We’re happy to announce a brand new designer for 2011 – Upstate. Astrid Chastka and Kalen Kaminski hand dye all of their scarves and wraps at their Brooklyn studio using Japanese shibori techniques. Their pieces are amazingly soft and very versatile. Shop select pieces from their SS 2011 collection now

Some of Shabd Simon-Alexander‘s limited edition pieces as photographed by Sarah Ann Ward. You can see more on Simon-Alexander’s blog.

You’ve most likely been living under a rock if you haven’t seen Shabd’s galaxy print inspired tights by now. She’s expanded her intricate tie dye offerings this spring to include pretty shift dresses, scarves, leggings, blouses, and even a bikini (in collaboration with Mociun). This is a far cry from the typical cheesy primary colour tie dye we’re all so used to seeing, and thank the universe for that (punny!-ha ha-sorry couldn’t resist). You can purchase several of the pieces in her online shop

While there is a bit too much of the 80s vibe in newcomer Douglas Reker‘s collections, I do very much like some of the gorgeous dye treatments, patent leather embellishment, and many of the silhouettes. He’s only released two collections so far (S/S 09 and F/W 09) and both collections reveal that Reker has some growing to do; however, if he can establish a cohesive vision he definitely has the potential to expand.

Time for another Magda Berliner post. Thankfully she’s returned to modeling her clothing, something I’ve always found charming. Berliner’s most recent pieces feel a bit more streamlined, but she still retains her characteristic silhouette and affinity for white crochet lace. Summer 08 saw her dabbling in metallics, brocade, leopard print, tie dye, as well as fleece. I like her playful reference to cut-offs with pockets that extend beyond the hems of several of the tops, dresses, and shorts.

The first four pieces are from her S/S 08 collection, photos five and six are from F/W 08, and the last four are from her smaller Holiday 08 collection.