Hanley Mellon

*Ahhhh*- I breathe out a much needed sigh of relief as I sink into one of those classic plush leather armchairs. Finally, it’s time to be home for the holidays and we have earned it to unwind after a year of always being on the go.

The holiday season is here upon us, and for me at least, it’s filled of a melange of smells from succulent (organic) turkeys, oven baked pumpkin pies, the faint whiff of pine, gingerbread and burning wood… We are all bundled up in layers of knit and wools, for the ultimate luxury of keeping warm from the blistering winds and terrors from the outside. You look out the window and you see a cold, hazy scene painted with bland colors (maybe you are lucky enough to have snow?)- but that just makes the indoors so much more opulent with the candlelight and the fireplace dancing into each room with that embracing light. This time of year simply seems to be much more magical, authentic, and comfortable- I guess you could say an Instagram filter has “enhanced” day to day life.

Having just whipped up a cup of hot chocolate, I am now living it up wrapped in my cashmere blanket- gingerbread in hand- and am thinking about how the utter excitement I felt about Christmas years ago, has now morphed into comfort of the heart, mind, and soul. I think this is why its called the most wonderful time of the year, no?

Drumroll please: I conclude the long-awaited awe of this magical time… has to do with comfort: the comfort of being home again, comfort of being with our family and friends, comfort of not having to wake up at 7:00 tomorrow for a lecture… Once a year, you are invited into an atmosphere of love, warmth, shelter, freedom, satisfaction, and of course happiness.

Hanley Mellon - ‘the next big thing’ in fashion dubbed by Style.com - translates these emotions into their clothing and it has never been more satisfying wearing basic luxury. Power Couple Mathew Mellon (previous Men’s Creative Direct of Jimmy Choo) and Nicole Hanley Mellon (Stylist at Ralf Lauren) have launched a new brand, which at the core is made of “great pieces, people can wear no matter what their style”- size or age I would argue.

Having only launched their first collection for S/S 2015 in New York (or as they refer to it 40.7 Degrees North 74 Degrees West) this fall, the brand has caught the attention (and praise) of the industry for designs that are versatile and contemporary, but practical and a "Hallelujah" to the skin- kind of like the clothing seem to be giving you a gentle hug throughout your day…

Whether airborne on your way to Mauritius or curled up with a good book in front of the fireplace, the Hanley Mellon luxury sportswear collection perfects sophisticated basics and understated elegance. No judgement will be passed when you wear those knickers on your “I don't want to get out of bed” days.

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Of course, this sportswear line is only a fraction of this brand to watch. The S/S 2015 and newly launched Pre-fall collections take inspiration from the Mellon’s travel encounters (for example Kenya and Northern Europe) by referring to native people, places, and things; style, art, beauty, culture, organizations, and philosophies that catch the eye of Nicole and Matthew. The brand’s entire image encapsulates wanderlust and a windswept feminine beauty that is so often found in the most remote parts of this world.

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The distinction of this brand is the ability to create comfort to it's customers and this is why I am an absolute fan.

I look forward to see the development of Hanley Mellon and witness the places they have gone through their beautiful, original collections. 2015 will be sure to be a breakthrough year!

