The Adventures, Mishaps of Miss Regenerate

Boutique Shopping in Hanoi

2011-06-08T21:38:00.000-07:00

In July I start styling for Fashion and Life for VTV3 in Vietnam, so over the past weeks I have been hunting out the best boutique in Hanoi. Looking for the most interesting visual merchandising, inspiring stock and funkiest staff. From the outside this might seem like an easy job, but anyone who has been to Hanoi will quickly realize that in fact this is a total challenge!

Firstly Hanoi is the size of London but there is no clear areas with the same style of shops (Like Shoreditch, Camden, Kings Road..etc), everything is completely spread out and in order to shop you need a motorbike (and a driver who doesn't mind the wait..), addresses of where to go and a pocket full of Dong.

Secondly the coolest shops are in underground places, difficult to find, especially in the 40 degree heat, with jam packed roads so a lot of patience and persistence is a must have.

Thirdly most of the clothes are European size 6-8 and one offs! you can fall in love with so many beautiful outfits but they may not quite fit, which can leave you feeling a little devastated...

But fear not my friends Miss Regenerate has prepared a list of some of the coolest shops in Hanoize!

Luxury fashion mens and womenswear designer clothing and high fashion for all occassions, designers include:- Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Antonio Berandi, Hussein Chalayan, Little Marc, Chloe and Victor&Rolf.

- Runway 13 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District.

Work Clothes for the professional lady!! (Good news, these shop are on the same street)

- L'Atelier a fashion, art and lifestyle shop, full of lovely finds, designed by local new talent, with lots of lovely accessories. They have opened up a second concept store too full of some great childrenswear and menswear too..

33 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho

-Pure Heaven Showroom understated, clean cut, oversized, comfortable clothes, designers are more European from areas like Copenhagen.

55 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho

- Gift Haus gifts, toys, decoration and accessories from all over the world. Perfect for notebooks, sketchbooks, craft books, exciting ornaments and accessories, very quirky and cool.

8A Pho Yen Phu, Tay Ho

Indie clothing, casualwear, trend based, lifestyle stores for dayway and clubwear. These stores are quite spread out so you'll need a scooter to get you down the narrow streets.

- I love SA- vintage inspired fashion, quirky, cool clothes, girly shoes and cool accessories, but small sizes, however I love SA they have 3 stores in Hanoi, so plenty to look at.

8 Ta Hien

645 Kim Ma

555 Kim Ma

-Snow- Tasteful, vintage and trend based fashion, incredible shoes and accessories everything is brought from Bangkok so more sizes and great sales assistant.

-2B Ta Hien

Harajuku-cute casual clothes, in bright colours and lots of nice styles to choose from.

-54 Hang Cot
-Unisex, 163 Hang Bac
-Comptoir Des Createurs, 166 Ba Trieu
-À MON AVIS - excellent visual merchandising, lots of different styles, but small sizes.
-18B CHA CA.ST HANOI,
-La Cage- Amazing clothes (La Cage sells Al Saints), quirky layout, good sizes, excellent service from owner Nick who says 'treat this place like you've just came round to your mates house!
- No 9, Alley 3b, Dang Thai Than St

Top tips for shopping for second hand clothes in Hanoi

2011-06-08T20:53:00.000-07:00

So after living in Hanoi now for 3 months I have discovered a whole new side to fashion and shopping. Hang Da market and Sida market is the most exciting shopping experience for anyone who loves a good car boot sale, charity shop, swap shop and vintage shop.

Clothes from Europe, Korea, Japan, Thailand and Cambodia all end up bazaarly at these markets so you can imagine what kind of ranges are available for fashionistas and shopaholics!

My top tips for hunting out the best finds are:-

1. First look for interesting fabric, prints and textures, that suit the colour of your skin.

2. Look for clothing that isn't too old and the fabric is not worn and bobbly, some clothes are brand new with labels still attached.

3. Old bras, t-shirts, underwear and vests- a no go area.

4. Wear clothes and shoes that are easy to slip off and you can try dresses and shirts on over the top.

5. Bring a small mirror with you and try all your finds on before buying them.

6. Think about items you can wear to style up your outfit, make up, belts, shoes and bags.

7. If a item in too large think about using a tailor to adjust too your size.

8. Make sure there are no marks, holes and tears on the fabric that can not be removed (unless they look cool)

9. Examine the buttons, zips and fastening to check they are functioning.

10. Thoroughly wash/dry clean your purchases as soon as you get home.

Here are some photos of items I purchased for 40,000 Dong (£1.15) per piece.

Tribes in Vietnam inspirational eco fashion

2011-06-05T05:09:00.000-07:00

I travelled to Sapa along with 16 fashion students I was teaching to learn about Vietnamese ethnic minorities and collect fabrics and trimming for future collections. This journey was most inspirational not only because of the bright, vivid countryside and landscape. But also because of the wonderful and unique tribes that reside there, The Red Zao, Black Hmong and Flower Hmong, all living together harmoniously, preserving traditional culture growing there own hemp, spinning it into fabric, indigo dying and utilizing intricate embroidery techniques.

I asked them if they could teach me some of there techniques, 'No' they said 'We pass these down to our children and don't want people stealing our ideas' I was really happy that they were doing this.

Another Inspiration to me was the Sapa Image Gallery a photoagraphy gallery, the photography displayed in our gallery is the work of David Martin. He spent severial years in the Sapa area to produce this collection of photography which gives an in-depth look into the culture & people of my tribe, the Black Mong, and the other tribes in the area. Most likely this is the largest single collection of this nature to come out of Sapa. Some of these images show you the daily activities and ways in which they produce fabric.

Petebox Vs Pixies

2011-03-29T05:37:00.001-07:00

The Truth is more important than the facts

2011-03-29T05:12:00.000-07:00

TDC Graphic Design at The Goethe-Institute, Hanoi

2011-03-29T04:49:00.000-07:00

So I headed to The Goethe-Institute in Hanoi on a sunday afternoon and stumbled across The Hanoian art scene, showcasing some of the best International graphic designers I have ever seen. Firstly the exhibition was really well put together and for a moment I felt as though I was standing in The White Cube in London.

