Hasta La Ideas

From the Brooklyn-based studio behind the plaid pocket scarf, Wintercheck Factory introduces another functional accessory, this time adding wrap-around protection to sunglasses with their new Jon and Lizzie line. Modeled after the looks and design of old-school safety glasses, Wintercheck adapted the style to make the industrial feel of these classically vintage shapes available to all.

Pistachio- or smoke-colored lenses lay the base for the plastic impact-resistant frames, each with colorful accents (they hand-dip the ear stems in urethane) and fitted with safety standard compliant side shields. Both the Wayfarer-esque Lizzie and the aviator-inspired Jon sunglasses come with a custom waterproof Witz lens locker case and carabiner, begging for trips to the beach.

The 99.9% UV protected Jon and Lizzie sunglasses sell from Wintercheck Factory’s online shop for $45 each. See more images in the gallery below.

The debut collection from Danish designers Christina Højris Ottosen and Jens Kold-Christensen of Uncommon Creatures channels the style of Brooklyn’s conventional Hasidic Jew. Inspired by the typical big black hat, flowing locks and overall aesthetic, the collection includes enticing updated versions of the subculture’s quintessential garb.

The influence is obvious in the collection’s looks, while lending each garment a crisp avant-garde twist. “The AW10 collection sends the wearer on an anarchronanistic journey where essential elements of various Judaistic societies are used as a central theme,” explain the duo.

This vision comes through not only through the simple style, the recognizable hats and extended lengths of the garments, but in the use of knitwear depicting Orthodox Jews and East Orthodox cross motifs.

In keeping with other brands of a similar ilk, Uncommon Creatures uses a classic monochrome palette for its first collection. However, the fledgling brand has strong regional ties, promising to use only Jewish textiles and manufacturers for all its pieces and not outsourcing any part of the production process.

Ethical touches like this coupled with the pair’s advanced eye for aesthetic flourish make for a highly anticipated subsequent collection.

Our friends at Shisomiso Boutique & Gallery are putting on a fashion show benefit for Habitat for Humanity this Saturday, April 10th, 6:30 – 10:00pm at Art Central.

The night promises to be one full of dazzling fashion and good vibrations. Student tickets are 15$, adult price is $25 and all proceeds from the event go to Calgary Habitat for Humanity.

Click here to purchase tickets. Hope to see you at the show!

*Poster illustration by Karen Klassen.