on Apr 3rd, 2007What’s Next for Denim?
By Tiffany Plater
The history and direction of denim is changing. In the past, denim was something that laborers worked in because of its durability. Currently, denim is the first choice for many and sometimes their only choice. Denim is worn everywhere from corporate settings to dinner parties. It can be dressed up or dressed down. Some would even say denim was the new black. Now, native Chicago designer Dwayne Lonzo of DRegali Designs has set out to add a little pizzazz to an already growing industry.
Dwayne, at first, had no intentions of designing. He created a few pieces for himself but never thought about taking it any further. It wasn’t until that he began receiving compliments from others that he entertained the idea. He also received kudos from Barbara Samuels,
a well known and respected fashion editor from Chicago. A little while after that he was at a photo shoot for Phat Farm (styling hair for one of their ads) wearing another one of his designs and the producer gave him praise as well. He knew immediately he was onto something. Lonzo was finally convinced to jump into the arms of fashion.
He describes his line as edgy couture denim with a twist of elegance. When he first set out to design his line he envisioned a wealthy woman who attends events and parties and wears whatever she wishes. This woman can go casual glam or black tie, but none of it matters because her attitude and personality is what makes her fashionable. However, if this woman chose casual glam she would wear DRegali Designs.
DRegali denim consists of reconstructed denim for women in a variety of bustiers, vests, dresses, skirts, shrugs, and jackets. The pieces are all one of a kind. They come in various shapes and washes of denim. A DRegali item is noticeable at first glance. His designs brand the clothes leaving no room or need for logos. The collection is simply art.
So what can we expect from him in the future? He is working on a menswear line. The look will mirror the idea for his women’s line: dressed up denim. He is creating fabulous denim shirts that can be worn under tuxedos or alone. He will primarily focus on denim shirts and different ways to edge them up but still keep the shirts sleek and couture.
Most denim lines focus on creating traditional items. However, he is producing traditional items, just not in a traditional way. His approach is refreshing and creative. He says there are so many ways he can take his line using denim as his canvas. Let’s see what other pieces of art he comes up with.