Secondly the exhibition really opened my eyes to new ways of looking at art, print, sketchbook journals, colour pallete and of course fashion. Here are some of my highlights of the show.

Every year, the TDC simultaneously holds two type competitions: one for the use of type and letterforms in design and the other for the design of typefaces. The 242 winning entries in this year’s exhibition range from printed matter and packaging to logos and movie titles. The entries came from 20 countries around the world, including: Germany, Australia, China, England, France, Holland, India, Japan, Canada, Korea and USA.

Gold Fish Man

2011-03-29T04:37:00.000-07:00

Gold fish man,

If he can't do it,

No-one can!

Ethnic Minorities in Vietnam

2011-03-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

The Hmong minority group has been sub-divided into branches classified by women's costume, dialect, relationships and customs. The Hmong of Sa Pa are called " Black Hmong " or Hmong Den in Vietnamese, because of their predominantly black clothing, and they make up 52% of the population of the district. They inhabit the scenic foothills of Mount Fansipan, 1650 meters above sea level.

Hmong Hemp

Hmong clothing is mainly made from locally grown Hemp, which has a physical structure and chemical composition similar to linen.In Hmong society, the entire hemp process, from sowing the seeds through to weaving the cloth is clearly defined as women's work, along with digging and planting other crops in the fields, collecting firewood, cooking, looking after the family, carrying heavy loads to market and walking many kilometres back home.

Hmong batik

The pattern for batik is drawn onto the cloth with a tool made by the Hmong blacksmiths which holds small amounts of bees wax. Unlike Indonesian batik, which is usually curvilinear, the Hmong patterns are made up of short, straight lines forming crosses, zig-zags and repeating motifs. The batik is produced in long lengths, dyed in a cold Indigo vat then the wax boiled off. This resist patterned fabric is made into jackets, baby carriers and skirts.

Indigo

Indigo plants are cultivated in neat plots on the hillsides near the houses. The plant grows to about 60 cm high and can yield 2 crops each year. The dye is contained in the leaves which when allowed to ferment and then oxidise produce a blue powder that is insoluble in water. This can be stored as a paste or powder. There are various ways of preparing the Indigo vat with substances that make the Indigo soluble. The urine of children, particularly boys is a common additive as well as lye, lime and rice wine. When the dye bath is bubbling strongly it is ready to use. The fabric is emersed in the dye vat and worked for about half an hour then hung up to oxidise into the distinct blue colour. Subsequent dippings and oxidations will darken the colour and the black of the Hmong fabrics is achieved by repeating the process twice a day, each day for a month.

Embellishment

The Hmong women are known for their embroidery and fit this work between other daily chores. The main stitches used here are chain stitch and cross stitch. These are often used in combination with applique, where small pieces of fabric are stitched onto a backing cloth, edges sewn under, to make a coloured pattern. Reverse applique, where the top fabric is cut away to make a pattern of the backing cloth is also worked by the White Hmong. Both the embroidery and the applique can be extremely fine, although some work now uses thicker threads and is less detailed. In the market women are interested in each other's work and the finest work is well appreciated.

The Hmong are spirit worshippers. They believe in household spirits and those of the door and cattle. Every house has an altar, where protection for the household is sought. Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism have left their mark on a number of concepts and social institutions.

Hmong jewellery

All Black Hmong people wear elaborate jewellery made of silver (sometimes from old French coins) or alloys. It has spiritual significance, keeping the soul with the body and helping to ward off evil spirits. Babies are given a simple metal band with a little bell on it, men and women wear neck rings with or without chains and women have large, decorative, earrings. A jeweller works near Sa Pa demonstrating his craft to passers by, beating the metal and engraving patterns from the natural world. Other modern day objects have been incorporated into jewellery - silver safety pins are common, Catholic crosses and occasional badges and trinkets from tourists are worn with pleasure.

Hanoi first Impressions

2011-03-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

So my first month in Hanoi has passed and I feel totally invigorated! This city is truely amazing, built up on lots of beautiful lakes full of pagodas and holy turtles, part French (some places literally look like Parisian Boulevards) with a twist of Chinese. this city takes your breath away.

Hanoi Earth Hour

2011-03-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

So last year I made the decision that I wanted to move back to Asia in order to spread the ethical education campaigns to the places that needed it and to develop new lines working with ethnic minorities. So after being headhunted as Head of Fashion Design at London college of Fashion studies, I moved to the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, where I am currently residing.

Since arriving here lots of great things have happened, my first project was with Earth Hour, WWF and Boo Skate shop, to raise awareness in the effects of climate change and involve students in a T-shirt competition to promote a global campaign for the world to switch off there lights for one hour on 26th March at 8.30.

My students were really fired up and ended up producing some incredible work.

Nike Sweat shop workers

2010-06-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

To truely understand what its like to live on less than 1 dollar a day in Indonesia check out this film by Jim Keady, Behind The Swoosh..

Whilst in Indonesia I was lucky enough to meet Dita Sari (featured in this film), Dita was sentenced to 8 years of imprisonment after protesting against

sweat Shops, and released after 4 years due to pressure from Amnesty International.

Dita Sari then set up The Swarna Institute to help workers get better pay and form trade unions, she is

a true inspiration to my work.

Interview coming soon....

Regenerate Kids helping Kids, build my dreams campaign

2010-06-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

Whilst in Indonesia I was greatly saddened by the fact there were so many children on the street. But rather than give them a hand out, I decided to give them a hand up!

These are some of the statistics :-

40% of children are malnourished
2 million can not afford to go to school
1.7 million live on the streets
63% of kids in Surabaya live on the streets

On my return I got together a plan and started telling my Shop collective about these key social issues, we decided to take action.

I got together two key SHOP FAMILY artists in Nottingham Jon Burgerman a Internationally recognized doodler and Nick Chaffe an award winning illustrator.

The three of us designed 3 pieces of artwork and sent it to the street kids at Phae foundation and The Childrens foundation in Lombok, Phae put posters around the slums and 30 kids came to colour the artwork.

These pictures shows the children colouring in our work and wearing the free ‘Regenerate Build my dream Tshirts’ that Phae had donated.

There work will go on cards to sell and our work will be printed on to Organic bags. Each bag comes with pens to doodle on and encourages big kids like us to collaborate, interact and play.

