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Casually Uncommon featured at MAMA DE LUNA Art Galley!!!!

2/27/2017

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For the first time, Casually Uncommon will be showcased at the lovely "Mama De Luna" Art Gallery in Crockett, CA!
I'm so excited to be apart of this awesome opportunity amongst so many amazing, local artists!

SAVE THE DATE!


My collection will be featured during the "Harmony" showcase from March 11th- April 1st! 

An opening reception will be held on March 11th from
​4pm-7pm. So come through, shop my latest fabulous designs, check out some grogeous artwork and support your local artist community! If you can't make the event, come visit the gallery any time between March 11th- April 1st!
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"Here at Mama De Luna Art Gallery, we strive to showcase underrepresented Bay Area local artists, and to build a larger art community here in Crockett, CA. 
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We welcome all types of styles and mediums and host themed art shows to bring together likeminded artists to create a fun, inspirational atmosphere. 
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We are located on 702 2nd Avenue, Crockett, CA,(right next door to Milano Art Gallery) in the historic Milano hotel, that has been converted into a community arts building."

​-Mama De Luna "About" Page

https://www.mamadelunaartgallery.com/

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Share with your friends, spread the word!
I hope to see you all there!!
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Immigration Reform, Gay Rights and an unforgettable scandal...

2/20/2017

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As the iconic American made brand, American Apparel, comes to a close within these next few months, we will remember their liberal and outspoken influence as they made their mark on the fashion industry (not to mention the scandalous drama and allegations against former CEO Dov Charney).

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​American Apparel has always been been at the forefront of political activism and expressing their stance and support through their clothing. Even on their website, American Apparel has a designated "Political Activism" tab listed in their "About Me" as a direct representation of who they are and who they represent, everyone.

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​This quote was taken directly from the American Apparel website...

"As a company, we have certain resources that individual activists do not. We try to use that special ability to support political causes that need help. American Apparel regularly uses its billboards, advertisements, press contacts and even printed t-shirts to speak out about important issues. Our two biggest issues have been Immigration Reform and Gay Rights".



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"Make American Gay Again"



American Apparel helped the community by providing a larger platform for individuals to express their political activism. As a Los Angeles based company, they really stuck to their roots and contributed heavily to their community, demanding change and equality. Even during the recent presidential election, American Apparel had the ultimate clap-back, releasing their oh so memorable "Make American Gay Again" red hat and super fly tees!

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As huge supporters of the LGBTQ community, American Apparel dared to defy the social norms and demanded a more diverse America!

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Lets not forget the juicy scandal of 2014 that really made a huge impact on the set back of the company...

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In 2014, allegations against CEO Dov Charney began arising, making it difficult for the company to stay out of the press. The allegations against Charvey, included publishing of nude pictures of employees online,  dancing naked on stage at a company function, sexting and the misuse of company money. This all resulted in the board’s unanimous decision to fire Dov Charney in 2014. Mr. Charney and his lawyers have denied any misconduct.
Lewd conduct by executives is nothing new and is readily forgiven if a company is still growing fast. However, American Apparel had long lost its magic touch with young customers, and a year after Mr Charney’s ousting, it was actively seeking a buyer to avoid bankruptcy.



I wanted to know what it has been like for employees of the the iconic company, and how working for American Apparel has influenced them directly. 

I had the opportunity to get an inside like look, first-hand, from an American Apparel employee! Check out the interview below...

Here we interviewed Jamie Allison Cruz, an American Apparel emlpoyee of 3 years. 

Tell me about your experience working there?
-For the most part I really enjoyed working for American Apparel. I was a visual merchandiser so I did the window displays and dressed mannequins. The company would send out style guides, but you didn't have to completely follow them so I enjoyed the creative freedom. Having awesome co-workers also made it a fun environment.

