What do you do when you can’t find the kind of clothes you really want to wear? Make them yourself, of course! That’s exactly what the two fashion veterans behind the line Bailey 44 did in 2006. Ruthy and Shelli couldn’t find clothes that were cool and understated, sexy but not overt, modern, relevant, well made, and that fit a woman with taste so they just starting making them, themselves. They produce in American so Shelli (as in Shelli Segal of Laundry and an owner) can try on every single style and submerge herself in all phases of production. That’s not an easy task when you produce a collection a month. But it works. Its works exceedingly well.
Bailey 44 appeals to a broad range of customers and ages – from 20 to 50 – who love fashion but aren’t slaves to it. Saying its comfortable, wearable and affordable makes it sound pedestrian. Its not. It is affordable, wearable fashion but with a designers eye for details. Details like pin-tucking, gathering, and color blocking. Jersey fabric can be tricky but they use it creatively. It’s doubled so the first layer hugs the body and the second layer lies looser so the fit is super-flattering.
Their Spring/Summer 2010 collections use linen and lace for a softer look one month, then dive into leather detailing, rivets and browns with a bolt of bright yellow for a rocker vibe the next month. They play with tribal influences in summer and then transition to early fall with a more natural palette of neutrals, hunter green, and earthy tones. Basics are a staple of the line in black, white and gray but even their staples have a trendy twist to them.
Bailey 44 is a versatile line that’s going to be around a long time. Great for mother daughter shopping. The fabrics work in all areas of the country. It’s one of those lines that always seems to “sells right out of the box”.
Price Point: $100 – $300 Retail
Distribution: Fairly extensive but it never hurt my sales. The line is big enough to edit to your store needs.
Fit: Runs slim so size up depending on silhouettes and body types
Where to Find It:
2160 East 10th St.
Los Angeles, Ca 90021
213-228-1930
213-228-1937
info@bailey44.com
Simon Showroom
West Cooper Building
860 S Los Angeles Street Ste #533
Los Angeles CA 90014
T: 213.593.1394
F: 213.593.1397
95 Fifth Avenue 3rd & 4th Floors
New York NY 10003
T: 212.242.1565
F: 212.242.6836
Atlanta Apparel Mart
250 Spring Street
9E329 – 9th Floor
Atlanta GA 30303BailBail
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