Each bag will be sold for £10 and all the money goes to help street kids.

To sponsor a child costs £40 a month we hope we can sell as many bags as possible and find as many sponsorships to help to get these children off the streets, through Phaes foundation and other childrens foundations.

This is another childrens foundation where we will raise money to help street kids: -

Distro Printers

2010-06-24T09:18:00.000-07:00

Some Distro labels run factories to cater for the demand of the industry, on my second trip to Bandung I visited Phae Ratulangie who produces 1000s of pieces a week, for designers and Distro businesses this includes Oscar Lawelleta and Hard Rock Café. Phae owns 4 outlets and 2 print and manufacture factories.

Phae has built a skate ramp and runs a foundation called The Phae Adikaka foundation which encourages parents to interact with their children, and which keeps the children of Bandung away from drink, drugs and prostitution by giving them a positive place to come to after school.

He also runs this rad baby clothing label called Parental Baby, which is totally Regenerate Style.

I spent one day doing a collaborative workshop with Phae and the children teaching them about ethical fashion and about ways to be a entrepreneur in their own area.

Check out this film: -

Distro Bandung

2010-06-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Southeast Asia’s financial crisis struck Indonesia in 1997 and quickly turned into a political and economic crisis.

With many people loosing their jobs and homes, this effected the area of Bandung, where Poverty levels increased by 30%, which led to the birth of Distro

Distro

•Began as reaction against expensive mass produced brands.

•Deriving from the urban street culture

•Where youth made their own clothing

•To express their individual identities and lifestyle interests.

•Bandung is the centre for textiles and clothing manufacturing in Java

•Which lead to Distro entrepreneurs opening their Shops selling their goods

These retailers are called DISTRO

There are now over 200 Distro outlets in Bandung selling clothing, toys and accessories.

Fair Trade Ikat

2010-06-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

During my trip to Indonesia I discovered Ikat through Oscar Lawaletta’s exhibition in Jakarta. The colors and patterns of Ikat inspired my work, rich in traditional values and culture, Ikat was passed down through generations.

30 years ago homegrown Cotton and natural dyes were grown all over Indonesia for Ikat..

But poor economics, meant that communities were forced to stop growing cotton for extra income as weaving no longer made economic sense.

With modernization came cheaper cloth and bright chemical dyes

Threats from the global market forced weavers to act quicker so they abandoned growing cotton and natural dyes
Pockets of weavers still remain, but in poor marginal areas of Indonesia.

After researching into fair trade organizations, I only found one certified fashion company in the whole of Indonesia.

This business is based in Bali called Threads of Life.

Threads of Life encourages weaving communities to revive techniques of weaving and natural dyeing that are in danger of disappearing.

Clean Batik Campaign

2010-06-24T08:04:00.001-07:00

Indonesia has the finest batiks in the world, each piece of cloth can take up to 12 months to create, depending on the quality of design on fabric. Whilst in Indonesia I visited an array of producers who used a range of colours and motifs from different cultures and regions of Indonesia, their are around 13500 designs in total, and more always being made.. A trip to The Ministry of trade highlighted how large the batik industry is their are 48,287 batik producers in Indonesia, who employ 792, 285 workers

Although Batik is a flourishing trade this has come at a price :-

Batik produces the highest annual emission of CO2 as a result of high dependency on kerosene and electricity.

The Indonesian Ministry of Environment has identified batik as one of the worst river polluters in the country.

The Clean Batik Initiative, a 4 year program implemented the German Indonesian Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The Consisting of three components;- sustainable production, sustainable consumption and policy dialogues. By Supporting Batik producers and helping them produce cleaner and greener batik.

Clean Batik Initiative:-

Trains batik makers in the art of clean batik
Supports Green production
Promotes producers internationally
Supports an International Dialogue

Ernte

2010-05-30T13:18:00.000-07:00

Ernte means harvest in German and was born out of a installation project called Harvest Space which somehow mutated into a fashion line. If I ever wanted a company to collaborate with on an impressive installation or art piece for Regenerate, Ernte would be the on the top of the hot list.

Whilst in Bali I came across Evan from Ernte and interviewed him to find out what was lying beneath his inspiration.

Miss Regenerate 'What is the concept behind your brand?'

Evan Ernte 'Concept was traditionally a hybrid between the idea of a synthetic skin and totems like animal magic. Something protective. It has since become looser and more diverse, something a lot more basic and attainable. A progression I am very happy about... Everything is made in Bali.'

Miss Regenerate 'What inspires you and your work?'

Evan Ernte 'Numbers, Systems, Landscapes, Cells, Rituals and Music.'

Miss Regenerate 'What parts of the world have Ernte taken you too?'

Evan Ernte 'Japan, Hong Kong, Europe, USA and Indonesia'

Miss Regenerate 'What have been your highlights?'

Evan Ernte 'I think the two most major highlights were our total takeover of Loveless in Tokyo and the runway show in LA, in 2007.'

Miss Regenerate 'Where do you exhibit or sell your collections?'

Evan Ernte 'Right now I am primarily producing Ernte on made to order basis, but there are some objects and jewelry in Maxfield (Los Angeles).'

Queen Chenoa of Chanteuse

2010-05-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

Chenoa Fox has her own distinct style; she glides in the room with such an elegant slender posture, holding her head high, every movement eloquent, mesmerising and glamorous. Her persona resembles a time when women had short sleek hair, bright red lips, wearing silky shift dresses and sexy lingerie, Chenoa is a modern day 1920s flapper epitomising the spirit of a reckless rebel dancing the night away under the stars.

When I discovered that Chenoa had her own label Chanteuse I was so excited, this was a chance to buy some silky lingerie in the style of a classic French garconne. Miss regenerate caught up with queen Chenoa of Chanteuse for high tea in Bali.

Miss Regenerate ‘Tell me the story of how you founded Chanteuse?’

Queen Chenoa ‘I used to be

a contortionist/burlesque dancer creating all my own costumes, whilst working with Artists from Montréal and circ du soleil.

In 2008 I founded Chanteuse, fuelled by the desire to create something that everyone could be a part of by start something I felt was missing in the world of lingerie.

