Love Brigade Fashion Show Marion’s Continental Restaurant & Lounge October 22 nd, 2006 Written by Bob Bland Photographed by Ian Bone

Love Brigade, an up-and-coming fashion collective formed in the heart of London and currently based out of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, presented their Spring 2007 collection, entitled “Namehato”. In an artists’ statement, lead designers Alyssa Key, Jamie Rockaway and Allison Press said the collection was “…inspired by the spiritual mystique of Native American tribe inhabitants of New Mexico,” and that the designs should “… inspire a sense of freedom whilst still donning the most luxurious fabrics.” The initial runway presentation took place on Friday the 13 th for friends, neighbors and clients at the Rose in Williamsburg, and this encore industry presentation was targeted at press, buyers and other fashion insiders.

The venue, Marion's, was a wise choice for a Sunday afternoon show- they served delicious cocktails like the signature “fashionista” and yummy entrees ranging from the tofu-ladden “health nut hipster” to the unabashedly gluttonous “exploding ravioli”.

Though the line list was limited, models took ample time making their rounds around the runway, giving viewers plenthy of opportunity to observe the details. Men’s and women’s sportswear pieces were featured, with plenty of cutouts, raw edges and feather inspired design details. Colors included black, optic white and deep, dark rinse denim, with splashes of ochre.

The spring collection was far more casual than the initial garments available at the store's launch last spring. Side cutouts and a hooded capelet and signature back pockets were winning looks, along with a bubble skirt/waistcincher combo that reminded me of Love Brigade’s fall offerings. Incorporating more men’s designs will be a definite step forward for Love Brigade, but I would have preferred a further exploration of the windcatcher motif and more complex silhouettes from designers with this much promise. Get to know them now- I can see this line really taking off in the future.

For more information on Love Brigade, go to www.lovebrigade.com or visit their boutique at 103 Havameyer Street between Grand St. and Hope St. in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.