Even before graduating from the Illinois Institute of Art in 1998, Calvin Tran was designing his own brand of men's wear. But an opportunity to move to New York and work with such established designers as Caroline Herrera helped him discover that designing women's clothing was his passion.
This gifted designer began marketing his feminine collections in 2000, the year his first boutique opened in SoHo. Two years later, he opened the second Calvin Tran boutique in Lincoln Park.
The understated, loft-like space with hardwood floors and exposed brick walls complements Tran's deceptively simple, beautifully constructed garments. These fluid, body-conscious clothes are more classic than trendy, transitioning effortlessly from season to season, year to year.
Basic black with a twist describes the popular “O Ring” top, a sexy, backless number in cotton jersey, and his signature skirt, an ingeniously pleated wrap that changes in a wink from skirt to halter dress to cape.
In addition to subtle neutrals, Calvin uses color with panache. Fall styles introduce bold blues, reds, purples, teals, and greens. Holiday/Caribbean, a spirited collection in wake-up yellows, pinks, blues, and greens, will put Spring in any winter closet.
We loved the beautifully-constructed dark green tweed jacket, with a soft full collar that can flow loosely or be pinned, belted, or draped to one side. This stunner can be dressed up or worn with jeans. A similar jacket in a gorgeous black tweed goes formal with a silk, tuxedo-like collar and belt.
Romantic, shoulder-baring pieces that caught our eye include the white, double-layered top and skirt with hand-sewn flourishes, and a holiday-perfect red silk camisole, silk flower clasped to its heart.
Designed and manufactured in limited quantities in New York City, Calvin Tran's creations travel quickly from conception to boutique. Need a one-of-a-kind dress for a special occasion? Stop into the boutique for a private consultation.
Looking ahead: In addition to designing the Spring line, which launches in March/April 2007, Tran is opening his third boutique in the San Francisco area in Spring 2007.
In an industry where customer tastes can change quickly, Calvin’s feminine, body-centric designs have true staying power. For a closer look at his beautifully crafted clothing, the boutique is located at:
2154 N. Halsted St.
Chicago
773.529.4070
Calvin Tran has also showcased his work at GenArt SHOPChicago.
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – E. Engquist
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. SeeMoreShopping incurs all expenses associated with reviews.
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