Sliding into Style... 50 years of Fashion and Baseball

50 Years of Fashion and 50 years of Baseball.

Who knew that the New York Mets had anything in common with the rising stars of the fashion world? This year marks the 50^th anniversary of both The New York Mets and The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

In celebration of their success, they decided to collaborate in a 50^th anniversary celebration. Starting July 24^th, you can purchase pieces from the mini collection of Mets inspired apparel, designed from members of the CFDA, at Citifield. Those designers for this collection are: Billy Reid, Yigal Azrouel, Rogan Gregory & Scott Haan (from Loomstate) and Jeff Halmos (from Shipley and Halmos).

What is the CFDA? The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA) is a not-for-profit trade association whose membership consists of more than 400 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry and accessory designers.

CFDA membership is by invitation only. Founded in 1962, the CFDA’s initial goals were, and still are: to further the position of fashion design as a recognized branch of American art and culture, to advance its artistic and professional standards, to establish and maintain a code of ethics and practices of mutual benefit in professional, public, and trade relations, and to promote and improve public understanding and appreciation of the fashion arts through leadership in quality and taste.

The CFDA foundation, Inc. is a separate not-for-profit organization, which was created to raise funds for charity and industry activities. (from CDFA website).

Steven Kolb (CEO of the CFDA) said, “We are excited to be working with the New York Mets in the CFDA member designed mini collection. The creativity of our designer is a fresh approach to the team merchandise while supporting charitable efforts of both organizations.”

Here is a little on each designer:

Billy Reid

      He is from Louisiana and attended the Art Institute in Dallas. He received the prestigious CFDA "Best New Menswear Designer award" in 2001. He has worked for companies such as Saks Fifth Ave and Reebok International before starting his own business in 1995. You can find his garments on Gilt.com or Neiman Marcus.

Yigal Azrouel

      Born in Israel of French Moroccan descent lives in United States. Started is own website for design 2001, had his own free standing boutique in NYC in 2003, and was inducted to the CFDA in 2004. You can find his designs in places like Neiman Marcus and Nordstroms.

Rogan Gregory & Scott Haan (Loomstate)

     What is interesting about these designers is their dedication to eco-friendly fashion. Loomstate was launched in New York City in 2004 and is dedicated to creating a demand for certififed organic organic cotton using socially and environmentally responsible methods of production. Loomstate's design approach is inspired by the roots of classic American casual style born of the positivity and activism of youth subcultures, and is founded on a respect for our environment's ability to balance, shape and color itself. Updated through modern fits and uncompromised attention to detail, and rendered in the highest quality 100% certified organic cotton, each piece is created to have lived-in character and comfort, achieving timeless style rooted in environmental and social sustainability. (from the Loomstate website). You can find Loomstate products at Nordstroms, Amazon.com, and their website www.loomstate.org

Jeff Halmos (Shipley and Halmos)

       Shipley & Halmos is a New York City-based creative firm founded by CFDA Award-winning designers Sam Shipley and Jeff Halmos. Through various internal divisions, the company designs and produces everything from men’s clothing, footwear, and accessories to books, furniture, and art materials. You can buy items from them at Barneys, Scoop, and Nordstrom. Also you can visit their website as well : http://www.shipley-halmos.com

Coco Rocha- Canadian Model wearing Loomstate Mets Tank top.
Picture Courtesy of http://www.readtheapple.com

Mets Henley designed by Yigal Azrouel

So if you are into baseball or into high fashion, some of these Mets inspired pieces may be a great addition to your wardrobe.  Not only will you look great but the proceeds will help raise money for both organizations.

Happy Shopping!