Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute, Coldwater Creek, Graham Kandiah, Maruca Design, and Bakelite Bits at Ruby Lane
The Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute is a trade association that promotes the integrity of cashmere and camel hair garments. In recent years, cashmere has become an affordable luxury, no doubt due to the opening of markets in formerly closed countries such as Mongolia. One can find cashmere almost anywhere, including mass-market retailers such as Target. The problem is assuring if a garment labeled as 100% cashmere is really 100% cashmere or a blend. The Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute offers free testing (on parameters such as fiber diameter and length) to members to assure truth-in-labeling.
Coldwater Creek is known for its catalogs, but is now opening retail stores in major shopping malls. The relaxed fit of their clothes suit many different body types. My husband has purchased several outfits for me through Coldwater Creek, and I get compliments on them every time I wear them - now I just hand the catalogs to him!
Graham Kandiah specializes in totes and sarongs hand printed and hand embroidered in India. The bright colors and light fabrics are something to look forward to for the warmer months.
Maruca Design from Boulder, Colorado specializes in jacquard fabric handbags, but it's not the formal jacquard used in drapes and the fitted coats that characterize the "ladylike" dressing trend. Rather, the Spring/Summer 2005 collection features lively designs but soft tones. Believe it or not, I found Maruca Design handbags at Whole Foods Market!
Bakelite Bits from Ruby Lane is a line of jewelry that recycles vintage Bakelite plastic jewelry and finishes them in new pieces. You may find the Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute, Coldwater Creek, Graham Kandiah, Maruca Design, Bakelite Bits at Ruby Lane, and more ideas for Valentine's Day gifts in the newly updated Fashion pages at The Style Page!
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