Havre Studio: The Reworking of Men's Workwear

Havre Studio: The Reworking of Men's Workwear

Monday, 8 June 2020

In today's post, I'd like to share a company I came across on Instagram that up-cycles men's designer blazers into vintage two pieces for women. Collections are released every 1-2 months and are coming to the forefront of everyone's Instagram explore page and it's easy to see why. In a world flooded with Instagram boutiques all selling the same cheap, unsustainable clothing at an incredulous price point, finding a gem like the brand Havre Studio is an absolute rarity and utterly refreshing.

Based in Copenhagen and tailoring vintage items shipped from Mexico City, Havre Studio is a fashion company rapidly growing in audience, and rightly so, with their tailor-made and one-of-a-kind sets being the dream of any fashion fanatic. The brand masterfully balances stylistic masculinity and femininity to create unique pieces that attract a large demographic of women. Furthermore, Havre Studio stand firm in their belief of reformation and repurposing vintage pieces, altering each set according to its specific design for the sake of longevity and wearability. Exuding the professionalism and seriousness of a work setting in combination with the bold, feminine cuts, these refashioned suits are the perfect pieces for feeling like a girl in charge. 

Another reason I felt so inclined to share this brand in particular is their solid commitment to sustainability. In the fashion world, the term 'sustainability' encompasses many facets of the clothing's production, meaning that some brands are quick to slap the term 'sustainable' across their websites with little to no actual commitment towards being effectively sustainable. However, it is evident that Havre Studios are opposed to the 'fast fashion' market and are making a conscious effort to reach sustainability in terms of their ethics, economy, and environmentalism. As their website states, "we (Havre Studio) believe we can meet the needs of today without compromising the needs of tomorrow' and they achieve this with both grace and style.

Releasing their collections on a monthly or bimonthly basis, Havre Studio themselves note the importance of 'slowing down the process' of how we consume fashion. With the digitalisation of the fashion market, it is a thousand times easier to purchase exactly what you want at a fractional cost. You want a white corset top with purple lace trim that is both fitted and stretchy, that you can pair with gold, silver or white gold jewellery? I'm sure the 'fast fashion' moguls PrettyLittleThing and MissGuided, etc. will have several - and they will be so cheap, they'll be practically paying you to take them! But it is 'fast fashion' for a reason. These brands' collections are not designed with the precision and carefulness that we see of brands such as Havre Studio, who take into consideration the timelessness and the longevity of a piece when designing and choosing the items for reworking. In a sense, the repurposing of vintage clothing is the equivalent of recycling the newspaper. We see a reflection of the past, worn in the present, affirming the trends of the future.

There is something inherently empowering about refashioning men's suits for women. Whether it be the boxy silhouette or simply the notion that menswear can be worn by women too, these two-pieces make a definitive feminist statement. We see the brand shy away from the soft colours and gentle fabrics we so often see in women's clothing and instead, create collections chock-full of professional, powerful neutrals and thick fabrics, also ensuring these items are long-lasting and timeless. The androgyny of blending masculine pieces (with their bulky cuts and fabric) and feminine designs (cropped blazers and mini skirts) effectively encompass today's fashion trends, where women are encouraged to feel empowered in their clothing choices - no matter how conservative or elaborate. 

The price point and sizing could be an area of difficulty for some, as the individuality of each clothing piece means there is a limitation when it comes to sizing - so I apologise for that. Also, the pricing - whilst fair as a result of its quality - is around the £60-180 mark (if my currency conversions are accurate). Therefore, you should consider the purchase of these sets as an investment. An investment not only in regards to its quality, versatility, and wearability, but an investment in the environment and the economy with its ethical production. With their drops being announced with through their newsletters and mailing lists, getting your hands of these blazer sets is not an easy task - after all, who else is doing what they are doing? There are fashion forward women across the globe prepped with iPhone reminders, diary notes, and deafening alarms specifically set for the releases of these collections, so keep that in mind if you are enticed by Havre Studio, that being pre-emptive and prepared is key.

Thanks for reading and make sure you check out @havrestudio on Instagram if you desire the sophisticated chic of these two piece sets. Even if the bold, boxy designs aren't for you, I hope you can take some initiative in regards to the sustainability of your wardrobe and say 'no' to 'fast fashion'. Stay safe and thanks again.