Check out their cool-as website on http://hanleymellon.com/

Solid & Striped

*gulp* I casually wipe the excess cappuccino foam from my upper lip with my napkin. So have you heard about the swimwear label Solid and Striped? I know, me neither! I only found out today as Net-a-Porter is now (November 14) selling their capsule collection featuring Poppy Delevingne. (I feel like I see these Delevingne sisters everywhere nowadays! They deserve their success though I think- they do more than balance a champagne class on their derrière in hopes to "break the internet"... Ahhh, I digress.) *Slurp* Well anyway, I did some research about Solid and Striped and the best way to describe their women's wear swim collection would be Jackie Kennedy meets Kate Moss meets Taylor Swift plus a pinch of Italian dolce vita and a dash of "Ushuaia Ibiza"- This makes sense right? In more general terms the swimwear line is timeless yet contemporary, and focuses more on flattering shaping and fit than crazy embellished colors and patterns.The company was founded by Isaac Ross in Water Mill, New York and it is obvious the Hamptons lifestyle is woven into every boxer, bikini, and suit. Ross was influenced by a pair of classic trunks from St. Tropez's  Club 55 and was disappointed that present swimwear was unnecessarily loud and flashy (and in the case of most men's swimwear at least- quite unflattering-unless you can pull of that surfer dude look). Instead of conforming to "eight color patterns", Ross decided to simplify the look of swimwear and essentially "tone it down".Not only are the classic aesthetics of Solid and Striped a delight, but all swimwear is made from the quickest drying fabrics and are woven in France, Spain, and Italy- countries whose culture seems to be sprinkled onto the product itself. Poppy added her own flair to the capsule collection by referring to popular fashion from her home country of England with the use of pastel florals and repeated fun prints of flamingos and gentle shades of pink. Her take seems more lighthearted and 90's than the original Solid and Striped look and it is blatant to see the campaign took inspiration from the Tony Scott classic "True Romance" (1993) with Poppy slipping into the role of Alabama Worley.Oh my! Look outside- it is starting to snow and we've just been talking about swimwear! My head is now filled with memories of summers gone by and do miss my good friend Mr. Sun... Well, while Poppy is enjoying the success of her bikinis and swimsuits, I am quite happy to carry on wearing my oodles of sweaters, hats and scarves (at least for now...)Shall we go?Images found at Vogue.fr.

Happy Socks

When putting together my daily outfit, I am very concerned with my look’s overall theme- what piece goes with what, what accessories compliment my outfit’s color scheme, etc… Then, it is time to leave the house. Meaning- a mad rush to find shoes and a “luck of the draw” attitude with what socks are picked out of my sock drawer… Am I alone here? Since know one really sees my socks (especially in the winter) who cares what they look like? After discovering the colorful world of Happy Socks, I am forever changed and my sock drawer is slowly beginning to resemble the works of a contemporary art museum.

**To my feet: I sincerely apologize that you had to endure mismatched days and times where white plain gym socks were your sole uniform.**

At the core Happy Socks are colorful and fun and somehow manage to bring a spring to your step. Simply looking at the vast range of patterns (anything from polka dot, to paisley, to giraffe) you can immediately sense the vibes of positive energy and that “boring” is not in this brand’s vocabulary. The two founders, Mikael Söderlindh and Viktor Tell, stated the purpose of Happy Socks was to “transform an everyday necessity into design objects and to spread the joy"... and it does so in flying colors.

The quality and craftsmanship of the socks are also worthwhile, as they are made with specialized cotton, which is equally soft yet sturdy- to provide extra comfort and a product that lasts. On their website- Happy Socks clearly states their product won’t last forever once worn and washed hundreds of times, but that is only normal! I’m glad they let us know immediately, and I would genuinely be concerned if a sock does not wear away over time… Also, the socks are made in Turkey, a country already renowned for their high quality textiles and fabrics.

Launched in 2008- the Swedish company now sells in more than 70 countries and has worked on collaborations with Ked’s, Barney’s New York, Adidas, and even The Standard hotel chain just to name a few. They have even expanded selling underwear, pocket squares, and other quirky accessories like a leopard print laptop case. 

I would say their worldwide success stems from their ability to target a complete range of consumer needs being any occasion, style, and personality. Instead of being a necessity, your socks become a statement piece to be proud of and can immediately enhance the versatility and depth of your outfit.

At the end of the day, all of us want one thing and that is to be happy. It is a joy to wear something I would even consider a work of art on your feet (at a reasonable price) and as I look down at my feet all bundled up and warm in an extravaganza of color I can't help but smile. 

All photos featured are taken from happysocks.com.

Parajumpers

Colored tights wont flatter our silhouette, billowing capes would just get in the way (and in the face of the person walking behind you) and underwear over the pants… I’ll just leave it at that. But what can a modern-day superhero wear in 2014- while looking powerful and poised at the same time? A Parajumpers jacket, of course!

Not even a decade old, Parajumpers has already received a world renowned status and is likened to brands including Canada Goose and Moncler, due to it’s superior insulation and stylish look.

What distinguishes Parajumpers from other brands is it’s unique inspiration and how its influences radiate throughout their products and affiliated projects. Its founder Massimo Rossetti drew inspiration from men of the 210th Rescue Squadron, based in Anchorage, Alaska. These men no, heroes, operate in torrential conditions to rescue others lost at sea, caught in mountain avalanches, or even submariners sunk in “unimaginable depths”. Considered to be better trained than other military corps, PJs ( the Parajumpers) are the epitome of courage, strength and bravery, and implement their skills and techniques to save lives. Their motto is “That others can live”.