What have you heard about the CEO?
-I remember when I first got hired at American Apparel in the employee handbook there was a form you had to sign that you would not speak poorly of Dov Charney. Listening to him during conference calls I remember him being very blunt and spoke as if he had no filter. And of course I've heard of all the sexual harassment charges against him from co-workers which probably was a big part of the company's bankruptcy.

Are you going to buy anything in their closing sales?
-I still have a few things from when I was working there so I'm not really planning on it.

Do you think customers value clothing that's ethically made, or is it all about look and price?
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I think ethically made clothing is one of their selling points and I think that's part of what appeals to the American Apparel customer.

Here we interview, my colleague, Nick Frankel. You may recognize him from my Mammoth Suits collection. 

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Shot on Superbowl Sunday in North Lake Tahoe

(Note: Casually Uncommon does not endorse any one political party,
​but keeps an open mind for the gain of knowledge and information.)
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American Apparel No More :(

2/13/2017

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If you have not already heard, the beloved L.A based brand American Apparel will be closing all 110 of its U.S retail stores and distribution center.
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Over the past few years, American Apparel has faced many financial hardships, trying to keep up with the cheap demands of fast fashion. It has been said that in November of 2016, the company filed for a second bankruptcy since 2015, and is $177 million dollars in debt! The company was bought out by Canadian brand, Gildan, who is said to be continuing to offer American Apparel products through their wholesale market.

American Apparel has been recognized and loved my many not only for their chic, simplistic designs, but the fact that their products are MADE IN THE U.S. The iconic brand built its mission to bring apparel jobs to the U.S and became very outspoken on their firm stance against sweatshops, that are so commonly discovered within the apparel industry.

Roughly 2,400 employees have been laid off already. (Yikes!) Their retails stores are expected to be closed by April 2017. So hit the stores and the online shop for some massive discount and get your hands on the last of the iconic brand while you still can!

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We’ll miss you American Apparel, and your risque, nipple-baring ads! **sigh**

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I Got My Grill From Kevin

2/9/2017

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My first fashion Webisode is here!!!

I have been wanting to create a fashion study/video blog for some time now, 
In this, the premier episode,
I go to Richmond to buy a Grill.
Enjoy.
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The Qween herself, Beyonce.
What was the motivation?
In my last weeks working at a San Franciscan Bridal Salon, I considered using my employee discount to purchase a sample sale, couture, wedding gown.
I had my eye on a retro inspired lace trumpet by St. Pucci.
It would be about 800 with my discount and that's pretty phenomenal. 
However, 
I don't have that kinda dough. 
Also I had heard you could get Grills as cheap as 75$ 
So I thought I'd put it to a vote. 
I asked Facebook. 
" Ok guys, this is a pivotal question. Should I buy a wedding gown with my discount or a grill…"
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Why Grills?
My friend had a stunning, textured platinum grill he wore out with out us one night, and after seeing his I instantly knew I needed one. And needed to film myself buying it. I would love to have a grill with my Marie Antoinette costume (modern queens such as Beyonce, Rhianna and Miley Cirus have them), and I'd only wear it for special occasions such as weddings, fashion shows and other luxurious events. ​
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Where to buy one?
The place he recommended was closed down by the time I got there. On a rainy day in October I took BART to downtown Oakland, umbrella in hand. The building had chains on the door and peering through a gap between open wood, appeared vacated. ​
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A large establishment with friendly faces, and parking!
I needed the grill before Halloween, so didn't give up. There were a few places in San Leandro and an overpriced shop near SF's China Town, but we settled on a store in Richmond. My friend Annie had wanted a grill for ages, and agrees to come with me and film the interaction (because how often do two small white women come in seeking grills?).
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Kinda gave me orthodonture flash backs.
The Plug, Tattoo and Piercing Inc. was a welcoming place, I saw couches and a pool table as I first walked in. Waiting for my videographer extrordinare, Annie to arrive, I introduced myself and asked if it was alright to film for my blog. The Jewelry Designer, Kevin was down! He didn't want to be interviewed but let us record him in a behind the scene making grills. He gave us a lot of insight to the tooth jewelry industry.
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His and her grillz.
As a jewelry designer, Kevin had created custom pieces in the past, but never saw a profit as grand as when he switched over to making grills. The demand is quite high right now.
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Who Buys Grillz?

