Origin Twentythree

Origin TwentyThree takes Amsterdam: MINT fair at Modefabriek

2012-02-17T05:57:00.000-08:00

We are fresh off of our Amsterdam debut at MINT fair at Modefabriek and a tour of the Green Fashion Competition at Amsterdam Fashion Week and still reeling with enchantment and delight. Origin TwentyThree partnered with Mint fair in a tour de force of ethical designers repping unmistakeable New York style and Parisienne sophistication.

Vespertine arrived with a traffic-stopping (literally!) collection of uber-chic urban cycling gear. The line features highly reflective, non-toxic 3M Scotchlite materials made with 100% recycled polyester and the caveat of being environmentally aware with a portion of sales donated to World Bicycle Relief.

Auralis brought the Urban Tropical aesthetic; an amalgamation New York City’s chic steel opulence with Caribbean flavor and childhood memories of breezy summer nights in the tropics. Expanding upon the company’s multi-cultural eco-vision Auralís welcomed two partners: artist Jennifer Macgregor-Dennis from Scotland and seamstress Mayumi Yamada from Japan. Together they re-defining what a truly sustainable fashion business is.

Soham Dave’s line of womenswear employs traditional earth-friendly production techniques, and fair trade with a focus on biodegradable fabrics, recycled materials, and hand-crafted items. Soham found his niche while working with an NGO in India dealing with with marginalized craft artisans. There he explored heritage Indian skills, including hand embroidery, hand block printing and hand weaving and dyeing, and creatively applied them to contemporary silhouettes. Soham Dave currently works closely with local artisans from remote villages in India where workers are paid a fair wage.

Paris based designer Rosa Tapioca’s delicate, refined lines fluid and sensual textures each ethereal collection is a story straight out from the imagination of its founder Aurelia Bernard. Inspired by old films and readings, collections reinterpret retro models with a modern touch and feminine shapes. The bulk of her textiles come from stocks of scrap from fashion houses, or are manufactured by French weavers and knitters. Collections are unique and limited.

With the merger of the French Federation’s Pret a Porter and Who’s Next Paris and subsequent elimination of So Ethic designers and buyers were left searching for an epicenter for eco/ethical design trade shows. Amsterdam, with its staunchly progressive and environmentally minded culture, steps up to the forefront of the green fashion revolution proving that the Dutch have so much more to offer than stroopwafels, space cakes, red lights.

Also, we’d be remiss if we didn’t give a big shout out Brooklyn’s own Carrie Parry who came to the Green Fashion Competition ready to represent and walked away winning the category two prize for most promising start-up. Big-ups, Carrie!

Read more about the eco-magic that is Mint fair on Abigail Doan’s article on ecosalon.com.

Why Do It By Yourself when You Can Do It With Others?

2012-02-17T05:38:00.000-08:00

Origin Twentythree’s Eileen Moran has been a busy bee and there is a definitive buzz. O23 and the Now Showcase were recently featured in an article by Business Insider detailing what happens when green minded, eco-conscious creatives to come together collaboratively and plant the seeds of tomorrow by creating a thriving micro-economy during an economic winter.

The collective sharing of responsibilities and rewards paired with market sustainability are what drive Origin 23 and The Now Showcase "Running a business is expensive,” says Now Showcase cofounder Eileen Moran, “To me it just made sense to share the resources so many of us need, and come together individually as a group to achieve something bigger.” This type of functional, cooperative business model could become the new standard for small, but ambitious businesses looking to survive in a downed economy - bringing glimmers of hope for the future.

Here are some of Eileen’s tips on going rogue from the article:

1. When looking for designers to collaborate with, find independent business owners that you respect and that possess different skill sets. In Moran’s case, each partner is in charge of art direction, designer relations, marketing and creative collaborations/strategic alliances.

2. Identify and appraise the resources that the group as a whole has, and consider partially bartering for what you offer before investing. For example, one designer was particularly talented at procuring sponsors, so Moran offered a discount in exchange for value of the sponsorships and relationships they helped form.

3. Set up a network for sharing valuable information for all the companies involved so that everyone grows. Moran’s team set up a resource list for organic suppliers so that when one goes out of business everyone is alerted.

4. Find other companies to collaborate with to cross promote both in your industry and in other industries. For the Now Showcase, the advantages include food sponsorship and collaborating as a collective of independent designers for larger trade shows.

