FashionIndie » Americana

Four American Photographers We Can’t Get Enough Of

Amanda Gabriele — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 20:06:58 +0000

In this month of Americana, we want to celebrate everything in fashion, art and design coming out of our great country. And what would the American fashion industry be like without photographers? They bring fashion alive, setting the mood wished to be evoked by designers, editors and marketing teams everywhere. Here we will celebrate four American photographers to learn more about them and see some of their work.

David Armstrong

David Armstrong grew up outside Boston and traveled between his hometown and New York City when he studied at Cooper Union. After receiving his BFA at Tufts University in 1988, he moved to NYC permanently where he began work as a photographer. Starting out with black and white portraits, Armstrong began to experiment with landscapes and cityscapes in the nineties. Luckily, he also has a distinct and introspective eye for fashion – his editorials are moving and emotionally-charged.

Above photo: Zac Posen and Tao Okamoto for Purple Magazine Spring/Summer 2010

INTERVIEW: Anni Shades Wants YOU to Wear Wood

Amanda Gabriele — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:45:13 +0000

Topping the list of overpriced fashion items we pay way too much for is eyewear. We’re accustomed to spending $300 on a pair of designer shades that took about $2 to craft from ordinary plastic. While most of these aren’t even made in America (gasp!), there are some incredibly inventive companies out there producing quality eyewear in the U.S. of A. I recently got a message from Phillip Mastroianni introducing me to his smart wooden sunglasses line Anni Shades. Made in the Ohio suburbs, these sunglasses and custom prescription glasses are crafted from ethically-sources exotic woods, making no two pair the same. I had the chance to talk with Phil about the conception of Anni Shades, how the company gives back and, most importantly, why wood?

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How To Wear Blue Eyeshadow: The DOs & DON’Ts of this Bold Beauty Trend

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 18:50:57 +0000

Blue eyeshadow can be scary. It brings to mind recollections of trying way too hard to look different from all the other 6th grade girls wearing green plaid skirts and oxford shirts. Sigh, memories. But this cool hue doesn’t have to look amateur, brash or streetwalker-ish in any way whatsoever, IF done right. Here are some tips and tricks on how to wear blue eyeshadow while maintaining your chic, stylish persona.

Malibu Native is Alive With the West Coast Spirit

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:31:38 +0000

Looking past the West Coast and into the streets of Paris, Malibu Native draws inspiration from the beauty, magic and love of fashion that connects people across the world. Born from former Abercrombie & Fitch design duo Logan Weinsieder and Marc Rosenbaum, the line draws from the surf heritage of California and the free-spirited girls who play there.

As the more affordable, casual sister line to Le Petit Petit, Malibu Native boasts relaxed fits and quality, comfortable fabrics you can actually live in. The brand’s collection of lifestyle tees and swimwear make it the perfect line to wear on the beach or any day you’re feeling that boho chic vibe. Click through to see more photos from the lookbook.

6 Blue Eyeshadow Palettes We Love

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 19:00:22 +0000

In this month of Americana, we are trying to broaden our red, white and blue horizons. Sure blue eyeshadow can be scary at first, but with the right palette and technique, you’ll get hooked on this cool summer statement. Click through to see out our 6 favorite blue eyeshadow palettes and try something new this weekend.

Giorgio Armani Spring 2011 RTW

Lancôme Color Design 5 Shadow & Liner Palette in Teal Fury $48 – The versatility of shades makes this the perfect day-to-night palette.

Giorgio Armani Spring 2011 RTW

SHOE ENVY: Nicholas Kirkwood x Rodarte Wrap Candle Sandal

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 13:40:31 +0000

There’s a weird crossover in footwear when a shoe teeters the line of incredibly awesome and horribly ugly. Enter the Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte Wrap Candle Sandal, walking the tightrope between freak-out amazing and way too much.

Whatever, we still want them. You can have it too for $1,605 over at Opening Ceremony. The subtle red, white and blue theme is so Americana. Click through the pages for more photos.

15 Patriotic Pieces We Love

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:44:11 +0000

Too much patriotism can come off as daunting, especially when literally wearing your heart for America on your sleeve. But when done right, one piece at a time, some stars, stripes, red, white and blue can look fantastic. Here are the top 15 patriotic pieces we love right now during our month of Americana.

ASOS Stars And Stripes Print Scarf $25.86 – This lightweight woven scarf has a vintage feel, especially when tied in your hair.

Made in America: Alex Maine Debuts Online Store

Amanda Gabriele — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 20:35:04 +0000

Talk about love for your country. Alex Maine is a brand designed by the American people, constructed by the American people, sold by the American people and loved by us, also the American people. Even though this unique brand is sold in brick-and-mortar stores on the West Coast only, now everyone can shop Alex Maine on the company’s newly launched e-commerce site.

