Now, Marc Jacobs’ fun sub-label is back with Dr. Martens to launch another footwear collaboration oozing the feels of the era with a grunge twist.

After dishing out leather Addina Bex shoes, Heaven and Dr. Martens revisit to the Mary Jane-style silhouette to give it a smooth velvet makeover.

The results? Heaven and Dr. Martens introduce two extra grungy and plush Addina Bex shoes in two classic colorways, black and red velvet.

Heaven and Dr. Martens’ Addina Bex echoes the spirit of both minds. For starters, the shoe preserves Dr. Marten’s classic touches, like its thick lug sole and double yellow welt stitching.

What’s Heaven without its two-headed bear? Often seen throughout its regular collections and team-ups, Heaven’s otherwordly mascot appears again on its brushed silver buckles on the Dr. Martens shoes.

Fans of Heaven and Dr. Martens alike are obsessed with the shoes, referring to the latest collab as not a want but a “NEED” for their closets (yes, in all caps).

“First thing I did when I woke up was order the red ones!!!!” one Heaven fan commented under their post.

Sure, it’s less adorned than the two’s Jadon boot or even Marc Jacobs’ own heavily embellished 1460 boot. But the Addina Bex collab offers just enough charm to get the 90s grunge job done. Not to mention, the black pairs arrive just in time for spooky season.

As if the Mary Janes weren’t already a hit alone, Heaven and Dr. Martens enlisted alt-dressing queen Aliyah Bah, better known as Aliyah’s Interlude, to front the campaign with her viral #aliyahcore style.

If you were sold from the jump, Heaven by Marc Jacobs and Dr. Martens’ Mary Janes are now available on Marc Jacobs and Dr. Martens’ websites. If you’re even considering copping, I’d think fast — folks are scooping these beauties up as we speak.

Source : Highsnobiety

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THEY HAVE A SPECIALTY—AND THEY DO IT WELL.

In a world of fast fashion and abandoned malls, it can be difficult to find quality, affordable clothing—especially when it comes to casual basics. While you’d once head to your local shopping center in search of a sturdy black T-shirt or go-anywhere leggings, you now have to order online and hope for the best. And if you don’t know where to shop, that can involve a lot of trial and error. To make that process easier, we asked personal stylists for the best affordable clothing brands for casual wear. These spots have all the basics you need, and most even stock workout wear and clothing for more elevated situations like the office or a night out.

1. Los Angeles Apparel

Visit this shop for T-shirts, bodysuits, socks, and sweaters. “Los Angeles Apparel has been doing basics long enough to offer everything under the sun and do it well,” says Elizabeth Kosich, certified image stylist and founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling. “Their low price points allow seasonal refreshes to keep your basics fresh, spiffy, and unfaded.”

Of its offerings, she loves the baby rib long-sleeve tees ($28), velour tracksuits ($78), and fleece sets ($68). Kosich can also vouch for its biketards and unitards for workoutwear. “And don’t miss their sleeveless jersey jumpsuit—it’s the ultimate Sunday uniform,” she says. You can pick one up for just $80.

2. Lands’ End

Head to Lands’ End for all your activewear, sleepwear, jackets, and other basics. Carol Davidson, NYC-based mid-life stylist and founder of Life.Style.Strategy, calls it a stylist’s secret.

“Do not underestimate them for high-quality, well-cut, well-priced basics such as tanks, turtlenecks, and tees,” she says. “And let’s not forget their low-maintenance, no-iron, crisp white blouses, which, remarkably, seem to stay crisp and white!” Purchase one of those for $78, and it’ll last you a lifetime.

Designer, Stylists Say.

3. Uniqlo

You’ve probably shopped Uniqlo for basics, but Kosich says outwear is where the brand really shines.

“From ultra-light down to Pufftech technology to travel-ready drawstring pouch packaging, their winter puffers are a must-have,” she says. “Try a quilted long vest in autumn, oversized Pufftech coat in winter, and ultra-light down jacket in spring, then press repeat once fall arrives.”

She says you’ll want to keep an eye on their collabs, too; They’ve had some with big names like Mame Kurogouchi, Jil Sander, and Marimekko—but you’ll have to shop fast!

4. MUJI

The Japanese brand MUJI is a jack of all trades—it’s got everything from bathroom decor to ballpoint pens to home organization supplies. But its minimalist clothes are also worth looking into.