Chateau's has a timeless feel for a modern women, who like me is also inspired by the 20's and other vintage eras. I work with eco materials such as Organic Cotton, Bamboo and silk whilst exploring the use of fabric combinations and reconstructed vintage.

I recreate high quality pieces for women to wear and look out of the past, without the stitches falling apart and turning to shreds, as so many vintage silk dresses do.

Miss Regenerate ‘What has been your highlights so far?’

Queen Chenoa ‘the highlights! There are So Many, Let's see, when I see beautiful women wearing my designs and there positive reaction to my pieces, When we landed our account with Co Co de Mer, traveling to Bali to make and produce the line and meeting people like YOU!!!’

Miss Regenerate blushes. ‘Why thank you’

‘What inspires your work as a designer and creative each season?’

Queen Chenoa ‘Inspiration is endless and comes from everything I can see feel and hear, Music is a huge inspiration hence the Name' Chanteuse. Last night I saw a band called Fish Tank Ensemble and I was so moved by the range of the Singer I wanted to make her the perfect dress to wear on stage. Many different Designers and Iconic performers are always inspiring but most of all my close friends who are the most amazing artists and creative people I know, but I am inspired most of all by Love and Passion.’

Miss Regenerate ‘What (ethical) new designer labels are you into at the moment?

Queen Chenoa ‘Stella McCartney and Regenerate Clothing ’

Miss Regenerate ‘Who would you like to wear your clothes in the future?’

Queen Chenoa ‘Zooey Deschanel, Audrey Tatou, Marion cotillard, Dita von Tease, Kate Moss you!’

Regenerate Indonesia Intro

2010-03-13T13:36:00.000-08:00

Hello I'm May Cortazzi (AKA Miss Regenerate), I am thrilled and feel very honored to be one of the five short listed for the British Councils UK Fashion Entrepreneur Award 2010. Over the next four weeks I will be blogging to you about my crazy and colorful experiences within the Indonesian fashion Industry.

The first week I will undertake an organized tour organized by the Council which is hosted by a lifestyle magazine called Femina, where I'll be experiencing a varied and exciting journey of The Indonesian Fashion Industry, from the perspective of a designer, Shop collaborator and ethical education campaigner. I will call this experience Regenerate Indonesia, as I'm hoping to learn as much as possible about Indonesia in the context of fashion and looking to spread Regenerate to a global market, collaborating with the people I meet on the way, Miss Regenerate Style. If you are curious as to know what my style is then check out my websites for The Shop and Regenerate.

I will be spending next 10 days in Jakarta, Bandung and Solo visiting a whole range of cultural centers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs with the view of gaining a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges that wait for me in this exciting new emerging economy.

I have then extended my trip an extra 3 weeks, where I will be meeting and living with key workers, designers, artists and collectives. Developing ideas and exciting new opportunities.. my lips are sealed into this leg of the journey, so you will just have to stay tuned and follow me on twitter and facebook. ;)

So with an expandable suitcase the size of Brazil next stop is Gatwick airport, where I will meet my fellow entrepreneurs.

Read about this trip here:-

http://ukyfe.wordpress.com

May Cortazzi

An Interview with Philip Grisewood

2010-03-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

Philip Grisewood works for some of Britain's most edgiest Rock 'N' Roll labels:- House of Gods and Horace who recently held a inspiring womenswear catwalk show of interesting prints and tailored pieces at London Fashion Week named ’Espirt de Corps’. Between working as a graphics designer in both Bali and London, Philip is also has a fantastic portfolio of illustration work and art. Between trips from London to Bali, Miss Regenerate caught up with Mr Grisewood in an exclusive interview, this guy can seriously jump high!

Miss Regenerate 'How long have you been a designer for ‘House of the Gods’ and ‘Horace’?'

Philip 'I have been a designer for both HOTG and Horace for just over three years now. I worked with Adam Entwisle and Emma Hales at ‘Buddhist Punk’ before it became HOTG.'

Miss Regenerate 'What have been your highlights?'

Philip 'My highlights for Horace was when we got the cover for SuperSuper magazine and when Adam and Emma launched the Horace ’Espirt de Corps’ ready to wear collection this season.

Miss Regenerate 'What inspires your work as a designer each season?'

Philip 'I get inspiration from everywhere, from art and advertising to simply watching characters whilst on a tube journey. I get a lot fashion inspiration whilst searching through old photos of bands and pop stars such as David Bowie and Blondie. And of course I get inspiration from the nightlife in London. I try not too look at fashion designers too much, I think films are a good source especially 80s ones!
Also subcultures are a big influence, I have been a skateboarder since I was eleven so I am used to being surrounded hip-hop kids, punks and heavy metallers.'

Miss Regenerate 'What piece of advice would you give to a young designer who is just about to start a label?'

Philip 'My advice to a young designer who is just about to start a label would be to make a commitment to working for another design company for a few years to learn from there mistakes. It is about running a business, which means you need social and management skills as well as creativity.'

Miss Regenerate 'What other art forms take your interest?'

Philip 'Illustration, photography and fine art are other art forms that interest me. I studied fine art at John Moore’s University before graduating with an illustration degree from Camberwell college of Art in 2005. My illustration work is heavily influenced by the techniques I learnt while studying fine art. I was fascinated with texture and the traces left behind from everyday life like tea rings and cigarette burns. So I started layering paint and using different printing techniques over the top to make highly textured illustrations. I mostly use screen-printing, collage, and photocopy transfers, carbon paper and rubber stamps.

I started to use a computer more when I began producing graphics for fashion. This seemed like a natural process to me because my illustrations always had a graphic sensibility. Although my illustrations appear on my textiles and T-shirts, my graphics for garments are more inspired by fashion. And recently my illustrations have become more about fashion.

Something I want to expand on in the future is printing onto textured fabrics in the same way as I layer my illustrations.

Miss Regenerate 'What's the story behind your illustrations?

A lot of the stories behind my illustrations are about Capitalism and pollution. I worked as a temp for many years in big corporate banks, which made me think about these issues. My main source of inspiration was Fritz Lang’s ‘Metropolis’. The movie portrays a futuristic vision of industrialization. The workers run the machines, the machines seem equally to run the lives of the workers. This idea is very closely linked to Karl Marx writings that describe the worker as a commodity. This is why I draw vacant robotic office workers and lines of bosses with comb over’s.

