by Mo on January 12, 2011
We were totally inspired by self-taught designer David Chum, of Selah D’or, when we interviewed him last month. We are thrilled to get to see more behind the scenes of him working in his studio in this StyleBoston feature.
The piece of tape says it all and as a indie designers we all appreciate the the thought… “I Will Always Finish At The Right Time.” Love it. How many times have you been in a race against the clock as models are already starting down the runway…. the last stitches being sewn as the model wearing the garment is taking off for the garments debut? Walking, sewing, tripping on the dressers foot as the last accessory is put in place … “Scissors… where are the scissors?!?! Someone CUT THAT THREAD!” … just as her first foot kicks the curtain aside and is exposed to the runway lights. The show must always go on and some how we will always finish on time.
A nonpareil emerging designer, David Chum, talks fashion as sculpture, his latest collection and what it means to be self-taught in this ‘Fashion Forward.’ The designer’s line, a deconstructed allusion to one of literature’s hippest adages, has been extolled since its inception. Selah D’Or can be found at the designer’s website.
by Mo on October 28, 2010
We are thrilled to have Abigail Doan pick out a round of Editor’s Picks this week. I don’t remember how I discovered Abigail’s work, but I do remember being spellbound. Her beautiful fabric creations, for me, capture the essence of the magical landscapes of places I love. We love her words below connecting independent and sustainable fashion, many thanks for playing with us Abigail!
I am a writer, editor, and environmental artist residing in NYC and Europe. My eco-textile and art farming projects are a means to create sustainable solutions and key visual links to the global challenges we collectively face. I am also a mother of twins.
Abigail Doan, Ecco*Eco
Sustainable style is ‘indie’ by nature. As the informed shopper’s alternative to mass-produced designs, identifying and supporting your favorite indie designer is as much a part of responsible consumerism as in-depth research on the latest eco and ethical fashion collections. Smashing Darling makes this search a whole lot easier by offering a wide range of chic and original designs that are smashingly handpicked and stylishly curated. As some one who divides my year between several locales, I need to craft a wardrobe that is seasonally versatile and easily accessorized. I love some of the following items for the playfulness that they add to existing wardrobe essentials and, of course, their feminine flair.
Mergirl Stretch Crochet Lace Dress:
As a lover of all things lace, crochet, and hand crafted, this ivory-hued ‘crochet lace’ dress from Mergirl seems like a great addition to existing, trans-seasonal wardrobe favorites. Feminine, sophisticated, and totally packable to boot, what’s not to covet about a knit stretch number?
House of Dali OneofaKind Faux Fur Jacket:
I rarely wear anything that even mimics fur, but this one-of-a-kind shoulder jacket that is, of course, fur free and indie fabulous, seems like a great way to add some cruelty-free glamour to a chilly evening out on the town.
Revolt Urbanol Button Clutch:
I love a good clutch, particularly one that is so unique that no one else can claim it if it is left behind on the banquette at a restaurant or bar. This vintage style button clutch from Revolt Urbanol adds a bold splash of artistic glimmer with its hand-painted gold and blue drip graphics.
KRELwear Super Chic Batwing Sweater:
In my opinion, a girl should have at least one knit creation by KRELwear in every closet on the planet. This batwing sweater of 100% pima cotton seems like a soft and sexy way to sport some geeky chic and geometric style with attitude.
Coco Bourgeoisie Talon Scarf:
Felt is definitely all the rage these days, and layered on as a cool weather accessory, this one not only adds ruffled volume to your neckline but some insulating warmth as well.
Dina Varano 14KT Gold Double Chaos Earrings:
I love that indie jewelry designer, Dina Varano, refers to these 14 karat gold wire bundles as ‘nests’, and given their organic nature they appear to be a comforting and chic investment for any girl’s accessory kit.
by Mo on September 25, 2009
Who: 5 Darling Designers and more!
What: Williamsburg Indie Designer Soiree V2.0
When: Saturday, September 26th, 2009
12 noon to 7PM
Where: The Arsenal
153 Roebling Street
4th Floor, Studio 4B
(between Hope & Metropolitan Ave.)
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Nearest Subway: Bedford L Train
{Affordable} Handmade clothing, accessories and jewelry by local designers, music throughout the day, yummy 2 for 1 mimosas, and DIY bloody mary & beer specials.
Cost: Free!!
by Mo on May 8, 2009
Vintage, sweet vintage, wherefore art thou vintage….are you in love with all things vintage? Well, my darlings, then you must go check out Market Publique! This online, vintage-only marketplace for people to buy, sell and discuss vintage fashion will surely make you drool…as well as bid away on your favorites! We met co-founder Pamela Castillo back during NYC Fashion week, go see her (and her crew) rock their vintage wears here, and check out what she found to love in the Darling world below.
