Legend has it that Engineered Garments got its name from a pattern maker that remarked that the clothes weren’t just designed, but engineered, due to the amount of detailing involved in each garment.
I was skeptical too when I read that little tidbit, but I’ve since been won over. The workmanship is top notch and the price, especially for the quality, isn’t outrageous. Pictures don’t do it justice, but we’ll try anyway; here are four pieces we love from the GQ/CFDA “ Best Designer in America†winner.
Plaid Woven Shirt | $144 at Bloomingdales (in store)
It’s a testament to the quality of work when a shirt this busy still is so wearable. It looks even better when it serves as a base layer underneath a jacket. But where can you find a summer-weight jacket that would look good over this shirt, you ask….
Bedford Jacket | $325 at Refinery 29
…why, from the same designer, of course! This unstructured jacket goes well with a pair of dark denim and it’s a great weight for that in-between weather in the summer. The price difference, as far as I can tell, is due solely to exchange rates. The dollar is at an all time low, after all. And you said you’d never need to remember Econ 101…
Natural Raglan Pop Hoody | $80 at Hejfina
Again, outerwear engineered for the summer, it’s great for a cool summer night.
Khaki Norweigian Shorts | $160 at Steven Alan
You’ll either love this or hate this; either way, you can’t argue that it’s ordinary. On the front of the pants are the pockets you usually see on the back.
Where to Buy: Online retailers include Hefjina, Steven Alan Annex, and Stuart & Wright. Boutiques include Hollander & Lexer and Odin (New York), Legion (Los Angeles), Mac (San Francisco), Relish (Washington D.C.), and select Bloomingdales. Though Engineered Garments has been around since 2005, it is only now that the industry has started to take notice. As time progresses, I’m confident that more stores will start carrying Engineered Garments.
Posted by Trisha on May 14th, 2008 in Men, Shopping Guide |
Dear Patient Omiru Readers,
My sincere apologies for today’s downtime! There was a catastrophic disk failure on the computer that’s hosting Omiru. Completely unexpected, and time consuming to fix. Luckily, the guys over at Hostmonster were able to get the site back up and running this evening (minus 10 days worth of data, which I just fixed back up).
Now that the site’s back up and running, we’re back to work on some great new stories for you this week, including a Designer Profile on a chic new(ish) men’s brand and a post about graduation fashion. Stay tuned!
Cheers,
Trisha and the Omiru Team
Posted by Trisha on May 13th, 2008 in Off Topic |
Two of Matt Meyerson’s favorite affordable under-the-radar brands: Modern Amusement (hoodie and tote) and Creative Recreation (shoes).
Matt Meyerson, former product placement guru for a top entertainment PR firm, is striking out on his own to create Expose NY, a new kind of brand showcase to connect top-tier designers, stylists, and fashion editors. Read on to hear about Expose NY and the cutting edge of fashion PR, what Matt looks for in an up-and-coming brand, and his top picks for affordably chic under the radar brands.
Omiru: What is Expose NY? And why is it different from events like Fashion Week or tradeshows like MAGIC?
Matt: Expose NY is the first in a series of brand showcases that will geared towards top-tier stylists and fashion editors.
I used to run the product placement division of a very large entertainment PR firm in Los Angeles, where I created a niche in fashion and became known for exposing brands through everything from print to film to TV to music videos to the Web to celebrities to events.
I had a denim client that liked to do periodic “editor days†in NYC since he didn’t have an agency on the East Coast and he wanted the face time. We did a handful of successful events that brought in editors from outlets such as Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, WWD, O, and Self.
About a year ago a light bulb turned on in my head, and I realized there could be a real need for an event like this on a larger scale. I am very protective of my contacts and relationships that I have built over the years, but this is a way for brands to capitalize on my rolodex and forge relationships themselves with the people deciding what goes in the mags, on the TV and on celebrities. It is for brands that don’t necessarily show on the runways and may not have a showroom in NY. This will be a way for them to get into the heads of the editors and stylists as they begin to plan for Spring.
Expose is nothing like Fashion Week or MAGIC because this is an event strictly for editors and stylists. As much as we love the retailers, this event is not for them. When editors and stylists go to trade shows like MAGIC, Project or Coterie (if they pay to get in) they have to sift through thousands of brands they may not be interested in to get to the ones they want to see or the ones that might be a hot new discovery for them.
Expose will cut through the clutter and showcase a few handfuls of the hottest brands not showing on the catwalk. There will be quality control on both ends of the process so the brands are meeting with the right people and the guests are seeing lines that they WILL want to use either now or in the future.
