Autorin: Tays Jennifer Köper–KelemenCarleen is a Los Angeles-based womenswear collection designed by Kelsy Parkhouse that draws inspiration from denim, quilts, Americana, and nostalgia, also visual arts. The declared aim is to design aesthetically pleasing and functionally durable pieces, with a commitment to domestic production. Second-hand textiles are as well used for this purpose. Folk art motifs typically run through the collections. Patchwork optics define the looks.
Kelsy Parkhouse founded Carleen in May 2012 after receiving positive reviews for her graduation collection at Pratt Institute. There she also received the first Liz Claiborne Concept to Product Award. Her inaugural collection was inspired by the Grand Canyon and handmade American quilts, a textile that influences Carleen’s aesthetic both visually and metaphorically and is at the core of the brand.
Second-hand textiles are used as often as possible. Not only because of their patina, but also because of their sustainable impact on the planet. In the case of organic, recycled, and used textiles, more fabrics made from natural fibres are selected. Production takes place locally in Los Angeles in order to keep a more efficient eye on quality and also reduce the carbon footprint. The working conditions of the workers who produce the clothing can be better monitored.
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We cooperate! This article was written in cooperation with the international platform for ethical fashion www.styleandthegang.com. Whether from Tokyo, Kilifi, Barcelona or Bali – on their website the editors Tays Jennifer Köper-Kelemen and Nina Elyas present unusual, socially committed and ethical fashion brands with cross-cultural concepts from all over the world. Curated designers tell their stories of craftsmanship, and what it means to create fashion with added value.