Madness Indonesia

2010-03-01T03:54:00.001-08:00

Madness is a project that combines 3 designers based in Jakarta. Those designers are: Ajeng Dewi Swastiari, Bonnie Natasha Arif and Vannie Astecat. They life in a dual perspective and also they believe everybody has two sides that are opposite. Their dark side even could make something creative. They define their project that made by their alter ego by adding craziness, unpredictable and things that are surreal that come from their dreams. As a result their collection is full of things that are unexpected.

A tribute for Indonesia Culture that we adore. The materials we use come from Indonesia, for example: woods, furs, songket, batik, weaving arts and even prade Bali. We process these materials unusually to produce a strangely beautiful accessories.

When their soul meets the body, it has it own way to put them up together without knowing the reasons, yet still reachable for them to see and to grab it. They believed that their alter egos would simply pull out such a breathtaking breakthrough in fashion nowadays and tomorrow. They are
m a d n e s s.

A collage of dreams

2010-02-28T16:26:00.000-08:00

A collage filled with dreams, broken mirror, memories, sounds of unrequited love, faded poisoned roses and a pocket filled with dreams

A Child of the Jago

2010-02-28T16:02:00.000-08:00

A Child of The Jago, mixing it up with archives of uniform, military, apache pieces, geometric shapes, porn, pirates and punk. Made in the Uk.

Self Styled London

2010-02-28T15:58:00.000-08:00

I Lover her look!!! Photos by Anthony Lycett

AOI KOTSUHIROI

2010-02-27T16:00:00.000-08:00

I sewed my shadow of petals put. To change my dreams, in the middle of the room, I'm sleeping standing up on a stone. Then, when my pockets of silence are full, I'm searching for a place, like a desire. Thus, the assembled threads will sleep one against the other. Aoi Kotsuhiroi.

Fred Butler Style

2010-02-27T15:43:00.000-08:00

Fred Butler reminiscent of childhood memories crayola crayons, magic pens, Origarmi shapes, party poppers, My little pony, plastic fantastic, 1001 sweets and penny mixes!

Star Styling, Berlin

2010-02-27T15:23:00.000-08:00

Starstyling are an label from Berlin, with a really unique edge! A mixture of natural organic fabrics and metallic, neon, geometric brights, performance art, contemporary, catwalk, art.

A fusion creativity by designer Jessica Nussbaun

Miss Regenerate Shortlisted for UK Fashion Entrepreneur Award

2010-02-25T10:54:00.000-08:00

Designer May Cortazzi has been shortlisted as a finalist for the UK Fashion Entrepreneur Awards 2010. The shortlist of 5 was announced at a ceremony at London Fashion Week, selected by Paul Alger of UK Fashion Exports, Maurice Mullen, Head of fashion at Evening Standard, legendary designer Anne Tyrell and Sarah Mower, the ambassador for Emerging talent at The British Fashion Council.

The shortlist was selected after 12 finalists presented their thoughts and ideas of developing the fashion industry in the UK.

Finalists will visit Indonesia in March, on a tour that aims to provide a ‘short hand’ of the industry with the chance to meet industry leaders as well as peers, to understand how business is done there. This is an amazing opportunity for talented individuals to increase their international networks and gain valuable insights.

May is the founder of ethical fashion label Regenerate Clothing, director of fashion at Shop, based in Nottingham and ethical fashion campaigner and mentor.

'I am thrilled to be on the Shortlist, I feel honored and extremely lucky that I have this opportunity to expand our networks for Regenerate Clothing and Shop both nationally through the Young Creative Entrepreneurs Network and Internationally! I am really looking forward to traveling to Indonesia with The British Council and understanding more about art and fashion culture out there and hopefully will be able to build some life long business relationships.'

This award champions those who are passionate about fashion, innovators looking for entrepreneurial ways to move the UK fashion industry forward and looking to broaden their international business opportunities build network.

For more information on May Cortazzi please visit:-www.regenerateclothing.com

Regenerate Drapers

2010-02-03T00:02:00.000-08:00

'The key trend this season is 'The Remix' where sport luxe blends with traditional street denim styles to update young fashion'.Regenerate is highlighted as this seasons must have label to buy, we are working from inside the industry to make the world a little happier and alot better dressed with are ethically sourced clothing. For more information visit:- www.regenerateclothing.com

arn mercantile

2010-01-29T13:43:00.001-08:00

Neil Jay Christopher (former designer for Nike, Levi’s and Adidas in addition to working for renowned Japanese label Kato) and his wife have set up a carbon positive fair trade label, which is already selling in Oki-ni and quickly throughout Japan.

I think it is fantastic how designers like Neil are investing there time and energy into Fair trade fashion, accessing there clothing to high end, branded stores and breaking those eco stereotypes.

Items are inspired by 1920s workwear, so they are made on the principles of having a long life cycle. In a recent interview Neil said “We only use Organic grown cotton and wools, on the new shirting’s it’s all fair-trade cottons, dyes and a carbon negative looming shed. The fabric mainly comes from Japan [and] we only use UK production. We [usually] work with small factories - our trousers factory is four brothers working for their dad.”

“ARN is, at present, non profit,” Neil explains. “We all work on other things so ARN can exist without the need to make money. The prices are pretty much tax plus costs and fabric.”

When asked about whether fashion houses can no longer rely on prestige alone to sell products he replies, “I see very little prestige attached to the bigger companies that do that. The market has always marked up for brand image, it’ll not stop, until the consumer moves on from the ‘need’ to wear a label! If these labels were a mark of quality, then you’d not ask the question and the consumer would be happier to buy the goods without the need to show their label. The short answer is too many companies trade on the idea that they’re good quality instead of being good quality!”

All items are made in the UK and available to buy from Oki-ni.

Backstage with John Galliano

2010-01-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about John Galliano is the effort he puts in to Fashion styling, hair and make up. I have been to hundreds of ethical/eco fashion shows, only to leave feeling disappointed by the lack of imagination and effort that goes into hair and make up. Catwalk is all about telling the story of your collection through all your senses, I hope that by next next my collection is built up and I can put on a Regenerate show that changes the face of ethical fashion!

