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The Philadelphia Designers Market Re-Cap!!

Posted By: Smidge "The Boss" | April 19, 2010 | 4 comments

On Saturday, April 17th, the girls of Gimme This and That ventured to Philly for the Philadelphia Designers Market. I would like to share with you the amazing experience we had.

The Designers Market was housed in a very large ornate church on 17th Street in Philadelphia. The passersby couldn’t miss the enormous banner they had hanging on the front of the building. A bright yellow carpet paved the way to the doors. We were so excited when we walked through the doors and down the stairs to see an entire room filled with clothing, jewelry, purses, hats and knick knacks alike all made by some of the most talented designers in (and out) of the area. The first person we met when we walked in was an extremely inviting and beautiful woman by the name of Thembi Palmer. What a great way to start the day!

As we rounded the corner, the first booth had a man and woman team behind a banner that said ANOMALOUS. I then read the business card, which said this: ”Anomalous isn’t just clothing – it’s a way of life. Its motive is to inspire people to make a change within themselves, and to spread that message wherever they can.” This particular line of clothing has a very strong meaning behind it. Each “designed domestically with the future in mind” t-shirt has its own charity it is linked up with, and a donation is made with every purchase. The designs ranged from music to words to tree designs and the pink cancer ribbon. Beautiful designs with a meaning, and the best part… they give back.

Next was Jypsea, which is a line of hand-crafted leather accessories. BEE-EAU-TI-FUL. The handbags are sensational. Classy, fun and edgy all meet together and balance in perfect harmony. The detail is immaculate and the effort put into each piece is like she is making it especially for you. This bright eyed vivacious woman named “Meca” (so fitting!) was behind the booth smiling the whole time we spoke to her. And so were we. We might of stayed there all day if we didn’t walk around the rest of the market!

I spun around to see someone I was really looking forward to meeting. Ella Kolanowska, the incredible designer of Pearl in Crown. Ella is an artist (of all forms) from Poland. I have been following her work for 3 weeks now, anxious to see her jewelry up close and in person. Absolutely incredible. Her jewelry pieces are made with soft elements such as thread, and combines natural and artificial pieces. She also has extraordinary clothing pieces that are hand painted.

We then headed over to the Sultana Maria table, and we were amazed at the variety of accessories she had to offer. She had bracelets made from domino pieces, beautiful charm necklaces, and hand crafted rings and necklaces made from sterling silver and other precious metals as well. We talked with Sultana Aschim about her metal work for a while, and she was just as charming as her jewelry!

Venturing into the corner, we found Suakoko Betty. Dresses and separates surrounded Charlene Bendu Dunbar (the designer) with bold bright patterns and lively flair. Charlene was just as lively as her pieces! Her pieces make a huge statement… and that statement, is I am beautiful, hear me roar!

Up on the stage, we found some of the cutest and very well made vintage purses, wristlets and wallets. Then, the name… Dahling. You can’t help but smile and throw your head back with Za Za Gabor style while saying it. All of the fabric was eye-catching vintage, or vintage like. But for me, it wasn’t just the fabrics that caught my eye, it was the obvious craftsmanship and detail put into each piece. Also, Gretchen Miller was an absolute delight to have a conversation with.

Also on the stage was Typhaney B. Jewelry. These hand crafted masterpieces are delicate, feminine and inspired by nature. Typhaney Shanker clearly has perfected her craft, and it showed on the stage that day. She was extremely professional and courteous to every person at the market.

As I walked off the stage, a little dog at the Showroom 77 table caught my eye. Being a dog lover I obviously I had to stop and speak with them. As I walked over to the table, it no longer was the dog that had my attention. It was the phenomenal pieces surrounding the friendly faces behind the table. With jewelry and clothing, I didn’t know where to look first. There was something there for everyone. Then, Angela Edmunds (the owner) put on these suspenders made from leather with flowers on them, and I was sold.

Speaking of dog lovers, I was extremely excited to go to the Duke & Winston set up. This line was created by Seun Olubodun inspired by his dog. His line, is “clean & simple apparel for those who appreciate refined, substantive and practical clothing”. The t-shirts are so soft, comfortable and classy. Seun was so great to speak with. He is down to earth, attentive and knows exactly what he is doing… delivering the perfect line of clothing.

Next we walked over to this intriguing table that was shimmering with black pieces. This had to be the most innovative and original table at the entire market. This was Leah Creation. Leah, by far the cutest person on the planet, creates original earrings, necklaces, pendants, tie clips and belt buckles… out of old records. YES. Cut into shapes, strategically placed labels and quality craftswoman ship, this is an art the artists appreciate, and so should you.

Craig Arthur von Schroeder and Lafayette Kanard Sanders. These two were quite interesting to speak with. Very welcoming. And they have BIG plans. Not only do the names sound important, the clothing line is just as important to know about. Commonwealth Proper makes superior fitting shirts. This is the new generation of mens dress shirts.

The D. Buchanan Collection was the next stop. Class and sass is how I would describe the fabulous luxury neckties. I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with Evans Bercy, and then even more excited to meet Dennis himself. D. Buchanan has something coming out soon… but that’s a secret, so stay tuned!

One table that we will never forget is Heartless Revival. Welcoming us with open arms, they kindly introduced their clothing line to us and spoke to us like they’ve known us forever. They even let us try outfits on in front of a mirror, and gave us their advice on what garments would best compliment our figures. Although the dark side of their clothing line may intimidate some, Heartless Revival changed that perception with their fun conversations and welcoming nature.

As we were walking throughout the market, I looked up and was immediately drawn to a table that had red birds hanging over the table. It was Heretic City. A lady by the name of Kimberly V. Benson was selling t-shirts, tanks and hoodies for both men and women. But what was unique about her clothing line was that the enticing designs printed on the shirts were comic book images to a storyline titled, “A Devastating Love.”

So there you have it. It was a wonderful day of fashion and fun. We had many great conversations, formed friendships and met some seriously talented designers. Please check out all these designers websites, and help support these extremely hard working artists!