Letau Designs

Trunk Show Tomorrow 30% off

2010-12-17T12:39:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends!!!

With the holidays approaching faster than we would want to there is one more weekend where you can get last minute little and big gifts for you or that someone special from Letau Designs & Zivile Art. We will also be featuring an organic body butter line, Zingara Hara. Come out and shop with us! Letau Designs will be offering a special 30% off sale on all hooded and drawstring scarves. It is this Saturday December 18th at our showroom on 997 N. Marshall st, Philadelphia Pa 19123, 1-6pm. If you can't make it to the showroom but are in the Rittenhouse area that day we will also be selling at The Philadelphia Designers Market http://www.philadelphiadesignersmarket.com/ from 11am-6pm Contact me direct @ 267-241-5815 for custom last minute holiday orders. Happy Holidays! Maren

Letau Designs @ Bust Magazine Craftacular NYC

2010-12-07T14:06:00.002-05:00

Come on out for a one day shopping event put together by the amazing Bust Magazine.

Sunday December 12th, 2010 10am-8pm
The Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W 18th Street, New York, NY

BUST Magazine is selecting nearly 300 of the best crafters to participate in the BUST Magazine Craftacular Holiday 2010 in New York City. The craftiest of what you’ve come to know and love at our popular BUST Craftaculars is what you’ll find again this Holiday-plus so much more! BUST Craftacular favorites such as DJs, beverages, snacks, demos, and awesome crafts for sale will all be The BUST Magazine Craftacular Holiday 2010. Amy Sedaris will also be selling and signing her books!

What is the BUST Magazine Craftacular?

This is the biggest and best indoor craft fair and shopping event in New York City. Now in our 6th year, we are growing bigger, adding another floor of the best vendors from across the nation selling gifts perfect for the whole family from jewelry, cards, handbags, posters, toys, clothing and so much more! We also partner with charities for our BUST Magazine Craftaculars to bring the holiday spirit of giving together with the best in handmade. Don't miss out on this fantastic one-day shopping extravaganza!!
Admission is just $2 and the first 500 attendees get a FREE jam-packed goodie bag!!

Independently owned and operated, BUST Magazine has been a leader in the crafting movement since 1993. Now in its 17th year, BUST continues to support and influence the handmade revolution through constant editorial coverage, sponsorships, and events such as the BUST Craftacular. Always on the cutting-edge, BUST is a revered and trusted authority in the DIY and crafting community.

http://www.bust.com/Craftacular/Vendors-NYC.html

2nd Annual Trunk Show @ Fringe Salon 2nd Saturday, November 13th, 6-10pm

2010-11-10T08:41:00.000-05:00

2nd Annual Trunk Show @ Fringe Salon

2nd Saturday, November 13th, 6-10pm
7 Artisans (see list below)
1 disco dj (dj Operant- spinning obscure and tasteful disco)
libations, snacks
…..and lots of fun!

Ivy Glass www.ivyglass.net

…..recycled fabrics of all colors made into hats, scarves, and other cozy things to keep u warm and stylin.

Maren Reese “Letau Designs” www.letaudesigns.com
….fabulous scarves in 2 designs that are as functional that are fashionable.

Kat Musciaesi “Paperchimedesigns” http://www.etsy.com/shop/paperchimedesign
…..recycled vintage jewelry re imagined with new stones and findings.

Leah Coonan “Leah Creation” http://leahcreation.com/
…..dope jewelry and accessories made from vintage vinyl records

Rachel Turanski “Off the Chains Designs” http://www.etsy.com/shop/offthechains
….takin crocheted wearables to the streets!

David Lavedure “P.I.M.P (Party In My Pocket)” – www.pimpgloves.com

……who knew spandex could be so awesome? these gloves are irresistible…

Elissa Kara (owner of “Nice Things” boutique) – www.nicethingshandmade.com

……crocheted hats and neck warmers made from scrumptious yarns.
(If a blankie was a hat, then you would be wearing these.)

take the headache out of holiday shopping. come have fun with us, and meet the artist that makes the gift you buy!!

FAB STUFF: LETAU DESIGN SCARVES

2010-10-16T10:33:00.004-04:00

15 OCTOBER 2010

FAB STUFF: LETAU DESIGN SCARVES

The moment temperatures start to dip into 50 degree territory, you will never find me without a scarf around my neck. Regardless of what I’m wearing, my scarves and I become one up until spring makes it rounds again. Therefore, my fall/winter wardrobe must be stocked with cute and versatile scarf options.