Martin Margiela

2010-01-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

I have just came across this key chain by Martin Margiela, a really innovative way of using old and broken locks, zippers, key rings and disused keys, and making chunky neck laces and charm bracelets.

Martin Margielas show room Space my idea of heaven

2010-01-19T14:53:00.000-08:00

This is Martin Margielas showroom studio, my idea of a dream! Refined down, carefully selected, streamline, glamour meets punk and a bit of disco! I plan to create a similar look to this at my Shop, where later on this year I will be curating an ethical fashion exhibition, where items are actually for sale too.

Josh Goot

2010-01-19T14:42:00.001-08:00

I'm loving this outfit by Josh Goot, this tailored jacket is such a perfect shape and the shoulders are padded to make a woman feel powerful but sexy!

The splats are really creative and eccentric and you could easily buy a second hand jacket and create this look in your own style whilst reducing those waste mountains! This suit would look great with one of our white black and white Regenerate vest and some sneakers!

Ping Ping time for some Kling by Kling

2010-01-11T17:19:00.000-08:00

Kling by Kling, is on the pulse this season, check out these graphics I absolutely love them, they are clean, fresh, monotone and quirky. I also love this shoot all the models shot lying on the floor and doodled onto. The silhouette and styling is almost like snow Clowns have raided the toy box and have jumped out of a jack in the box!

MJM Spring Summer 2010 Fresh Upbeat and Inspired by the Streets

2010-01-11T17:06:00.000-08:00

I am loving these FRESH Colours and shapes of MJM Spring Summer 2010 Collection, you can easily recreate this look customizing your leggings, t-shirts and using 2 metre lengths of jersey draped and stitched with little waste. Lets get stitching!

Cutting it fine at Ground- Zero

2010-01-11T16:56:00.000-08:00

I Love this new Collection by fashion label Ground-Zero based on Consumerism all the prints are inspired by things we see everyday. I also love the way the pieces have been cut in basic block shapes with little seams, creating minimum waste and maximum comfort!

Devendra Banhart Lover <3

2010-01-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

Devendra Banhart is an fabulous fashion icon,

both musically and stylistically he expresses

himself in a eclectic mix which merges itself

between rock n roll, vintage, phycedellic hippy!

Devendras face always looks amazing in make

up, black eyeliner, bindis, beards and tattoos,

he is a modern day Jim Morrison.

Our new Regenerate Collection is inspired

by him!

Henry Hollands designer t-shirts

2010-01-08T03:59:00.000-08:00

Im loving these T-shirts by Henry Holland , for those with a unhealthy obsession with fashion, printed on ethically made t-shirts, Im going to wear mine with a organic Regenerate Hoody!

Heres what i'd do to your Flag John Galliano

2010-01-08T03:55:00.000-08:00

This is what i'd do with previous blog post on John Gallianos pirate flag... modelled by Alison Mosshart from The kills.

Phillip Tracey Love the Lace

2010-01-07T07:14:00.001-08:00

Phillip Tracey is Amazing! Check out these accessories, which you could easily customize and add your own lace onto a plain bag, or a pair of sexy heels, and rock out with a black Regenerate vest..

John Galliano Union jack punk Flag

2010-01-07T07:11:00.001-08:00

John Galliano union jack Flag!! If I had this I would be tempted to make it into a show stopping dress, available to by Show Studio

SØLVE SUNDSBØ

2010-01-07T07:06:00.000-08:00

Love photographs by Solve Sundsbo, sold online through Show Studio, would look great on any regenerate customers wall

NATURAL BORN KILLER (Joana and the Wolf)

2010-01-07T01:43:00.000-08:00

Kay Desmond Cropped Jacket from Not Just a Label

2010-01-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

LOVE this jacket made from old bleached denim, and frayed to the max and could be worn with a Regenerate T-shirt

The Skallywags

2010-01-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

What Im diggin...

2010-01-05T03:25:00.001-08:00

The androgynous style of Grunge throwing everything you can together and stick on a pair on sunglasses or red lipstick

Alison Mosshart

2010-01-05T03:11:00.001-08:00

Alison Mosshart has a edgy but feminine grunge look that represents the heart and soul of Regenerate Womenswear.

The Kills

2010-01-05T03:06:00.000-08:00

I love there electic style of Rock n Roll meets Camden punk!

Georgian Couture

2010-01-03T15:49:00.000-08:00

Photos by Steven Miesel

Clowns

2010-01-01T15:16:00.000-08:00

Now and again I still think about running away with the circus and dressing like a Clownette on the road with just a one wheeled bike and umbrella!

Post Punk Kap Bambino

2009-12-31T08:01:00.000-08:00

Caroline from French post Punk Electro band is the best female performer I have ever seen, always creating unique off the beat, edgy outfits and dancing like she is out of this world.

Recycled Animal Art

2009-12-30T18:19:00.000-08:00

Recycle your cardboard and make your own animal wall art like these..

90s is Back

2009-12-30T18:16:00.001-08:00

Raid your storage box... the 90s are back! Monotone colours with flashes of neon, body suits, braces, puff ball skirts, Vicky Christina Barcelona hats and leggings... 2010 bring it on

Bring on the power dressing

2009-12-30T18:14:00.000-08:00

Origarmi Clothing and accessories, vamp up your wardrobe with slick and sharp shapes, in clean and crisp white.

Wham Bam its soooo Glam

2009-12-30T18:12:00.000-08:00

Upholstery meets fashion! Cut up your curtains, rip up your cushions, tie them all together, with some hot Russian red Mac lipstick and rock out the vintage vamp look.

Forget clothes draw on your body

2009-12-30T18:11:00.000-08:00

Feather hair

2009-12-30T18:10:00.000-08:00

Create a contemporary post punk hair cut using feathers in a variety of shapes and colours it looks fierce!

Beards

2009-12-30T16:20:00.000-08:00

Beards+Braces= Brilliant

Vandals

2009-12-30T16:19:00.000-08:00

Having a bad hair day?? stick a balaclava on and wear your skateboard!

Tourist T-shirt

2009-12-30T12:19:00.000-08:00

The world is obsessed with I LOVE T-shirts, this is the best i've seen in a while now..

