Michigan Avenue - Niche Media - Michigan Avenue magazine is a luxury lifestyle magazine centered around Chicago’s finest people, events, fashion, health & beauty, fine dining & more!
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/241240
RIGHT: Gold evening clutch ($2,953) and mahogany and gold cuff ($675). BELOW: Sketches for custom designs. "When it comes to fashion, the Chicago woman has a distinct sense of quality." PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZAVETA PORODINA (SKETCHES) —DANIEL WINGATE research has led to the launch of Escada's US e-commerce site, and collections that combine glamour with ease. To wit, the Spring 2014 collection, which begins shipping this month. Inspired by the Mediterranean, and in particular the Italian seaside village of Positano, the early deliveries reflect the "cool glamour" of the Côte d'Azur. "As I dove deeper into designing the collection," notes Wingate, "I envisioned our Escada woman jetting off to Morocco. There, in the wilds of the medina, she spiced up her wardrobe with transparent tunics, sexy summer dresses, asymmetrical jumpsuits, and printed gowns. Zebra, giraffe, and pineapple prints offset bold poppy reds and azure blue." Standout pieces from the collection include one-shoulder caftans and abstract printed jumpsuits; touches of leather and lace link the collection with current trends, while flattering ruffles and signature bold colors speak to the brand's history. Attests Wingate, "What separates [Escada] from others is the irrevocable quality, bold color, and fabrics that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Our clothing empowers women to be vivacious and beautiful—never boring." It's a collection Wingate believes is in sync with the qualities of the Chicago customer. "When I think of this city, I picture its towering architecture, love for the arts, diverse culture, and sophisticated style. When it comes to fashion, the Chicago woman has a distinct sense of refined quality, excellent fit, and love for luxury and detail." Wingate visits the city often, celebrating the collections he designs with in-store events and personal appearances. "I like to stay at The Thompson or The Peninsula," he says of his local visits. "I always stop by our store and then head out to some of my favorite spots, like NoMI, Nellcôte, Gilt Bar, Blackbird, or Tru. If I am lucky enough to have some spare time, I'll drop by the Museum of Contemporary Art or see a Mahler performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra." Escada's bond to Chicago goes well beyond retail; the label has a rich history of supporting local charities and community projects. Says Wingate proudly, "We hosted the first Paws Chicago Fur Ball in our Michigan Avenue store 12 years ago, and this season we're turning our heads to the Lincoln Park Zoo, partnering with their advocacy board to host an event in March to raise funds and awareness for the growing needs of the zoo, a local landmark." Sounds like the continuation of a beautifully stylish relationship. 51 E. Oak St., 312-915-0500; escada.com MA A gown from Escada's Spring collection. MICHIGANAVEMAG.COM 084-085_MA_SS_TasteMaker_Winter_14.indd 85 85 1/10/14 9:41 AM