designer q+a | Petiole

words_dena rochelle

Not the least bit surprised that Steven Alan gets the credit for introducing me to Petiole. I adore the silk T-Shirt Dress! Of course the Dove hue would probably be destroyed given my lifestyle as a mama of two littles, but the navy version (see below) would be a welcome addition to my wardrobe.

Eager to learn more about the line and see the rest of the spring/summer collex, I decided a designer q+a was in order. The girls behind the brand prefer to remain under the radar so we’re using first initials only:

Dena ~ What were your inspirations for this collection?

M ~ “We were inspired by Patty Smith’s energy, life & beliefs. We’re not only about looking effortless, but feeling free and comfortable in your own skin. We stayed true to our signature use of solids and sheers, double-washed silks, and a thoughtful simplistic style—but for spring we took it to the next level, playing with even lighter weights, more layers, and using silk’s ‘shiny side’ as a new texture.”

Dena ~ Any personal faves or best sellers?

M ~ “The Night Dress! It could easily be worn to work with a cardi, or with heels to a wedding—super-flattering and sexy sophisticated. Also the exclusive T-Shirt Dress for Steven Alan! We color blocked the tiers (navy with grey) and it looks a little edgy and really cool.

Dena ~ What other designers do you like to wear with Petiole?

M ~ ”I love layering—and a furry sweater looks really funky with Petiole silk. My favorite is this See by Chloe muppet cardigan in black! I’ve also been obsessed with Robert Clergerie shoes since i’ve turned 30. High-end comfort is not easy to find!”

C ~ “As much as I like working it with a fantastic trend piece, for me it’s all about stripping off the rest. You’ll usually find me keeping it simple with layered cotton Ts or tanks over my beloved Petiole slip dress, only rocking a hot heel or neon nail as the pairing.”

Dena ~ Describe the ideal Petiole girl and where she’d wear these pieces.

C ~ “Working hard and playing hard isn’t just for the boys… but the Petiole girl makes it look easy. She’s a girl about town and feels comfortable anywhere she goes. She loves dancing at dive bar and hanging out on a rooftop with a glass of champagne. It’s for the true on-the-go girl who needs a collection of  “go-to-outfits” –the clothes you feel sexy and confident in, because you’re comfortable and feel most like yourself. We say “to each her own” because Petiole is to be worn however you like. The petiole girl is free minded–every style can be rocked in multiple ways to many different occasions.”

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