Carleen

by KELSY PARKHOUSE, since 2012

Carleen is a Los Angeles-based womenswear collection designed by Kelsy Parkhouse that draws inspiration from denim, quilts, Americana and nostalgia, also visual arts. The declared aim is to design aesthetically pleasing and functionally durable pieces, with a commitment to domestic production. Second-hand textiles are as well used for this purpose. Folk art motifs typically run through the collections. Patchwork optics define the looks.

The handmade American quilt, a textile that continues to inform the Carleen aesthetic both visually and metaphorically.

CARLEEN

Kelsy Parkhouse founded Carleen in May 2012 after receiving positive reviews for her graduation collection at Pratt Institute. There she also received the first Liz Claiborne Concept to Product Award. Her inaugural collection was inspired by the Grand Canyon and handmade American quilts, a textile that influences Carleen’s aesthetic both visually and metaphorically and is at the core of the brand.

Second-hand textiles are used as often as possible. Not only because of their patina, but also because of their sustainable impact on the planet. In the case of organic, recycled and used textiles, more fabrics made from natural fibres are selected. Production takes place locally in Los Angeles in order to keep a more efficient eye on quality and also reduce the carbon footprint. The working conditions of the workers who produce the clothing can be better monitored.

IMAGE CREDITS | CARLEEN