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Parajumpers jackets capture the legacy of the 210th Rescue Squadron by being, first and foremost, functional and able to withstand extreme climates and circumstances, allowing you to take risks and conduct your own adventure. You are encouraged to be your own superhero.

Aesthetically, the jackets come in a variety of styles, colors, and shapes but each has the striking look of Parajumpers and will draw attention due to it’s P.Js patch on the left arm. Some are more avant- garde than others and can appeal to the spectrum of tastes- from sporty to bohemian chic. I personally love the leather and sheer collection- paired with some boyfriend jeans and oversized red shawl perhaps?

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What also makes Parajumpers unique is their affiliation with the Heidelberg Project- where artist Tyree Guyton transformed a deprived ghetto neighborhood in east Detroit into a world renowned outdoor museum. It’s purpose is to demonstrate the power of art and creativity- to generate hope, peace, and inspire a brighter future for all. In short, the project is heroic to the local and global community who need saving from depression, oppression, and poverty.

The Heidelberg Project is an extension of the Parajumpers- not only “May other people live” but let other people live and create freely. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_Xb9Q4jnPo

The brand translates its inspirations into it’s innovative jackets, and we translate wearing the jackets to being our own heroes- to ourselves and our relationships, to our community, and most importantly one another.

I’ll conclude with: “Its a bird! Its a plane! Its… Parajumpers!!!” (Sorry Superman!)

Sandqvist

As a university student, knowledge is not enough: it requires strength, pure physical strength- Sometimes all those books, notebooks, a laptop, food, water, pens and lip glosses escalate to a whopping 10 kg! And where do we pack it all in? The one shoulder bag, of course: the Louis Vuitton Neverfull, the Longchamp Le Pliage, the Micheal Kors Saffiano (because evenly distributing the weight would be just too easy…) Well, for the sake of my partially asymmetrical shoulders (and broken strap of Mr. Vuitton :( )I have called it quits and am going back to the backpack- an absolute pleasure when that backpack’s name is Sandqvist!

While exploring Stockholm last week, I was immediately struck by the effortless sophistication of it’s people and how creativity seemed to thrive all across the city. I stumbled into Södermalm, the (even more) hip, bohemian part of Stockholm, and came across a window display, which had the most exquisite backpacks I have ever seen. They were each a different bold color, canvas with leather trim, a synched nautical sailing knot, and reflected an uncomplicated and fun vibe. Sandqvist’s “everyday bags and items”, seemed to be longing to be taken for an adventure. I had to explore more.

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Sandqvist was founded in 2004 by Anton Sandqvist (later joined by his brother Daniel and friend Sebastian) who was inspired by the Swiss bag company Freitag, and created his first bag (only as a hobby) in his basement, which immediately caught the eyes of all who saw, as it was not only functional- but unique and well designed. The design is inspired by the Nordic landscapes filled with mountains and tranquility, and by Stockholm’s bustling, innovative city melody, which in turn composes an attractive, almost minimalistic bag- now in all types of shapes, sizes, forms, colors and materials of highest quality.

Production takes place in various locations in India, who specialize in traditional leather tanning and sewing. Sandqvist emphasizes the importance of fair working conditions- where child labor is banned, workers receive health care insurance, and working hours do not exceed 48 hours per week. It is touching to hear that Sandqvist mentions the bag factory owner by name, Mr. Shakil, his wife and their three sons, really demonstrating that this is a familiar and treasured relationship- not just a business. Another partner factory of Sandqvist is located in Chennai, India, which was started by a Swedish government aid project whose aim is to create jobs and increase the quality of life of it’s workers and community. It is important to remember the product you are buying has a history of it’s own, and if it was made out of mastering a craft and creating opportunities for others- that is something to be proud of and to support.

