Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Taking it to the Streets

This weekend we will be participating in the Randolph street market in Chicago's west loop area. I am excited to have the ability to sell my clothes directly to the customer. Face to face contact with the people wearing the clothing is a great way to get inspired to make new pieces. It also helps me see the garments on different bodies so I can further refine the fit of each piece. While there is no way to fit every single person in one set of clothing I will try to get the majority. Also, nothing is a warmer, fuzzier feeling that seeing someone so excited to wear something you created yourself. For that alone I am going to have fun this weekend. Come see us by checking out www.indiedesignermarket.com for information.

Saturday, May 17, 2008

Orange


Recently I was watching TLC's What Not to Wear, and Clinton was expounding on the virtues of the color orange for blondes with blue eyes. He, just like myself, had originally thought that a color as intense as orange would be overwhelming to anyone with fair coloring. Turns out that orange can be very attractive on blondes. Since blue and orange are opposites on the color wheel it definitely makes blue eyes pop. Also, blonde hair and fair skin can be warmed up by orange. While tangerine is probably a better way to start, many hues of orange exist. What a rather juicy thing to try out this summer.

xoxo,

Ruth
P.S. The orange shirt above is one of the new styles that Dept728 will launch especially for the Indie Designer Market in Chicago.

Friday, May 16, 2008

The Launch


I was so pleased with the way the uniforms came out for the Underground's "Treated Thursdays." Hopefully the Chicago Indie Designer Market next weekend goes just as well.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

What to Wear

Next Thursday is the launch party at the Underground. Sean already knows what he wants to wear, but I am still deciding. The criss-cross halter top is really great, but because I am busty I don't know if that would be appropriate for press photos that may be taken at the event. I think I will opt for the morph skirt worn as a tube top (gotta love a skirt that can be a dress or a tube top) over jeans. It will be simple and still very true to the line. What I love about our women's collection is the multi-functional garments. Menswear is something that has to be a bit more concrete in its use, but women's clothing can be multi-purpose. Each line lets me work with different parameters, and appreciate each project for it's own highlights.
xoxo,
Ruth

Monday, May 5, 2008

Oil and Water


Boys: Gals notice your shoes. We know that you do not own thousands of pairs (except for the hipsters who collect sneakers...but that's another story). We expect you to take care of the ones you have. Mink oil is your best friend. Shoes get dirty. Mink oil reconditions the leather and emulsifies the dirt and grime. The most expensive shoes can look cheap after a lot of wear and tear. Take care of your shoes. Oil them up.
xoxo,
Ruth

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Bangles


Jewelry is such an overlooked part of a complete wardrobe. Considering that bringing attention to the face is the ultimate aim of any outfit (after highlighting the best parts of the body) jewelry is essential to finishing the look. Necklaces and earrings are now acceptable for both men and women, so I feel we should really take the time to discuss them. Personally, I find that a mix of expensive, heirloom pieces and cheap, very trendy accessories are the best way to keep your wardrobe up to date as well as complete. Spending tons of money on expensive bangles always seemed like a waste to me when the $5 bangles will do just fine for the few seasons they will be in. Beautiful silver necklaces, however, which will be worn for decades (and handed down to children) should definitely be worth the splurge. Interesting jewelry around the neck and ears brings the attention upwards and showcases the face. Also, interesting pieces can tell a story, set a tone, or even start up a conversation. Who knew something so small could be so multi-dimensional?
xoxo,
Ruth

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Fittings

I am pleased that the uniforms for the Underground came out well. Seems that without anything but minor alterations on one piece they all fit very well. I am so happy that they will make a statement on Thursday May 15th. This will be the first publicized event for Dept728. I am ecstatic that it will be a positive impression.
xoxo,
Ruth