“We started our trade show thinking we were going to create a boutique style showcase as an alternative for our band of outsider friends in the eco-community to showing at the Goliath trade shows during Market Week in New York,” says Moran. “Now we're partnering with huge trade shows, traveling to new cities and countries and maintaining our integrity in this growth.”

A heartfelt thank you goes to Shira Levine and Business Insider for bringing sustainable business solutions to the forefront of good business practices.

Fashioning Self and the Environment for Earth Day

2011-04-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

I am excited that things are coming together so organically for the Earth Day open house that I am organizing at the Textile Arts Center in Brooklyn. This evening event will take place from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, April 22, 2011, and the range of projects and activities to be shared will include a spectrum of ideas related to fashioning self, fiber, textiles, and craft in environmental outreach. Refreshments and organic treats will also be provided. Read more...by Abigail Doan

eco-fashion right NOW!

2011-03-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Introducing the NOW showcase (www.nowshowcase.com) 2011, an intimate group of fashion forward beauty, accessory and fashion brands connecting their design sense with sustainable materials and environmentally conscious practices. This was their 6^th semi-annual event in New York City that brought together buyers and designers under one conscious crib; I mean ethical trade show. Who you may know in the NOW showcase is Gretchen Jones, winner of project runway season eight (I’m just getting all the past season via Netflix!) oh, and writer of a new column (My Designer Life ) on Eco Salon. Read more...
by Jerah Coviello

Now Paris 2011

2011-03-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

"It was the first time ever a US sustainable designers platform was invited to participate in Paris Pret a Porter" reported Vicki Godal for Coco Eco Magazine.

Read the article...

Come Meet EcoSalon At The Now Showcase!

2011-02-20T09:38:00.000-08:00

We’ve been falling hard for the NOW Showcase for the past three seasons at Market in New York City and are glad to be this season’s exclusive media sponsor. With all that amazing talent in one big room, not only are we excited to see all the new fall collections, we’re hoping we might even see you! Read more...by Amy DuFault

NOW Showcase AW 2011 Opens This Weekend

2011-02-19T09:14:00.000-08:00

Just a few of the talented designers who will be presenting their collections at the NOW Showcase in NYC this weekend. There will be a special cocktail reception on Saturday, February 19 and Sunday, February 20 from 4 to 6:30pm. My sustainably-savvy colleagues from EcoSalon, Gretchen Jones and Amy DuFault, will be on hand to chat and share their latest findings for market week February 2011. Read the scheduling details here.by Abigail Doan

http://eccoeco.blogspot.com/2011/02/now-showcase-aw-2011-opens-this-weekend.html

Paris Trade Shows Feature Wide Mix

2011-02-17T08:49:00.000-08:00

By Courtney Traub
Posted Tuesday February 15, 2011
From WWD Issue 02/15/2011

PARIS — Elegant vintage looks à la “Mad Men,” fur and animal textures headlined the fall trends at the Prêt à Porter Paris and Who’s Next apparel trade shows.

The events ended their four-day run at the Porte de Versailles here on Jan. 25.

Buyers praised the variety and boldness of the collections, but couldn’t pinpoint an overriding theme.

“There’s a fun, crazy mix-and-match spirit,” said Pascale Camart, head buyer for women’s wear at Galeries Lafayette. “Designers aren’t afraid to combine a military parka with a lacy skirt and some fur.”

Camart lauded French designer René Derhy’s “interesting mix” of ethnic themes and “romantic lace.”

Sebastian Manes, buying director for women’s fashion and accessories at Selfridges, predicted that clean whites and sober colors would fare strongly next season. His favorites included 22H22, specializing in limited edition Ts using designs by French graphic agency Deuxième Chambre.

Sabrina Tazarourte, buyer for online shopping portal Brandalley, liked the colorful prints and urban appeal of Spanish brand Smash, calling it “ reminiscent of Desigual, but more accessibly priced.”

Manes said his budget was up in the double-digits, while Clamart said hers had climbed “significantly.” Most buyers said budgets were stable or higher for 2011.

“There’s a desire to move beyond the crisis and take a risk again on new, creative designers,” said Muriel Piaser, exhibitions director for Prêt à Porter Paris, which debuted a separate event, dubbed the Paris Fashion Showroom. Piaser said the showroom, which featured 25 high-end, avant-garde designers, was created to “offer an alternative to the trade show ambiance.”

“It attracts a more high-end buyer — the opinion-makers,” added Piaser, noting that the Showroom drew around 2,500 visitors in its first two days.

