Labels We Love: 5 Brands That Are Back & Better Than Ever
These labels have all had recent overhauls, and we're so impressed with the results.
By Adam Glassman
New Traditions: Pendleton for Opening Ceremony
Known for: Western-style clothes and blankets.
What's new: Humberto Leon, cofounder of Opening Ceremony, noticed the popularity of Pendleton in Japan and suspected a revival of the century-old label could be a hit here, too.
In stores now: Colorful checks, plaids, and patterns in unexpected shapes, like this swingy wool dress.
$465; OpeningCeremony.us; 212-219-2688
Blast from the Past: Walter Steiger
Known for: High-quality, minimalist footwear.
What's new: The third generation of this family-owned business is debuting its first collection of more aggressively fashionable designs this fall.
In stores now: A ton of '80s-inspired shoes, like this color-blocked bootie.
$1,000; WalterSteiger.com for stores
Sleeker Sneakers: Keds
Known for: Classic canvas shoes in Americana shades (white, red, navy).
What's new: Keds has partnered with young, exclusive labels (Alice + Olivia; Jeffrey New York) on supercool styles that still reflect the brand's casual DNA.
In stores now: Those quirky collaborations, as well as the traditional canvas Champion in a rainbow of colors.
From left: Keds Champion Spectator, $60; Bloomingdales.com. Keds for Alice + Olivia, $88, Neiman Marcus; 800-365-7989. Keds for Jeffrey, $110; 212-206-1272
On-The-Job Style: Chico's
Known for: Easy-wearing tunics, jeans, and funky statement jewelry, all with an arty vibe.
What's new: When Cinny Murray came in as brand president last year, she found that customers wanted more sophisticated, versatile pieces.
In stores now: Modern, office-friendly looks with high-end trims, embroidery, and beading, like this timeless cotton-blend tweed jacket. Accessories have also gone bold, incorporating animal prints and metallic accents.
$129; Chicos.com.
Bright Forecast: White House Black Market
Known for: Casual dresses and knits in the store's namesake palette.
What's new: Brand president Donna Noce is focusing on tailored dresses that fit every aspect of a woman's life—work, weekends, even exquisite, affordable bridal gowns.
In stores now: There's still plenty of black and white, but this season you'll also find pops of rose.
$598; WhiteHouseBlackMarket.comMore O style:
From the
September 2010 issue of
O, The Oprah Magazine
