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My newest collection is underway! Over the weekend, my amazing team of models, makeup artist, videographer and photographer partnered up for a costal photoshoot that took place at the gorgeous Marin Headlands, across from the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin, Ca!  Mood Board My mood board represents a costal, earthy vibe with a neutral and cool color palette. It flows with the whimsical breeze of the San Francisco coast, and the eroded architecture of historical war bunkers.
 Behind the Scenes Here is a sneak peak of the photoshoot with my amazing team! The gorgeous sunset and slightly cool breeze made for a perfect location to capture my woodland nymphs in an amazing video shoot!   Stay tuned for the release of the highly anticipated music video-stye launch of Casually Uncommon's latest collection!
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We have got some exciting events coming up and we invite you all to join! In true Casually Uncommon fashion, we will be showcasing at some fun, over the top Bay Area festivities!!! SAVE THE DATE ~RE Fashion Show~ "A fashion show with renewed purpose" Our highly anticipated collaboration with the amazingly talented Artist, Daniel Belcher is underway! Come to the RE Fashion Show on Saturday April 22nd to check out our collaborated designs and celebrate Earth Day with some gorgeous renewable fashion!  CLICK THIS LINK FOR MORE INFO!
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Once upon a February, I got a message on Instagram. A local art gallery wanted to house my clothes. How exciting! How do I know someone my age who owns an art gallery? A random friend from high school just happens to own her very own art gallery now! Monica dated my one friends back in the day and by the magic of small town connections, I'm in! She's an amazing painter, has a husband and a baby girl whose hair is always in palm tree formation.
View her art here.
View her art here.
What will become of my clothes? They will be hosted for a month and sell to the public. The first time this has ever happened! In Casually Uncommon history! I've vended at Oakland's First Friday and of course, Vallejo's Second Friday, And at friend's houses etc, but this was a true Brick and Mortar, and the Gallery, Mama de Luna (mama(Monique) of luna(her daughter's middle name), is in the adorable Crockett. On a street of bars, antique shops and art galleries. It overlooks the Carquinez straight, and is right across the bridge from Vallejo. At the opening 2 Saturdays back, we kicked it there, ate the scrumptious food, networked with artists. I had been starting a new line of products when Monica reached out to me. I stopped everything and began preparing for this opening. My garments had never been inventoried, all needed to be de-wrinkled, they had all been either worn by me or folded up in storage for a while. After a week and a half of touching up and organizing these garments, I had 2 weeks to plan a shoot.
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I had a San Jose shoot fall through, mostly because all possible models where out of town for presidents day weekend. So I planned my shoot around my one friend who's super eager to model. She was called into work so I had to get 2 models in 4 days. My friends Jenny and Korvel were not only modelesque, they were available under insanely short notice. My friend, Abe, who I met at Burning Man, and lives in the city now (Photographer of my Mammoth Suit line), was itching to get back into photography. He had creative differences with the boss from his last photo job and had to get out. He now works for Uber. We shot 17 garments in an hour and a half. We were so lucky, because the weather was phenomenal. We were like a finely tuned machine.
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I would keep track of the order of outfits, Jenny would get dressed and shoot, Korvel would shoot whiles she's dressing. Abe made coffee for all of us and we moved in perfect formation motivated by excitement and our time constraint (I had to work later that day). The end result was incredible. The style is almost reminiscent of an American Apparel Ad, in a good way. Abe transformed my apparel through the models and the emotion, juxtaposition and balance between the back and foreground. Jenny had modeled for my Alien Angelica underwater video shoot, but has yet to show of her editorial finesse. She nailed it for this balcony shoot. Korvel is a stylish man, and seems shy and calm in person, but when that camera aimed at him, his inner fire burned the house down! It's important to find models who can move very slightly, and meticulously changing mostly their facial features without needed to be directed. For Korvel, his power is in his fearsome stare. Just beautiful. These two made modeling look effortless, Abe was amazing as always and I'm pleased this shoot came together in the way that it did. Four days notice, and all.
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Opening night of the "Harmony" exhibit at Mama De Luna Art Gallery was great! It was amazing to have my friends and family join me in my first retail debut of Casually Uncommon!