We are not like other events that will let in anybody willing to pay. We would rather have a few amazing brands than a bunch of lines nobody cares about. Quality will get the best editors there, not quantity.
O: How do you spot up-and-coming brands? What catches your attention about them? What makes them special?
M: Expose will be a combination of my spotting and inviting brands and them finding us. Brand selection will be very comprehensive and will require an online application, current line sheets, and samples for review. This way we make sure only the highest quality and best in category brands are involved.
What makes a great up-and-coming brand is not price or hype. We look for details and focus on creating garments or accessories that do not necessarily follow the masses. We want brands that are timeless, really focus on good manufacturing, pay attention to detail and offer something that fills a void in the marketplace.
We are in a terribly competitive environment in an economy that is not so high. You could have the hottest line in the world, but if you are sitting with it in the cornfields of Iowa and you don’t know how to get it out there, you will not succeed. We help brands get out there. Exposure is EVERYTHING. Thanks to the internet, and sites like Omiru, people are ravenous to find what’s hot and what the next best thing is. All that info is a few clicks away.
O: Omiru is all about real style for real people–and fashion that’s not only beautiful, but also affordable. What under-the-radar brands should Omiru readers know about?
M: Expose is by no means just about luxury and high price points. If you are the absolute best line in price pointed apparel and are doing some amazing things, we would love to have you join us. Look at what Target is doing with brands like Jovovich Hawk or Kohl’s with Vera Wang. Steve and Barry’s and H & M are all killing it when it comes to affordable fashion and we can’t ignore the power of this space especially when the cost of living keeps going up exponentially.
Some great “under-the-radar†lines (and I say this tongue in cheek since you may know a lot of these lines) include Cheap Monday, anything at Target, Levi’s, Creative Recreation, Modern Amusement, and Insight 51. My tastes run a tad more casual, but there is so much great stuff out there for every taste that you can mix and match haute with (price pointed) hot and really pull it off. I can’t tell you how many people I know that rock Gucci coupled with a Target special.
For more information about Expose NY, check out http://www.expose-ny.com.
Posted by Trisha on May 13th, 2008 in News |
We asked: Would you wear High Waisted Pants?
You said: No to High Waisted Pants, with only 30% of the vote.
Style tip? High Waisted Pants work well for long-waisted women, as they lengthen the leg line by visually raising your waistline. For short-waisted women, on the other hand, they’re a fashion nightmare. Either way, wearing too high of a waistline can appear somewhat theatrical, so for everyday wear, you probably want to stick to medium high waist styles, at most.
Next question: Floral prints feel just like Spring. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear Floral Prints? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Twenty8twelve Royce High Waisted Sailor Pant | $340 at Shopbop.
Posted by Trisha on May 12th, 2008 in Trend, Trend Predictives, Trendscape, What's In and What's Out, Women |
Here at Omiru, we heart Martin and Osa, a refined take on casual clothes from American Eagle Outfitters. (In fact, I’m wearing one of the jackets from the Spring collection as I write this post.) Clean silhouettes, stunning colors, and elegant patterns are signature elements of their Summer 2008 collection. Here’s our five favorite pieces from Martin + Osa’s womens collection (each under $100):
Silk Tie Neck Tunic | $54.40 (sale) at Martin + Osa
Don’t you love the attention to detail on this silk tie-neck blouse? We love how the silk lends an ethereal quality to the deep caspian blue.
Multi-Stripe Cotton Scarf | $48 at Martin + Osa
You already said Yes to Horizontal Stripes, so here’s an easy way to wear them.
Hobo Ruched Pouch | $68 at Martin + Osa
We’re digging the bright orange color of this cute ruched pouch. Think of it as a playful version of Hermes Orange.
Print Silk Shirt Dress | $78.40 (sale) at Martin + Osa
Fisherman’s net print takes this silk shirt dress from simple to simply sublime.
Military Blazer | $59.95 (sale) at Martin + Osa
One part structured and one part sexy.
Don’t have a Martin + Osa close to you? Their online site offers free shipping and free returns on all orders. Plus, Omiru readers get 15% off with coupon code 43602753 through May 30, 2008. Happy shopping!
Posted by Trisha on May 9th, 2008 in Shopping Guide, Women |
Q: I need some suggestions for professional interview outfits for the spring and summer weather for an office job located in Washington DC. I am in my 30s and a little top heavy with thinner hips and legs.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Between Washington DC’s conservative dress code, and the weather, which can be pretty hot and humid, you’ve got to strike a balance between keeping covered and keeping cool. We recommend traditional suits in lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton.