“Their T-shirts are outstanding—thick, brushed, high-quality cotton that washes and wears with gusto,” says Kosich. “Across the collection, look for details like UV ray protection, washable wool, recycled down, quick-drying broadcloth, and non-itchy sweaters.”

In the casual category, she’s fond of the boatneck tees ($40), 3/4-sleeve tunics ($40), and stretch flared legging pants (also $40).

5. Everlane

The casual clothes at Everlane are totally polished, meaning you can wear them to the office or on a lazy Sunday. Kosich suggests its dresses, which marry form and function with details like pockets and adjustable waists. However, it’s Everlane’s accessories that stand out most.

“The minimalist Italian leather tote ($250) has become a favorite go-to tote of city girls everywhere,” she says. Plus, the company does good, she notes: “Beyond its collection, Everlane stands for ethical manufacturing practices and sustainability, so consider peace of mind a gift with purchase.”

Source : Best Life

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In this day and age, with fast fashion dominating the fashion industry, it can be difficult to shop sustainably. I usually turn to H&M, Garage, and Zara for a quick closet revamp, even if my conscience suffers a bit. 

But over the last few months, I’ve chosen to say no to the overwhelming Instagram ads stuffing trends down my throat and instead turn my gaze to more sustainable alternatives. Below is a list of a few of my favourite shops — ranging in price, location, and style — that will make you and the planet feel good.

Kotn: 754 Queen Street West

With a flagship on Queen Street, Kotn is perfect if you’re looking for nice, long-lasting basics, sweaters, or some structured trousers and blazers. It focuses not only on the environment and the biodegradability of its products but also on creating jobs, better infrastructure, and the education of the communities they are a part of. 

The company is currently a certified B Corporation Voted Best for the World with the fourth highest B Impact Score of apparel brands in North America. Although not the most affordable for casual shopping, Kotn is ideal if you are looking for something sophisticated and high-quality if you have a bit of money to spend. 

Girlfriend Collective: Online with third-party distributors in multiple locations

Girlfriend Collective is a godsend when it comes to sustainable, deliciously soft loungewear and activewear. It believes in ethical and environmentally conscious manufacturing, using material made from recycled water bottles, fishing nets, fabric scraps, and other waste. Additionally, it only works with factories certified by SA8000, an international certification standard that ensures organizations pay their workers fair wages and maintain humane working conditions. 

Even though it requires a bit of saving up to afford Girlfriend Collective products, it’s a good choice — if you’re like me, I would much rather buy one pair of good leggings than splurge on five cheaper ones that won’t last a squat.

Ran’s Closet: 322 College Street and 747 Queen Street East

A personal favourite of mine, Ran’s Closet has everything from leather jackets and baby tees to oversized jeans and grandpa-core sweatshirts. Although it does offer some new pieces, its real area of sustainability comes from its secondhand and vintage sections. It conveniently has a storefront close to campus, and though its prices vary widely, you can find cheaper options in its secondhand section. 

Exile Vintage: 60 Kensington Avenue

A gem in Kensington Market, Exile Vintage has what you need to fulfill your retro, trendy Pinterest dreams or your Halloween costume’ needs. Seriously, I have walked out with two pairs of jeans for my boyfriend, a Coach purse, and a jacket for under $150. Prices vary considerably, and it does require patience to get through the racks, but with a bit of time and determination, you can leave with some previously-loved designer clothes or a band t-shirt that doesn’t leave your bank account crying.

Value Village: multiple locations for shopping, 1319 Bloor Street West for donating

A classic for secondhand shopping, Value Village has it all and more. This is my go-to when I don’t have a real shopping objective in mind, but I feel like browsing and seeing what the universe has in store for my wardrobe. 

The store is very accessible with multiple locations and price friendly, and even has a promotion that allows you to donate your clothes for a 20 per cent discount that can be used at any of its locations. Beware though: its quality assurance is not the best, so make sure to always check for stains and holes! But for the most part, these stores are full of hidden treasures.

U of Thrifts: @uofthrifts on Instagram 

Last but certainly not least, we have our very own U of T thrift store! Selling used accessories and apparel, this baby boutique runs through Instagram and schedules pickups at users’ convenience. U of Thrifts’ student owners manage all sales and deliveries. 

In an interview with The Varsity, the two creators of U of Thrifts, Yan Qing Lee and Chloe Loh, explained how they “hoped to provide convenience, safety, and accessibility in buying second-hand clothing, and… encourage and increase the sustainable choices available for students like [them], in fashion.” 

