Andrea S.: From White Top to Full Collection
For Los Angeles native Andrea Styranka, it all started with a simple white short-sleeve shirt that sold exclusively at Planet Blue. Officially launched for the Fall 2005 season, her casual chic collection, Andrea S., has evolved into a full ready-to-wear collection made up of cottons, cashmere/Modal knits, washed silks and new eco-friendly fabrics. From silk shifts and comfortable tunics to pretty dresses and pants, the line offers a well-edited range of pieces.
“The line has changed so much since the beginning,” said the designer.“Over time, I was able to get more creative and introduce dresses and skirts, which became my stronger pieces.
The alumna of the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising counts stints at Madame a Paris and the Marie Brochan Showroom as highlights on her reacute;sumeacute;, prior to launching her own label. Styranka’s time in Paris, paired with a strong affinity to her Ukrainian heritage, has helped to bring a hint of Euro edge to her California-cool designs. The entire line is produced in downtown Los Angeles.
The “Emma” tank, a style that remains unchanged from the line’s first season, is considered one of Styranka’s signature items and can be worn alone or used as a layering piece. Among the pieces from the Fall collection that will be making a comeback in the resort line are the “Chelsea” mini-dress and the high-waist silk “Kelly” pant.
For Spring 2008, Styranka is moving into the eco category with the introduction of bamboo/cotton and hemp/silk.
Since bamboo fabrics pick up color well, she chose a range for the new collection that includes purple, yellow, blue and red. However, since she is known for having a muted palette, Styranka also infused the line with a light gray called moonbeam; a soft, almost white, pink hue; dirty white; mint; brown; and, as always, classic black.Her current favorites from the new collection include the new jumpsuit, her rendition of the Thailand pant,the ruffle dress and the high-waist hemp/silk shorts.
Wholesale prices range from $24 to $138. Madison, Planet Blue, Fred Segal Fun and Belle Gray are among the top retailers for the line. The Movement Showroom in suite 525 of the Cooper Design Space carries the line. For more information, call (213) 489-0727 or visit www.andreaslabel.com. —Dena Smolek