Fab Chicks need options right? Well I have a pretty cool one to share with you all.

It comes from Maren Reese, wardrobe stylist to the likes of Kerry Washington, Dakota Fanning and for films like Avatar. She has used her fashion background to create her line, Letau Designs. The line primarily consists of drawstring and hooded scarves ranging in a variety of colors and fabrics.I have my eye on this herringbone tweed number.

Be sure to head over to www.letaudesigns.com to check out all the different styles and ranges of colors they come in. they are definitely a fab alternative to the regular scarves we’re all used to.

LET US INTRODUCE YOU TO LETAU DESIGN

2010-10-13T12:05:00.004-04:00

By Channing Hargrove | October 13th, 2010

Letau Designs is giving us life with drawstring and hooded scarves just in time for the chilly weather.

World Wide Web- Blaynistas, we make it our business to make sure we give you the deets on the new, new ish. Enter Letau Designs. Designed by Maren Reese, this line of scarves is the perfect accessory to throw on this fall. The collection includes scarves for both men and women in cashmere, cotton and wool. Reese, before setting out to work on this line, styled for Avatar,In Her Shoes, Shadow Boxer and Rocky VI. Impressed? Just wait until you see these scarves. We have a sneak peek after the jump

http://www.vogue.co.uk/link.aspx?url=http://theblayreport.com/2010/10/13/let-us-introduce-you-to-letau-design/&return-url=/blogs/default.aspx&frame-title=The+Blay+Report+-+LET+US+INTRODUCE+YOU+TO+LETAU+DESIGN

Post Studio Tours Oct. 9 & 10

2010-10-09T10:16:00.002-04:00

Featuring new addition to the gallery - Letau Deisgns amazing scarves http://letaudesigns.com/ - a MUST HAVE this fall/winter !

"Unbridal" Fair @ Circle & Square

2010-03-18T01:14:00.002-04:00

Circle & Square is having a invitational

In which we have challenged many accessories designers and artists

to submit their interpretations of what a modern day "Alice" or "Bride" would wear, carry or use at a Spring/Summer party.
We are “marching” in lockstep with the opening of the "Alice in Wonderland" movie.
.
The results are spectacular, whimsical and wearable whigmaleeries... if you will... of the highest order.
It's how you would look while "searching to find your true destiny".
The IDES of March is the inaugural kick off time for the "Un-bridal" Party Season Opener!
We will be showcasing the most inspired sources and imaginative pieces to complement any sort of playful mischief you're up to!!

That’s right!

"Curiouser and curiouser, eh?"

CAKE AND CHAMPAGNE TO AMUSE!!

Date:	Thursday, March 18, 2010
Time:	10:00am - 6:00pm
Location:	344 PRESIDIO AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115

COVETED: That’s a wrap

2010-03-16T09:03:00.001-04:00

Monday, March 15th, 2010 at 2:15 pm
posted by Carolyn Huckabay

We moved! Since Mondays are automatic-suck days, we thought we’d try to cheer you up. This week, we’ve been thinking about summer scarves — the ones you wear strictly for fashion purposes on warm days despite being teased by your male co-workers. It ain’t quite summer yet, but we’ll make do.

Firstly: We’ve been eyeing Foulard Threads‘ eco-friendly cowls, made entirely of recycled men’s Oxford shirts and polos, for a while now, but that was back when we were buried in 70 inches of snow and needed something warmer. At first we weren’t sure we could rock these without looking sloppy, but the promise of a run of 60-degree sunny days this week encourages beater-and-jeans ensembles, amplified with a big messy scarf. Right? Hipsters, don’t fret: Plaid versions abound. $26, Foulard Threads, spied first at modish.com.

In case March showers bring April … showers: The thing we like best about Mother Eleganza’s brightly colored “Dancin in the Rain” Head Hoods (which, yes, we know is not a scarf at all) is the headless models. Silliness aside, these hoodie heads seem like a nice compromise between jacket and down-comforter coat seasons. These are the same folks who make Bread Shoes,the ones Felicia D’Ambrosio wrote about on City Paper’s food blog, Meal Ticket, not so long ago, which I guess means we trust them. $45, Mother Eleganza, spied first at designyoutrust.com.