Shopping at U of Thrifts is a great opportunity to not only be more sustainable but also support other fellow students. Prices vary, as do the items they offer, but are overall very budget-friendly.

Happy shopping!

Source : The Varsity

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Taylor Swift has her Swifties, Justin Bieber his Beliebers and Phoebe Philo has her Philophiles – it says everything about the rapture surrounding the Paris-born designer that her fandom comes with its own moniker. So it is, two years after announcing a comeback, that Philo has confirmed the first collection from her eponymous label will launch on 30 October.

A Central Saint Martins graduate, Philo has been missing from the landscape ever since she left her role at the Parisian brand Celine (when it was Céline) in 2018.

Making her mark both at Céline , where she was the creative director for a decade, and Chloé, where she took over from Stella McCartney after the latter left to set up her own label, Philo became known for designing with the “female gaze” in mind – from polo necks to sensible shoes.

Her simple, elegant clothes were received with adulation by women of an understated sartorial inclination. She put women in suits, had the author Joan Didion feature in a Céline campaign at the age of 80, and was the first designer to take maternity leave while in a top job.

Philo’s label – the first time she has had her own brand – is backed with a minority stake from LVMH, the luxury French conglomerate that counts Louis Vuitton and Celine among its brands. It is hoped it will enjoy the same commercial success that she brought to Céline, where sales grew fourfold to an estimated €750m-€800m a year.

It has been a long time coming, with anticipation brewing ever since its inception was announced in July 2021. In February this year, an account for the designer appeared on Instragram, quickly accumulating tens of thousands of followers despite not having a single post. In July her site opened for registrations – the all-black homepage featuring the single sentence: “Register here for news and further updates.” Philo said at the time that she was “very much looking forward to being back in touch with my audience and people everywhere”.

Known for her quiet, thoughtful designs, this latest venture comes at an opportune moment in some ways – high-end, low-key “stealth wealth” is all the buzz in fashion; now spotted everywhere, from private jets to your local bus stop. An aesthetic that Philo pioneered, it will be interesting to see how she brings a (re)freshed perspective to a look that is particularly prescient now.

Trends in fashion may be short-lived, but Philo’s designs have managed to remain relevant. Plus, they have their tentacles in so many of the styles that are now mainstream – the ubiquity of Birkenstocks, for one.

Unusually for the fickle world of fashion, being out of the spotlight has done Philo no harm. Her archival designs sell for four figures on resale sites and her name is still whispered with reverence. She is also that rare thing – a designer who, despite not courting the limelight, is well known and well respected, both on the front row and far beyond.

Source : The Guardian

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As a member of one of the most successful K-pop groups in the world, Jennie has delivered a slew of viral fashion moments.

Blackpink‘s Jennie continues to captivate audiences worldwide, not only with her standout vocals but also with her scene-stealing fashion looks, as the singer is known to cause a positive fan-swirled stir on social media platforms when she posts her outfits.

Since her girl group’s debut in 2018, the South Korean artist and the rest of her Blackpink members have showcased their standout fashion sense, wearing a number of ensembles from high-profile designers along with posing front row at luxury fashion shows.

In addition, like many other K-pop stars, Jennie has also secured a number of high-fashion ambassadorships of her own, including a long-standing one with Chanel. The star has been a global brand ambassador for the French fashion house since 2019 and wears the brand so often that the Blinks (Blackpink’s fan base) gave her the nickname “Human Chanel.”

Ahead is a glimpse into Jennie’s fashionable moments throughout the years.

2018

In 2018, at Chanel’s ready-to-wear show during Paris Fashion Week, Jennie channeled the brand’s signature texture in a tweed high-waisted pants set. The star paired her sharp blue ensemble with the brand’s classic double flap bag in a matching print, which delicate details also included a light blue border trim.

That same year, to the launch of the “Les Eaux De Chanel” photo call in Deauville, France, Jennie looked to Chanel again. This time she repurposed the brand’s wool jacquard top, which had a chevron print and raw edges, into a chic-themed minidress.

2019

To the Chanel fall 2019 show, Jennie went white in a preppy minidress with black braided trim bordering throughout. Along with adding a statement red lip to contrast the dainty look, Jennie also incorporated a “CC” logo belt.

2022

In 2022, to Chanel’s show during Paris Fashion Week, Jennie went all-black in a school-girl-inspired ensemble, which consisted of a velour jogger shorts set and a fuzzy bustier crop top. The star accessorized with white frilly ankle socks and bold gold jewelry.

