Bodkin's Autumn, 2011 Collection Explores the New Minimalism

Bodkin’s Fall, 2011 collection called to mind late-90’s minimalism, but in the best way possible. Considering I detested the long-lived trend the first time around (I would wear 70’s blast-your-eyes-out polyester shirts just to thwart it) I was shocked how many of the pieces from this collection I sorta fell in love with – and could see myself actually wearing.

Hartman’s practiced, practical, but always elegant design hand has had a workout this past year, as one of the guest designers for Hessnatur as well as keeping up her own collection. But her commitment to her elegant-but-comfy style continues in her latest collection and sustainable fabrics (including a controversial polyester that’s not recycled, but does come from a high-energy efficiency factory) still rule.

Hartman told Emma Grady at Treehugger, “I never use the word ‘eco’ or ‘green’ because I think it doesn’t necessarily mean anything. I like to be open about the imperfection of the process. You can’t be perfect. but you can be mindful and explore ways of doing things.”

The gorgeous reprised Quasar coat (we saw it before at Bodkin’s 2010’s Autumn collection), is made from recycled polyester and reclaimed wool.

An organic wool and alpaca sweater is an experiment in texture, one of Hartman’s perennial themes.

Fair-trade cotton georgette fairly floats around the model, but gets a big grunge-grounded by the knit hat.

This simple blouse could work on so many occasions…

Fair-trade cotton wool pants look warm and simple with an interesting design that looks built for years of wear.

More coverage of Bodkin’s show at Treehugger and Ecouterre.
All images by Starre Vartan.