Speaking of Felicia D: Our resident fashionable girl-about-town andShopping Spree columnist clued us in to Letau Designs‘ cozy woollyDrawstring Scarves back in October when we were fretting about the aforementioned down-comforter season. For the warmer months, switch to the Philly designer’s hooded scarves, made of lighter materials like silk and jersey (pictured, right). They’re a tad pricey, but supporting local businesses should assuage your wallet’s guilty conscience. $60, letaudesigns.com.

Finally: Gray doesn’t have to be icky, despite what this rainy day would have us think. Elsie Flannigan’s blog, A Beautiful Mess, shouted out all things heather gray recently, and we particularly heart this Shadowed Vine Scarf fromAnthropologie (which we can claim is a local business, since its HQ is here in Philly, with very guilty looks on our faces). Corporate monster or not, it’s lovely, and perfect for an afternoon wine tour. $28, Anthropologie, spied first atabeautifulmess.typepad.com.

http://citypaper.net/blogs/criticalmass/2010/03/15/coveted-thats-a-wrap/

Gift of the Day: Drawstring Scarves From Topstitch Boutique

2010-03-16T09:01:00.000-04:00

December 18, 2009

Posted by Eric Smith

The drawstring scarf at Topstitch Boutique

Enter to win a gift of your choosing from ourPhiladelphia Holiday Gift Guide. One lucky winner will get to choose from 15 locally sold gifts. Check back daily, at 1PM, for new gifts each day now through mid December. Even if you don’t win, you might discover a great gift idea.

A favorite of Philly 360 blogger Rakia Reynolds (just check out her video, and this Photo of the Day), today’s Gift of the Day, a drawstring scarf, comes fromTopstitch Boutique, a shop in Northern Liberties.

Philadelphia’s very own Maren Reese has designed several different styles of her clever drawstring scarf. You can clinch the string to make the scarf an organic, geometric ruffle or let the string out to make it a belt, bolero or neck wrap.

The scarves retail in the shop at $75 to $120. To learn more about Topstitch, visit the boutique’s official website.

Topstitch Boutique
54 North 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 238-8877
www.fleathers.etsy.com

http://www.uwishunu.com/?s=gift+guide&theCategory=&x=0&y=0

All The Pretty Girls

2010-03-16T08:58:00.001-04:00

For the Bohemian
Give her added layers to wrap up in with Letau Designs’s ingenious drawstring scarves, which ruffle around the face to create a pretty frame for her impish persona, by Fishtown designer Maren Reese. They’ll be her go-to accessory when wants to look like a beautiful vagabond poet (or something).

http://traveldeals.topnewsdigest.com/traveldeals/all-the-pretty-girls/

GREAT TRAVEL GIFTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

2010-03-16T08:52:00.001-04:00

Hoodie and Muff designer scarves by Letau Designs

The best travel items are those that prove themselves to be “carry-on space-worthy” by serving double duty. Letau Designs’ has created two new versatile scarves that both merit a corner…and twice the compliments.

The first is a reversible Hooded scarf can be worn up or down with either side of the fabric showing for four completely different looks. Chic and practical.

The second style is so unique it’s even patented: a Drawstring scarf with a toggle. Can be worn cinched tight for a pretty, ruffled neck-muff or loosened to use as a belt or shoulder wrap.

Both styles come in a variety of gorgeous colors and fabrics ranging from tweedy herringbone to luxurious satins. Prices start at $66.00. Purchase on line or check the locations for a store near you.

http://www.tangodiva.com/blog/2009/12/04/great-travel-gifts-for-the-holidays/

Letau Designs December 5th & 6th | Downtown Holiday Market | Washington DC

2009-12-03T22:42:00.002-05:00

F Street, between 7^th and 9^th Streets NW,

in front of the Smithsonian Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture

12 Noon-8pm each day

http://www.downtownholidaymarket.com/

Nestology Grand Opening @ The King of Prussia Mall

2009-12-03T22:22:00.001-05:00

THURSDAY DECEMBER 10th

NESTOLOGY STORE GRAND OPENING EVENT!

5pm-10pm | show + features @ 7pm-9pm

Hosted by HBO's Def Poet, Black Ice

Music by DJ's Sparkle + Mike Nyce

Live jewelry making by Soul Crafted

Live art

Lite Bites + Refreshments

Raffle + Auction for Charity

Nestology features Artists + Designers - Nic*Fish, Smak Parlour, Flygirrl, Common Knowledge, Heidi Roland, Okayplayer, Vintage Blue, Jypsea, Single Handed Ink, Rough Draft Books, Commonwealth Proper, Super Fly Mom, Freek Ugly, Miss Saigon, ZivileArt, Letau Designs, Zingara Hara, Amanda Diva, Bonnie McCuen, Eric Jordan, Duafe, Hannan, Saleh, St Germain, Robert Siegel, Tamara Ynise, Two.One.Five Magazine, KnightandHammer, Idris Designs + more!