2023

In 2023, for her first appearance at the Met Gala, Jennie opted for a minimalist Chanel minidress that channeled the fashion event’s theme, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.” Jennie’s outfit details included a scalloped neckline and a pleated skirt.

Jennie also graced “The Idol” red carpet during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival in May, where she took on ballerina inspiration in a Chanel couture gown with black tulle and a structured lace bodice. “The Idol,” a series on Max that saw a June release, marked Jennie’s acting debut.

Source : WWD

The post Blackpink Star Jennie’s Style Evolution Through the Years: Structured Ballgowns, Preppy Blazers and Tons of Chanel appeared first on Couture Asia.

Swedish fashion retailer H&M tells Just Style it is looking into recent alleged cases of worker labour abuse in garment factories as pressure mounts for brands to cut ties with Myanmar suppliers.

H&M is currently investigating 20 alleged cases of labour abuse at clothing manufacturing facilities in Myanmar, which serve as suppliers for the global fashion retailer, according to news publication Reuters.

This investigation follows one of its leading competitors, Inditex, which owns fashion brand Zara, announcing its intention to gradually stop sourcing products from the country.

Reuters explains a UK-based human rights advocacy organisation has documented as many as 156 instances of reported worker abuse within the nation’s garment production facilities between February 2022 and 2023, representing a significant rise from the 56 cases recorded in the preceding year.

In a statement sent to Just Style H&M said: “All the cases raised in the report by BHRRC [Business & Human Rights Resource Centre report] are being followed-up and where needed remediated through our local team on the ground and in close cooperation with relevant stakeholders.”

Reuters claims BHRRC is to release a report on 16 August which highlights that wage reduction and wage theft were repeatedly reported, followed by unfair dismissal, inhumane work rates and forced overtime.

H&M’s statement adds: “We are deeply concerned by the latest developments in Myanmar, and we see increased challenges to conduct our operations according to our standards and requirements.

“We are monitoring the current situation very closely and evaluating it in close dialogue with relevant local and international stakeholders.”

In July, Myanmar was identified as one of the “worst countries for working people” according to the 2022 ITUC Global Rights Index, alongside 113 other countries that exclude workers from their right to establish or join a trade union.

H&M faced criticism in May from IndustriALL Global Union for continuing to source from Myanmar despite the country’s humanitarian crisis brought on by the military coup in 2021.

H&M responded to the claims made by IndustriALL representatives at the time by explaining it had a strong local team and was working with the EU-funded MADE in Myanmar project, however this programme was later condemned by the global union.

Source : Just Style

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Just two years after she started selling designs from a booth in the Dallas Farmers Market, Tajikistan native Munisa Khuramova moved into a studio to create neoprene coats, jewel-toned slip dresses, and silk neckties.

Just two years after she started selling designs from a booth in the Dallas Farmers Market, Munelle de Vie founder and Tajikistan native Munisa Khuramova moved across the street to a studio in the Industrious building.

The white-walled, sun-soaked showroom serves as a backdrop for her jewel-toned fabrics. Fuchsia silk neck ties, one-of-a-kind neoprene coats, and slip dresses festooned with feathers adorn the rack-lined walls. 

The signs of growth are evident. An in-house tailor and recent hire is tucked in the corner of the space working on a new piece while the summer intern works diligently adjusting items on the showroom floor.  

The work stands out, and so does the designer. When talking with Khuramova, you understand why her vision and drive was recently recognized by peers. In May, Khuramova was named the 2023 FGI Rising Star in Fashion Design. 

Open to the public Monday-Friday by appointment; Saturday and Sunday from 10 am-4pm. 910 S Pearl Expy. 972-382-5535.

Source : D Magazine

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PHUE’s latest collection Native makes us feel one with nature

The beauty of nature soothes our souls. Away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s good to take a moment and feel the gentle breeze, soak in sunshine or appreciate the chorus of chirping birds. Similarly, serene landscapes, lush forests, or silent beaches also have stories to tell for those willing to listen. For now, what’s making us feel one with nature is the fashion brand PHUE’s latest collection Native.

The brand believes in maximalism and surrealism. Panya Gupta, founder and creative director of PHUE, is a firm believer in how clothing is a medium through which one expresses their individuality and pushes limits of artistic expression. She says, “Native is a collection where nature’s enchanting essence intertwines with gemstone hues in an extraordinary display of artistry. The outfits showcase meticulously curated prints that draw inspiration from the organic wonders of the natural world, while our thoughtfully designed silhouettes seamlessly complement the intricate structures of these prints.”

