Core and Fluke
BEST OF THE BASICS: Claudia DeLaVega is getting back to basics. DeLaVega originally started her clothing line, Core, as a collection of active sportswear in 2004. She relaunched the brand in 2006 with Sarah Centeno and a new focus on what they did best: flattering, feminine-cut T-shirts. “It was really important to get really good at something and let it evolve from there,” Centeno said.
For Core’s prints, DeLaVega translated oversized hippigrave;e flower prints seen on dresses and ready-to-wear into original screen-print graphics. Irregular patches of burnout treatment give the tees a textural interest.
The pair also launched Fluke, a capsule of basic men’s and women’s T-shirts featuring etching-style graphics with fairy-tale themes.
From the beginning, DeLaVega wanted Core to be a brand that supported the community of contractors and workers in Los Angeles. DeLaVega is building a nonprofit sector of the business that will allocate a percentage of profits to community causes, such as after-school activities. “It’s got to be bigger than just making T-shirts,” DeLaVega said. —Rhea Cortado KEY LOOKS: Core’s cotton/polyester puffed-sleeve tee in a short sleeve and mid-length sleeve, a boat-neck tee with front pockets, and a low V-neck tee, all in extra-long lengths, are key. Styles are available in primary colors, pastel shades and basic black, gray and white. Fluke is available in burnout treatment and dip dye. WHOLESALE PRICE POINTS: $25 for solid tees, $27 for burnout-treatment tees and $29 for printed tees for Core. $19 for Fluke tees. WHOLESALE CONTACT: Call the Ginny Wong Showroom in The New Mart suite 1108 at (213) 622-9884.
