Toggery By Kate D’arcy
Written by Yvette N. Coleman

Toggery by Kate D’Arcy is a contemporary collection of knits that debuted in the fall of 2007. In addition to offering every woman’s essential shapes and styles, each piece is comprised of 100% organic and sustainable fabrics, including organic cotton, bamboo and modal. Each piece is colored with low impact reactive dyes that use less energy, less chemicals and produce less waste than natural or vegetable dyes. The result is a vibrantly colored collection that is still at the forefront of contemporary trends. The collection features staple layering tanks, fashion tops, throw-on contemporary dresses, and seasonal coats and jackets. Toggery by Kate D’Arcy pieces provide the perfect palette for today’s hottest accessories.

“I've created a lifestyle brand that enables women to make socially and environmentally conscious decisions about clothing, while still being fashion forward and trend oriented. Everyone needs to do their part but it doesn’t need to be a sacrifice,” says Kate D’Arcy.

Kate D’Arcy answered a few questions for us to help illuminate the vision and awesome potential that is Toggery by Kate D’Arcy.

How and why did Toggery By Kate D'arcy start and who started it?
I used to dabble in styling and personal shopping and realized that all it took to pull a wardrobe together was classic well-fitted bodies in a variety of colors.  The idea of the brand was born when I realized that there was a lack of well-priced contemporary labels providing this.  I started sourcing fabrics and found the most beautiful pieces of organic and sustainable fabrics.  I was hooked! It seemed so right to move forward with eco fabrics and so wrong to walk away from pieces that to the touch were softer and more luxurious than the non eco-friendly fabrics I worked with in the past. I also work with a vertical manufacturer in Pennsylvania, so not only was the idea of Made in the USA appealing to me, but being from the Philadelphia area myself, the idea of Made in PA was even more amazing. I like the idea of doing business in your own backyard.

"Toggery" - - what does this refer to?
The word "Toggery" is a synonym for the word clothing. I love how obvious it is. Like basic shapes, in great colors, at an affordable price AND organic and sustainable is what clothing should be.

What provided the inspiration for your fall/holiday collection?
I adore the fall and holiday seasons, so for inspiration I simply look around at all the colors in the environment and what people are wearing the season before to see how certain styles can evolve and transition into a new season.  I also get a lot of inspiration from my own closet and what shapes are missing from it that I want to wear. With each new season I design, I feel that we move further and further away from a basics line (while still providing that of course), and have more fashion pieces, dresses etc. My holiday collection has so many pieces that women can wear to holiday parties and other events that take place during this season.

Who do you envision wearing this collection?
I’ve really tried to create a brand that is appealing to a broad range of women. I love the idea of being able to put your signature on a look with accessories.  I think the woman who wears Toggery is one that certainly knows her own style and who loves looking pulled together in the most effortless way.  I want every woman to see my line as a blank canvas to style however you’d like and to really make it your own.

Toggery By Kate D'arcy can be purchased where and range from how much?
You can find Toggery at boutiques nationwide and online at www.luxgreenliving.com - - Toggery retails from $32 - $150; you shouldn’t have to break the bank to look good or support organic and sustainable companies. I’m just trying to make you look good, and feel good, at a fair price. 

What do you think will be the biggest trends of 2009?
I can’t get enough of skirts- knee length, long, pencil, mini, any length and style goes! It’s kind of refreshing to pair a skirt with a great blouse after so many seasons of dresses.  Statement jewelry is a must along with platforms.  Color wise I believe we will be seeing a ton of grays and blues. I also think we’re going to see the look of seventies glamour emerging this year.

What trends are you seriously tired of?
Risky Business Ray Bans! I’m totally over it, especially when I walk out my front door and see everyone wearing them. I live by classics but sometimes as much as you love a classic if it makes you look like everyone else you should just walk away. 

What's next for Toggery By Kate D'arcy?
I plan on taking it to become a lifestyle collection. That means everything from women, men’s and children’s clothing to bedding, and home goods.

Words of wisdom from Kate D’Arcy from Toggery by Kate D’Arcy:
If you think you can achieve it, you will!  Don’t ever let anyone tell you it’s impossible, because nothing is if you have passion and drive fueling you.  Remember that no one person can do everything, we all need help, and if your going to be a success in business it’s in your best interest to fill in your weaknesses with others strengths. 

Please visit www.toggerycollection.com or www.luxgreenliving.com for more information.