February 18, 2014

Off-Site On Trend: Part I

Since IMG announced plans to reinvent the structure of NY Fashion Week's main venue Lincoln Center, the bi-annual event has been criticized for being too “tradeshow like” causing many designers to move off-site. This has sparked more innovative platforms like that of Manufacture NY, an eight day fashion week that combines runway with retail situated down on West 17th Street.

With an audience and exhibitor list full of the young, cool and inventive, the relaxing atmosphere of Launch NY was a great break from the usual frenzied tents. The independent designer focused event acquainted the industry with a plethora of emerging multi-talented artists and visionaries. Not to mention, the space was cleverly attached to a retail store selling a few of the featured designers' merchandise.

photo via Udor Photography

Here we were introduced to Mimi New York, a collection of unique pieces that combines antique fabrics of lightweight lace, fringe, and other hanging details to give each garment a one of a kind look. By mixing various lace colors and proportions, designer Mimi's artistic eye creates high-end, handmade, and sustainable clothing.

photo via Udor Photography

Born and bred by Bulgarian designer Milena Encheva, Minnoji is a New York based womenswear label that creates sophisticated clothing that can be worn from day to night but with a dark, romantic twist. Her most recent Fall collection had a unisex appeal with its heavily androgynous theme, which she believes is the future of fashion.

photo via TUR Photography

By adapting her training in apparel design and applying it to working with metal, Pratt Art Institute graduate, Laureluxe was able to pursue her ultimate passion for jewelry design. Some may say her work references Egyptian and Persian cultures but either way, her handmade pieces are truly creative wearable art.

photo via Simply Natural

Inspired by a love for animals, nature, and a Made In The USA mentality, Simply Natural is a line of denim developed from natural dyes grown in the northern US. By hosting a trunk show at Manufacture NY's new retail component, this farm to consumer concept showcased their completely cruelty-free alpaca fleece that is sheered directly from the animal before spun into yarn, designed, and made into apparel.

Stay tuned for Part II of our NYFW chronicles...

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