints and flattering silhouettes inspired by contemporary art. Her label, DusenDusen is described as "a line of universally flattering basics driven by the prints she creates from scratch each season" [source]. For Fall 2015, DusenDusen brings forward a unique blend of muted colors from the 80s (think periwinkle, cream and burnt sienna) and applies a randomized helping of geometric shapes. DusenDusen offerings extend beyond the realm of ready-to-wear to include a light helping of home goods such as cushions, towels, rugs and cushion covers.

A new take on good 'ol fashioned geometry

80s color favorites--periwinkle, burnt sienna, cream...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Smoke & Mirrors -- "In a market filled with noise, Smoke x Mirrors creates Music" 

American eyewear brand Smoke x Mirrors originates in a market already saturated with big brands that outsource accessories lines. With eyewear designed in NYC and produced in France, the company prides itself in the quality and craftsmanship of its product. The metal and acetate used in Smoke x Mirrors eyewear is expertly bonded and does not warp easily. From the beginning, Smoke x Mirrors emphasized independence, using local models like Arnaud Hofmarcher from Cherche Midi, Maya Jankelowitz from Jack's Wife Freda and Alireza Niroomand from Sant Ambroeus to represent their product. 

So many shades...

Flawlessly fused acetate sunglasses