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Say what you will, Miley is a true reflection of current fashion trends.
Mostly 14-18 year olds come in seeking grills, he of course can't sell to anyone too young. There was a customer there who was about 17, and he borrowed money from his mom to acquire his dream grill. It's very popular with young adults in the East Bay.

​Kevin says the oldest customer he's had was in their 80's. They wanted to replace a missing tooth. 



Both men and women buy grills equally and a lot of ladies love the Vampire and Bar style grills. ​
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So he made a mold of my 6 bottom teeth and filled the cast with silver. At the plug, Grills go for $25 per tooth for silver and $45 per tooth for gold. When you are wearing them, you can't eat, can't drink anything with sugar and shouldn't drink alcohol. ​

I am obsessed with my grill.
Whenever I wear it, I feel like another person. I'm already pretty confident, but when I wear my grill, and everyone's focus is on my teeth, I feel unbeatable. It's fun to wear something that is attuned and so representative of Bay Area Hip Hop/Hyphy  culture, definitely something so bold and new for me to wear.
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I recommend more people try them.


​Now Without Further Adieu!

Annmarie Gets a Grill
​by Annie Lawton
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Tips on how to shop more sustainably!

2/6/2017

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Did you know that the United States contributes more than 14 million tons of textile waste each year?

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With the newest culture of fast fashion, retailers are able to keep up with the quick shifting demand of new trends, by mass producing and offering new styles at cheaper costs.

These clothes aren’t intended to last very long at all. As consumers, we are more opt to throwing out cheaply made garments as each new season of trends come around..

Fast fashion has caused a rapid increase in our global textile waste.

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So the next time you shop for a new outfit, consider these easy buying habits to extend the lifespan of clothing, and help reduce textile waste!
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1. Buy from local, sustainable brands and boutiques!
Brands who identify as “sustainable”, have made it a priority to create clothing that does not leave a heavy waste footprint on our planet. These brands have considered things like; the amount of wasted and unused textiles during production, reducing the amount of toxic chemicals used to treat and dye fabrics, using minimal and recyclable packaging for their products, and they consider the waste factors that are involved with importing and outsourcing manufacturing. (USA made!)

2. Thrift store shopping!
It’s hip, it’s trendy, it’s vintage and it’s used! Second hand clothing has become a very cool way to shop. My friends and I often set up thrift shopping dates and spend a few hours rummaging through the local thrift stores. We particularly enjoy fitting room crack ups as we try on rad 80’s gear. Shoulder pads and all! For those one-of-a-kinders, thrift shops can offer an amazing assortment of vintage and modern clothes to showcase your unique styles! You’re giving new life to unwanted clothes that might have gone straight into the trash can!

3. Buy and sell pre-loved threads with virtual boutiques!
E-commerce has jumped on the trend of second hand clothing, and it has become a huge hit! Online stores like Poshmark, Threadflip and Twice (for more high-end swag) offer consumers a way to not only buy trendy, second hand clothing at a discounted price, but you can also sell your unwanted clothes and make some money! This is a great option for online shoppers!

4. Swap with your friends!
You already know what cute clothes are in your BFF’s closet. Next time you need a hot new outfit for a night on the town, go shopping in a friend’s closet. It’s freeeee! My friends often host clothing swapping parties when our wardrobes get too full. Add some wine and cheese and you’ve got yourself a swanky little shindig, and some free clothes! It’s a great way to mix up your style, and get rid of some clothes that have been sitting in the back of your closet, collecting dust.
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    The Blarg

    You've found my blog!
    I hope it leaves you informed as well as
    entertained /inspired. 
    I love writing about the
    inspiration and progress with my collections,
     funky fresh fashion I come across daily, and the epic things that are goin' down in the world of FASHION.

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