clothing

The Africa handmade deep-scoop-back one piece swimsuit (AUD $250) by We Are Handsome

Through their innovative new label, Spoke + Spool, Sydney designers Alia Parker and Laura Pike have threaded together their love of both fashion & cycling. They've released a fantastic range of creative clothing for guys and girls with all garments designed & made by Laura. The label was launched at the recent "Where To From Here" exhibition at Fraser Studios (Chippendale) which celebrated bike culture in Sydney and showcased the work of a number of progressive designers, artists and makers around town.

The Spoke + Spool collection is remade from existing vintage clothes which are made from beautiful fabrics such as silk and wool. The clothing is transformed with an emphasis on functionality - achieved specifically through reflector tape, screenprinted bicycle map linings, and compasses for navigation. I really love the little bolero pictured above. When the coat tails are buttoned up, the woven reflector tape patches look like a pair of ladybird wings!

Aren't these photos beautiful? The photo shoot was at local Sydney Park (the grassy hills seemed very familiar!), and the talent behind the lens was Sudney photographer Laura Friezer. This pretty bike fashion is a far cry from lycra bodysuits!

I think this is my favourite from the range. The "onesy" has been totally transformed from the original garment, with legs that were once sleeves, and frills which used to be a belt... The diamond-shaped reflector detail makes a cute pattern which matches the stylish, airy feel of the outfit.

Spoke + Spool represents a duality of style & function for the inner city commuter propelled by pedal power. The label endeavours to be as resourceful and ecologically sound as the transport method it's made for. With designs springing from superior second hand and vintage clothing & fabrics, each garment is both unusual in style and totally unique. The vintage woolen vest pictured above is reversible, so it's ideal for both on and off the bike.

The Spoke + Spool range is stocked exclusively at The Vintage Clothing Shop, Shop 7/80 Castlereagh St, St James Arcade, Sydney. To find out more about this collection of "Freewheeling Clothes for Bikelovers", visit www.spokenspool.com. With compass vintage wristbands to guide them, these girls know where they're going!

Green Sprout Hat (left, USD $35) and Bouquet Arm Warmers (right, USD $65) by Artish

I hope you have enjoyed our little "winter wear" series of posts :) Lucky last is a collection of colourful creations made by Leticia Maguire for her label, Artish. Leticia wants to make fashion personal, and both her online store and Etsy store are bursting with one-of-a-kind handmade scarves, hats, arm & leg warmers, and more... By the way, Leticia has just announced a massive sale with 50% off everything for the month of September! (So, take 50% off the prices listed on our image captions.)

Rose Cowl (left, USD $50) and Lion Tamer Scarf (right, USD $45) by Artish

I LOVE the colours Leticia weaves together, especially in the Lion Tamer Scarf pictured above. Vibrant colours can really seem to make your skin glow... I usually wear fairly dark clothes, so for me, accessories like scarves & gloves are ideal for adding just a small dose of "bright" into an outfit.

Red Basketweave Cowl & Wrist Warmers (left, USD $70) and Tightrope Scarflette (right, USD $35) by Artish

Over time, Leticia has developed an appreciation for fiber, and how it can be used in so many ways. You can clearly see this in her creations - the small details & unique combinations weave her personality into the mix. She is especially delighted when the blend of textures and colours in the end result surprise her.

"It's a real pleasure to create something, and watch it go out into the world, knowing that it will transform and evolve along with the style of the person who is wearing it."

Solo Cowl/Head Thread (left, USD $30) and Chai Tea Scarflette (right, USD $40) by Artish

I will leave you with Leticia's cute description of herself (on her Etsy profile):
"I love things that go fast, just about anything that is red, old fashioned bicycles, a cup of tea. I'm not sure that I could live without a computer and the internet, and I certainly couldn't survive without something to create something else with. I can't help tapping my toes to a catchy tune, and can't resist hot chips. I'm perpetually searching for the perfect handbag."

You can read more about Leticia's handmade knitted accessories on her web site (and online store) at www.artish.com.au or on her blog at www.artishhandmade.blogspot.com. You can also find Artish in the following retail stores:
NSW: Newcastle Regional Art Gallery (Newcastle)
VIC: in.cube8r (Fitzroy)
ONLINE: whipit australia

Recycled Wool Necklace Scarves - left: Orange, Soft Green, Purple, Neutrals and right: Purples, Greys, Black, Light Blue, Neutrals (AUD $38ea) from Gaye Abandon's MadeIt store

Gaye Abandon makes the cutest & cleverest winter accessories - all from upcycled, felted jumpers. (No wonder they're warm!) We're long-time fans of the Gaye Abandon label - you might remember our "wallets & winteries" post from way back in May 2007... Designer Gaye Naismith is originally from New Zealand, and now calls Melbourne home. She loves thrift shopping and collecting vintage fabrics and patterns, old postcards and jumpers to transform into her handmade creations. The Necklace Scarves pictured above look like a string of woollen autumn leaves & they're available in just as many colours.