It was amazing to have Casually Uncommon on display and FOR SALE, at the gallery! Incase you missed opening night, my collections will be displayed until April 1st! So come stop by Mama De Luna and check out some amazing Bay Area artwork!
Mama De Luna Art Gallery
702 2nd Ave, Crockett, Ca 94525
Mama De Luna Art Gallery
702 2nd Ave, Crockett, Ca 94525
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@ashleycousinart @artbydanielbelcher
Some amazing collaborations are in the works with some of the talented artist I met at opening night! Stay on the look out for some awesome stuff coming your way with featured artists, Daniel Belcher and Ashley Cousin! Check out their Instagrams above!
And I'll be working on some custom doggie gear for the lovely owner of Mama De Luna Art Gallery!
Some amazing collaborations are in the works with some of the talented artist I met at opening night! Stay on the look out for some awesome stuff coming your way with featured artists, Daniel Belcher and Ashley Cousin! Check out their Instagrams above!
And I'll be working on some custom doggie gear for the lovely owner of Mama De Luna Art Gallery!
It was a great night! I hope you all can stop by the gallery anytime until April 1st to check out Casually Uncommon's display!
What a busy few weeks it has been! Prepping for the debut of Casually Uncommon's first in-store display, we have some new designs for the season that you have just got to see!
Casually Uncommon has partnered with the amazing and talented Photographer, Abraham Rodriguez to capture these latest designs with a sunny SF, balcony photoshoot!
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Featuring the lovely models, Jennifer Laughlin and Korvel Lopez!
Jennifer is blissfully modeling the breathtaking flowy gown with lace elements, perfect for any day or evening event! Brunch @ noon with the girls? An elegant fashion show in downtown tonight?
Korvel is rocking both the new and previous Casually Uncommon menswear collections in one outfit! A combination of pastels and patters!
Come check out these designs along with many others at Mama De Luna Art Gallery in Crocket! Casually Uncommon will be featured and on display for your viewing and purchase from March 11th- April 1st! Get them before they're gone!
Here are some behind the scene shots of the gorgeous photoshoot!
Thank you to my team of models and photographer
for putting together an awesome photoshoot
with the beautiful views of SF!
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!
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.
We welcome all types of styles and mediums and host themed art shows to bring together likeminded artists to create a fun, inspirational atmosphere.
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/
We welcome all types of styles and mediums and host themed art shows to bring together likeminded artists to create a fun, inspirational atmosphere.
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/
Share with your friends, spread the word!
I hope to see you all there!!
I hope to see you all there!!
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).
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.
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.
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".
"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!
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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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.
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?
-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.
-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?
-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.)
but keeps an open mind for the gain of knowledge and information.)
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.
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 $177 million dollars in debt! The company was bought out by Canadian brand, Gildan, who is said to be continuing to offer American Apparel products through their wholesale market.
American Apparel has been recognized and loved my many not only for their chic, simplistic designs, but the fact that their products are MADE IN THE U.S. The iconic brand built its mission to bring apparel jobs to the U.S and became very outspoken on their firm stance against sweatshops, that are so commonly discovered within the apparel industry.
Roughly 2,400 employees have been laid off already. (Yikes!) Their retails stores are expected to be closed by April 2017. So hit the stores and the online shop for some massive discount and get your hands on the last of the iconic brand while you still can!
We’ll miss you American Apparel, and your risque, nipple-baring ads! **sigh**
My first fashion Webisode is here!!!
I have been wanting to create a fashion study/video blog for some time now,
In this, the premier episode,
I go to Richmond to buy a Grill.
Enjoy.
In this, the premier episode,
I go to Richmond to buy a Grill.
Enjoy.
The Qween herself, Beyonce.
What was the motivation?
In my last weeks working at a San Franciscan Bridal Salon, I considered using my employee discount to purchase a sample sale, couture, wedding gown.
I had my eye on a retro inspired lace trumpet by St. Pucci.
It would be about 800 with my discount and that's pretty phenomenal.
However,
I don't have that kinda dough.
Also I had heard you could get Grills as cheap as 75$
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…"
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…"
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?).
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.
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.
Who Buys Grillz?
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.
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.
I recommend more people try them.
Now Without Further Adieu!
Annmarie Gets a Grill
by Annie Lawton
by Annie Lawton
The Blarg
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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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