Tib Nelson Designs Lucky Penny Romper: I am all about rompers and jumpsuits this season. They have the ease of a complete outfit just like dresses, but you can sit on the grass and picnic without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions. This romper is especially cute because of its flattering cut and sailor-style buttons.
Hello, Fabulous Vintage Fish Pendant Necklace: I always wear at least one thing that’s vintage. I’d accessorize that fabulous romper with this vintage 60’s fish pendant necklace and keep the look ocean-themed.
Nothing Simple Earthy Citrine Cuff: One accessory is never enough. And I like my jewelry to make a statement. This cuff does just that. The bigger, the better.
Bronwen Handcrafted Red Leather Mac Case:
With our new site and the blog, I am always online; which means carrying around my computer everywhere. I am loving this red leather case which is not only much more fashionable than your average neoprene sleeve, but also keeps your mac padded with luxurious faux fur.
Adolfo Sanchez Alexander Tote:
Totes are my handbag shape of choice: they fit your entire Brooklyn apartment, are easy to carry, and this black croc one goes with everything.
Brooklyn Royalty Metallic Leather Fleur Barrette:
As you may have guessed by our name, at Market Publique we love all things fake French. One of those things is this fleur de lys barrette. And since it’s from MP’s hometown, Brooklyn, I love it even more. The red color makes it pop with brunette or blonde hair, so it’s perfect for anyone.
by trish on January 13, 2009
Before opening a Darling boutique on Smashing Darling, couture milliner Katie Burley followed her heart and hands to the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, MD to study Fibers and Wearable Sculpture. After many interesting adventures, from working in a one room “sweat shop” in NYC, to making one of a kind hats for the runway, she now calls San Francisco home. Each hat is hand-blocked and hand-trimmed by her, with selected materials that are few-of-a-kind or vintage, making each piece couture. She is inspired by pieces of discarded history, hunting in alley ways and digging through thrift shops for abandoned souls.
Get to know her better below, and p.s. images taken by Katie, hats modeled by Katie…fabulous, darling!
Darlings: How did you get into Millinery?
Katie: After switching my major just about every semester in Art school, I took a non credit course in millinery (from the now famous Jennifer Behr, http://jenniferbehr.com/). I was in love within the first five minutes! Finally I had found something that combined every aspect of art that I loved, line gesture, color, composition and sculpture. I settled into the Fibers department where I explored wearable sculpture and my love of all things cranial.
Darlings: Where do you turn for inspiration?
Katie: I love digging through thrift shops! When I don’t know what direction to go in, I’ll go to my favorite thrift and dig for hours. My inspiration definitely comes from vintage lines, whether it’s a belt buckle or a tattered piece of old lace.
Darlings: What does your average day entail?
Katie: As hard as I’m working towards being my boyfriends sugar momma with my hat sales, I do have another job. I’m a florist by day, mad hatter by night. I wake up early every morning and go to the San Francisco Flower Market. I am definitely enchanted with the tiny universe that is in each flower.
Darlings: What surprises you the most about having your own line?
Katie: Evolution. I constantly look at my older designs and just when I think what could I possible do next, I see exactly what has to happen. Once I work through a season of styles, that evolution seems to naturally come out in the next.
Darlings: Have you had other careers along the way?
Katie:Besides being a florist, I was an art teacher for a while. I was really inspired by children and their uninhibited imaginations. I sometimes felt I was learning more from them!
Darlings: Who is your customer? How do you market yourself?
Katie: Someone who appreciates attention to detail and the timeless beauty of a well crafted, handmade piece of art. Wearing my hats has been my best advertising. I’ve sold many right off my head!
Darlings: Describe your personal style.
Katie: I always top my outfits with a hat! A hat is the perfect exclamation point!
Darlings: What is the one item in your wardrobe you can’t live without?
Katie: My shoe rack! Without it, where would I possible store my Imelda Marcos sized shoe collection?
Darlings: If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?
Katie: Angkor Wat in Cambodia. I’ve been to a lot of different countries, but to be in the midst of something so ancient and mysterious really excites me.
Darlings: Do you have any events that you are getting ready for in the near future?
Katie: I’m always involved with local artists’ events in the city, from indie fashion shows to living room dance parties! The next event that I’m excited to be a part of is a neighborhood gallery party, if you’ve painted, photographed, stitched, built it or mixed it…you’re in it!
Darlings: Tell us about something you LOVE that you want others to know about.
Katie: If you are in San Francisco, RUN don’t walk to the Yves Saint Laurent show at the DeYoung. It is the only US showing and you will absolutely melt.
Darlings: Is there anyone in the Smashing Darling community you have a question or comment for?
Katie: ALL of you are SMASHING darling! I’m very flattered to be a part of this community.
