dress: November 2012

DESIGNERS A-Z: AGNES B.

This is the first installment of a series on fashion designers that catch my eye, from A to Z.

GOOD DESIGN and GOOD DEEDS

Agnes B. is the 2012 recipient of the Seakeepers Award, presented to an individual who has demonstrated an extraordinary committment to marine conservation. Hooray, Agnes!

Agnes B is a French designer whose clothes can actually be worn by real people, IMO. They are classics with a French attitude, a bit Amelie. Besides, though not inexpensive, the prices are not stratospheric and are within reason for a piece that you will probably wear forever.

Here are some of my favorites from her current ready to wear collection:

PERFECT JACKET

FIFRE LAMBSKIN JACKET

REVERSED LAMBSKIN JACKET

PRINCESS PULLOVER

HERMIONE Cardigan

LYRIQUE SKIRT
An ultra-soft stretch knit

OPPO SKIRT in Amiral

Wonderful alone or paired with the jacket.

OPPO JACKET in Amiral

ZORA DRESS
A soft, slightly openwork knit.

OVALE T SHIRT
What a chic version of the striped tee!

BRACELET

BROOCH COURONNE

BUCKLE RING

YOUR VERY OWN PRIVATE ITALIAN DESIGNER

While searching for unique cocktail dresses, I came upon the website of young Italian designer & seamstress Maria Lucia Squillari. I was struck at first by her beautiful photos, and then by the minimal elegance of her designs. I love the fluid draping and delicate pleating.

Then, even better, I discovered that she takes commissions for custom items. The answer to a daydream! (I have a knife pleated blouse in mind...)

Her shop is located HERE.

Pictures speak so much louder than words...