Tubeway Armies - left: Grey Rib and Red with Red Cross Stitch and right: Oatmail Rib with Handstitched Layered Circle (AUD $33 per pair) from Gaye Abandon's MadeIt store

The original Tubeway Armies are a signature style of the Body Parts range. Along with the Scarves and Midriff Warmers, the Body Parts woollen accessories are made in partnership with Gaye's stitching buddy Melanie Hill (of Textile Allsorts). I love the stitching & vintage button details which make each pair unique!

Recycled Wool Midriff Warmer Haramaki - Grey and Geometric (AUD $37) from Gaye Abandon's MadeIt store

The Midriff Warmers can only be described as brilliant... how did we ever live without them? In Japan, the haramaki (belly warmer) is a common item of clothing. It is traditionally worn next to the skin as an under layer, but the Body Parts pretties are designed to be worn as part of a layered look, peeping out from under your jumper or shirt.

I particularly like the geometric design pictured above. Not only does this four panel design swivel, allowing you to choose which panel faces the front, but the two patterned panels are cut with the finishing edge of the jumper at the top to form a fitted waist.

Upcycled Sweater Hot Water Bottle Covers - left: Grey, Red & Black and right: Orange, Red & Grey Stripes (AUD $45ea) from Gaye Abandon's MadeIt store

More brilliance! These "hot under the collar" hottie covers are little jumpers for your hot water bottle. They feature the cuttest button up neck with collar which turns up to cover the rubber neck when the hottie is in use. (Of course, the hottie jumper can be unbuttoned for easy removal and is fully washable.)

Tubeway Armies (AUD $33 per pair) from Gaye Abandon's MadeIt store

Find out more about Gaye and her clever creations at www.gayeabandon.com, www.madeit.com.au and www.gayeabandon.etsy.com.

Gaye Abandon will be exhibiting as part of Incubator at the Sydney Stitches and Craft Show which opens today (19-23 August 2009). She also has a stall at Rose Street Artists Market in Fitzroy every Saturday, and will be at Maribyrnong Makers Market on Saturday 29th August, 10am-3pm.

The Gaye Abandon & Body Parts ranges are also stocked at many boutiques around Australia:
VIC: The Cats Meow (Melbourne City), Claude the Bird (Armadale), Craft Victoria (Melbourne City), Flying Fishes (Lorne), House of Balaklava (East St Kilda), i dream a highway (Northcote), Petranilla (South Melbourne, Queen (Fitzroy), Sea of Love (Lancefield), Shiva Designs (Canterbury), Threads of Nature (Croydon), Tomorrow Never Knows (Fitzroy), Village Idiom (Yarraville)
ACT: The Hive Gallery (Braddon)
NSW: Cicero Clothing & Accessories (Leura), One Wise Owl (Pyree), Shady Fig (Nowra), woodpapersilk (Petersham)
SA: Storison (Hahndorf)
TAS: Cocoon (Launceston), Love & Clutter (Hobart)
WA: William Topp

Extra Long Ribbed Slouch Fingerless Mittens - Dusty Pink (left, USD $35) and Nozy Nose Warmer (right, USD $5) by melpdesigns crochet

These handmade accessories by melpdesigns crochet are almost too cute. For only USD $5 you can keep your nose toasty warm AND confuse your cat to no end! (Those kitties are easily confused!) Designer Mel Paton is a full-time school teacher and crochet designer from Perth. She loves the hobby which brings her so much "enjoyment and respite from the stresses of everyday life and my day job".

Feather Soft Chunky Beanie Hats - Pistacio with Gray Flower (left, USD $18) and Charcoal Gray with Flower (right, USD $18) by melpdesigns crochet

Sweet colour combos and details such as vintage buttons bring a warmth to Mel's designs as well as the people who wear them. These chunky beanie hats each have their own personalities. Mel is passionate about making, buying & selling handmade goods & believes that "buying ethically can really make a difference in the world". I'm sure we all agree with that!

