Emily Katz

Portland | Written by Amanda Wheeler /// photos by Melani Brown

When pondering the examples of socially-conscious fashion, your mind may tend to wander toward the infamous PETA ads featuring leggy, nude supermodels feigning concern. Inside, we know they’re just practicing the correct pronunciation of the word ‘faux,’ and if Camel Lights equals fewer calories. Let’s be honest, we’re in need of a new inspiration. Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to introduce you to a fresh, environmentally-aware alternative, Portland designer Emily Katz. The fall 2007 collection from Emily Katz utilizes earth-friendly fabrics, including recycled poly/hemp denim, organic cotton fleece and soy/lycra jersey (oh yeah, that’s right, soy baby). Supermodels be damned.

With a cool last name and a warm collection of threads, Miss Katz will have you at ‘hello’. Her ‘Perfect Trench’–offered in a smoky charcoal hue is decorated with huge, billowy pockets to keep your keys, lip gloss, compact and garden gnomes, in case (and I quote Ally Sheedy a la Breakfast Club) “you gotta jam”. The ‘Keyhole Wrap Dress’ is another fine frock that ties around the waist and neck creating a provocative look. And the keyhole…well let’s just say it’s enough to get the dinner date, but not too much that he won’t take you home to mom. Last, but not least, is her ‘Portland Swing Coat’ available in a chic water-resistant fleece–perfect for rainy northwest weather. Impeccably placed at the collar of the coat is a sassy bow that provides the finishing touch, much like a present. After all kitten, YOU are your most important gift.

To see more of Emily Katz’s creative creations, check out her website at www.emilykatz.com.