Mustache Galore

2009-12-30T12:17:00.001-08:00

Simply Genius!!

Skate like a gangster sting like a bee

2009-12-30T12:15:00.001-08:00

Regenerate Fashion Show Film

2009-09-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Film by Fourmost Films

Regenerate launches at Shop with a summer Fashion Show

2009-09-11T10:21:00.000-07:00

Regenerate launches at Shop with a fashion show which took place at The Ropewalk, Nottingham. Collections included neon range, Customized range, bamboo range as well as new Organics made by wind power energy. Thank you to everyone who came and took part including Red Hair and Trent House Studios for your Photos, Ronika who sang some killer electro tunes and Boy Kid Cloud who Rocked the Party! All available to buy from our Collections section

Bali Love Adventure

2009-09-11T10:13:00.001-07:00

After Thailand I travelled to Bali for Adventure, the whole country is full of artists, when I say FULL I mean Full, art galleries and shops with local craftsmen, round every corner.

It was amazing and inspiring, I also met the Love of my Life Florian Biknar, we were in India together building Solar cookers in 2004 and met up again and decided... that was that.. so now we are together forever and will have a very happy life.

Funny now Im really in Love I realise all the times I thought I was i love it was just enthatuation, real love is amazing and you never have any noubts

We plan to build an eco house, have heaps of kids and plenty of rooms for people to stay.. we will also be back in Bali soon, Ill be making a full range there and he will be sending furniture and art to Europe!

We will have a happy life together :)

Thailand Highlights

2009-09-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you run your own business its important to take time for yourself, so I flew off to Thailand to relax and be inspired... It was really lovely...

Regenerate live Exhibition featuring Phill Blake

2009-09-11T10:02:00.001-07:00

Regenerate held a live art exhibition at The Shop which featured the work from Phill Blake, who created collages around the Shop combining his own pieces with Regenerate illustrations. Phill is becoming a well known artist around the midlands and his style is sexy, punk, edgy grunge girls, with floral and textured backgrounds. We love all his work especially his painting which you can get here:- http://phillblake.squarespace.com/

Regenerate Live Art Exhibition featuring Goonism

2009-09-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Regenerate held a Live Art Exhibition at The Shop, which showcased work from Goonism, who created a giant Shop Poster with one of his characters. We really love Goons Fashion illustrations and work which has recently featured in a publication edited by the the editor of vogue madrid He is a talented artist who creates, shapes and textures to make characters come alive. To see more of his work:-http://www.myspace.com/theworldfamousgoonsquad

Regenerate Launches new customized collection online

2009-09-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

Regenerate launches a new customized collection online, the collection consists of Organic Cotton hand printed, hand crafted Slashed T-shirts/dresses and recycled denim cropped jackets.

www.regenerateclothing.com

Regenerate now has Four new logos designed by Phill Blake

2009-09-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

Regenerate now has four new logos designs by Phil Blake, based on old fashioned stamps, all the logos have different features:- Regenerate Ethically Made, has ethically made pins to show that every garment has been ethically stitched. Regenerate Organic Cotton, has Cotton plants wrapped around a R logo. Regenerate Organic Bamboo, has Bamboo in the middle of the R logo. Regenerate Customized, has customized paint marks around our logo. To see more work by Phil Blake, check out:- http://phillblakeillustration.co.uk

Regenerate Joins Shop

2009-09-11T09:39:00.001-07:00

Regenerate has now joined Nottinghams finest collective Shop:- www.viewtheshop.co.uk. We have our new head quarters at shop consisting of a Art Gallery and Clothes shop, Events space, bar, workshop area and Regenerate Print and design studio. We are very happy at Shop and hope we will be seeing you soon at one of our events. Regenerate The Shop 2 Canning Circus Nottingham NG7 3GD

Ronika radio love love

2009-05-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

Photos from Ronikas Launch of Radio Love Love, a video made from real biscuits..

In the style of Button Moon, check it out:-

Photo highlights from Trent Knitwear and fashion shows, which I did make up for

2009-05-25T15:40:00.000-07:00

Break Dancing at The shop

2009-05-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

ThE ShOp AnD ThE BreAkIng ConVenTion

ThE sHoP HolDs BreaKinG cOnVeNtioNS, LaUnCh PaRty To UK!, We cleared out our shop and had a last minute massive outdoor Breaking Rave. .. Ch Ch Check it OUT!

www.viewtheshop.co.uk

ShElTer FaShIon ShOw

2009-04-28T04:33:00.000-07:00

Regenerate Clothing designed this Khaki colored Recycled Shirt made from 100% cotton and hand printed with swallows and wing design using bronze metallic ink.

The piece will be sold at PROJECTS today, Nottingham, all proceeds will go to Shelter.

To help keep the homeless off the street. :)

DiRtY BLAaAAmOnGE

2009-04-28T04:09:00.001-07:00

AnOtHer EsCoPaDE In The LaNd Of NoTts, We Had A SecReT PaRtY In ThE sHop ThEN GateCrAsHeD A BlAmOnJe PaRtY aNd goT ThRoWn Out FoR PlAYiNG On The BaLcOny.... EnOuGh WiTh CoNtRoL FrEaKS.... ItS All AboUt DaNcIng To The BeaT

WhAt GoEs DoWn In The DaM MaN!

2009-04-06T01:07:00.000-07:00

This is my Alternative guide to Amsterdam a collection of adventures...
off the beaten track...

I rolled down to The Dam with the Waste crew and Spinsters emporium, in search to find out what was happening in the hood! First day I arrive and head north to Jorden and beyond.. street after street, i stumble in the sun, quit moving and sat on my suitcase, to watch the people and get a vibe of the city! Whilst skanky men come up to me in my police hat and leathers
'Are you looking for sum' I am shocked 'Nah.. thanks mate!' again get stopped time after time, I realise I am in the wrong place and wearing wrong outfit... I ve been up for 21 hours head spinning i sit by the canal watch the sun set, and try not to fall in then meet SpInsters and Waste and Hit Cut N PaSte a live art exhibition, where artists battle each other, on photoshop n illustrator! 1000 peeps in Paradisco all up for a bit of art.... Crazy night!! ;P DoNna n NOrm you know wot im saying!