**Nestology is located in the Pavilion side of the KOP Mall (where the Cheesecake Factory is). You will find us inbetween DSW + Levi's and directly across from Urban Outfitters, on the first floor.

Letau Designs Fall 2009 Events

2009-10-23T11:12:00.004-04:00

Upcoming Philly Events:

Historic Strawberry Mansion
3rd Annual Art, Jewelry and Fine Craft Show
November 6th - 8th, 10am-4pm
Location: Fairmount Horticulture Center
www.historicstrawberrymansion.org

Fringe Salon Trunk Show
November 14th, 6pm-10pm
Location: 1728 East Passyunk Ave
www.fringesalononline.com

Bus Stop Boutique Trunk Show
November 27th, 28th , 29th
Opening Reception on the 27th 5:30-8:30pm
Location: 750 S. 4th Street
www.busstopboutique.com

Upcoming DC Events:

2009 Downtown Holiday Market
December 5th & 6th, 11:30am-8pm
Location: F street from 7th to 9th streets NW
www.diversemarkets.net

Upcoming NYC Events:

Equinox Fitness Clubs
November 16th - 17th at 44th & Lexington
November 18th - 19th at 76th & Amsterdam
November 20th - 21th- at 92nd & Broadway

Rakia Reynolds, Vibe Fashion Editor, can't live without her Letau

2009-10-21T14:47:00.005-04:00

Meet Philly Style Maven Rakia Reynolds

October 19, 2009 by Tracy Hopkins

Rakia Reynolds has eclectic personal style. This trendsetter isn’t afraid to mix bold colors, vivid patterns, and designer pieces with vintage finds; she even showed up for a shoot with Lucky Magazine in a pink tutu. As Philadelphia’s 360 Fashion Ambassador, Rakia works with Philly’s tourism corporation to promote the blossoming local shopping scene.

I love Philly and met the bubbly Temple graduate during a recent visit for the city’s first Fashion Week. This busy hot mama is also fashion editor for the revamped Vibe magazine and I asked Rakia to share her Top 5 Wardrobe Pieces for the Fall/Winter season..

Accessories:

I can’t live without my super transitional dress-me-up/dress-me-down drawstring scarves by Philly’s Letau Designs; I wear them with jeans, dresses, tanks, or anything in my closet.

Outerwear:

Right now, I am sporting a vintage wool military cape coat and an old school slim fitting leather jacket.

All That Glitters:

I can’t live without lamé jackets, dresses, or tops. I am into anything that sparkles. I also adore the vintage, sequins dresses that I pick up at thrift stores in New Jersey and Philly.

Hot Mama Daily readers can also check out “What’s in Your Closet?” with Rakia every Wednesday on the Philly insider website, uwishunu.com.

http://www.splendicity.com/hotmamadaily/meet-philly-style-maven-rakia-reynold

AGENDA . Shopping Spree

2009-10-14T22:58:00.002-04:00

Letau Designs' Drawstring Scarf

by Felicia D'Ambrosio

Published: Oct 14, 2009

(CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VERSION)

The ruffle made its world première in 1558, when it was worn to impressive effect by Queen Elizabeth I of England. Woven of fine linen and adorned with lace, the accessory made a clear statement about the wearer's discretionary income; sex appeal was stirred in later, when women's ruffs split down the front to better display some serious décolletage.

Whether wrapped all the way around the neck or split, ruffles frame the face and add dramatic volume that makes the waist appear smaller. Maren Reese, 29, marries these classic principles with modern technique in her company Letau Designs' drawstring scarf, available in more than 125 fabrics, including silk and cashmere. Reese conceived the piece in 2005 with her late partner, Robert Matunda, and 2 yards of fabric. "People find my scarf a timeless piece," she says. "It's a staple for a woman's closet." Reese, who is also a stylist, designer and costumer for TV and film, selects and cuts all of the materials, and then contracts Port Richmond-based firm T&T Sewing to construct the products.

