Sister Tribes: Valentine Gauthier

Valentine Gauthier’s eco friendly Fall and Spring collections was inspired by “raw nature.” Represented by Sister Tribes, this brand is one that uses innovative textiles and ideas to portray modern concepts. The pieces in this line were all made from organic fabrics and naturally treated leather from India and Europe. This everyday collection consists of fitted, structural leather jackets and brilliantly colored dresses, pants, and shirts. Conceptualized with the trend of pattern mixing in mind, Gauthier took this to the new level, such as indo Aztec shapes, animal prints, and boho tribal. These simple designs are not only unique but portray the overarching natural theme. From the flowing garment shapes, earth tones incorporated in the pieces, to the subtle nuances in each piece that spike intrigue. The garments in these collections are easily paired with each other, and a wide variety of garments due to their simplicity and overall versatility. Gauthier is a fairly new designer and her line is carried by Santine in Los Angeles and by Anthropology. 

Written by Taylor Tuzzalo and Luke Hartman

Hair and Makeup by Erin Collins

Photos by Gregg Gall

Styling by Luke Hartman

Model: Taylor Tuzzalo

Versace Underwear Unveiled

With the summer men’s collection, Versace is releasing for the first time ever iconic underwear pieces that I have no doubt will fly off the shelves. Each pair represents different aspects of Versace’s classic style with embellishments such as the Medusa head or the archaic Roman lines. No doubt made of high quality modal, or silk synthetics, these second skin pieces are sure provide comfort and support. In the words of Donatella herself, these pieces are perfect for any man to feel sexy and bold. The pieces range in price from $40 to more than $58, and are available at Versace boutiques. 

Written by Luke Hartman: Photos courtesy of Versace 

Agua Da Ilha - Colorful Confidence

Glamor and exercise are two words that are not usually associated with each other. Rooms full of baggy tees, and mesh gym shorts is what one normally sees when working ever so hard on that perfect body.  Recently, through the workout class that I attend called Kazaxe, I stumbled upon the Brazilian active wear line, Agua Da Ilha that completely re-invigorates exercise attire. After talking at great lengths with US market distributor, Nina Logan I was informed about the origin and purpose of this amazing brand. “Agua da Ilha USA is an active wear clothing line designed and manufactured in Brazil, well known for its style, quality, comfort and versatility. A state of the art fabric - SUPPLEX(c), is used in most of our products, making them soft, durable and breathable. The fabric is also highly wind, water, tear and odor resistant. Because of the unique combination of materials used, most of the sizes are “one size fits all” as the fabrics stretch to fit sizes XS through XL” Nina said.

Nina’s interest in fashion and fitness began in Brazil where she was majoring in physical fitness. Then it grew exponentially after moving to the US and pursued a bachelor degree in Business Administration. In 2007, Nina was introduced to the brand in her home country of Brazil and then returned to Arlington VA, where she started selling the product online and at local physical centers. “At that time, I was regularly attending Kazaxe classes at the “Underground” (for more information on this amazing workout, please visit www.azuka-bom.com). The Owner/Kazaxe instructor, Asuka Boutcher, loved the clothes and agreed to be my first model. She also gave me the opportunity to sell to the 300+ students that take classes daily at the “Underground.” From that moment on, I knew I was in business for good!” Nina said.

The clothes themselves are works of art. Not only are the patterns and colors that are utilized beautiful, they also bring new levels of fashion to basic essential exercise attire. For women, Agua Da Ilha offers a wide variety of sports bras, bustiers, and loose tops. All of these come in either solid or patterned textiles. Also, cropped shorts, pants and jumpsuits are available. The thing that makes these clothes unique is that they are made in limited quantities, so you and maybe one other person in the world own that piece. It is exclusive solely to you.  For men, Agua Da Ilha has also introduced a speedo type crop short that is perfect for swimwear, hot yoga, or just working out. T-Shirts and regular active wear shorts are also available. 

Recently, Agua Da Ilha has branched out through a program that Nina has started called the Wholesale market, which has attracted new vendors in the Philippines, Australia and Japan. Overall, this brand is not one to be overlooked, and gives a unique opportunity to look your best while you work to be your best. Live confidently, and colorfully in Agua Da Ilha. 

Available at aguadailhausa.com and at the “Underground” in Arlington

Written by Luke Hartman

Models: Asuka Boutcher, Zuzana Brnakova and Nikki Theim

NEW FEATURED DESIGNER AND COLLECTION

Sneak Peak! Here is a tantalizing taste of the new collection from Brazilian activewear designer Agua Da Ilha. More photos and information coming soon!

Written by Luke Hartman. Photos Courtesy of Nina Logan