To flatter your figure, which is a little top heavy with thinner hips and legs, you’re going to want to create a long, lean line with your torso for balance. Look for lightweight suits with a soft, natural shoulderline and a high armhole. The high armhole not only looks cleaner and fits better, but it also helps create the illusion of a longer torso. A low, single button stance is going to be the most figure flattering for the same reason.
Your thin hips and legs make it easy for you to find flattering trousers and skirts. Almost any pair of trouser pants will work for your figure. As for skirts, try a nice pencil skirt that hits at just below the knee. Not only does it work with Washington DC’s conservative dress code, but it’s also going to be one of the most flattering shapes for you.
As for jewelry, I would keep with the traditional, conservative look with simple pearls or gold bangle bracelet. Complete your outfit with a comfortable pump in a medium high heel.
To add some visual interest to your look, you could invest in a dark green leather briefcase for interviews or a handbag in a surprising color. Best of luck with your interviews!
Have a great tip about business formal interview attire for summer? Share it with us in the comments!
Pictured: Wool Crepe One-Button Blazer ($225) and Wool Crepe Trouser ($130), both at J Crew. Flatiron Embossed Triangle Satchel ($238) at Banana Republic.
Posted by Trisha on May 8th, 2008 in Q&A, Women, Women's |
Q: I’m in a fashion plateau. I’m a college sophomore looking to expand my wardrobe. I find myself wearing a solid colored polo, cargo shorts and a pair of vans slip-ons or low athletic style sneakers every day. I would really like to try and diversify my wardrobe without ditching my polos. I want a more mature look but still a bit preppy.
Clockwise from top left: Patrik Ervell Linen Pink Check Buttondown ($264 at South Willard), Michael Bastian photo from The Sartorialist, Save Khaki Pants from GQ, Cardigan Sweatshirt ($157 at Oak).
A: You’re in luck–you don’t need to spend a lot in order to look more mature. In fact, you can often replicate a designer look at generic prices. To me, the spirit of “young but mature†rests in taking staples of a man’s wardrobe and putting a contemporary twist on them. The most common outfit you will see that captures this spirit is the classic t-shirt under the blazer look. You may also see some guys pushing up the sleeves on blazers. As for your specific question…
Pants: Ditch the cargo pants. Those bulky pockets are just a bit too high school. Instead, try some well-cut khakis in a lighter color. They’re worth the investment. I would look into a designer called Save Khaki; I like their cut and casualness. If you’re in New York, you can go to their boutique; otherwise you can find them at online at Barney’s Co-op, Neiman Marcus or Bergdorf Goodman. And if its prep you want, look no further than a pair of Nantucket Reds; these classics are the very definition of East coast prep. You can also try Ralph Lauren or J. Crew, which always has some good chinos (and of course, their classic chambray shirt). Or, if you want something new, you can explore Gant’s Rugger line. And while we’re on the subject of pants, don’t be afraid to try jeans that aren’t blue. Grey jeans look great.
Shorts: For those hot days, look into some clean cut Bermuda shorts; they’re like cargo pants without the bulky pockets. Nantucket Reds can be pretty stylish, as seen on Michael Bastian (pictured top right). Also check out what Banana Republic has to offer. Style tip? Properly fitting shorts do not fall below the knee.
Tops: You can stick to polo shirts, but I have a feeling that if you look around, every 3rd guy will be sporting a polo. How to differentiate yourself from these other guys? Look for polos that deviate from the common styles and brands. Try investing in some interesting buttondowns; they’ll come in handy for dates too. Solids and stripes are always a safe bet, but if you feel like being bold, try some checks or plaid. Whatever you do, leave the collar down; a polo with a popped color isn’t preppy, it’s pretentious.
Shoes: Don’t bash yourself too hard about wearing slip on Vans; they’re actually coming back in style. Also, classics such as Jack Purcells probably won’t go out of style any time soon, so don’t worry about wearing sneakers every now and then. You can find some alternatively preppy shoes without breaking the bank though: try some Sperry Top-Sider or L.L. Bean boat shoes.
Blazers/Suits: Also, now that you’re in college, it’s time to look into blazers and possibly a suit if you don’t have one. You’ll definitely need a well-cut suit for your job interview, so it’s only a matter of time. For about $500, you can get some pretty good suits at Banana Republic.