"The scarves are all made the same way, with the same hardware, but some fabrics are more malleable and some are stiffer, which creates different looks," says Reese. "A scarf is typically a flat piece of fabric, but when you have the ability to rouge it ... you can move it around and make it as dramatic or undramatic as you want." Thick woolen versions ($60-$120) can be worn over basic silhouettes to add dimension as well as practical warmth, while silk brocade scarves ($75-$120) may be tied behind the back, calling attention to the face and eyes — and creating a profile strikingly similar to the Elizabethan woman's.

Available by appointment at 2120 E. Westmoreland St., 267-241-5815,letaudesigns.com; Topstitch, 54 N. Third St., 215-238-8877; and at the Jewelry and Fine Crafts Show, Fri.-Sun., Nov. 6-8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Fairmount Park Horticultural Center, North Horticultural Drive and Montgomery Avenue, 215-683-0200.

(felicia.dambrosio@citypaper.net)

Kavbojka Klub: Letau Designs

2009-10-03T09:59:00.001-04:00

Kavbojka Klub: Letau Designs

Letau Designs

I don't know if any of these drawstring scarfs from Philly's Letau Designswould look any good on me, but I love them nonetheless.

Philly 360 Presents: Philly Fashion with Rakia Reynolds

2009-09-29T11:57:00.003-04:00

Fashionistas and wannabe fashion bugs, welcome to the Philly 360 fashion video series!

In part one, host Rakia Reynolds – stylist extraordinaire, marketing maven and all around It Girl – brings you a taste of the hottest accessories from some of Philly’s most amazing indie boutiques.

You’ll get the scoop on what to wear and how at places like Topstitch, Bus Stop and Letau Designs. Come back soon for part two of the series when we explore more gems on the Philly fashion scene.

Philly 360 Fashion and Top Boutiques

2009-09-29T11:34:00.000-04:00

Get globally inspired looks for less this fall and beyond from Philly's thriving creative class

Visit gophila.com/Philly360 for more information on Philly's diverse creative scene.

Philadelphia's a shopper's paradise with personalized service, locally-made merchandise and eco-friendly finds at affordable prices

Photos by R. Kennedy for GPTMC

Old City

Top Stitch
54 North 3rd Street

Opened in 2006 by artists/designers Linda Smyth, Julie Waring and Francesca Sloan, Top Stitch features a cool, downtown mix of clothing, jewelry and accessories created by local designers. One of the shop’s hottest items these days: Smyth’s Fleather jewelry — a wildly unique collection of hand-dyed, customized leather earrings and necklaces inspired by nature.

Duke + Winston - available at Matthew Izzo
151 North 3rd Street (Matthew Izzo)

With roots in Nigeria and Wales, the London-born Seun Olubodun is the founder of Duke + Winston, an artsty (yet affordable) line of screen-printed T-shirts that’s quickly garnering a hipster following. Each shirt is emblazoned with Old English imagery, such as flags, royalty or wartime sayings and then deconstructed and rouged up with Olubodun’s own logos and hand writing. T-shirts go for about $32. Olubodun also makes sweats and dog scarves, and a line of canine accessories is in the works (after all, his label is named in part after his English Bulldog, Duke).

Vagabond
37 North 3rd Street

Part yarn shop, part clothing store, Vagabond sells local and contemporary designers such as Scout, Ashley Watson and Motion Clothing. They also carry the hand-knit sweater line Stellapop and City of Brotherly Love fashion collection created by co-owners Mary Clark and Megan Murphy. In the back, don’t miss the cabinet of curiosities, displaying funky accessories and house wares, as well as monthly art exhibitions.

Lost + Found
133 North 3rd Street

Well-priced items for every type of shopper make this friendly, laidback boutique a hit. Housed in a former Old City art gallery, Lost + Found is owned by two top vintage-clothing dealers—the mother and daughter duo Sandy and Jenny Martin. The pair have an eye for mixing old-school ringer T-shirts with new reversible wrap skirts. The airy space also features fair-trade goods among the rainbow-like rack of lightweight T-shirts, men’s cowboy shirts, 1980s minis, neon plastic rings and printed canvas totes.

Sevilla Smith
128 North 3rd Street

The year-old Sevilla Smith, named Best New Boutique by Philadelphia Magazine in 2009, carries all types of eco-chic clothing, including bamboo tank dresses from Covet, bamboo legging pants by Battalion and stylish pleated shorts from Larsen Gray. Owner Saye Smith will soon import an eco-conscious accessory line from her father Frederico “Boy” Sevilla Jr., who lives in the Philippines. His Leather Collection features purses, wallets and bags crafted in ways that help reduce waste, support the indigenous community and utilize fair trade labor practices.