Owl Beanie - Babies, Kids & Adult Sizes (left, USD $24) and Fingerless Mittens - Grey with Wrist Strap and Recycled Buttons (right, USD $23) by melpdesigns crochet

This wide-eyed Owl Beanie comes in both kids' and adults' sizes so all you need is to be young at heart... melpdesigns crochet is available from Mel's Etsy store, www.melpdesigns.etsy.com, and you can find her blog at www.melpdesigns.blogspot.com. By the way, Happy Birthday Mel!

Pink Bobble Hat (left, USD $35, less 20% for Aust. buyers) and Grey Cable Wristwarmers (right, USD $30, less 20% for Aust. buyers) by Me and Tex

The pink bobbles around Me and Tex's winter hat (above) are the cutest! Designer Judith Macrae is a Sydney-based visual artist who loves painting & drawing, good design and is excited by the many different ways to express creativity - including knitting!

Blue Aviator Helmet (left, USD $40, less 20% for Aust. buyers) and Pink Bow Cotton Beanie (right USD $30, less 20% for Aust. buyers) by Me and Tex

Judith leant to knit as a child & remembers her first experience of creating something with her own hands. Her range of unique hand-knitted accessories reveal her love of different colours & textures - especially natural fibres like wool & mohair.

Skinny Red Stripy Scarf (left, USD $38, less 20% for Aust. buyers) and Black Glamour Headband (right, USD $18, less 20% for Aust. buyers) by Me and Tex

By carefully adding little details and playing with colour combinations, Judith weaves her personality into the Me and Tex range. Each piece is equally cute & cosy! You can find more of Judith's knits at www.meandtex.etsy.com.

Unbrushed Tunic Dress Short (left, USD $52) and Black Circle Dress A-Line (right, USD $62 sizes XS-XL, USD $64 plus sizes 1X, 2X & 3X) by Lyptis

A cute dress which is cosy, cosy, cosy! Quite a find... Melbourne designer Franziska Ringel named her label "Lyptis" after "euca-lyptus" because "they smell so nice and are always green". Originally from Germany, she used to do drawing, photography and worked as a sound technician at punk/hardcore concerts in Berlin. Last year, she started sewing, and loves being able to make something that she and her customers can wear and use everyday.

Winter Blossoms Top (left, USD $45) and Grey Circle Dress (right, USD $64 sizes XS-XL, USD $66 plus sizes 1X, 2X & 3X) by Lyptis

The garments pictured here are made from warm, soft fabrics such as double knits and unbrushed fleece. Many Lyptis designs are also available in plus sizes, so nobody need miss out. Franziska is happy to accept custom orders too! I think my favourite is the Grey Circle Dress. Which would you choose?

You can view many more Lyptis designs at www.lyptis.etsy.com and keep up-to-date through the Lyptis "The Rant" blog.

Upcycled fun green top - 'prarie' (left, was USD $55, now USD $41) and ethical cotton knit striped winter dress / jumper - 'tommy' (right, USD $80) from Heidi and Seek

I really love Heidi and Seek's motto, "Saving the world, one cute garment at a time". It speaks volumes about the passion Melbourne maker Hayley Lau stitches into her designs. The Heidi & Seek range is comprised of one-of-a-kind handmade garments which have been upcycled and reconstructed using quality second-hand items. They are wonderful combinations of colours, fabrics, styles and details. Hayley gives each piece a "unique sense of fun and colour".

"DIY" and "we are not sheep" badges (USD $7 each) from Heidi and Seek

Heidi & Seek aims to counter the disposable nature of today's fashion industry, which relies on exploited workers to bear the cost of the low prices offered to customers. She strives for fairness and eco-friendliness in every aspect of business. The Ethics page on her web site describes her views, and the problems with common production practices within the fashion industry.

In upcycling pre-loved garments, Hayley really mixes things up - creating combinations that might not have otherwise come about. In that sense, her philosophy also contributes to the design appeal of her garments, which are often surprising, and always super cute. I love the large collars on the tops featured here, and especially the sweet gathered short-sleeve + slender long-sleeve combo. For these pieces, comfy clothes have been dressed up by the detailing!

Ethical brown blue oversized collar winter sweater jumper - 'gabbie' (left, USD $75) and upcycled red brown bow pocket winter shirt - 'paper doll' (right, USD $55) from Heidi and Seek

I just had to include pics of her fabric-covered button badges too! How gorgeous are they? Especially the pink "we are not sheep". Love it.

Heidi and Seek can be found at:
the web site - www.heidiandseek.com
the blog - Heidi and Seek and Ethical Fashion
Heidi and Seek's Etsy Store heidiandseek.etsy.com

This lovely label is also stocked at the following retail stores:
VIC: Lulu (Balaclava), Rude Health (St Kilda) and Pink String (Woodend)
ONLINE: Leeloo

Wooden Doily Brooches by States of Nature (AUD $35ea, photo by Carolyn)

The "pretty crafty" Issue 3 of our favourite mag, the Peppermint Magazine is out now, and on p76 is "natural states", our indie art & design interview with Simone Madigan from States of Nature!