Regardless of what you buy, please make sure that whatever clothes you do buy actually fit you properly. Bagginess is for kids, not a mature guy like you.
Have a great tip about building a preppy casual wardrobe? Share it with us in the comments!
Pictured: Classic Fit Lightweight Chino | $69.50 at J. Crew, Nantucket Red Shorts | $52.50 at Nantucket Reds, Fitted Gingham Checked Shirt | $39.50 at Gap, and Common Projects Achilles Low Top Sneaker | $295 at Jake.
Posted by Trisha on May 7th, 2008 in How To, Men, Men's, Men's, Q&A, Shopping Guide |
Every woman has a Little Black Dress…or two, or ten. And they’re great as a go-to outfit for cocktails, dinner parties, and other evening events. But how many times do you really get to wear your LBD? If you’re anything like us, it’s not very often. So let’s get some extra mileage out of our LBDs during the daytime with some clever accessorizing. Here’s how to accessorize a LBD:
Why does this outfit work?
Visual Interest through Pattern: Both the gingham scarf and the newsprint belt add visual texture to the LBD. And since the two patterns are in the same color scheme, they complement one another rather than compete with one another.
A Splash of Bright Color: All work and no play make Jack a dull boy–and all black and white and no color can make for a dull outfit. So we added a splash of bright color for a jolt of energy. We love bright green as a fresh foil for black and white–but any bright color will do. Try royal purple for a distinctly elegant look.
A Touch of Mystery: Finish off the outfit with a pair of oversized shades. The air of mystery the sunglasses creates is a secret ingredient for standout style.
How do you accessorize your Little Black Dress (LBD)? Share your style tips with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on May 6th, 2008 in How To, Ready Made Outfits, Women, Women's |
We asked: Would you wear Horizontal Stripes?
You said: Yes to Horizontal Stripes, with 75% of the vote.
Style tip? Horizontal Stripes get a bad reputation for figure flattery, since they can make you look wider than you actually are. But it’s all in how you wear your stripes. Small, narrow stripes are pretty easy to wear by themselves. And you can counteract the widening effect of wide horizontal stripes by wearing them in moderation–such as under a jacket. Plus, you can take advantage of the widening effect by wearing them on a part of your body that you’d like to widen. If you have narrow shoulders, for instance, you can wear horizontal stripes at the shoulderline to visually balance them out.
Next question: When it comes to pants, high waisted silhouettes are growing in popularity. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear High Waisted Pants? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Striped Tie Tank | $34.50 at Gap.
Posted by Trisha on May 5th, 2008 in Men, Trend, Trend Predictives, Trendscape, Trendscape, What's In and What's Out, Women |
Q: At 5′1, 110 pounds, and a size 32DD, I cannot find a dress that fits me correctly. Strapless dresses are impossible. I really need a dress that I can wear a bra with and that doesn’t show off too much cleavage.
A: For maximum figure flattery, we’d recommend a scoopnecked or v-necked dress that hits at knee-length. The neckline will allow you to wear a bra (and won’t show too much cleavage), and the knee length hemline will be especially flattering on your petite frame. Here’s Omiru’s top picks for figure flattering dresses for extremely curvy petites:
Our $$$ Picks:
Maggy London Cascade Front Chiffon Dress | $158 at Nordstrom
Isn’t this color simply gorgeous? The flowy fabric will drape nicely over your curves, though the hemline may need to be raised to knee length for maximum figure flattery.
Adrianna Papell Empire Waist Charmeuse Dress | $138 at Nordstrom
The color is great, as is the neckline. What we don’t like is the full blouson sleeves–which may be too much for your petite frame.
Our $$ Picks:
Calvin Klein Voile Party Dress | $118 at Nordstrom
This dress is great for a summery occasion, and the scoop neckline will work well for your figure.
Maggy London Silk Chiffon Halter Dress | $98 at Nordstrom
The halter neckline and the knee-length skirt are excellent for figure flattery.
Our $ Picks:
Lush Bubble Dress | $22.80 at Forever 21
The bubble skirt may help you balance out your figure…plus we love the gorgeous Jade color.
Ella Dress | $22.80 at Forever 21
Thanks to the cutout, this dress reveals ever-so-subtly. And the belted shape will help you naturally play up your curves.
Have a great tip about dresses for extremely curvy petite women? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on May 2nd, 2008 in Figure Flattery Guide, Q&A, Shopping Guide, Women, Women's |
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