New York Couture
Type of Place: Designers
Women's Clothing
Description:
As this year's Siren Festival at Coney Island drew to a close, I was
milling around in a post "New York Dolls" gig glow on my way back to
the subway. Then something caught my eye--an extremely appealing rack of
clothes. Could it be: the ocean, an energy-revving rock show, *and*
some interesting shopping, all in one area? How lucky.
The designer responsible for my personal definition of a "great rack"
was 23-year-old Cassie Kogler, who was selling items from her handmade
New York Couture line. Her story helps to renew my faith that, amid
ever-climbing rents, luxury condos sprouting like weeds, and ever-expanding
chain stores, there are still decent opportunities for independent
artists in New York. Cassie taught herself to sew while a student at Pace
University; and when the world got a look at her creations, a design
line was born. Part Madonna in "Desperately Seeking Susan," part surfer
girl, part Bjork, and all fun, the clothes have wit and flair; and their
distinctiveness and bold designs give them a feminist feel.
Business had been understandably brisk at the festival; but Cassie told
me with excitement that she'd been able to take time to hear the
famously outspoken M.I.A. perform. A female indie-powerhouse designer
soaking in the sounds of a female indie-powerhouse musician--that kind of
girl power touches my heart. (M.I.A. was a major draw--women and men on my
train were raving about her too. I hadn't gotten there in time to see
her, but we all marvelled at how good the Dolls still sound--and, for
that matter, still look.)
If you're interested in checking out Cassie's designs--and you
absolutely should be--you can find them at Apollo Braun on the Lower East Side,
Femme Fatale in Williamsburg, and Patricia Field's shop on the Bowery,
among other local locales. Prices vary but are very reasonable (most
pieces under $100). Check out the website for more details, and make a
splash with a vibrant one-of-a-kind outfit at your next summer
shindig--or while simply walking down the street.
- Pamela Grossman; July 29, 2007
New York Couture
NYC citywide, NY
Email
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