We head to BaR Karma and Soundgarden then Croggy into the night on bikes, accompanied by crazy Americans! Day two I watch Parrots from Salomes balcony, n head for 9 streets, met hundreds of stockists n specially loved Wolf N pAck, Supermarket n Concrete for there wears!

DaY three me N Salome head out on bikes round the city, we hit the organic market, Windmills, Beer making factory, Canals, Red Light district, Turkish area, N Dam Square where I took part in the biggest Pillow fight of my life! After which we headed back to flat covered in feathers, N Ellen N Co came down from Rotterdam and we went parting till early hours!!! AmStERdAM You RuLE AnD I WilL Be BacK Soon, WoOdeN ShOeS N All....

Flood It!

2009-03-30T04:21:00.001-07:00

It Was ReGeNeRaTes FiRst LiVe ArT EvEnT FlOod IT! 12 ArTiStS aNd DesIGnErs ScReeN PrInT ArT ExHiBiTiON, WhErE PeOPlE CaME FrOm AlL oVeR the CouNTrY TO WAtCH MiSS ReGeNeRATE, PrInt ThErE T-ShiRT, JaCKEt, SkIRt, DreSS...

OtHer ArtIsTS InClUdeD
Live Art From:

Waste (http://www.wasteyourself.com)
Dilk (http://www.flickr.com/photos/antidrip)
Jo Cope (http://www.jocope.com)
Spinster's Emporium (http://www.spinstersemporium.com)
PONE (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pone_)
Jennie Webber
Calvin Sangster
Simeon Hartwig (http://myspace.com/bantumuk)
Regenerate Clothing (http://www.regenerateclothing.com)
Alex Godwin (http://www.alexgodwin.co.uk/)
David Ford (http://www.hookedextreme.com)
Jeffrey Bowman (http://www.mrbowlegs.co.uk)

Zineswap also graced us with their presence for some zine swapping action (http://zineswap.com)

ThErE werE aT leaST 400 PeoPle It Was MeNtAl

XXX

Manjinga Seven Monsters in the Sky

2009-03-22T09:41:00.000-07:00

Projects Regenerate Photoshoot

2009-03-21T03:27:00.000-07:00

Here is our Latest Shoot by projects, Nottingham.

Projects is Nottinghams only Small designer Independent and have supported Regenerate from Day one.

Subismo

2009-03-09T04:54:00.001-07:00

Went to Subism, with a group of mates, Live Art, Grafitti, and a Dj mixing with his Game Boy and a live sax, It was really different and friendly. Hoping to organise something like this in the summer but an outdoor party with sound system and Fashion show.

The Shop Launch Party

2009-03-09T04:39:00.001-07:00

Went to the Launch Party of The Shop, an amazing art gallery/shop space, run by a group of artists in Nottingham.

Regenerate is now being sold in The Shop, as seen in the front window and modeled by some ugly looking mullet men!

Had a great time at the launch party and met some really talented artists and designers, also got more collaborations lined up, so watch this space.

Iglu and Hartly Meets Regenerate

2009-03-01T14:19:00.000-08:00

Iglu and Hartly

by Photographer Sally Rose

Clothes by regenerate Clothing

Check out her website:- www.sallyrosephotography.co.uk

Iglu and Hartly Madness

2009-02-27T08:37:00.001-08:00

So I stumbled across this band, Iglu and Hartly, I thought there sound was killer man, they are like every girls fantasy flash dance, meets chilli peppers, meets zoolander, meets hot men from LA, who wanna party with you!

I really thought they are the kinda guys that would look sexier in Regenerate, So I hit them with an email, So they messaged me and wanted to party so i got a group of girls together and we all threw this big party for Jarvis the lead singer..

Me Lewis (Druand Sammy really got on and made some funny videos, i think its because they liked my red and purple and we all rolled about with our big fake mustaches

The band were cool and crazy enough to hang with me we screamed, shouted, rapped, put on are fake mutaches and danced all night long.. At one point the croud thought me and the Regenerate crew with in the band and screamed 'Get your tits out'... this was a total surprise as im compleatly flat chested as are my models..

I love styling bands and parting and have decided to have another year of touring festivals and rolling in mud dressing in regenerate.. I'm also feeling really HAPPY and confident, got so much to look forward to moving into a new studio, new studios, meeting new people and feeling strong!

I have a good feeling...

Xx Party On

http://www.regenerateclothing.com/

LoNdOn FaShIoN squEeK

2009-02-23T14:14:00.001-08:00

LonDoN FaShIoN WeEk, was...InTereSTiNG! I WaS KiNd Of DiSsaPoiNtEd WITh ThE ExHiBiTiOn SoMe Of ThE PeOpLE I Met (MaInLy AgEnTS) WeRe Up ThEre oWn ArSe AnD rUdE, ThEy HaVe No ReaSoN FOr ThE AtTiTuDe OnLy ThEre OlD AgE AnD ObViOuS LaCk Of No-InG WhAt Is AcTuAlLY GoINg On RiGHT nOw In FasHioN.

ThEy ObViOUsLy ThInk ThEy WiLl Go FaR WITh ThERe RuDe CoMmeNTs, DiRtY LooKs AnD BiTcHyNeSS.

WeLl LuCkY FoR Me I GeT To ChoOse WhO I wAnT To RePReSenT ReGEnEraTe AnD It WoNt Be theM!!!!! Im DoInG BeTtER On My OwN WiTH My SmiLES AnD HuGs!

But ThErE WeRe SomE PeOplE I mEt ThAt WeRE ReaLLy SpEcIaL AnD I HopE WE WiLL CoLlAbOraTe WitH SaLes, ShOws AnD Art!

ThEsE PeOplE Were BanTum (SiMeOn AnD i are GeTtIng A StuDio ToGetHER) He Just Won UK FaShIon EnTpReNeUr AwaRd!!!! I came 8th (Still hE Is MoRe EstaBlIsHed AnD cHeeKiER ;)

WwW.MySpAcE.Com/baNtUmUK

AnD PeRfEctLy FlAweD, KaRl Is ReAlLy TaLeNtEd AnD I ThInK thAt AnYoNe WhO lIkEs ReGEnEraTE Will LikE ThiS lAbEl Too...