“What better way to celebrate America’s Birthday than by giving Americans the opportunity to support Made in the USA products,” says company founder Bron Heussenstamm, a grandson of two Pearl Harbor survivors with two cousins currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Passionate about reversing the outsourcing of American jobs, Alex Maine stands up for our economy by bringing textile jobs back to the United States, producing 100 percent of its product on U.S. soil.

See how easy it is to support American designers without leaving the comfort of your apartment? For more information and to shop Alex Maine’s new e-commerce website, visit alexmaine.us.

American Boardwalk Style: The Once Glamorous East Coast Scene

Amanda Gabriele — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:00:16 +0000

The American boardwalk has become a place for fried food, fake boobs and leathery complexions, but this iconic beach scene hasn’t always been so seedy. Once upon a time, stylish vacationers and locals alike filled the seats in soda shops and on Ferris wheels, parasols and lace gloves in tow. East Coast boardwalks – being so close to NYC, center of the universe – were visions of elegance and abundance, even in spite of the freak shows, speakeasies and casinos. If you’re wondering how you can channel classic American East Coast boardwalk style this summer, check out our guide for all the must-haves.

15 Fly Pieces to Inspire Your Inner Cowgirl

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 18:52:27 +0000

It doesn’t get more American than the old west, and our love for John Wayne, guns and cowboy boots will live forever. In our month of Americana, we want to show our appreciation for horseback riding, saloon going and, of course, chi-chi cowgirls the best way we can. Check out our guide and discover 15 fly pieces to channel your inner cowgirl.

Ralph Lauren Blue Label Lucia Suede Concho Pant $1,298 – Ralph Lauren knows Americana, and it shows in these classic pants adapted from vintage riding chaps.

13 Essentials to Pack for Your 4th of July Getaway

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:01:52 +0000

Fireworks, bar-b-ques and nautical stripes – 4th of July is finally here, and we can’t think of a better way to kick-off our theme for July, Americana. Whether you’ll be jetting to the sea, a mountain lake or enjoying the holiday right here in NYC, these 13 4th of July essentials should accompany you on all your weekend journeys.

1. Topshop Knitted Crochet Shell Top $92 – This country chic knit is perfect with a maxi and chunky necklace.

2. Of Two Minds Folklore Skirt $269 – Mixed watercolor prints should be a wardrobe staple.

3. St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse $40 – Necessary for that flawless, without-the-sun summer glow.

4. Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 40 $18 – Not just for the holiday weekend, this great protector should be used 360 days a year.

5. Dolce & Gabbana Intense Nail Lacquer in Shocking $20 – The brightest, most gorgeous pink makes for happy fingers and toes.

6. We Are Handsome The Bather Printed Bandeau Bikini $230 – A perfect balance of minimalist and busy comes through in this adorable bikini.

7. Santoni Wedge $592 – Do you really need a specific reason to wear these incredibly vibrant yellow shoes? We didn’t think so.

8. Prada Cat Eye-Frame Acetate Sunglasses $290 – These white and tortoiseshell sunnies scream glamour.

9. Rebecca Minkoff Lovespell Crossbody Fringe Rocker $338 – Hands-free and fabulous, you’ll never want to carry another bag.

10. Anya Hindmarch Beach Party Tote $160 – Can you think of a cuter tote for a clam bake?

11. House of Harlow 1960 14KT Gold Tassel Smoky Crescent Earrings $75 – The perfect statement earrings for a luxe boho feel.

12. Missoni Geometric Acetate Bib Necklace $705 – Encased fabric makes this piece a worthy splurge.

13. Gucci Guilty Eau de Toilette 1.6 OZ $75 – Rich amber and feminine lilac is daring, sexy and sensual, just like the fashion house itself.

What are your must-haves for 4th of July weekend? Let us know in the comments.

RUNWAY RUNDOWN: Alexander Wang Spring 2010

Kirby Marzec — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:12:21 +0000

A fellow blogger recently asked me who my favorite designer is, and having never given a straight laced answer to that question before, I spit out the words “Alexander Wang” like my mouth was on fire. The question “why?” followed, but need I explain myself? Wang knows his niche in the fashion world and keeping his downtown socialite consumer thrilled was his brilliant Spring 2010 collection. Wang seemingly branched off his recent collaboration with The Gap and added his own element of Americana to the aesthetic- football anyone? Letterman jackets, khaki dresses, grey sweatshirts, leather shorts- 1930s high-school football season is back and Wang certainly worked it. As per usual, the shoes were a sight for sore eyes and will assuredly land among the “it” shoes of next season. Maybe a bit more casual for our designing genius but oh, so fabulous!

GALLERY: RUNWAY RUNDOWN: Alexander Wang Spring 2010

Thanks Style!