I was recently invited to the design studio of Kristina Lacson-McConnico, designer behind the eponymous line Lacson Ravello.
My Instagram feed was abuzz with compliments on her ever popular Mariniere striped tee. The Lacson Ravello iteration of the breton classic distinguishes itself by a slimming vertical side panel. So, when Kristina offered to see the full Lacson Ravello collection, I jumped at the opportunity. The Lacson Ravello collection features feminine floral prints anchored by a smart balance of neutrals. The emphasis being clean lines and natural fabrics. The result is a collection that epitomizes Northern California cool. This juxtaposition of aesthetics captured my immediate attention.
Kristina is no newcomer to the San Francisco fashion design scene. Quite the contrary, she comes from a family of clothing designers. Before striking out on her own, the native midwesterner designed for big retailers like Bebe, Gap and Levis. And for us grown folks, Kristina was behind the pencil at 90’s era Bum Equipment, Mervyn’s and Contempo Casual.
However “traditional” Kristina’s resume, the Lacson Ravello line is representative of a shift towards locally designed, small batch clothing production.
As Kristina puts it, we are “pivoting towards a new retail environment”. Pivotal to the spread of grass roots fashion is online e-commerce sites where designers can market to their target audience with precision. Additionally, consumers can connect with designers directly through social media platforms, which is how I met Kristina. As Kristina walked me through her design process (counting Pinterest among her inspirations) the intentionality of each piece struck me. It was immediately clear how each piece would fit into a NorCal (i.e. My) lifestyle.
My favorite among the Lacson Ravello Spring 2017 is the sheer mauve maxi dress in a geometric print. The high slit leg and quality construction sets this piece apart from all the other maxis on the market.
The piece which kept me awake at night is actually not part of the collection (at least not yet). The shear cream top above, reimagined into the maxi dress. This will be the hero piece of Summer 17 resort collection; poolside in Napa or Palm Springs. Yes, I’m kicking myself for not asking if this dress is in the works.
One of the take aways from my visit? Connecting with the source of your clothing is a essential in today’s environment of #ootd and fast fashion. This connection facilitates that much needed balance of conscious consumerism. However superficial fashion seems, the designer keeps it real. Finally, if you ever have the opportunity to talk to a designer, seize the moment. You won’t regret it!
Meet Lacson Ravello at their upcoming San Francisco pop up events. West Coast Craft Nov 12 & 13 and Renegade Craft Nov 19 & 20. Both events take place at Fort Mason Center in San Francisco.
Have you ever met a designer in person? How was it? Comment below.
XoXo,
Ten Key Pieces
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