Fashion: "What's the Point"?

I scanned this NYT article, "What's the Point of a Fashion Magazine Now?" which asks the same question I've pondered while ads for loungewear dive into my inbox like manic hummingbirds.

Few are interested in recherché effects, there are no big events. Even the amateur fashion show  known as "going to work" is on furlough. My friends who adore clothes have taken a shopping pause; Huguette said that the lockdown forces her to save for some fabulous outfit in the future.

But that does not mean defaulting to an overworn nightshirt (I threw it out today), or a sad top that tattles on how many meals were eaten in bed.

My injured hand is still recovering, but I wanted to show you three choices above and beyond the fashion hype, from the small-scale companies and designers whose support has never been as important.

Minimalist: Calm is good

My favourite local boutique, État de Style, now has an e-shop, so you can order eminently wearable Montréal verve. The clothes are made here, of locally-produced fabric. The "Rien n'est Simple" top says it all, non? And you can now find the excellent "Equal By Definition" feminine-cut sweatshirt in three colour combinations.

Photos: État de Style
Enchanting upcycled textiles

Farther afield, two unusual textile projects by House of Wandering Silk: re-purposing scraps into a silk/cotton/wool collage called "Wabi", offered as scarves or garments, and the "The Artist's Table" collection, made from reconditioned studio drop cloths. Shown, The Artist's Table "Milos" dress (for preorder), and the Wabi Scarf Brick II.

Some Artist's Table pieces are ready for shipping now, but selling rapidly.

Photos: House of Wandering Silk

The latest sleeve, the must-wear colour, the new supposedly nonchalant but torturously thought-out ensemble—all seem useless as a ticket to a 500-seat concert. And trips to the cleaner's, ha!

My friend Jude sent me a link to a recent post by Lynn Slater (Accidental Icon) that is worth your time. It has a bit of that "silver lining re coronavirus" theme but what she says about her past persona, her present relationship to her clothes, and the future of the industry, is well-observed.


Spring in your step

Speaking of the future, we do not expect any kind of grand re-opening here soon, and do need to keep our spirits up. This oughta do it: Iris socks by Bonne Maison, from Katrin Leblond.




Comments

Laura J said…
Thank you for the links ! Window shopping ensued as really the only thing I need are new sneakers for dog walking. As it’s still what passes for spring here I’ve not yet delved into warmer weather clothing storage to see what lurks there. I expect many of us have 2-3 outfits and that’s all we wear. When there’s no variety in activities there’s little impetus to change. I was surprised at how easily I abandoned variety in ensembles!
Venasque said…
I was on that tee shirt as soon as I opened the page. It gives me hope this descent into hell will soon be over. Hope the hand is mending well.
Duchesse said…
Venasque: Just so you know what to expect, that is heavier than a standard t-shirt and has a good bit of stretch. You culd wear it over the top of a layering tee or by itself.

Laura J: I've made a deliberate effort to not overwear things as that makes me feel forlorn and low energy, but the same sweater im different colours has appeared week in and out, multiple times ;)
VeraL said…
The point is to keep your favourite businesses in business. I bought a pair of summer "lady" shoes from the only place in the world that makes quality pretty shoes for women with bunions. Beautifully made in France, do not hurt. I sent her $408 CAD for shoes that won't be delivered until, at best, late May. Often I wait for the summer sale but not this time. If her business fails I will be stuck with wearing orthopedic stuff the rest of my natural born days.

https://www.carolinemacaron.com/cm_fr/collection.html
Jen Lawrence said…
Those are such cheerful socks! We need some bright spots these days. Stay safe!
LauraH said…
Just reading the story of House of Wandering Silk. Fascinating and inspiring. Don't know how you find these amazing people, thankful that you do.
royleen said…
Just pre-ordered the sleeveless Milos dress. So pretty! Thanks again for the introduction to amazing businesses!

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