District L

Our fellow District L darling Nick can attest; it isn't easy staying put. So when I heard handbag designer, Kazumi Lomri, considered herself a 'citizen of the world,' I knew we would find relatable content. Originally hailing from Tokyo, Kazumi has lived in 9 cities around the world. Fortunately, in 2002, she found inspiration that stemmed from her beginnings - her mother and an antique silk obi.

Eight years later, Kazumi and her mother have successfully introduced their line of unique, handmade handbags to the world. Combining traditional symbols, colors, and fabrics from the kimono and obi, this creative pair has developed a collection of versatile accessories, perfect for the modern jetsetter.

While the brand has been available in cities from Barcelona to Melbourne, CHAKO Tokyo is just finally touching down on US turf. And why should everyone else have all the fun? Check out their chic and cocktail-friendly design below...

Post by Amanda LaMela

Edit: What good would we be if we couldn’t help you find it?! Shop CHAKO Tokyo at Searle (60th/Madison) and online at http://www.shoplatitude.com

It's official: Wednesday night is the new Thursday night, which is fantastic -- until spiteful, stagnant Thursday morning knocks, as promptly as ever.

Two weeks ago, District L celebrated the Swatch launch at the new Park Avenue Gansevoort. Last Wednesday, we raised our flutes at the opening of The Chelsea Room. But yesterday, our mid-week scheduling became so unruly, I had to venture solo to the CUE Art Foundation for a Night of Fashion.

Fortunately for me, the event's headliner, designer Ann Yee, had a pre-show moment to chat. District L first fell in love with Yee's aesthetic this past fashion week at ION Studios. Her SS11 collection exhibited a nonchalant, feminine versatility that has become so synonymous with New York style.

Interestingly enough, Ann divulged that her Midwestern roots were a bit less chic than her transplanted plot on the East Coast. I listened and nodded solemnly (not eager to also share my own small-town background.) Since her escape, Ann has worked as a knitwear designer for Barney's, LaROK, Elizabeth and James, and Alice + Olivia, all before launching her namesake line.

This season, Yee was inspired by the neo-noir film, Blade Runner, after watching it amply projected onto a wall at a loft party in Brooklyn. Pulling a color story from the opening scene, Ann softened the femme-fatale feel with soft draping and luxe knits.

As I excitedly and gracelessly gestured with a cocktail in one hand and a camera in another, we had an ardent discussion about her design inspiration, vision, and intentions. "I don't design for one type of woman," she assured, "I want my clothes to be versatile and adaptable to a range of lifestyles."

Post by Amanda LaMela