South Street

Nikki London
520 South 4th Street

Proudly catering to curvy girls, Nikki London carries fashion-forward styles in sizes 12-24. Of Nigerian and Liberian descent, London-born owner Nikki Watts keeps clients measurements on file, hosts regular trunk shows and offers a personalized “style me” service: Simply call ahead and the shop’s stylists will pull together an edited mix of clothing based on the occasion. Expect to find glamorous dresses, skirts and tops from the likes of Kiyonna, Donna Ricco, Trentacosta, Svoboda, Eliza J and Igigi.

Bus Stop Boutique
750 S. 4th Street

Opened in 2007 by London-born Elena Brennan, Bus Stop Boutique stocks hard-to-find designer labels and styles, which were previously only available via a trip to New York, Lima, London, Paris, Milan or Rio. The New York Times-touted shop also hosts monthly events showcasing the work of local emerging artists (including Drexel University College of Design students) or spotlighting Philly fashion and accessories designers.

Center City

SA VA
1700 Sansom Street

At SA VA, fashionistas find glam clothing and accessories that do good for their wallets and for the community. Owner Sarah Van Aken’s offerings include reasonably priced fashions (a shirt goes for $40, while a hand-printed, hand-sewn coat or dress goes for $350) and custom-designed jewelry by Philadelphia artist Bela Shehu. Van Aken is deeply committed to the social sustainability of her items—at least 75% are created at SA VA’s on-site garment center, while the rest are fair-trade, organic, recycled, salvaged or natural. Another truly unique feature? An interactive Web site that allows visitors to not only shop, but find volunteer opportunities to help local women and children.

Zahra Saeed
1901 Walnut Street

Zahra Saeed, a budding new fashion designer born in Pakistan, makes sure that her clothes channel a jet-set lifestyle: sexy and bold; dramatic and feminine. All are made with high-quality fabrics from Italy, Austria and France and saturated in exquisite colors. Her fall 2009 line focuses on carefully tailored tops, jackets, dresses and skirts, accentuated with custom-woven fabrics, delicate beading and eye-catching embroidered hems.

Ubiq
1509 Walnut Street

Ubiq is the city’s leading purveyor for sneakers and street wear, often securing first-run and special-edition kicks that cannot be found anywhere else in town—or on the East Coast, for that matter. The proprietors support a mix of progressive mainstream and niche designers (Stussy, Obey, Original Fake) and produce a line of eponymous goods. They also frequently host live artist events, drawing hip-hop icons and sneaker aficionados.

Around Town

Made to Order
817A N. 2nd Street

Owned by African-American entrepreneurs Philip Dupree and Justin Waller, Made to Order carries high-end street wear and accessories. The duo stocks wares inspired by Philadelphia’s famous Love Statue, a collection of G-Shock watches, hoodies from 10.Deep and vintage-looking flat-top eyeglasses by RetroSuperFuture (Kayne’s a fan). They also host exclusive events, including artist shows and sneaker auctions sponsored by hip-hop DJ/producers such as Prince Paul, Bobbito Garcia and Rich Medina.

Letau Designs
2120 E. Westmoreland Street

Limited-edition scarves and accessories made from buttery cashmeres, lush silks, shapely cottons and delicate linens are the order of the day at Letau Designs. Owner Maren Reese, who is also a costumer and wardrobe stylist for television and films, launched the line with her late partner, Robert Matunda, a prominent African-American designer, in 2005. Their unique drawstring scarves can be worn traditionally, or with the internal drawstrings pulled to gather the fabric, morphing it into an organically shaped Elizabethan ruff. Handbags combine natural elements with vintage upholstery fabrics, giving each piece a custom feel, and everything for sale is produced by local manufacturers.

Showroom 77
1520 Kater Street

Showroom 77 give shoppers access to a fresh mix of up-and-coming designers—at hard-to-score wholesale prices. Founded by Angela Edmund, the force behind the ready-to-wear and couture line Sarai Style, the showroom carries red-carpet gowns, custom jewelry and pop-culture fashions. It’s underground success is based on Edmund’s eye for spotting talent in the city (like Elizabeth Bayu, an Ethopian-born, Philadelphia-raised designer of gorgeous bags) and giving them a space to show and sell their wares.

