Alternative Apparel Blog

Greg and... Teresa Herrera

Our fearlessly cool leader Greg Alterman recently sat down with the multi-talented Teresa Herrera—model, actress and activist, among other things—to talk about her work with the Global Mala Project. Teresa produces the Manila chapter of GMP, an organization which uses yoga as peace in action. By obtaining sponsorship and collecting donations, the GMP raises funds and awareness for global issues. All proceeds are donated to environmental organizations such as Trees for the Future and Tubbataha Foundation for marine conservation. Greg and Teresa sit, grass-sprawled, on a sunny California day...

The Silver Lake Chorus

A writer’s assistant, a political activist, an actor and a psychologist are hanging out one day... No, this is not the first line of a cheesy joke; it’s actually just a few of the broad range of careers held by the eclectic group of individuals who makeup California’s Silver Lake Chorus.

Formed in Los Angeles in 2010, The Silver Lake Chorus (TSLC) is not your average Bach-singing choral group. Rather, this new-age chorus is made up of more than 20 young, hip songsters who sing to the beat of their own drums (literally) and croon to some of their favorite indie songs from artists like Radiohead, Phoenix, John Gold and Beck. Creative Director Samantha Rader founded the group, Michael Wells directs it and Heather Ogilvy arranges the music, adding in TSLC’s very own harmonious flair.

Sword + Fern Jewelry

If you’re looking for some unconventionally beautiful, hand-made jewelry to complement your Alternative basics, look no further than Sword + Fern. Founder and Designer Emily Baker is known for combining natural and found materials with the latest jewelry trends to create one-of-a-kind pieces with a sustainable spin.

Based in Portland, Oregon, the Seattle-native knew early on that she had an eye for design. As a child she loved creating seashell necklaces while at the beach. Today, Baker creates fine pieces that are anything but ordinary, incorporating reclaimed materials such as old car parts, recycled glass and metal, shell, leather, driftwood and vintage chains, just to name a few. Inspired by art, music and nature, Baker’s current line was made with the sandy beaches and wooded forests of her childhood in mind.

 

This Friday, June 17th from 3 to 5 p.m., those in the L.A. area can stop by Alternative’s Abbot Kinney store in Venice for a Sword + Fern jewelry trunk show. You’ll get a glimpse at the line’s latest pieces and even have a chance to meet Baker herself.

For those not on the West Coast, check out Sword + Fern jewelry online.

Storm King Art Center

Located in Mountainville, New York, just an hour north of the city, Storm King Art Center encompasses the perfect mix of man-made art and nature.  Far from your average, stuffy museum filled with ancient paintings and crowded hallways, Storm King is a one-of-a-kind outdoor art facility set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Hudson Valley. The center fuses post-war, modern sculpture and organic elements by displaying them throughout the 500-acre manicured fields, lawns and woodlands.

Back to the Beach, Back to Basics

Summer is here! Pools are open, barbeques are smoking and we’re planning our much-needed summer beach vacations. Now the big question—what do I pack? We’ve got a few ideas that will keep you looking cool even on the hottest of days. Check these beach-ready essentials for a stylish and super-comfortable summer.

Beach Essentials for Her
Easy Slip Dress, Alternative; Oceana Tank, Alternative; The Butterfly Top, Alternative; The Bajita Hoodie, Alternative; Flip Flips, Calypso St. Barts; Sunglasses, LaGarconne; Beach towel, Paul Frank; Sunscreen, Peter Thomas Roth; Fedora, Tilly’s; Bathing suit, J.Crew