Exhibitors at Prêt and Who’s Next were mostly pleased with the turnout.

“It’s day two and we’ve already made several good sales [at Prêt],” said Virginie Veil, co-creator of French brand Moloko. “Sales are looking higher.”

Juliette Swildens, founder of the Swildens line, said Who’s Next was a good showcase even if most transactions weren’t made during the fair. For her new collection, Swildens ventured into post-war vintage territory, with a focus on longer, quaintly cut dresses and shoes in vibrant colors.

Attracting mainly European buyers, Who’s Next, which shares its hall with the Première Classe accessories show, saw a 17.5 increase in Asian buyers and a 26.5 percent uptick in visitors from the Middle East. The number of U.S. buyers dipped 6.3 percent, with overall attendance at the show up 4 percent. Citing a slight increase in visitors, Prêt à Porter Paris also saw a marked increase in visitors from the Middle East.

Both fairs reflected efforts to more precisely target niche markets. One section at Who’s Next showcased new brands such as the romantic Charlotte Sometime and the rock and goth inspired Murmur. A dedicated area at Prêt displayed talents like Swedish vintage newcomer Emmy and futuristic brand Pl(a)stic.
A large section at Prêt focused on ethical and fair-trade brands, with participation from U.S. ethical fashion agency NOW Showcase.

In the ethnic niche, new influences from Eastern Europe were apparent. Buyers said they were intrigued by fresh ideas from designers like Hungary’s Tothbori, who featured gold and mustard tones and unusual cuts. Designer Serebrova Aliona presented outerwear constructed from traditional Ukrainian scarves, working predominantly with prints in vibrant reds and oranges.

Men’s wear was a strong new focus at Who’s Next, with a central section dedicated to masculine collections. Rock and denim styles dominated, buyers noted.

“I think the men’s section has attracted a lot of footfall,” said Philippe Atlanti, director for Pepe Jeans France.

He said chinos were making a comeback, but in a more distressed, hip guise. Marcel Lassance, men’s buyer at concept store Merci, lauded the young, fresh looks by Marco Polo at the show, and pointed to innovative new directions in men’s wear.

“The silhouettes and textures have changed so much that men are showing enthusiasm for fashion again,” he said.

Now Showcase Debuts in Paris

2011-01-17T08:41:00.000-08:00

NOW’s co-founders Eileen Moran, Raina Blyer, Nina Valenti, and Marcus Hicks have been working diligently for the past several years to highlight and promote some of the brightest names in sustainable style. For the first time ever, this dynamic team will be showcasing a selection of U.S fashion labels at So Ethic/Prêt a Porter Paris during late January. We caught up with Eileen, a respected fashion veteran to find out why NOW will be a key addition to So Ethic. Read moreby Abigail Doan

eco-fashion, good fashion, fashion.

2010-11-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

In April of 2010, Julie Gilhart, Barney's SVP and Fashion Director, commented on the term 'eco-fashion' and explained why she thinks the movement needs a new name. "I don't like the word 'eco' design," she says. "I think there's good design, period." In lieu of the phrase, she offers suggestions such as "earth-friendly" and "conscious" fashion (which all fundamentally denote the same concept), and continues by expressing her concern that using a term like 'eco-fashion' separates these designs from mainstream designs-- our ultimate goal should be moving towards a stage where the term won't be necessary anymore, where fashion is just fashion. There is great validity in that point. As designers, manufacturers and consumers, the time has come to change the way we create and shop for fashion. As an environmentally conscious community and fashion agency, we (Origin Twentythree) can't wait for the day when ALL fashion is sustainable and socially responsible. However, until that point of togetherness is reached, being classified as 'eco-fashion' is imperative-- what sets us apart in title, style, and motive is also the key to gaining more attention for our cause. By exposing consumers to 'Eco-Fashion' as a healthier alternative to the harmful effects of current mainstream garment production, we are helping people to realize that there are better and greener ways to living in style, and essentially moving towards a stage where fashion as a whole will be environmentally conscious.

Is it a new name we need, or is it a new image? For many outside of the green circle, just the thought of eco-fashion triggers images of 'hippy' clothing, something that designers are constantly fighting by pushing out more modern and avant-garde collections, shaping environmentally-minded fashion into an image of contemporary aesthetics, versatility, and the cutting-edge. Constantly blurring lines of style, these designers aim to create original clothing that is indistinguishable from mainstream collections, but with the added bonus of knowing that the production of these garments further the longevity of earth's natural resources rather than deplete them. Designers such as those included in the lineup of the NOW Spring 2011 Showcase, including JAI and boutique fashion agency Origin Twentythree.