-- Published September 23, 2009

Shopping the Independent Boutiques

2009-09-29T11:29:00.002-04:00

Wall display at Vagabond (photo by M. McClellan)

For years now, I’ve associated the word boutique with high-priced, unattainable clothing and accessories. I stayed away from small, locally run stores, for fear that my measly wardrobe budget and I would be laughed straight back out onto the sidewalk. However, a couple of weeks ago, a handful of us from uwishunu HQ had the opportunity to tour some of the local shops around town and that afternoon has totally changed my perspective on all these shops around town.

Signs from 3rd Street shops (photos by M. McClellan)

That afternoon, we stopped by Vagabond, Sevilla Smith, Top Stitch, Lost + Found, Matthew Izzo, Forbidden Planet, LeTau Designs (showroom in Fishtown) and Made to Order (in Northern Liberties). I was particularly impressed by the deals at Lost + Found (clearance priced Orla Kiely bags!) and by the second floor furniture sale at Matthew Izzo (he stashes the returned pieces up there and sells them for cheap).

For those of you who have always considered the many indie shops around town to be beyond your ken, consider giving them a second chance. They might just surprise you. More photos from our fashion tour are after the jump.

Letau Photo Shoot with model Kimberly Stahl & Gamboa Photos

2009-05-10T22:26:00.000-04:00

By Ejay Thursday April 23, 2009

Working on a photo shoot with model Kimberly Stahl just brought our photography to a new dimension. Tonight was very interesting and exciting because it’s a whole different style that we have never done before.

With Kimberly’s fierce look, Allison’s hair and make-up skills, and our team made this project a huge success. With the help of Down To Earth Boutique & Gallery from Suffolk, we were able to capture a few of the unique looks we were aiming for featuring their Drawstring Wearable Options from Letau Designs.

Various intense look was provided by Kimberly which made the photos more incredibly fascinating.

Altogether, we can say that this photo shoot was beyond amazing. Everybody worked together as a team and the outcome was an unprecedented evening. We got more than what we expected.

Again we would like to thank Down to Earth Boutique for helping us out with this shoot.

If you would like to check out some of Down to Earth Botique & Gallery’s designs, visit their website by clicking here . Also to Allison Stout for hair and make-up. Visit www.at-first-blush.com to see some of her creations.

If you are interested in booking a model photo shoot with us, please click the contact us link on the top right corner of the page. If you’d like to see behind the scenes footage and complete coverage of tonight’s photoshoot, please visit our Gamboa Photos LIVE page where you can view all our recently recorded photo shoots in full

http://www.gamboaphotos.com/blog/model-photo-shoot-with-kimberly-stahl/

GoPhila.com article

2009-05-10T22:14:00.000-04:00

Press Release

PHILADELPHIA-AREA DESIGNERS ARE MORE Independent City’s Independence Shines Through Its Homegrown Design Talent

PHILADELPHIA, September 27, 2007 - Philadelphia’s independence doesn’t stop at its famous cracked bell. Today, the city’s entrepreneurs run boutiques that reflect their personal styles, design clothing and accessories for internationally renowned stores and craft furniture that fills the homes of the region—and the country. Philadelphia boasts tip-top design schools, a burgeoning gallery scene, a booming retail arena and an inherent free spirit that give designers fertile ground to develop, grow and flourish.

Accessories:

Maren Reese – Convertible, multi-use scarves—in earthy reds, tweedy herringbones, creamy felts and sophisticated satins—have transformed Letau Designs from a craft-show cottage industry into a force in fashion. Credit for the South Philadelphia-based line’s success is due to artist Maren Reese and her late partner in life and design, Robert Matunda. (267)241-5815, www.letaudesigns.com

http://www.gophila.com/go/PressRoom/pressreleases/latest_news/Philadelphia_area_Designers_Are_More_Independent.aspx

The CATWALK Event In Philadelphia

2009-05-06T21:19:00.000-04:00

New York, NY (1888PressRelease) December 05, 2008 - On Friday December 5th and Saturday December 6th from 7:00 to 10:00pm the CATWALK event held at the Painted Bride Art Center at 230 Vine Street in Philadelphia PA. Designer Debra Ginyard will show her accessory collection from her established brand Dot & Snookie. Dot and Snookie is a colorful collection inspired by Debra Ginyard.

The fashion show and cocktail will benefit the Evoluer House. The Evoluer House is a non-profit organization that provides a wide range of specialized youth and personal development-related services for disadvantaged teen girls. 100% of the proceeds benefit The Evoluer House after school programs helping girls reach their full potential. The event focuses on fashion and talent in the Philadelphia area. Cheryl Waddington of Evoluer has hand picked all of the designers for this event and is proud to showcase such innovative talents.

