Creatures of Comfort has been a long time favourite boutique of mine, and has introduced me to many great new labels over the years. It amazes me that the aesthetic is so consistent from season to season, proving that the buyers know exactly what they like and are not driven by passing trends. With a perfectly edited selection of pieces from labels like Wood Wood, Sunshine & Shadows, Opening Ceremony, Mocium, Acne and everyone's favourite Alexander Wang, it's difficult to visit Creatures of Comfort without ending up on the check out page.
Recent Parsons graduate Lauren Jennings proves she has an eye for unique silhouettes in her Fall/Winter '09 collection. The cocoon like coats an chunky knit sweaters are stunning. Jennings' influences of topography and architecture (specifically of Thomas Heatherwick) are evident in the amazing structure and detailing throughout the collection.
Natalie Encarnita burst onto the British fashion scene with fervour. In just a few seasons, the label has gone from a small indie start up of a young fashion-school graduate to a recognized brand sold in high street chains and boutiques around the world. What makes the label so appealing is the perfect mix of edgy design elements with laid-back wearability.
The Vancouver based label lily + jae is quickly becoming known for their no fuss, easy to wear designs. The spring collection is filled with flirty dresses, perfectly tailored denim, and spruced up basics. As a special gift to Paper-Doll readers, lily + jae is giving away one $150 CAD Gift Certificate to their online store.
Under the current economic climate it sometimes surprises me that the trend is moving more towards cheap, disposable fashion, rather than investing in well made, classic pieces. Swedish label Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair's focus is the latter: a label centered around high-quality construction and traditional tailoring.