WITH & WESSEL SOPHISTICATED KNITS- RTW FALL 2012

Catherine Wessel (l) with model in Fall 2012 With & Wessel

words/images Judith Ecochard

The two story Norwegian Consulate residence on the UES of Manhattan-once again served as a welcoming setting for the Fall 2012 preview of modern knitwear line With&Wessel...a label with Norwegian antecedents, now based in NYC on 247 Elizabeth Street LES.

A packed house (really apartment we could only dream of living in...) of fashion types, pro photographers (like co-owner Catherine Wessel), and well dressed members of the Norwegian community residing in the Big Apple-turned out to raise a glass to the rather cutting edge separates made from eco sourced, fine gauge Merino wool...that is FYI...a natural light- moisture wicking, breathable textile that is the basis of over half the year round suitable performance wear separates we write about...

reversible too!

mix and matchy

The ultimate in packability-these With&Wessel male and female wardrobe keepers lend themselves to 3-4 season wear, are easily layer-able, drape beautifully on all body types---are odor absorbing and built -in with inherent stretch properties too.

Married duo Stian Tolnaes and Catherine Wessel (who's grandparents started the line waaayyyy back) and designer Michelle Kim---chicly attired in the collection---showed the clueless why the line of basics, sweaters, crew neck tops, skirts, draped jersey pants, leggings and accessories-  work well without the matching labels needed to assemble a presentable ensemble...and work well, we feel-with whatever is in one's closet NOW.

VERY COOL----as seen on the models...

The view...