A small trade show can sometimes seem lacking and sparse. But somehow, Designers & Agents January LA show, a more petite version of an already intimate show, always feels warm and welcoming. Here, buyers and brands have the chance to catch up, chat about sales, place some summer orders and get themselves organized for the upcoming Vegas and Los Angeles shows. A sweet mix of beauty finds, pre-washed pretties and collectible accessories, as usual, D&A did not disappoint.
Distributor Beauty Frontier was on hand with their imported treasures. First up was Ligne St. Barth, a family run company that incorporates natural ingredients and Caribbean floral overtones into luxurious body care, skincare, fragrance and candles. Italian brand Eau D’Italie brings the spirit of the Amalfi Coast to fragrance, body care, hair care and home. The only non-import on the Beauty Frontier scene was Child Perfume, a hometown, cult favorite scent created by Susan Owens.
Across the way from Beauty Frontier, Michelle Jones showed her lovely line MiJo by Michelle Jones. These resort-inspired pieces are hand dyed in Los Angeles, with no zippers or buttons. Travel friendly and flattering, they can be washed, thrown into a bag and then over the body for put together, boho chic. In addition, loyal Penny the Dog was there helping Jones represent the line in style while adding smiles to the booths she visited in her spare time.
Michele Jones of MiJo by Michelle Jones with dog Penny
Melissa Shoes, a longtime D&A favorite, brought fun, breezy new styles. The Brazilian brand’s collaboration with Disney makes for some cool slides as well as a glamorously casual Swarovski selections. Meanwhile, new Melflex insole styles provide the most brilliant cushion underfoot. The all vegan brand might be made using 30% recycled materials now but promises to be 100% recycled in just five to ten more years.
Streets Ahead accessories has been family run since 1982. The Italian leather goods are made in Los Angeles and provide something for every taste, with novelty leather, shapes and designs in belts, bags and more.
American Colors by Alex Lehr
American Colors by Alex Lehr is a very tempting, casual sportswear line made in Los Angeles. Their pre washed, garment and yarn dyes often use organic cotton in easy, feminine pieces, some of which are even woven to retain the perfect amount of haphazard crinkle.
JP and Mattie showed hand detailed and embroidered pieces made in small workshops of Thailand and Bali. The precious pieces exemplify the cultures in which they are produced and make use of recycled leather and straps along with vintage glass beads.
Transit par-such has shown their special, garment dyed pieces at D&A for 20 years. Made in the company’s own Italian factory, the brand has freestanding stores throughout Europe but, here in the US, is only available at specialty retailers.
Settings Jewelry showroom
Last, but most certainly not least, was Settings, a local jewelry showroom representing specialty design. Gjenmi pieces are made locally and include 14-carat gold and fine gemstones that look great worn alone or layered. Halcyon Jewelry incorporates precious metals, rainbow moonstones and mother of pearl. Settings also brought designs by Amanda Hunt who works in Northern California to create easy, comfortable organic bronze and sterling jewelry.
All in all, a relaxed, friendly D&A show that will serve as a precursor for the larger installment coming this March.
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