Fall Fashion Designer Discoveries!

Based out of Ireland, We Are Islanders is a collective consisting of designer Rosie O’ Reilly, Kate Nolan and Deirdre Hynds that strives to merge the concept of heritage with contemporary art and fashion. Their Fall 2013 collection, “Tidal”, mixes traditional Irish fabrics and techniques with newer, sustainable materials like Salmon Leather Skin.

(We Are Islanders )

Even though their collection is highly conceptual, every piece is incredibly wearable and created with the idea of layering in mind. Since it has literally been both 75 degrees and 30 degrees on different days this past week, layering is incredibly important in New England. (I imagine that it’s equally important in Ireland!) I’m beyond obsessed with their Tweed Wool Throw Coat’s shape and detailing. Made from Wexford Woven tweed and Donegal Beetle Linen, it’s also a sustainable and classic piece.

Lily Ashwell may have studied at Central Saint Martins but her collections are pure vintage California girl. When she released her debut collection for holiday last year, she told Teen Vogue that she creates an entire back story to each collection before she begins the actual design process. Fall/Winter 2013 is her third full collection. Ashwell often uses discarded and dead stock fabrics to make up her designs. So her vintage inspired styles are actually made using vintage fabrics.

I love the bracelet length sleeves (apparently a Lily signature) and the subtle Peter Pan collar on the Michele dress. Her shapes are classic and sweet but the vintage fabrics also make them unique so it’d be easy to stand out especially in a town where we can sometimes all start to look the same in the long winter months!

Are there younger or lesser known designers that you’re excited about? What do you think of Lily Ashwell and We Are Islanders?

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