Yours truly,

Em Cav

The Skinny on: LBDs

The Skinny on: LBDs

Friday, 5 June 2020

Welcome to the next instalment of The Skinny on: - today's feature is the iconic, the timeless, the notorious 'Little Black Dress'. I'm here, as per usual, to give you the rundown on one of fashion's most illustrious wardrobe staples. So LBD: let's begin, dawg. ( I regretted typing that immediately but after a short google search for nouns that begin with D, I'm really void of better options.)

The Little Black Dress aka the LBD is ubiquitous in the fashion world due to its versatility and straightforwardness in colour and shape. First made fashion famous by Coco Chanel and Jean Patou in the 1920s, the simple design was intended to be just that: simple. The LBD was meant to appeal to the widest demographic possible, cos that's business baby! But in doing so, this designer dream team defined a new essential in the word of fashion and in women's wardrobes across the globe. The LBD's timelessness is as a result of its chameleon quality - suitable for any function, brunch, date, interview, or otherwise. You can dress it up, you can dress it down, but you cannot deny - the LBD is unstoppable.

Necks, Necklines, Necklaces

I constantly fluctuate between my preference of gold or silver jewellery (we are currently riding the golden wave but beware my commitment issues), and for that exact reason the LBD is perfect for all. The neutrality of its colour in conjunction with its simple mini-dress shape means it can be paired with any accent colour and will not go out of style in our lifetimes. Therefore, a Little Black Dress is a true investment. Although the LBD is iconic, it is far from homogenous in style - with a thousand necklines and skirt lengths to choose from. Opt for a plummeting neckline to receive the movie star treatment, or select an LBD with unique sleeves to really put the fun in funeral.

Belters

Now am I telling you to go and purchase a vintage Chanel belt causing a significant dint in your bank account? No. Of course not. But would it look amazing when paired with a black dress? More than words can say. So unless you are willing to throw your entire student loan at some gold chains - here is how you can spice up your LBD with a belt that won't break the bank.

I think we are seeing a diversion from the clunky masculine belt fad, with a new focus on thin statement belts. Add interest to your LBD ensemble with a chain belt (e-boy style) or with a classic leather belt, matched with a monogram buckle for extra shine. Cinching or at least emphasising the waist is key when wearing all black, as you run the risk of losing some definition with your body shape, so create some separation with a snazzy belt.

Get Blazed

I am no stranger to a blazer. In fact, I think blazers will be the biggest trend of the 2020s. I'm calling it now. Bet365, where you at? With blazers, you have a plethora of options. Boxy, cropped, oversized, vintage, pastel, fitted etc. Matching LBDs with a trendy boyfriend blazer (boyfriend not necessary) is the most chic way to incorporate the musings of the high fashion collections whilst avoiding the constant goose bumps of my cold Mancunian weather. Blazers are the great outdoor-indoor jacket (watch this space for my guide on blazers coming soon), creating a boxy, powerful silhouette without mitigating the sense of sophistication and finesse.

Looking for something more modest?

I must admit that modesty is not my fashion forte - but that said, I have a few option for those not prepared to shave their legs for an outfit (I get you, girl). In the very nature of the LBD, you could take a leaf out of Audrey Hepburn's book and choose a totally classic shape. The midi-length perfectly lends itself to the romantic, classy vibes an LBD can provide. Combine this with some small black heels and some delicate jewellery and you have an outfit straight out of Sabrina. 

Not feeling the housewife chic of the past? Understood. Opt for a more fashion forward and feminist ensemble with the introduction of the LBJ. The Little Black Jumpsuit. Personally, I'm still on Team Dress, but Kendall Jenner (below) shows us that trousers do not come at the sacrifice of femininity. You can have a powerful silhouette with all the classic perks of the LBD and never have to worry about having your less tasteful version of a 'Marilyn Monroe moment'.

Thanks for reading my guide on the perfect 'little black dress' and how to style it. You are now equipped with more than enough knowledge on this fashion staple, so enjoy your new found skill and wear it out! Hope to see you in your little black dress soon, it's been grand. 'Til next time. This has been the skinny on LBDs.

Yours truly,

Em Cav