Apr 18, 05 | 7:00 am
Indie Fashion Guide for Trendsetters
load balancingDo you take your wardrobe cues from Jessica Simpson? I didn’t think so. But if you’re only shopping for clothes at the mall, you’re going to get caught up in the trends of the moment – everything looks the same and everyone will be wearing it. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with partaking of a little trendiness every once in a while, but if you’re reading this, you’re probably more of a trendsetter than a trend follower.
Just as with handbags, I find that the best way to get my required dose of fun, unique fashion is to shop independent. It’s tough to be a truly ‘Independent’ designer today because frankly, most designs are just copies or adaptations of what has already been done. Here I’ve brought together four of my favorite designers whom I think reflect the spirit of independent design at it’s best and most unique. These ladies show us how fashion can be fun and interesting – and that we don’t all have to look like Jessica Simpson.
Dyed Tie T by Gina Michele
Why I love it: Each one of these is hand-dyed by Gina Michele, so you’ll always get a fabulous, unique piece (which is also washable…). The tie detailing is flattering on a variety of body shapes – you can tie it just under the bust to help hide a tummy or wrap it as shown to accentuate a smaller waist relative to hips (my particular problem). I also LOVE that the sleeves are a little longer, allowing those of us without the most perfectly toned upper arms to keep them hidden if we want to.
Why you’ll love it: It’s a great, fun alternative to a t-shirt for spring/summer
How to wear it: You could pair it with the matching skirt (as shown in the picture), or just about anything else. I think it would look fabulous with a pair of white jeans, or a white knee-length a-line skirt.
Emerald City Doily Top by Anti-Factory
Why I love it: First, before you even finish reading this, if you like this top, go and buy it NOW!!! These tops sell out about five minutes after they’re put up on the site. I personally have two of these (different styles) and love them. They are reconstructed from vintage and found t-shirts, sweaters and just about anything interesting that Stephanie thinks she can work with.
Why you’ll love it: The sizing is very generous – I have a ‘M’ and ‘L’ and they both fit me. Because they’re reconstructed, the sizes are really based on bust size, but the materials usually have a little stretch. You can also be 100% sure that no one else on the planet will have the same top – each one is totally unique and sweatshop free.
How to wear it: This top would be very cute with a pencil skirt and strappy sandals for a casual work environment. Of course it also works with a simple pair of jeans, or a long flowy skirt and flat sandals. I would keep the accessories to a minimum though – the top shouldn’t have to compete for attention.
Navy Mina Dress by Kween
Why I love it: This may be the perfect mini-dress. Ever. Kween’s designer, Kelly Markiewicz, takes her cues from vintage designs and spans the decades with her ultra-feminine and totally wearable pieces. She knows how to flatter a woman’s curves and bring out her inner Hollywood starlet. Kween is available at LuvCharlie, Pink Stilleto Shop, and Label-LA.
How to wear it: If you have the body, wear it alone with a great pair of wedges. But that’s the great thing about this dress – it’s just as cute (or cuter) over a pair of flared jeans. If the weather is a little cool, add a shrug or layer it over a tee.
Catch! Tee by Lilywear
Why I love it: I love all the original tees by Lilywear. In fact, I own and cherish the Flower People tee, which is one of their all time best sellers. Each original design is hand-printed with love by Brook and Taylor and they introduce new designs each season. The nautical stripes make this tee current and the parachute print makes it cool.
Why you’ll love it: You won’t ever get tired of the compliments and ‘Where’d you get that?’ It’s a fun, hip alternative to a regular old tee – and brings a little character to your look.
How to wear it: With anything! It will be especially cute under a blazer or denim jacket. Also try it with a circle skirt and ballet flats.
Grechen is the founder and webmistress of Grechen’s Closet, an online fashion/style/shopping magazine with features such as a daily "Look What I Found," a comprehensive directory of where to buy designer and independent labels online, a list of more than 500 online boutiques, The DenimGuide to finding the perfect pair, Reviews of designer and independent clothes/accessories on real women, and lots more. Now Grechen’s other endeavor, an online boutique featuring some of her favorite indie designers: The Needle in a Haystack.
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