Shop Profile: The Papery

There are so many great local business in the Philly area and I love to feature them occasionally here on the blog.  The Papery of Philadelphia is an invitation design studio and gift boutique located in the Midtown Village section of Center City.  The Papery's owner, Carolyn Brandhorst was kind enough to sit down with me earlier this fall to chat about her business and the services her store offers to its customers. Now on to the interview! 

Shen Dove: What inspired you to start your business?

Carolyn: The Papery is actually a family business, my uncles started The Papery a long time ago in Greenwich, Connecticut.  Before deciding to take over the business, I worked with my Dad in advertising and I worked in retail before that.  I always loved the shop and decided I needed a change from working in advertising.  My retail experience paired with the print and design experience I developed while working in the advertising field, made the business a natural fit for me.  It became a creative outlet for me to combine the two major  areas of my professional experience.

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Profile: Florcy Morisset, Vivant Art Collection

Image: Florcy Morrisset in her gallery in the Old City section of  Philadelphia

Every so often I meet someone in Philadelphia who is really inspiring and makes me remember why I love this city so much despite all of its imperfections. Florcy Morrisset, owner of Vivant Art Collection is definitely one of those people. Florcy is a "Jill of All Trades" in the city’s vibrant art community. If you are looking for some fabulous, vibrant art to adorn your home or space, you should definitely head to the Old City section of the city to visit her gallery. So now onto the interview!

Shen Dove: Tell me briefly about Vivant Art Collection and your inspiration for opening the gallery? 

Florcy: I opened the gallery six years ago. November 17th will be my sixth anniversary. This is an amazing feat in itself given that I opened during what was technically a recession. The idea behind it was to celebrate my Haitian heritage. I quickly realized that there were so many other countries that need to be exposed. There was art from Cuba, Mexico, Latin America, and the Bahamas; there were so many places in the world where we don’t traditionally get to see their art. The goal with the art is to really show how the rest of the world is living, to learn about their history, to learn about their culture, to learn about the people and to see the land. Specifically for Haiti, there are a lot of negative connotations that I want to dispel. I felt that I could use art to dispel some of that negativity.

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Designer Profile: Aso Damisi

 

 Aso Damisi, SS2013 Collection

 

Though Philly is my hometown, I'm still sometimes amazed by the creativity of some of the city's residents. Earlier this month at a fashion event at the US*U.S. Design Co-op and Boutique, I saw the creations of the talented designers-in-residence at the Co-Op including the design duo, Aso Damisi.  The bold prints and stylish silhouettes of Moriamo and Latifat's pieces drew my eye immediately.  I requested an interview to learn more about the two sisters behind the brand.  Moriamo and Latifat kindly agreed to the interview, so I can share more about them with you.  Now on to the questions!

 
Shen Dove: Tell me about the inspiration and meaning behind the name of your clothing line?

Aso Damisi: The name of our line originated from a Yoruba speaking tribe in Nigeria, where we were born. “Aso” means cloth or clothing and “Damisi” means Prosperity.

Shen Dove: I’m so amazed that you are self-taught designers! Why did you decide to start your company?

Aso Damisi: We grew up designing for ourselves and after years of receiving compliments on our creations, we decided to launch Aso Damisi.

Shen Dove: How has your Nigerian lineage, the places you’ve lived and the places you’ve traveled impacted your designs/style? 

Aso Damisi: Our line is a modern take on African fashion. We use prints from our origin on different textiles and use that to create modern and classic silhouettes.

Shen Dove: How did you come to be one of the design brands housed in the US*U.S Co-op? Can you tell us a little about your experience as a member of this Co-Op?

Aso Damisi: We were invited to become members of the Co-op by our fellow Philadelphia Fashion Incubator colleague, Autumn Kietponglert. Once she explained the concept of the Co-op, we couldn’t say no. Our experience at US*U.S has been great. It is wonderful to work with a group of talented designers, who you can bounce ideas off of.

Shen Dove: Typical work days don't exist for most creative entrepreneurs, but what are most work days like for you? 

Aso Damisi: There is no typical work day for Aso Damisi. We constantly have to be ready to change plans. Sometimes we have quiet days where we are just doing paperwork and then we have days where we are driving around for meetings, fabrics, etc.

