Fashion Made in USA

Most of my blogs list the makers of the outfits I feature. Not surprising that only less than 5% of which are made in USA.  Many of us still remember the scandalous USA Olympic team uniforms by Ralph Lauren made in China.  Today, I’d like to highlight a couple of designers who holds true to their American dream. 

Philippine born and Cebu native designer Monique Lhuillier, is a well-established and internationally recognized leading lifestyle brand who continues to climb the peaks of fashion heights.  It’s hard to miss Monique as her couture inventions are in most red carpet events draped around Hollywood A-listers.

Photo credits "red carpets-fashionawards.com"

Monique is in almost every glossy publication, not just the likes of Vogue and Cosmopolitan, but also in home décor magazines.  I am not surprised to find her in my monthly travel reading, Departures as well.

Monique's successful career in fashion debuted with her line of sophisticated luxury bridal and evening gowns in 1996, which has since expanded to RTWs, fine jewelries, footwear, as well as tabletop, bed, bath and home collections.  Her creations, except for shoes that are made in Italy, are all crafted domestically. In her hometown, Los Angeles, to be specific!

Speaking of American made, a fast emerging designer, Bri Seeley, is not only acclaimed for her contemporary designs inspired by history and nature.  Like Monique, Bri’s high quality materials, and apparel are also all meticulously made in USA. It is a critical differentiator of her brand, which I admire.

Since bagging the Phoenix Fashion Week Designer of the Year Award in October 2012, it has been a hectic success for Bri. She had a Spring 2013 runway show in the Style Fashion Week LA last Fall, migrated to Los Angeles from Seattle earlier this month, and had a major break through on TV when Kacie Boguskie (aka Kacie B) of The Bachelor wore the “Adriana Skirt” and "Grace Blouse.”  Both are from Bri’s “Escape 2013” designs, arriving on Zappos.com in May.

I cannot wait to see Bri’s Escape Collection in the upcoming MIM Rocks Fashion fashion show event, where I will wear no other than her best-selling black “Jaclyn Skirt.”  Thank you, Bri! It fits perfectly!

I promise this Jaclyn skirt will look much better on me than on my bed =)

By the way, don't miss the 4^th Annual MIM Rocks Fashion: A Tribute to Top Stylists in Arizona presented by Focal Point Salon and produced by Phoenix Fashion Week.  For tickets and more information, click here.  See you there!