Cool Sisters in The Brush Factory

Here is a design duo that wont let you down. Margot and Kit Anderson are the two heads behind CoolSisters

Inspired by Old American style ribbons and contemporary “industrial” findings, these body ornaments are truly one of a kind. These women are not afraid to make jewelry the fun and whimsical pieces they should be. Their necklaces and brooches add a  splash of color to a sleek ensemble.

My favorite part …. is the noise each one makes from their chunky structure.  Many are up cycled from old costume jewelry allowing a variety of metals and materials to sing while you walk. Kit  is an avid lover of lucite,  a lightweight acrylic polymer that is molded into larger vintage looking beads that make a huge statement while maintaining a light weight.

Did I mention these two collaborate on their collections via mail?! Kit resides in Cincinnati, Ohio while her sister Margot is in Washington DC.  Thanks to modern communication, AND ETSY.COM,  these two are able to work together to give us an extremely affordable and fun way to spice up our days.

 

This brooch is made from over 3 yards of black and white 100% cotton toile ribbon and is fabricated using a centuries old ribbon folding technique (completely hand sewn). It is trimmed with black ruffled twill tape and red grosgrain pleated ribbon and topped with a shiny black button.

 

Purchase on their Blog or visit The Brush Factory after Dec 11th to try on and buy selected pieces.

The Brush Factory opening date

2019 Central Ave

Cincinnati ohio 45214

DECEMBER 11th

Cincinnati will be introduced to a new store concept held together by the hard working designers of a new DIY era. The building is home to the previous Brush Manufacturing Company (the building itself is over 100 years old!) and will be opening doors to a new type of client. With its coopertive strategy, new designers will have the resources and ability to create their own ‘mini’ store within The Brush Factory and selling their collections at an affordable cost. The interior space has been renovated to preserve is old-time character by using and reusing many of the materials left behind from the previous business… i.e. brush handles, signs, display structures etc. The charm and unique inventory will be sure to provide the locals with a satisfactory experience.

just a little preview of the progress

hope to see everyone on the 11th for drinks music and a lovely time.

Suri Alpacas in Ohio?

This fall, I traveled north to Lebanon Ohio to visit one of the few Suri Alpaca farms. The breed was brought from Africa in the 80’s and has some incredibly loving caregivers at this co-operative farm where they are raised and sheared for the fleece.

An alpaca’s ultimate value flows from its ability to create fine, dense fleece that is coveted by the makers of luxury garments.

The luster found in the Suri’s fleece and tight locks that fall freely are the primary indication of the Suri’s quality.

Pia Al-Ubaidi (see below) was our groups gracious host who shared her passion and talent for spinning Suri Alpaca wool. Her spunk and enthusiasm for the furry friends made her demonstrations leaving me desperate for more. Pia is a repeated national champion spinner and travels around the United States demonstrating and discovering new experimental ways of dying and creating her product.

The Brush Factory will be carrying Pia’s “Zombie Yarn”, “Wedding Dress Yarn” as well as some other 100% wool skeins.

The Brush Factory – Brighton

I know I have been slow to update news on the progress of Brighton’s first clothing boutique / studio HQ.. but I want to let those of you who are anticipating the opening… it is coming! I will be taking some photos of the place this afternoon to give everyone a preview of the interior.

There are still spaces available for designers who are interested in renting space to show and sell their collections. If you are interested and have some photos of your work, please email me at kovacsrosie@yahoo.com and I can fill you in on the details.

Fluorescent Collection

Compliments to my best friend and fellow dreamer, Chris Kittrell aka Baby Alpaca (model) and visionary David Dewitt (photographer).

This collection was shot in dressing room of The Brush Factory. We utilized what was there and had a blast dancing in the dark to Mozart.

John Tan Casting | Spring 2010 Previews from NY

Stylist John Tan and photographer Bell Soto team up for a sneak preview of Fall Fashion week. What I want to point out is this gentleman’s sun bleached  denim …(click on the photo for full the full www.theFashionisto.com article)

Coincidence? Somehow I had a feeling my Fall 09 bleached out denim would be on target with the upcoming seasons..

Poncho Rose Summer/Fall Denim

click title to shop Poncho Rose

just a reminder

PLEASE continue to show support by voting for The Brush Factory

http://www.cincinnatiinnovates.com/contest/entry/OTR_Design_&_FASHION_retail_CO-OP

you can vote every day from multiple email addresses until September 1,2009.

Thanks again!

Some current work pt1

Linen jumper suit with nude lace

bottom half is 33″inseam with 4 tucks at ankle

nude lace insert with lace bodice

Double wool vest with leather trim

hidden pockets and tapered hem detail

black with slate blue trim wool crepe ves

Ivory with black trim wool crepe vest

Black withIvory trim wool crepe vest

Hopefully, next post will be some mens coveralls!

Some current work pt 2

Trapeze dress/jacket with double collar

100% wool top and vintage knit skirt

Coated Cotton Print

a not so new consumerism

Philanthropic Founder and Editor of Hand/Eye magazine, Keith Recker has created a forum for that explores the intersection of design, development, culture, art, craft, environment and ethics.  Today’s Etsy Storque has an fantastic interview with Mr Recker and his views on American consumerism and the alienation that society has created between goods purchased and their source.  He highlights the very different attitudes seen in often forgotten countries that have to utilize every bit of resource they can.

“Refuse becomes fertilizer and Trash becomes Treasure”

I can’t help but feel the same frustration towards western consumerism. However, I do see a slow attitude shift toward a deeper search for the story behind a brand and product. Hand/Eye is a beautiful example of a collective of conscious consumption.