Danish designer trifecta, Carsten Schlamovitz, Annika H. Olsen and Susan Ankersen, are officially launching their first retail fashion collaboration, Casmaine (2914 Main St., Santa Monica, 90405; 310.995.8983), on Main Street, in Santa Monica.
Scandinavian transplants, now Cali residents, they all reflect the spirit of Los Angeles as a multi-cultural melting pot. The trio envisioned the shop as a platform to support local, Cali designers whose pieces mimic their own in vibe and individuality; eclectic, beachy, and/or truly one-of-a-kind pieces, fused with Nordic design roots and sensibilities.
The “beachiest” of the three designers, Schlamovitz’s love for Bali, its people and their craftsmanship formed the foundation of his fashion line, Love Shop. The line embodies his impressions and memories of Bali, which he translates into unique, modern pieces.
Casmaine also serves as a showcase for the more streamlined “AOCO“, Olsen’s line of leather accessories, hand-knitted pieces and ready-to-wear clothing. Her design philosophy is to create a fusion between ancient traditions and visions of today, inspired by what is “hot” in Los Angeles and “cool” in Scandinavia.
The Casmaine team is rounded out by jewelry designer, Susan Ankersen, who meticulously handcrafts each design in her studio. She fuses classic elements with an edgier look, using raw semiprecious stones and hammering metal into one-of-a-kind, organic shapes.
Schlamovitz, Olsen and Ankersen will be hosting regular events in the store including pop-up shops featuring guest designers. The shop will also carry men’s clothing, accessories and hand-crafted, proprietary scents, in the coming months.
The trio, joined by a handful of Danish brands will celebrate the opening of their clothing, accessory and home designs shop with a public party on Thursday, October 4, at 7 pm. The party, sponsored in part by Denmark-based Louis Poulsen Lighting, will include baked goods from Culver City’s Copenhagen Pastry, Paradis Danish Ice Cream, shopping fuel from Main Squeeze and 212 Pier, a vodka bar, music, a 10% off preview sale, a free “Love Shop” top with each purchase and a portion of the evening’s sales proceeds will benefit a local charity.
Open daily, 11 am-6 pm.