But now looking at the bags in front of me, my mind begins to wander about “All the places you will go!”. Forget university, but you can wear a backpack like this on a sailing trip, hiking in the forest, a weekend getaway on the mountainside for two- or if you are feeling more creative like me- mix elegant printed trousers and a blazer (the SS15 Saint Laurent, perhaps) and balance the look with a laid back canvas Sandqvist bag. It can be worn for any day time occasion, if you want to add a touch of nonchalance and a reminder of the Swedish lifestyle (and who wouldn't want that?)

The backpack I held in my arms was elegant, simple, stylish (without trying to hard) and most importantly- practical. Slipping the bag across my shoulders, I was handsfree and felt like a trekker ready for the day’s exploration, even if it was just to locate the nearest cafe… Today, my shoulders are finally balanced, just like Sandqvist’s equilibrium of being functional, simple, and beautiful.

find them at http://www.sandqvist.net

Mountain Force

Also, I noticed that the ski pants and jacket were extremely comfortable and an essential requirement: warm. Mountain Force has incorporated a climate regulating function where the cold is reflected outwards and body heat kept inwards, resulting in a perfect interior climate and a very happy skier. The amount of technologies developed at Mountain Force are too much to describe in one blog post- but check them out here: www.mountainforce.com. It is clear that, like the mountain, Mountain Force is continuously changing and adapting to it’s surroundings- innovating solutions to our evolving needs.

Apart from producing high quality athletic wear, I was really taken at how craftsmanship and fair production plays such an important role to the brand. Careless mass production may be dominant in the industry, but Mountain Force resists this industry “trend” and continues to stress the importance of workmanship and traditional production methods creating value of the highest precision. For example, when a piece of clothing is completed (at the specialty production partner KTC Limited), it receives the seal "Artisan de Montagne”, letting us know this piece was created by a true master of the ski apparel field. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H44aSGj0ebA Wouldn’t we all want our clothing to be created by master’s in their field? Shouldn’t this be the mindset in the fashion industry opposed to current methods of sweatshops and mass productions? If the mainstream fashion industry can be represented as a busy mega-city at sea level, Mountain Force would be found way above the smog and noise at the top of a snow covered, sunny mountain peak- where the air is pure and the vision is crystal and without boundaries. (Don’t we all need some fresh air, sometimes?) I would argue this is the brand in ski apparel for the motivated, strong, elegant, athletic woman or man and should be worn on any slope or really any outdoor activity, to not only excel athletically or make a statement of beauty, but to inspire yourself to exceed boundaries and act with precision.

Umasan

The beauty of fashion, is that it a snapshot of our time, and is an immediate reaction to the society we live in; this reaction is what I think distinguishes a brand to an iconic brand. Umasan, the vegan fashion label from Berlin, has caught the pulse of our time, and is beating to it’s pure, “one with nature” heart. Umasan has the potential to be iconic and perhaps even change the dynamics of the fashion industry, through it’s inspiring philosophy (there is a reason Umasan was chosen to be the first brand discussed at the melange…). The brand emphasizes “redefining collective values and to increase individual values” and most importantly, to just take a deep breath and just slow down. Personally slowing down in the fashion industry seems more ironic than Anna Wintour in a snapback, but in order to find meaning and appreciate, one needs to invest time. Umasan seems to emphasize style (not trends) and proves great fashion can be timeless and does (should?) not have an expiration date. The brand is inspired by traditional yoga methods and nature- accentuating tranquility and the pure life- unifying body, mind, and spirit. Unlike many brands that focus on maintaining profits and selling the latest “it” item, Umasan lives a deeper purpose and actually wearing the clothing feels like you are wrapped in the poetry of our generation.The name Umasan stems from Japanese roots: Uma translates to “mother of life” and San emphasizes unity and respect. Japanese influences are also obvious through sophisticated design, due to it’s head designer Anja Umann having worked in Tokyo with Master Designer Yohji Yamamoto. Such unique, Eastern cutting-methods are translated to the Western consumer, but this “look” is still new to the European market and is forecasted to become dominant in the next decade- as the line dividing West and East becomes more and more blurred. (Interested in being a funky trendsetter and say you had “it” first? Grab an Umasan asymmetrical coat ASAP!)Not only are the clothing tailor-made to perfectly fit the Human Anatomy, but they are made with the highest quality of ecological plant fibers, which are healthy for our own skin *awkward fist pump*. The fibers include bamboo, beech tree, seaweed, and eucalyptus. Some of these fibers are used in skin cream, so imagine how refreshing it is to wear something with a positive outcome on your body… Also, the materials serve as a natural sun protectant, where Umasan is really responding to climate change and increasing, harmful UV rays. Does it get better?Yes. In terms of production, resources are sustainably extracted around Europe and are locally made in Germany to ensure high standards in ecological and human production processes. Animal products are completely banned, highlighting that the company does not just “talk the talk” when striving to reduce the carbon footprint.Umasan delivers on innovation, highest quality textile, couture tailoring, and sustainability for the planet and our own bodies. Having only established in 2010, the brand is only starting to emerge on the international market, but if executed properly will have a tremendous effect on the minds of consumers and other fashion businesses. Done are the days of greenwashing- we demand the real deal where we as consumer can feel proud about what hangs in our closets. I wish them all the best and am very curious to see what they have in store in their (very bright) future.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_QupD_QzSEThe collection is mainly unisex and is to be worn for comfort and achieve that “feel good feeling” (not just physically but mentally knowing you are doing something good for yourself and the planet). The colors are predominantly black, white, dark greens and occasional blues which gives a minimalistic vibe with a classic harmonious edge. It is ideally worn in a street style context and one is sure to stand out (in a fabulous way) when walking down the street, grabbing a coffee, reading a good book… but I feel like you just have to wear Umasan in a busy public place- people will notice you and you can get the conversation started about sustainable fashion and the slowing down philosophy.So what to wear when you have 5 minutes until a lecture and you’re still in your pajamas? Get up, splash some water on your face, put your hair in a bun, slip on an asymmetrical blouse with a unisex skirt, put on some white Converse and I guarantee you will be the best dressed, coolest, hippest, fashion forward, avant-garde chic your town has seen.