Newcastle-based designer Simone Madigan loves to print, and to experiment with new products and design styles. Her imagery ranges from bold and graphic to intricate and decorative, and is featured on a range of beautiful products under the label States of Nature. She filled me in on the story so far... By the way - I had the opportunity to take many of the product photos myself. I had a lot of fun finding 'natural' locations & getting the products to pose... hope you like the pics!

Red skirt with flower print by States of Nature (Photo by Carolyn)

I 1. How would you describe your label?

SoN States of Nature manufactures specialist hand-crafted prints using water-based inks and sustainable practices. Designs are printed onto cotton, linen and hemp blends to create clothing, accessories and homeware. Certified plantation timber grown in New South Wales is used to to create a range of brooches. All products are designed and made in Australia. States of Nature is down to earth stuff for down to earth people!

Scarves with circles print by States of Nature (AUD $38ea, photo by Carolyn)

I 2. Is your background in traditonal fine art printmaking?

SoN I have a degree in graphic design but I spent a lot of time in college making prints and experimenting with techniques, from etching and lithography to screenprinting. Luckily I was able to combine my love for design with my love of fine art and I got a job as an illustrator in the fashion industry. As my career developed I continued with printmaking as an outlet for my need to get away from the computer screen. I love the hands-on process of printmaking, even though it can be physically exhausting sometimes when working on large projects.

Scarves by States of Nature (AUD $38ea, photo by States of Nature)

I 3. What sparked the ideas for your first products?

SoN The ideas for my first products came from wanting specific things that I couldn't seem to find anywhere. I wanted to buy clothes and accessories that had a cool design aesthetic as well as being made in a sustainable, carefully considered way. I also like things that are made in Australia, affordable, and durable so that I can wear them to death and not have them fall apart in the wash.

T-shirt & Scarf by States of Nature (Photo by States of Nature)

I 4. How did you progress into making your full range of accessories, clothing & homewares?

SoN One day I realised that nobody was going to give me my dream job, so I had to create it for myself. I worked away in a variety of jobs while I was researching and planning my business. I had meetings, made mistakes, had some small successes and generally burnt the candle at both ends. And then I took a leap of faith, without a safety net, and I couldn't be happier.

Scarf with red zipper print by States of Nature (AUD $38, photo by Carolyn)

I 5. Your label's name (& designs) reveal your love for the natural world. What practices do you incorporate into production to ensure your products are environmentally-friendly?

SoN My first consideration is the environmental impact of my work, from the materials I choose to the processes I use. I have developed systems so that I am able to use minimal water in my production, also recycled and tank water wherever possible. I create very little waste by-product in manufacturing my goods, by designing with specific methods in mind from the beginning. I use only natural fibres, hemp and organic cotton grown in NSW, and certified Australian plantation timber. I have a great team of local makers who sew my products, so we don't waste resources on the raw materials travelling miles just to get made up.

The States of Nature stall at the winter 2009 Finders Keepers designers markets. (Photo by States of Nature)

I 6. Are design markets a large part of your retail & marketing?

SoN They haven't been, but it looks like they will be in 2009. Because my business is primarily wholesale and online, I don't get a chance to communicate directly with the individual people that like or buy my work. I deal with the wholesale buyers for stores, and the people who buy off my website. The great thing about the design markets like Finders Keepers or Magnolia Square, is that I get to hear lots of people's comments about my designs, and I find that feedback very valuable to help me improve the next product.

Close up of scarves with circles print by States of Nature (AUD $38ea, photo by Carolyn)

I 7. Do you have any products which are personal favourites? (I LOVE your doily brooches!)

SoN I live in my a-line skirts, especially the birds print on blue at the moment.

Tea Towels by States of Nature (Photo by States of Nature)

I 8. Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

SoN I find inspiration walking my dog on the beach, in the garden, in nature, traveling near or far, and in my collections of vintage fabric and ceramics.

Wooden Doily Brooches by States of Nature (AUD $35ea, photo by Carolyn)

I 9. What are the best (and worst) parts of running your own label?

SoN The best part is the challenge and freedom of running my own business. The worst part is managing cash flow when I don't get paid on time.

Timber Brooches by States of Nature (AUD $25 ea, photo by Carolyn)

I 10. Who do you bounce your ideas off? Are your friends & family creative or do you keep in touch with other designers online?

