My version of solids: hand dyed linen using natural indigo!
I've been thinking about ways to make my collection more affordable, and to also move past just the silk & the digital printing. Another problem I've been considering: I always have such a hard time finding good, interesting, well-made basics each season. Like most women --I love what Phoebe Philo has been doing with Céline and of course Isabel Marant--modern, wearable, simple cuts--they make beautiful 'basics'. However, those designers don't usually fit into my budget (especially Céline!!). Inspired by both Philo & Marant, and wanting to work in new materials with this collection, I decided to try to make some versatile 'basics' this season!
But how to keep it interesting for both myself and my customers--who expect (rightfully so) color & pattern from ERMIE? Hand dyeing fabric seemed to be a good solution! These "solids" are actually subtly patterned with a mottled effect from the hand dying process, and natural indigo produces the most beautiful, beautiful color.
So, the results!
Photos 1, & 6-9:
Natural Indigo Hand Dyed Jacket. Oversized, relaxed fit. Unlined, no buttons or closures, front pockets. Trimmed with scraps of digitally printed linen from other ERMIE SS '12 garments (upcycling!). Each jacket will be made to order, and one of a kind. Worn above with a plain black cotton tank from J.Crew.
Photos 2, & 5-9:
Natural Indigo Hand Dyed Pencil Skirt. Slim fit. Fully lined in linen, no pockets. Back zip. You can wear this piece with just about everything!
Photos 3, 4, 5, 10:
Natural Indigo Dyed Skinny Strap Tank. Slightly fitted at the bust, gentle a-line shape towards the hem. Fully lined in linen. Side zip.The perfect hot-weather top. Worn with the Belgian linen ERMIE Short Skirt in the Prism Print.
Handmade Clay & Wood Pendant by Vanessa Samp worn throughout.
Fox Claw necklace by Odette NY.
Dream Collective & Odette NY bracelets.
Vintage turquoise ring.
These pieces work so well with many other pieces from the SS '12 collection--but this is all I had time to shoot today! What do you think?
The indigo is so subtle compared with with we are used to seeing from ERMIE. Nice idea - I can see them working well with your other pieces.
ReplyDeleteThe mottled indigo-dyed linen is very pretty. And I love how you have used fabric scraps from other garments in the jacket.
Love Vanessa's necklace too. Really, really love it.
Wow, that jacket! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThis is such a good idea. These new pieces still feel very "Ermie" but will work so well with the other printed pieces. Amazing work!
ReplyDeleteLove the indigo. Like others are saying, it really complements your patterned designs so well! Thanks for letting me try on the gorgeous jacket today -- just the right blend of a lightweight fabric cut beautifully. The patterned details are the perfect pops. Great seeing you and brainstorming. Love, C
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful idea - and I hear you about Céline and Isabel Marant - so, bravo! The jacket is especially nice, I like the contrast fabric and the shoulders.
ReplyDeleteAll looking good, fifth photo down is a fav. Love that you are working with indigo. I have some seedlings growing, wish I could give some to you :)
ReplyDeletelove the jacket!
ReplyDeleteand love indigo!
perfect!
i also love the photo of you in the jacket and skirt and black tank! CUTE!!!
xo-L
i just got back into town and finally had time to write you a little something! that jacket is mindblowing jennifer! the indigo is the most, all so exquiste breathtaking! always an honor to see your work and thanks lady ; ) xxoo v
ReplyDeletei love the detailing on that jacket - the printed trim. a great way to add some interest to a 'basic', although i think your pieces are anything but, unless you mean that they would be very wearable and go with most anything.
ReplyDelete