Milk and Sugar?

The first post- Ta Da!!  (also, hello and welcome one and all!)

A name is yet to be agreed on: some say Afternoon Tea, some call it Fika, some look forward to cafe und kuchen. I’m referring to that beautiful time of day in the afternoon, when you step inside your favorite coffee house: that familiar dark roast perfumes the air, the atmosphere is painted full of smiles, scuttling baristas, and furrowing brows, and you hear a symphony of espresso machines, turning pages, clinks and thumps, shifting chairs, laughter, chatter… (no, that fast-as-possible stop at Starbucks on your way to work, ordering a tall, skinny chai to-go does not count!)

It is here, we remember the good ole’ days, we dream of dancing visions of what could be, we plan, we discuss, we gossip (…xoxo) but most importantly we establish and preserve relationships, with one another and with our community. What really fascinates me, is how we  can learn from each other, through sharing our unique experiences and perspectives.

The Coffee/Tea tradition stretches across the globe and across generations, and I feel it is completely underrated. It has stood the test of time and has developed a sophisticated way of life, filled with mindful connoisseurs, who appreciate the highest quality in taste and company.  We savor the opportunity to celebrate, reflect, listen, learn, inspire… whether alone, with loved ones, or perhaps even with quirky strangers wearing Oliver Peoples glasses and black turtlenecks.

Coffee* in hand, I want to introduce this poised tradition to the hectic bloggosphere, and (hopefully) provide some helpful insights regarding the new “buzz” in fashion. Here, I celebrate this  Coffee/Tea culture, which emphasizes quality, tradition, innovation, sophistication, and most importantly, the “it” factor.

Modern Melange is about show casing a mix of meaningful brands (and items) who radiate this culture and dedicate their heart and souls to their mission. By keeping my eyes and ears open, I am on the endless quest to find brands with that extra something- who inspire through creativity and their philosophy, who focus on quality- not quantity- who’s voices need to be heard (and worn).

Perhaps one day we shall stumble across each other in the Café de Flore or the Café du Monde, but as for now I am here, sipping my coffee* and you are there reading this post: I hope you enjoy this blog and love the brands (chosen with care) composing this blog.

I can’t pour you a cup of joe, but I can pour you a cup of brand buzz!

* P.S. When I mean coffee, I mean a Viennese Melange: "one espresso shot served in a large coffee cup topped with steamed milk and milk foam”. It is certainly not an espresso and definitely not an Americano! Perfection takes time to create and time to enjoy.

That is the key philosophy and purpose behind the Modern Melange.