The attendees of the event include some of Philly’s brightest stars and then some, Already confirmed attendants are ABC 6, NBC 10, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Philadelphia Tribune, Gucci Worldwide Visual Director, NYC Art Director Duane Thomas, and more.

Debra Ginyard took the fashion world by storm when she burst onto the New York scene and is quickly establishing herself as one of the most revered stylists in the industry. The Philadelphia native has had her work appear in publications such as Vibe, FHM, The Face, Details, That Magazine and Essence Magazine.

Dot & Snookie consists of shirts, hats, belts, handbags, and key chains creatively adorned with lace and ribbon. The garments are vibrant and come in a wide range of colors from pretty pastels to scorching bright patterns. Each design is named after the women in Ms. Ginyard’s family as they all have different tastes and sensibilities, which can be seen in the collection.

Debra loves coming up with new and exciting designs for Dot & Snookie, but this is just one of the items on her agenda. In addition to sharing her fashion-world experiences Debra is currently the Style Director for Runwaynews.com and you can see her posted interview with EBay’s Style Director Contance White and some footage of her styling recording artist LaTonya Blige sister of Mary J. Blige.

Debra’s fashions are being displayed at Showroom 77 (Location 1520 Kater Street, Philadelphia, PA). Showroom 77 is hosting a Social Style Holiday Mingle and Shopping event this Saturday, December 6, 12:00PM. You can enjoy great holiday discounts, networking, music, desserts, and Showroom 77 signature cocktails…Featuring Dot and Snookie, Walish Gooshe, letau Designs, Agony by Bela Shehu, Retro Chick by Pietra, Heebie Jewelry, Footwear by Micahel Antonio, Luv Bug, Bags by Elizabeth Bayu and Vintique visit www.showroom77.net for more information on the event.

Dot & Snookie, geared to the confident, trendy young woman, who likes to ‘wow’ a crowd with daring and sexy or fun and flirty fashion statements, is now being sold at upscale, trendy boutiques such as Pieces, in Brooklyn, N.Y., N Harlem store, Harlem N.Y, and Planet Earth, Bronx NY and more.

Ali Zane Photography

2009-05-06T20:42:00.002-04:00

http://www.alizane.com/2008/12/letau-designs-new-photos-on-website.html

Digphilly Pick: Letau Designs

2009-05-06T20:42:00.001-04:00

Sometimes the best ideas are those kept simple. Take, for example, Letau Designs’ pair of signature scarves, both designed by Maren Reese and her late partner, Robert Matunda. The reversible hooded scarf can be worn with the hood raised or lowered and with either side of the double-sided scarf exposed depending on your mood. The drawstring scarf can be worn as an ordinary flat scarf, but it’s much more exciting if you pull the scarf’s internal drawstrings to gather the fabric, morphing it into an organically-shaped Elizabethan ruff. Alternatively, you can wear it as a shrug by tying the drawstrings behind your back. Dramatic and functional accessories, either scarf can instantly add a striking twist to a party dress and a hint of boho-chic-ness to a basic winter coat while keeping you warm and toasty.

It’s not only the innovative design that draws a repeat clientele to Letau. Maren’s careful choice of textiles attracts diverse and sophisticated customers who’ve been buying up these scarves since the company started this past year. Crafted from ornate brocade, iridescent taffeta, nubby wool, understated silk and bright stretch jersey, the beautiful materials alone induce you to fancy more than just one.

While Maren has dabbled in other accessories and sees the company’s product line expanding, for now she’s taking a cautious approach, focusing her energies on establishing the drawstring scarf as a staple in every woman’s closet.

To reach her goal, Letau Designs’ scarves are already carried in quite a few stores, both around Philadelphia and beyond. In addition, Letau is available for trunk shows, home shopping parties, or by appointment in her South Philadelphia studio, and within a few months, you’ll be able to buy their scarves online at letaudesigns.com.

Letau Designs’ scarves are available at the following retail locations:

Echochic
1700 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA
(215) 569-9555
www.echochic.com

Closet Fever
707 North 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 627-4600
www.closetfever.com

Topstitch
311 Market Street, 2nd floor
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(267) 322-4057
www.topstitchboutique.com

Remix
716 N 3rd St
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(267) 861-6500