NYFW: Evan Hirsch x Goodwill

Designer Evan Hirsch brought sustainable fashion and high end thrifting to his first show on the official CFDA calendar. In his second collaboration with Goodwill, he demonstrated how previously owned items can be used as raw materials for art and couture.

Each of his key looks was inspired by a popular category on the ShopGoodwill website. For instance, Lego sets remain a special category unto themselves. Hirsch took the block concept and interpreted it into a jeweled embellishment pattern to upcycle a former Joseph Abboud suit.

A hand-painted hooped party dress was a collaboration with art students of Art Strong NYC, where they were given individual panels to transform before coming together in a cohesive look.

Lots and lots of jewelry can be counted on to be found at the stores an online. Hirsch took mixed pieces, bags of pearls and vintage lace garments to createe this bridal look. The embroidery alone took him over a week.

With sustainable style in mind, this fashion collection was never intended to be manufactured en masse. Instead, Evan Hirsch is reducing waste and creating one-of-a-kind statement pieces meant to be treasured or collected like art. 

Slow, second-life styling may not be a lifestyle people will adapt to overnight, but Hirsch has made a great pitch for it.

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Bella Sisters - Upcycled Chic

Happy Earth day! As a fashion designer, how do you design a truly Eco-friendly collection?  The Bella Sisters are a team I found in Portland's Saturday Market that answers that question.

A truly sustainable label, designers Cynthia and Jenna Rose up cycle old blazers and coats into their own brand of embellished  outerwear.

Too often, stores that carry so-called up cycled clothing end up looking like a Frankenstein of misfit garments.  Bella Sisters has a distinct aesthetic that make each piece clearly their own. The jackets have flattering fits with their signature back waist pin tucks or contrast tie belt.  A coordinated hood are a constant as are cozy knit cuffs or romantic ruffles.

  Most beautifully, each jacket is embroidered with woolen appliqués that have motifs like birds and flowers on branches, jelly fish or a radiant heart.  The embellishments are always complementary to the fabrics of the jacket and include dimensional details like beads and semi precious stones.

Cynthia and Jenna are actually cousins, but growing up in Seattle and sharing a passion for making things resulted in their partnership as close an any sibling.

To recap, Bella Sisters sources locally, are made locally and transforms previously loved clothing into a one of a kind fashion.  They are happy to do custom pieces for their fans.

I think this is the fashion label for our times.  Innovative, great style, planet friendly and smart. I was happy to support them and love the jacket I bought.  Get on board and do the same!

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