Get Real

Tom Binns' latest collection is called “Get Real”. Made from photographs of rings, necklaces, earrings, and watches ripped from glossy magazines, the innovative designer then laminates them and reassembles the images, creating a new piece of jewelry. Binns is one of Michelle Obama's favorite designers, she has worn his necklaces on two separate occasions. Binns said about this collection, “Now you can get your diamonds, emeralds, and shit."

With his support from the First Lady, Binns is now ready to take his business to the next level — he says that could mean taking on a financial backer, making bags or T-shirts, or even, if Target was willing to go in with him, doing a mass retail collaboration. The pieces from his Get Real collection sold for around $100, meaning he is definitely open to doing items in a more affordable price range. This is a collaboration I would definitely make a trip to the Galleria for.

Icelandic Fasion

Birkiland´s goal is to introduce, sell and support Icelandic design and assist in its future development in Iceland and around the world.

Their manifesto reads:

• We believe that Iceland is unique
• We believe that there is an increased need for understanding our past, our identity and our history
• We love all the colors of the rainbow
• We believe in the intense power of nature
• We believe in quality
• We believe that design will help create competitive advantage of the nation
• We believe in love and respect for all things
• We believe in learning from the past, look to the future and still enjoy today
• We believe that our home should nourish both body and soul

These principles are certainly evident in their products. They feature five icelandic designers whose products are related to these principles. They are innovative in terms of design and they are truly Icelandic products.

The Seapelt, featured below, reflects the belief present in icelandic myths that describe seals as being condemned by humans. The Birkiland website includes the tale that inspired the designer. These cozy body blankets also come in baby sizes.

Sustainable Fashion

Designer Eviana Hartman, who received Ecco Domani’s first Sustainable Design award, earned street cred writing an eco column for The Washington Post, working at Vogue, and creating the collection’s first two seasons with Samantha Pleet. She’s now on her own, and the results of her research are evident in the conscious content (recycled PET nylon, locally dyed Ahimsa silk, organic garment care labels) and modern concepts (structural Parabola dress, everyday-amazing Distortion tank, sexy but staid Orbit shorts). The line has just been released at some boutiques in NY, Steven Alan, I Heart, and Bird. Go and get it!!

-DailyCandy

Optical Illusion

Pierre Cardin introduced some interesting concepts into his Spring/Summer 2009 collection. Did anyone else play with Zolo blocks as a kid? It seems like they may have inspired some of Cardin's wackier looks. A slideshow of his looks is here.

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