Shen Dove: Name one artist, celebrity or personal hero you would love to see wear your clothing and your reason for your choice.

Aso Damisi: We would love to see our clothing on someone like Beyoncé because she embodies who the Aso Damisi woman is and what she's all about. The Aso Damisi woman is powerful, confident, resilient, independent and has a style of her own.

Shen Dove: Can you highlight a major point of the creative process of bringing a collection or specific clothing item to life? 

Aso Damisi: Our process starts with the creation of our print, which is the most important part of the process for our brand. Our prints are the inspiration and spring board for each collection.

Shen Dove: As fashion designers and entrepreneurs, I’m sure you’re dreaming up your next big moves. Do you have any cool events, opportunities, or projects on the horizon that you’d like to tell us about?  

Aso Damisi: We will be featured in Philadelphia Magazine's September issue for The Fashion Project Competition. We hope your readers will support us by voting. We post all of our events, activities, and projects on Facebook and Twitter (AsoDamisi). Be sure to follow/like us.



Shen Dove: Thanks for the interview ladies! Please check out the fabulous clothing from Aso Damisi on their website.  If you're in Philly, go see (and purchase) their clothing in person at the US*U.S Design Co-op and Boutique. 

Shop Profile: Aoki Boutique

Aoki Boutique owner, Alina//the front of Aoki Boutique

I really enjoy supporting local business owners, so when I stumbled into Aoki Boutique recently while walking in Center City Philly, I knew I had to ask Aoki Boutique owner Alina for an interview.  So now to the interview!

Shen Dove: When did you open Aoki Boutique? And what is the story behind the name? 

Alina: I opened Aoki Boutique in April 2012, so I actually just celebrated my One Year Anniversary! Aoki is a Japanese surname that literally means "blue tree."  It's actually the name of my cat, though, who is sort of my muse. I was living in Tokyo when she entered my life, and she's very quirky, adventurous, and sweet, just like the ideal Aoki Boutique customer!

Shen Dove: Tell me about your professional background, what inspired you to open this boutique? 

Alina: My professional and educational background is in tourism and hospitality; that's what I studied in college, and the industry in which I worked until I opened Aoki. I've always been passionate about hotels and restaurants from a design and ambiance perspective. I love the notion of created memorable spaces and experiences for people, and not only providing them with a tangible product, but also with a warm and inviting atmosphere. My love of travel and the excitement and adventure that comes with led me to view women as citizens of the world, and motivated me to create a space for them where they can play around with their look and practice radical self-expression.

Shen Dove: What do you like the most about being located in Center City? 

Alina: As the name suggests, Center City is obviously very centrally-located, so it's accessible for people, and kind of the hub of action in the city. I love being within Center City but slightly off the beaten path; I like to think that it makes Aoki feel like a little hidden treasure, and that way I'm also not directly competing with the Rittenhouse Square-area retailers, nor am I paying the exorbitant rent that would come along with it. I'm the only retailer within a few blocks, which offers me an advantage, while I'm still able to benefit from some of the spillover foot traffic from Rittenhouse...so it's kind of the best of both worlds!

Aoki Boutique's unique interiors and products

Shen Dove: What do you think makes style in Philly unique? 

Alina: Philly style (and the whole vibe of the city in general) represents a lot of dichotomies and contradictions; on one hand it's very historical and all the academia brings a little more of a preppy and conservative side, but on the other hand it's a very gritty, DIY city filled with a lot of young creative types that take their cues from street style and subcultures. I see more risk-taking and, obviously, designer wear when I'm in NYC, but Philly fashionistas know what works for them and are really savvy buyers who know how to work a budget.

Shen Dove: What do you look for when you’re on the hunt for products and designers to feature in your boutique? 

Alina: I pretty much buy items that I personally would wear or love to own, and just hope that it translates. I stock everything from novelty erasers to dresses by up-and-coming clothing designers, so I have to be careful that the collection doesn't go from quirky and eclectic to altogether random. I do that by buying a mix of items that are all consistent in the story that they tell and the aesthetic that they work to create. I curate very carefully to create a particular look and feel, while making sure that the price point stays accessible (currently my priciest item is $180, and it never really goes much beyond that).

Shen Dove: What trends are you excited about featuring in your boutique this summer? 

