Detroit has gained a bad rap, what with its bankruptcy and news regarding its general destitution. But what’s important to remember is that, historically, some of the most successful designers in American fashion started out in Motor City, and the region hasn’t stopped inspiring. In fact, its become a new hub of stylistic innovation.
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Detroit Style City
Detroit may most recently be recognized as a bankrupt state, but it is also the hub of innovation and inspired artists. And many are living up to that historical relevance through art and design.
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Anna Sui
The names Anna Sui and John Varvatos are synonymous with great design. What most might not know is that both of these iconic designers are from Detroit Rock City.Anna Sui, born in 1964 in Detroit, is a legendary American designer who has become not only a household name for fashion and fragrance, but has built a multi, multi million dollar empire in the industry. Her products are sold all over the world, and have afforded her the ability to never work again. But, give some credit to humble roots, the designer is still in the marketplace full force, more recently launching a comprehensive make up line, and re-launching her Soho flagship store in NYC. -
John Varvatos
Meanwhile John Varvatos has found great success in a much different aspect of the fashion industry: menswear. If you don't know Varvatos from his extensive collection from which you could build your entire wardrobe (and we recommend doing so), you have likely encountered his name while shopping for sneakers.The John Varvatos x Converse has been one of the most successful collaborations between design and footwear. Varvatos has lent his stylish sense to reimagining the staple sneakers, and dare we say classing them up (even when dirtying them down). New iterations look scuffed & well-worn, but paired with a skinny black suit, would be 5th avenue ready.Varvatos definitely hasn't forgotten his hometown of Detroit. He announced last year his plans to open a flagship shop at his old stomping grounds. The store just opened in April 2015, and some old friends showed up to celebrate, (namely Alice Cooper, who Varvatos has long styled). -
Shinola
While Anna Sui and John Varvatos may be the old school of Detroit style, there are also some new kids in town. Shinola founded their label in 2011. With a tagline declaring, "Where American is Made", where else would the brand decide to set up shop than in the staple craftsman city of Detroit, MIchigan.Shinola doesn't just talk the talk. They set out to create American-Made goods, with the American Dream principles in mind: people need jobs. And people really needed them in Detroit. So they launched their manufacturing factory in what was a very delapitated Detroit.Today the brand boasts high quality, sometimes high price tagged good. But you get what you pay for. Shinola's watches, bikes, leather goods and more are all hand-crafted in the USA. -
Homes
Homes Eyewear is built from Detroit. Not only in a geographic matter, but the product is actually manufactured from the wood of Detroit's delapitated homes and abandoned structures.Founded by Achille Bianchi in 2012, he reclaims the wood right from the city - with over 70,000 abandoned residential structures in Detroit, the resources are not hard to find. The line has five different styles, and all have a reinvented classic feel. The most eccentric likely being the Charlevoix, which are a 80s throwback design.The shades retail between $188 and $248. Sounds a bit pricey, but really that is about market value for quality, hand made sunglasses.. and yours could have real Detroit soul built into them.
