Royal Bohemian

The currently Brooklyn-based Gretchen Jones has just launched her debut collection under her name and brand new website, and the clothes are just gorgeous. Some viewers and fashion-world people threw a fit about her Season 8 Project Runway win over the beloved and talented Mondo, but I was rooting for Gretchen the whole time for several reasons: She was a Portland designer helping to put our West Coast city on the fashion map, I adore my little white MothLove [her previous brand] dress, and more than anything, I think she has an incredible aesthetic. As I've argued, a designer doesn't need to be all flash and pomp to make a statement; Gretchen's debut line demonstrates her ability to cut flattering but Bohemian lines, and stays true to her minimalist aesthetic without getting boring. I especially appreciate the fresh lengths and shapes punctuated but standout South-Western jewelry. What color she did include is rich, and adds dynamism to the collection.