Alina: Summer trends that I'm excited about include pastels, body con, and black/white. In terms of silhouette, I'm glad to see the continuation of peplum and hi-low, which are both fun and flirty.

Books and candles galore near the entrance of Aoki Boutique

Shen Dove: Do you have any fun events you’d like locals or those visiting Philly this spring or summer to attend at your boutique? 

Alina: I just had a big event two weeks ago for my anniversary party, so I may not do another big party until June, when I tentatively have a First Friday-type event planned. Check the Aoki Facebook and Tumblr in the coming weeks for updates!

Shen Dove: Thanks for the interview Alina!  If you haven't already, stop by Aoki Boutique and pick up a cute item sometime soon! I know I will definitely be back soon.

Store: Aoki Boutique
Location/Neighborhood: 115 S. 22nd St/Center City
Hours: Tue-Fri – 11:00am to 7:00pm Sat-Sun – 11:00am to 5:00pm Mon – Closed
Website: www.aokiboutique.com

DC Shopping: It's Vintage Darling

There is a great vintage shop in the Columbia Heights neighborhood called, It's Vintage Darling.  The store is indeed as darling as its title implies.  It's Vintage Darling has a wide array of clothing, shoes, and accessories at an affordable price point. During my first visit, I saw lovely gems from classic brands like Ferragamo, Fendi, Louis Vuitton and Gucci.  It's Vintage Darling also had a nice menswear section with funky ties, classic clothing, hats and shoes.  Now that I've found this store, I'm a little afraid for my wallet...

If you are in the Columbia Heights area of Washington, DC, you should definitely check It's Vintage Darling out!

Store: It's Vintage Darling
Neighborhood: Columbia Heights

Location: 3423 14th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20010

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Nearest Metro Station: Columbia Heights

Hours: 

Tue - Thu: 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm 
Fri: 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm 
Sat: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Sun: 12:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Shop Profile: Carbon

Rack of vintage clothing/Interior of Carbon

Washington, DC has a thriving fashion community and offers a wide array of boutiques and stores that I want to start highlighting on Shen Dove Style for local and visiting fashion enthusiasts.  Carbon is a boutique located in the Woodley Park section of the city that offers upscale, high-quality, eco-friendly clothing, shoes, accessories and handbags. I became familiar with the store after attending a fashion show earlier this year and a DC FABB event last month.  Store owner, Katherine Limon was kind enough to answer some questions about Carbon recently.  So let's get to the questions!

Shen Dove: When did you open Carbon?

Katherine (Carbon): CARBON opened in Woodley Park five years ago but I took over as the new owner in March 2011. My concept for the store is eco-friendly, sustainable chic living through ethically-made apparel, accessories, and shoes. I carry local designers and have dedicated the wall space to local artists to showcase and sell their work.

Shen Dove: Tell me about your background, what inspired you to open this store?

Katherine (Carbon): I am a journalist by trade and have worked in the realm of communications for small non-profits focused on worker rights and child labor, and the federal government on youth development. In 2006, I started My Signature Look to help men and women look their best in fit and style. It also served the purpose of educating consumers on the source of their garments and introducing ethically-produced apparel and footwear. Now that I have the store, as of March 2011, I can bring what I consider slow fashion products to the consumer on a wider scale.

Shen Dove: What do you like the most about being located in Woodley Park?

Katherine (Carbon): Since the store was already here, the previous owner built a trust and strong relationship with the neighbors so I was fortunate to inherit that audience. Honestly, I wish there were more retailers on the block for people to consider this as a dining and shopping destination.

Shen Dove: What do you think makes style in Washington, DC unique?

Katherine (Carbon): Your style should be an extension of your personality. It should give people clues about who you are and your worldview, wherever you live. When I first moved here 8 years ago, I must admit, I was surprised to observe a style that screamed conformity and lackluster. Given what our nation’s capital represents, it would be nice to see a greater effort made to present the full package meaning your appearance should reflect your voice – polished, smart, and interesting. I love that we live in a rich, diverse community and I encourage everyone to embrace those characteristics in their wardrobe.

Some of Carbon's great hangbag selections

Shen Dove: I think it’s great that you have built relationships with local designers and have events that feature them. What do you look for when you’re on the hunt for new artists and designers to feature in your store?