SoN I have extremely creative friends and family, and my husband James is the one I bounce my ideas off most of the time. He is a musician, but he has a very good eye and helps me see things from another perspective.

Scarves by States of Nature (Photo by States of Nature)

I 11. You participated in The Springboard Project in 2008. How did the program help you develop your business? Would you recommend this type of program to other emerging designers?

SoN The Springboard Project was fantastic and I found it inspiring and useful in practical terms. There are lots of little insights that I remember from the guest speakers, the workshops and the other participants that help me in so many decisions I make. There's always more information and knowledge to be had, so I'd absolutely recommend this kind of program to other designers.

Wooden Doily Brooches by States of Nature (AUD $35ea, photo by States of Nature)

I 12. What's next for States of Nature?

SoN More design, more fun and more freedom!

Thank you Simone for this wonderful insight into your label! For more natural goodness, visit www.statesofnature.com or browse the States of Nature online store. You'll also find States of Nature stocked in the following stores:

VIC: Claude (the bird) (Armadale), Counter @ Craft Victoria (Melbourne), Duck's Nest (Geelong West), Lulamae (South Melbourne), Mac Pelican (Hawthorn), Safade (Williamstown), The Cats Meow (Melbourne), Village Idiom (Yarraville), Wilkins and Kent (Melbourne)
NSW: Betty Mim (Cooks Hill), Bowerbird Emporium (Murwillumbah), Collect @ Object (Surry Hills)
QLD: Artisan (m)art (Fortitude Valley), Bliss Ecowear (Paddington)
WA: lala orange (Northbridge)

Poketo Skirt (left, AUD $95) and Tux Dress in Black (right, AUD $195) from Secret Squirrel Clothing

Hi there Indie kids, so lovely to meet you all. As I pondered over what I should share with you in my debut post, the thought occurred to me that it might be nice to share a bit of myself with you all. A getting-to-know you sort of deal. So here we go: I adore dresses, especially the wintry kind that, when teamed with some thick black tights, patent black heels and a cute beret, equal perfection. So when I stumbled across Sydney label Secret Squirrel's winter '09 collection, I couldn't resist sharing it with you all.

From humble beginnings under a canvas umbrella in Sydney's Glebe Markets, Secret Squirrel's playful yet elegant creations can now be found in a handful of retail and online boutiques in Australia and New Zealand. It is the beautiful love-child of designers Bri Cheeseman and Andrew Prince, who produce two seasonal collections a year.

Velvet Smoking Jacket (left, AUD $189) and Christina Dress - Lace (right, AUD $209) from Secret Squirrel Clothing

Their latest collection, Darker Than Blue (AW09) sees their classic cuts teamed with antique lace, opulent silk and just a hint of velvet. The winter collection also sees the duo team up with another cult Sydney design duo, We Buy Your Kids, to create some super cute and quirky t-shirts.

When asked about their creations, Bri says that Secret Squirrel aims to make clothes that will stand the test of time; collections that are simple and elegant without necessarily looking like it. "We are young and modern, and a little innocent, but there is a splash of gorgeous and grown up about us, too."

Christina Silk Dress (left, AUD $198) and Smock Dress (right, AUD $209) from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

My personal favourites from the collection are the Christina dress in red silk (above left) and the navy silk smock dress (above right). To see more of Secret Squirrel's luscious collection, or to purchase one of these beauties for yourself, visit www.secretsquirrelclothing.com.au.

Smock Dress (left, AUD $209) and Button Skirt (right, AUD $115) from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

Even better news: right now in The Grand Social's online store, Secret Squirrel items from the sweet summer collection Kaleidescope are on sale. Pretty and cheap! What more could you ask for. :)

Kimono Dress (left, AUD $220) and Tux Top (right, AUD $145) from Secret Squirrel Clothing.

You'll find Secret Squirrel's Darker Than Blue collection hiding at the following Australian stockists:

NSW: Pigeon Ground Records and Clothing (Camperdown), Somedays (Surry Hills), Abicus, Made 590 (Newtown), Glamourpuss (Erskinville), Lee & Me (Wollongong)
VIC: Some Buddy Loves You (Fitzroy), Little Salon (Fitzroy), Dorothy & Evelyn (St Kilda), Pussycat Black (Brunswick), Lu Lu Design Store (Balaclava), Hummingbird 60 (Northcote), Wolf Whistle
WA: Subway DC (Perth, Freemantle, Claremont), Atlas Devine (Leederville)
ONLINE: www.birdmotel.com.au, www.thegrandsocial.com.au/secret-squirrel

Posted by Jacquie