Origin Twentythree:
As purveyors of sustainability and style, boutique eco-fashion agency Origin Twentythree serves as a support base and outlet for effective social and environmental change through fashion. The agency represents a fine cluster of eco-collections, all chosen for their forward style, fair trade standards and eco-conscious tastes. Overseeing these emerging labels, Origin Twentythree works towards incorporating more ethical standards in design and merchandise production through consultations with designers and established organizations that are interested in becoming more environmentally responsible. In addition to its work as a boutique for fashion [r]evolution, Origin Twentythree has also played a large role in the inception and development of the NOW Showcacse and also represents a few of the independent collections involved in the NOW forum. Learn more about Origin Twentythree here: http://www.origintwentythree.com/

JAI:
"No longer simply one to watch, but one to collect, covet, and flaunt with some regal eco-attitude," said eco-fashion blogger Abigail Doan in praise of sustainable brand JAI and its performance at the LA D&A Market Show and noteworthy mention in WWD in May of 2010. Following the simple equation of Smart Design= Sustainability= Contemporary Elegance, it is easy to see why Kizzy Jai Knight, design guru behind the JAI and JAI Activewear lines, has been able to produce these elegant garments time and time again with geometric and stylistic precision. Mathematics aside, JAI is a brand geared towards women on the go who love to look and feel amazing. These women, crowned 'ambassadors of contemporary elegance,' are the main consumer audience for JAI's Playfully Regal collection, inspired by movement, versatility, and flexibility. Playfully titled pieces such as Miss Jumpsuit, Sunningdale Classic, Lady Romper and Long Leg Jen are very present in the line, demonstrating a style of clothing that marries luxury, comfort, and elegance with eco-conscious sensibility. Find out more about Jai's inspiration and holistic approaches to fashion here: http://kizzyjaiknight.com

origin twentythree-- welcome to the [r]evolution

2010-11-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the [R]evolution for effective social and environmental change through fashion, spearheaded by boutique fashion agency Origin Twentythree. Guided by an appreciation for the point from which something starts or sets out, or the person or thing from which it is ultimately derived (its origin), this fashion organization has selected a mélange of sustainable and stylish collections that address the growing demand for social and environmental sensibility through their forward style, fair trade standards, and eco-conscious tastes. In representing these emerging labels, Origin Twentythree works towards incorporating more ethical standards in design and merchandise production by consulting with designers and established organizations that are interested in becoming more environmentally responsible.

Origin Twentythree played a large role in the inception and development of the NOW Showcase, and also represents a few of the independent collections involved in the NOW forum, including JAI, Alchem1st, Timbuktu, g=9.8, Ecowrist, and more.

playfully regal by JAI activewear

2010-11-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Smart Design=Sustainability=Contemporary Elegance

Out of a determination to reduce damage caused to the environment by the mechanisms employed by the fashion industry, emerged a sustainable clothing line custom tailored to meet the needs of the modern day princess-- women on the go who love to look and feel amazing. These women, crowned 'ambassadors of contemporary elegance,' are the main consumer audience for the Playfully Regal line by JAI Activewear, a brand that promotes holistic approaches to fashion and style, featuring eco-friendly and and socially conscious clothing that bridges the gap between comfort, fashion, style, and sustainability.

JAI Activewear is exactly that... activewear. The collection was launched last season and is now evolving into a contemporary woman's wear brand, keeping the activewear line as a continuum.

Crafted by British designer Kizzy Jai Knight, JAI is a brand elegantly influenced by movement, versatility, and flexibility. With a degree in Dance from The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, as well as a background in yoga, Knight uses her designs to captivate the essence of her extensive physical artistry. "As a dancer and choreographer I learned about the fluidity of fabrics and how clothing should compliment and assist the body. Styling created opportunities that contextualized these discoveries and gave me a platform for testing and developing ideas with a mainstream audience," says Knight. With pieces appropriately and playfully named-- Miss Jumpsuit, Sunningdale Classic, Lady Romper, Long Len Jen-- Knight creates a style of clothing that marries luxury, comfort, and elegance with eco-conscious sensibility.

