Fashion: Freshman Class
Uncovering Garage Apparel
Monday, August 10th, 2009
Rock ‘n‘ roll, dirty Levis, great clothes, sex and… cupcakes? Am I dreaming? Though it may seem too good to be true, I discovered the ultimate package deal in Garage Apparel, a thoroughly unique line by St. Louis-based designers Ivcich and Asbed, a team who specializes in reworking familiar favorites (i.e., a boyfriend’s button-down, a favorite concert tee, a grandma’s pink slip) to make beautiful, comfortable clothing. Talk about being recession-savvy! I sat down with one half of the creative duo, Carol Ivcich, to talk about the concept behind the tram’s unique and multi-faceted lifestyle brand.
Q: How did Garage Apparel start and what is it all about?
A: We had so much fun wearing the clothes that we designed, we wanted to share that with others. It’s about loving who you are in the moment. Our inspiration comes from people. Dress for you; don’t let trends dictate who you are. The way we see it, you’re the perfect customer just the way you are.
We looked around and thought, “Does the world really need another little black dress?”Garage Apparel reworks items of clothes that mean something and are important to you so that they become beautiful in a new way. For us, it’s all about comfort and the one-on-one customer experience.
Q: What kind of person wears your clothes?
A: She’s a woman of any age and any walk of life. Whenever she walks into a room, women want to be her and men want to be with her. Her confidence makes her physically beautiful. We’re a very sexy line, and we don’t shy away from that.
Q: If you could raid anyone’s closet, who would it be?
A: Jimi Hendricks. Hands down.
Q: What are your personal wardrobe staples?
A: I believe that every woman needs something in her closet that is meaningful to her. When they touch it or wear it, they melt. It’s comforting to them. Uncover the you and wear what ya’ dig! But for me? I love my older brother’s ripped-up Levi’s and a tank top, then I accessorize from there.
Q: Who are your favorite designers?
A: My background is in European design and couture. My favorite moment was being able to go to an in-house Chanel couture show when Karl Lagerfeld was designing. Other than him, I love Valentino and Gaultier. I love “voluminous” designers.
Q: What are Bake Naked Nudies?
A: Bake Naked Nudies is a new concept we started. We thought about the four emotions, or personalities, that would make the best gifts, and then we a gift accordingly. You’re able to send a package to someone that contains a cupcake, song recommendations, a card, a bag of icing, a chocolate charm and a sparkler candle. It’s all about taking a minute for yourself and sending a message. Bare Naked Nudies will be available on our website in the next month.
Q: What is something that St. Louis needs to know about you?
A: The Garage concept is about inclusion, not seclusion. It’s more than clothes; it’s about allowing our customers to live in their moment, while also giving our team the avenue to experience who they are.
Q: When is your next event?
A: We have Garage events every 90 days. Basically, we set up a boutique with our artwork, clothes, accessories, greeting cards, pajama party kits, etc. Then we have our cover band, Love Drunk, play so you can bring your girlfriends out to shop, visit, drink, dance, rock out and really make an experience out of it. Our next event will be September 26 at the Old Rock House.
Posted in: Fashion, Freshman Class
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Great article! Give us more… on ivcich & asbed… please! Any more photos??? Love that you feature new and up-n-comers! Give us more!
Thanks for the feedback. More aspiring/emerging/up-and-coming designers to come. And yes, I agree — we need more images… on all posts! We’ll get em comin.
I’m putting Sep 26th on my calendar right now. Love the concept — all about inclusion and being you. Would love to hear more about this unique line and duo.
I was fortunate enough to attend one of these past ‘Garage’ events….what a great experience!…I highly recommend the line and events….appreciate their concept of those looking to tap into the uniqueness already inside of themselves…great stuff!
To sum up “GARAGE” in 3 words: SEXY! INDIVIDUAL! FREE! In a time where the many follow the few it is refreshing to see that the “RIGHT TO BE ME” is still the most important aspect in being human. Kudos to the “GARAGE” duo for their passion, talent, and downright creative line – Keep it coming!!!!
Now bring some “LOVE DRUNK” to the WEST COAST!!!!!
Oh and remember – - “GO WHERE YOUR CELEBRATED, NOT WHERE YOUR TOLERATED”
To sum up “GARAGE” in 3 words: SEXY! INDIVIDUAL! FREE! In a time where the many follow the few it is refreshing to see that the “RIGHT TO BE ME” is still the most important aspect in being human. Kudos to the “GARAGE” duo for their passion, talent, and downright creative line – Keep it coming!!!!
Absolutely! More stories on Ivcich & Asbed are in the works!
Great stuff. Will definitely be attending the next Garage event!!
Love it! Fresh designers who choose to use items that we grew up with, already know and love! I’ve been to their events. . . .always fun, always sexy!! See you at the next one!
Went to my first LoveDrunk show last night…phenomonal is all I can say…they offer a refreshing twist on music for all walks of life…and as far as for Garage Apparel…finally a fashion line that is all about celebrating your own individuality…refreshing to see a brand that is about you…whoever you may be…sky is the limit for this company…can’t wait for the September Show…Party on Garage Apparel!
Perfect! These were just the items I was looking for my girlfrien to wear. I loved the designs and the authenticty of the work. I live in so-cal and I wish we had these down here. Great Job
Brian Miller
Long Beach, CA
the concept really savvy, cant wait for it to launch so i can buy my girl some clothes.
this is awesome girls ! impressive and i cant wait to come to one of your events ! so cool i knew you were rock stars !!!!@#$%^&*(
These gals know where the life is. Go get some, they’ve lots to share with everyone.
Need more Ivcich and Asbed? Check out their clothes in our new editorial “andbecauselovebattles” and also at the HotCity Fashion Show this Saturday, August 29!
These ladies are great and are keeping busy, more to come…
I love Garage Apparel. It’s very edgy, sexy and real!!