Is a subtle color switch all that’s needed to guide our wardrobes into the fall season?
Seasonless dressing is not simply a new trend in retail or a fashion buzz term designed to sell us resort wear collections. For me, it’s a defining element to what feels modern now in fashion. Come to think of it, resort wear with its diversity in fabrics, silhouettes and textures and its tendency to be less “designed” than fall and spring collections, encapsulates exactly what modern clothing needs to be for me to spend my money and the earth’s precious resources on.
Add to this need for clothing to do triple duty is the challenge of changing weather, and I’m not (for once), talking about climate change. When you’ve got a summer that’s cooling off across one coast and one that’s yet to make an appearance on the other, how do you position a look exactly?
I’m curious to meet the people who run around stores in July trying on jewel-toned cable knits, because they sound like no one I’ve ever met. Most people, I think, choose fashion that is year-round. We want to buy things with the intention they’ll be flattering and chic, no matter the season. Layering is key. With boots, thick tights and – my favorite anchoring piece – a 70’s style black polo neck – there’s no reason that a lightweight floral dress can’t look good in the dead of winter.
Ultimately, what marks the end of this season and the start of fall is not about turning the page on the calendar, but taking an intuitive leap. Our wardrobes undergo a subtle, irrational color switch from carefree brights to muted, richer shades and darker tones.
With all this in mind, it was a case of perfect timing when I discovered the Iman B line recently. The tight collection of hand painted-tunics, dresses and tops is locally produced in Sausalito by well-traveled industry veteran, Mary Margaret Stewart. Focused and straightforward, just like her eight piece line of artfully flattering clothing, I sat down with her to discuss the clothing she describes being for the woman who “likes simplicity and comfort, with a tinge of sultry.”
Tell us about the Iman B collection?
I’ve always made what I think of as “seasonless” pieces, made of medium to lightweight organic fabrics, designed to be worn alone or paired with whatever you like. My line is very practical for the West Coast climate. This collection features eight looks, my most simple. If you attended one of my art fairs, I have a variety of one-of-a-kind dresses available as well.
The line features your own hand-painted graphics, what inspires your artwork?
I admire simple, uncomplicated silhouettes but like to make them more individual with my painting process. In France, I acquired a taste for most things “Africain” – the music, art, food, people, which inspires my graphics. Each piece is hand painted.
What do you think about the growing role of eco-fashion?
The word “sustainable” is often used to describe my line, especially after my move to California 10 years ago, but in fact my method of designing and manufacturing has always been the same since I began. I’ve always used local labor, local fabric sources and small distribution, but I am pleased to be living in a city where my clients actually care how my things are made and appreciate my smallness. San Francisco seems to be the Mecca for eco designers at the moment.
What is your advise for women looking to make their clothing more sustainable?
Clothing is still a need. The eco movement that dictates using recycled and sustainable materials promotes versatility of design – and that’s a positive trend. It signals a move away from the merely superficial, frivolous and immediately perishable. It’s simple really, avoid shopping malls, places like Target, Gap, Banana Republic, anything that can be retailed at $9.99. You get the point.
Can you tell us about your personal style and how it reflects in the line?
The word ‘simplicity’ is the key. I’m a creature of comfort. Long gone are the heels and the zippers and linings. If I can throw on one of my long black dresses with flip flops in the day, and throw on a belt and boots for dinner, I’m happy.
