Fad*ish- fashion and design

I first discovered Jinga sneakers in London’s Camden Market. I was in the middle of haggling a vendor, trying to get five pounds off a skirt, when I looked up and saw a bouquet of colorful sneakers. I must preface this by saying I am not the biggest sneaker wearer. So if I have to wear a sneaker, I need there to be some sort of incentive other that the fact that it is comfortable. I mean, Clarks and Birkenstock are comfy, but their often clunky styles tend to be better suited for your round the way tree hugger.

The interesting thing about Jinga is that they serve up more than just an array of colorful shoes, they also inject a dose of social responsibility. The Brazilian sneaker company not only prides itself on being fashionable, but they also donate back to their ‘block’, which in this case are the children in the Rio de Janeiro favela or shanty towns. They also win ethical points for creating sweatshop free sneakers, but I for one am more happy that 5% of their profits goes to organizations that keeps Brazils future out of gangs. For more information on Jinga check out their website at www.jingashop.com.

*It’s Jil Baby!

*Originally Published in Jil Mag: May – The Block is Hot issue; 5/22/07

Labels: Diaries of a Shoe Whore

What is it about the ape that we humans are so fascinated with? Darwin’s theory of man’s evolution in 1860 was met with controversy, and though there is more scientific evidence in later years, I am still not buying it. But what I might buy is a t-shirt with apes printed on it -- AKA Beckett & Beckett’s “highly evolved clothing”.

Based on their catch phrase “viva la evolution”, this t-shirt collection shows apes in their true form, characterized in pop culture. Maybe it is a testament to how we as a people are de-evolving back to primitive needs and wants. You can wear that statement, and cite what ever literature you want, preferably in a party environment because these shirts are all about fun. I discovered this company while hunting through the sometimes dangerous and wild Spitalfield market in London, and that is where you will find them. For more information on the evolution of T-shirts, check out their website at www.gr8ape.co.uk.

*It’s Jil Baby!

*Originally Published in Jil Mag: May – The Block is Hot issue; 5/13/07

Labels: Style

Break it? Ok that is not something your mother would have said, but it is an interesting concept. Angel Ha’s Interactive Ceramic collection is based around that principle. I didn’t believe it when I saw it, but you can chip, rub, crack your way into something interesting. I discovered her collection at 100% East, her collection stood out as being one of the most innovative and playful.

Her interactive cushions for example are breakable pieces of porcelain, wrapped up in a sturdy material, just in case you come home from work and need to smash something. The vases, cups and jugs can hold liquid so feel free to integrate them in décor. Keep in mind, this collection should be viewed as works of art, so don’t go serving up ‘nibbly bits’ on these breakable bits.

Get more info on her ceramic collection at www.angelha.com.

*it’s Jil baby!

*Originally Published in Jil Mag: May – The Block is Hot issue; 5/11/07

Labels: Decor