MRketNY Trade Show - Spring/Summer 2012 WISECRACKER LUGGAGE

Resting between mrkt appointments

Next up was Wisecracker luggage.  In addition to their first line they had two new collections.  Both were a collaboration with Perennials the outdoor fabric specialist also considered the Rolls Royce of outdoor textiles and furniture. Their website: www.perennialsfabrics.com is a must see whether you’re buying or just need some design inspiration.  This partnership has bloomed into a collection of luggage that is not only stylish and lightweight but the solution dyed acrylic is mildew and water resistant.  While these pieces have been dubbed En La Playa, I don’t think I’ll be taking these to Jones beach! Much better as a carry on for my flight to Sardegna. And just in case my luggage is left on the tarmac it’s nice to know these pieces are also UV resistant.  Which reminds me, you must read the Wisecracker blog Wanderings. "A blog focused on design, style and travel, never forgetting that the journey is sometimes the best part of the experience.  Behave well, travel lightly, stay under the radar screen and always carry good luggage. Just go." Say no more ragazzi, andiamo!! 

www.wisecrackerluggage.com

En La Playa  Perennials rucksack and tote

Duffle

I was never a fan of camo but never say never!

Raffia and pinstripes

Simulated raffia leather with awning stripe

Italian calfskin with alligator debossing

Limestone Collection

MRketNY Trade Show - Spring/Summer 2012 AGE OF WISDOM

Visiting the MRktNY Spring 2012 show at the Javits it was nice to see some of the vendors I had previously profiled.  I decided to do a follow up on my picks to see where they were now and how they were dealing with the woes of the economy.

My first stop was to see Allison Basile, designer and Vice President at AGE OF WISDOM.  When I first profiled Age Of Wisdom it was basically a young men’s sportswear line with lots of cloud washes and unique dyeing techniques.  It has evolved into more of a contemporary menswear line; cleaner and sophisticated with more “menswear” patterns.  Allison notes that selling contemporary is a bit risky because stores want “different” but if different doesn’t sell they blame the designer.   I’ve noted that even in the big menswear department stores they all look the same. No one wants to take a chance on “new” unless “new” already has a 2 season sellout track record.  It’s a tough line to walk and I give these smaller brands a lot of credit for remaining optimistic and trying to offer new, exciting product that stores still consider wearable and saleable.   But the upside,  Age Of Wisdom has grown from being in 35 specialty stores to over 300!! Brava!!!  

Abstract jacquard

Overdyed gingham w/jacquard taping

Textured jacquard

All over flocking

Printed chambray

Chambray

Jacquard stripes w/snap buttons

Crinkled cotton 

Embroidered clip fabric

Paisley snake washed cord