Katherine (Carbon): I take pride in featuring our local talent and want to showcase their best work. I look for creativity, functionality, excellent construction (whether that is apparel, accessories, or shoes), and the designer’s point of view. I strive to find designers who incorporate a hand-made quality or keep production in the USA or in factories that allow them to do small volume. I try to avoid offering you something you can find in a department store – I want it as unique to DC as possible. For the artists, the subject matter doesn’t necessarily have to be local; rather they evoke that same spirit for creativity and uniqueness.

Shen Dove: What do you think is the biggest misconception about eco-friendly and ethically sourced items?

Katherine (Carbon): It is exciting to see an increased awareness and demand for eco-friendly apparel and footwear; however, the appeal is not across the board. What the general public may not consider are the costs factored into an ethically-made item. Fabrics such as 100% organic cotton, will remain expensive for U.S. designers until U.S. farmers receive incentives for growing pesticide-free cotton. (China is the largest manufacturer of organic cotton.) It is amazing what you can turn into fabric – wood pulp, milk, and soy! There is the labor cost as well. Slow fashion requires skilled artisans paid a livable wage. Yes, there is an investment but you are investing in yourself, your environment, and the artisan community. Plus, on a pure cost per wear analysis, you are going to get more out of a sustainable product. The term “ethically sourced,” to me, indicates in-house or factories that adhere to a code of conduct, employ environmentally-sound practices, and protect workers rights.

Shen Dove: What trends are you excited about featuring in your store this fall?

Katherine (Carbon): From A.D.O. (Angelika Dreams About Organic), expect beautiful suiting separates, again in 100% organic cotton and some in Tencel. Local designer Kim Schalk will offer her signature figure-flattering skirts. We are also excited about a couple of new men’s and women’s shoe lines such as vegan Neuaura, J Shoes, and Oliberte (CARBON will be the first to carry J Shoes and Oliberte in DC – yay!!). Just in time for the holidays, we will be bringing in Emu, a sustainable shoe and clothing line from Australia.

A portion of Carbon's jewelry selection by local designers

Shen Dove: Do you have any fun events you’d like locals or those visiting DC this fall to attend at your store?

Katherine (Carbon): For August, upcoming events include a wine and art night on Friday, Aug. 19 from 6 – 8 p.m. where all the photography is up to 50% off. We are teaming up with International Visions Gallery for a Fashion Meets Art Catwalk on Friday, Aug. 26 from 6 – 9 p.m.

September 9, 2011 a special art reception featuring an installation by two US AID workers to coincide with the arrival of the Oliberte shoe line.

September 23, 2011, an eco-fashion show featuring the new A.D.O. collection and Neuaura shoes.

Shen Dove: Thanks for the interview Katherine!  On your next visit to the Woodley Park neighborhood, stop by and visit Carbon!


Store Name: Carbon
Address: 2643 Connecticut Avenue Northwest
Phone: (202) 232-6645
Neighborhood: Woodley Park
Closest Metro Station: Woodley Park Metro Station

DC Shopping: Amani DC

I was in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood in Washington, DC over the weekend for a swap event and stumbled across a cute and socially responsible shop that I thought I'd share with you. Amani DC is the US retail location and warehouse for Amani ya Juu, a women’s stitching and peace-building project based in East Africa. The store offered unique bags, jewelry, linens, and other items in beautiful prints, colors and fabrics.

According to the organization's website, Amani ya Juu (meaning “higher peace” in Swahili) or Amahoro ava Hejuru (in Kinyarwanda).

I admittedly shop pretty regularly at big-box retailers in my city, but it's nice to support an organization that emphasizes fair trade practices and providing opportunities to women in Africa. The women who create the goods of Amani DC are from Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, Uganda, Sudan, Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia as well as other African countries.

So if you happen to be in the Mt. Pleasant area, check them out!

Neighborhood: Mt. Pleasant
Location: 3166 Mt. Pleasant St NW Washington, DC 20010
Phone:202.536.5303
Website: www.amaniafrica.org
Hours: Tuesday: 10:00 to 6:00; Wednesday: 10:00 to 6:00; Thursday: 10:00 to 6:00; Friday: 10:00 to 7:00; Saturday: 10:00 to 4:00; Sunday and Monday: Closed