The TamesisA chance encounter between coast-to-coast locals has led to a new collaboration that will appeal to denim and design enthusiasts this spring: Agolde, a Los Angeles-based sustainable denim brand known for its groundbreaking commitment to quality, washes and fit, has teamed up with New York-based designer Maria McManus, known for her thoughtful, feminine ready-to-wear styles.
The capsule collection is a fusion of ideas with a shared passion and clear understanding of the sustainable fashion landscape, and the 16-piece collection is available exclusively at Net-a-Porter and AGolde on March 7. Fashion Today, March 6th, readers have the first opportunity to purchase the range directly at Agolde within 24 hours.
The idea for the collaboration came over a year ago, at a dinner during New York Fashion Week, and, of course, clothes were being talked about—and I proposed introducing it to a like-minded peer, Agolde CEO Amy Williams. From McManus’s first presentation at New York Fashion Week, where she detailed the process of making each garment, to Agolde’s denim factory in Los Angeles, where each pair of jeans is treated like a one-of-a-kind piece, I knew the two had a lot in common, including a wealth of knowledge about what it actually takes to make good clothes. It was this innocent connection that led to a desirable, well-crafted series just months later.
As it happens, the idea came together quickly: From their first meeting (a cup of coffee turned into a three-hour meeting), Agolde creative director Karen Phelps says they had a clear idea of what the collection would be. After three weeks, the sketches are ready to be turned into samples.
“There’s synergy and authenticity in the way we design together,” McManus added of the process, which naturally manifested a shared vision as they worked over the course of several months to bring various pieces to life: skate shorts, wide-leg jeans, denim jackets and crisp poplin shirts, ranging in price from $158 to $698. McManus incorporated her signature design and styling details—the delicate craftsmanship of lace, fringe, and not-so-girly pinks—into Phelps’ penchant for clean lines, tailored jeans, and bold detailing.
The result is a dozen ultra-versatile staple pieces—cool, edgy, with a subtle softness—that have a decidedly Agolde and Maria McManus feel. Barn jackets are refreshed in a soft light blue wash with contrasting white leather collars; a roomy denim peacoat is perfect for transitional weather, and an A-line denim skirt is perfect for wearing over pants. The palette is intentionally light: classic white, pastel pink and cloud-like blue, the perfect moment to welcome spring.
