TOOLS AND CLOTHING FOR ARTISANS
Chelsea, NYC
words/images Judith Ecochard
An open house for a fashion/design collection-complete with good food and great company---yep, we're there. Especially when the host
KAI D---celebrates New York City by gathering a collective of craftsmen, artists, entrepreneurial creative types-integral to his brand of clothes-as providers of accessories, as models for his latest lookbook-or as friends.
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Jonathon White-woodworker/carpenter/model-w/ Kai D. |
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inspiration board |
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looks from the Spring line hung up inside a tent that had gold miner's vibe |
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casually structured blazers-made from sturdy canvas cotton, denim, or soft cords... |
The Spring 2013-in what we would call The NEW AMERICAN ARTISAN collection---is also the moniker of a project launched by KAI D. ---all "dedicated to help build this community, because we are in it."
Key pieces-vests with the perfect fit, single pleat pants, cozy chambray long sleeve shirts tapered to fit, hand made-handsome bow-ties and ties, versatile office to casual jackets and blazers ...
... all carefully constructed---with tailored details worthy of a Savile Row atelier---fused with American sensibility---as in soft to the skin, vintage-type fabrics---carefully sourced, utilitarian pockets carefully placed, lined garments-that can almost be worn reversible...polished, casual attire with a lot of hand finished details...yes---finished carefully.
KAI D also offers a Custom Design Service----probably the hippest tailor ever---that will take one's favorite blazer -for example, and add inside pockets for smartphones...signature embroideries, or outside pockets with materials that'll give an item-a signature look.
An anti-disposable mentality---KAI D believes in long lasting garments made with integrity---not fast fashion. We think---a very Euro way of looking out building a wardrobe cased within a distinct Americana mindset.
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inspirational quotes-abound |
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map of the five boroughs-made from pieces of fabrics from the collation----with biz cards---pinpointing the craftsmen/women's plae of work |
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functional vest-lined with vintage materials----a classic made special |
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Farm To Baby co-founder Lauren Utvitch-organic/natural food delivery service |
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solid wooden trays hold and-sewn handkerchiefs, ties, bow ties |
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detail sketch of Harnett Linen Military Jacket |
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proprietor-jeweler, chef, craftsmen-Colin Chinchar |