Ranked in the Top 2 on a list of Seven Up-And-Coming Green Designers of 2009 by online green fashion magazine Ecouterre, Kizzy Jai Knight continues to exceed herself by continually upgrading her style, designing uniquely fashioned and environmentally mindful pieces that prove the future of fashion is sustainability. Using biodegradable and recycled fabrics such as tencel, recycled nylon, and recycled cotton, Knight ensures the longevity of her line, as well as the endurance of the green fashion movement. Recycling is a cyclic process-- by generating products of this caliber, it becomes self-sustainable and keeps in tune with preserving our planet's resources.

alchem1st

2010-11-04T11:35:00.000-07:00

A pret-a-porter women's line, hailing from the UK - incorporating fabulous ensembles that can go from day to night, with accessories and jewelry to boot. Designer Aisyah Syahdinar even includes swimwear and some unisex accessories into her collections.
In addition to organic silk, low-impact bamboo and organic wool and cotton, alchem1st also features garments made from natural hides and organic leather - all featuring unique embroidery, beading and contemporary prints.
Beautiful clothing can only stem from a beautiful environment and atmosphere - all of alchem1st's garments are produced in open air factories overlooking the beautiful tropical gardens and grand rice fields of Bali. It was there that Syahdinar found some of the most talented silversmiths in the world, alongside amiable workers who are unparalleled in the detail and intricacy of their work.
The sewers and workers - in essence the creators of the designer's vision - come first in the company. Local artists are supported in their individual talents, to assure old traditions are not lost. All staff working for the company are provided with the basics of room, board and health insurance, but they also receive regular yoga classes to maintain their mental and spiritual wellness.

You can obtain this eco-friendly fashion forward line in many retailers throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

what is sustainability?

2010-11-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

Main Entry: sus·tain·able
Pronunciation: \sə-ˈstā-nə-bəl\
Function: adjective
Date: circa 1727

1 : capable of being sustained
2 a : of, relating to, or being a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged <sustainable techniques> <sustainable agriculture> b : of or relating to a lifestyle involving the use of sustainable methods <sustainable society>

Enamore Bamboo Parfait Valentine 2009

2008-11-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

Enamore has created a delightful new range of lingerie for Valentine's Day 2009. Bamboo Parfait is made from a lustrous black bamboo satin trimmed with icing pink lace and candy pink bows. The five piece range includes a bias cut camisole and nightie, ruffle shorts, soft bra and matching garter. The collection is sold either individually or as gift sets packaged in a gorgeous red heart patterned box lined with tissue paper all made from recycled materials.

Enamore lingerie is manufactured in Bath and South Wales paying close attention to each and every detail. Bamboo Parfait will be available January 2009.

To Each Century its Pair of Socks

2008-11-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

For 2008, the environmentally-friendly socks by g=9.8 will be under the Christmas tree.

Our grandparents preferred woolen socks, warm indeed but not very esthetic. Our parents used to wear synthetic socks or socks with a message written on it. In the era of sensual ecology, socks will be elegant and organic!

Because socks are also and accessory that evolves with time, Sophie Young, the designer of the eco-friendly brand g=9.8, wished to create a range of products that keeps the feet warm and dry, while being stylish!

g=9.8 combines simplicity, comfort and style: pine fiber, derived from the recycling wastes of tree pruning, offers an exceptional softness, and the new colors added by g=9.8 such as-black currant-harmonize perfectly with all skin tone and go very well with blue denim jeans.

We Represent

2008-11-12T14:52:00.000-08:00

ryann

ryann is a modern take on classic style with inspiration drawn from the sleek and sexy studio 54 set. ryann uses high quality eco-fibers such as bamboo, tencel, ahimsa silk and organic cotton and wool.

natural high features a beautifully made easy to wear mens/womens apparel, home and yoga gear. 10 year eco-collection veterans out of los angeles.

vuori

vuori produces a gorgeous and modern line men's and women's T-shirt line of velvety soft 100% organic cotton made in southern california. each T-shirt pays tribute/donates to modern day activists and heros.

g=9.8

g=9.8 is an elegant and timeless loungewear collection out of france made out of a silky recycled pine fiber.

alchem1st

alchem1st is a fair-trade collection featuring detailed balinese craftsmanship from an indonesian co-op. the season's entire collection is eco.

enamore

enamore is a fun and flirty pin-up style lingerie line produced in the UK and made of a soy/bamboo blend and peace silk.

See what's happening at origin twentythree!