The prints have been developed after taking inspiration from barks of trees, cross-sections of trees, grass, etc. To bring that much-needed drama and impact, the designer chose tencel twill, modal satin, and viscose twill fabrics. It is worth noting that Panya took sustainable routes in terms of fabrics to help the customers make a responsible fashion statement. The colour palette of the collection shows a harmonious fusion of shades. Panya says, “Rich greens evoke the lushness of emerald forests, fiery oranges and reds recall the passionate intensity of rubies and sunsets, while delicate pinks and soft yellows evoke the tender beauty of rose quartz and citrine.” You will also discover the soothing greens of moss agate, the warm browns of tiger’s eye, or the delicate blush of opal. Unique prints and vibrant colours are at the core of every garment at PHUE. Panya says, “These design elements add value by adding surrealist ideas and concepts onto garments.”

Native outfits can be paired up with everyday casual wear like jeans or shirts. From solid cargo pants, printed pleated formal trousers, and casual cropped shirts to crisp-tailoured blazers, everything can be worn individually as well as with their respective counterparts. “Native has been designed to ignite confidence and evoke a sense of freedom in every wearer. We believe that fashion has the power to transform and uplift,” Panya adds. She says that the outfits will help you look stylish and feel comfortable.

Source : Indulge

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Forward-thinking fashion and accessory brands now have an exclusive opportunity to enhance their sales and visibility by joining forces with the world’s fastest-growing interactive mobile fashion app.

Since its launch in May 2021, Pocket Styler has become a global sensation, boasting over 17 million downloads and captivating 100,000 players who spend 10,000 hours on the app daily.

This immersive digital game empowers players to create and style their avatars for various themed events, while other gamers vote on their outfits. With an astonishing 310+ trillion possible combinations of outfits, the game receives 10.5 million looks submitted each week, with over 10 million votes cast daily.

With 70 percent of users aged over 25 and 85 percent female, collaborating with Pocket Styler offers fashion and accessory brands a distinctive opportunity to showcase their collections to a fashion-conscious audience with disposable income.

For the first time, visionary brands are invited to submit their proposals to join Pocket Styler, either by offering digital versions of their collections or by creating unique items for avatars to wear within the app.

Partnerships not only raise brand awareness among millions of global users but also drive substantial traffic to brands’ own websites. Through in-play challenges, gamers are directed to online shops, leading to increased engagement and potential sales. A recent partnership with London-based fashion designer David Koma witnessed a staggering 600 percent surge in traffic to davidkoma.com.

Furthermore, the app serves as an invaluable testing ground for brands to explore new concepts before bringing them to life in the physical world.

Pocket Styler’s pitch presents an exceptional opportunity for fashion and accessory brands, allowing up-and-coming labels to collaborate with established industry giants, creating a dynamic fusion of creativity and innovation.

Limited places are available, and pitches will be conducted throughout the summer.

Victoria Trofimova, co-founder and CEO of Nordcurrent, the company behind Pocket Styler, expressed, “The Pocket Styler audience lives and breathes fashion. The integration of real-world fashion brands into Pocket Styler is a natural progression as the game continues to expand, and it is met with enthusiastic support from millions of players.”

Source : Business Mole

The post Elevate Your Fashion Brand: Collaborate with Pocket Styler, the World’s Fastest-Growing Interactive Fashion App appeared first on Couture Asia.

For those closely following ENHYPEN’s journey, the partnership with Prada may come as no surprise. Members Jungwon, Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Ni-Ki have been ardent supporters of the brand for some time. Their presence at the F/W 2023 Prada runway show in Milan earlier this year served as a precursor for this exciting collaboration and the group has been showcasing their affinity for Prada for months, sporting the brand at award shows and beyond.

The members of ENHYPEN expressed their enthusiasm for this new venture, stating that they are delighted and honored to be part of the partnership. “The synergy Prada and ENHYPEN will create is something we’re very excited to witness and greatly looking forward to,” the group shared in a statement shared by WWD.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone for ENHYPEN, as it is their first major foray into the world of fashion since their debut. Despite being relatively young and newly established, these fourth generation stars have become one of the most talked-about groups in the industry. 

The group joins some big names across the globe as ambassadors for the brand including Hunter Schafer, Maya Hawke, and NCT’s Jaehyun. We can’t wait to see what this collaboration brings! 

Source: Teen VOGUE

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