{Such A} Lookbook - M641 Clothing

With summer right around the corner, it's never too soon to be trend-watching for the things you need to have in your hot weather wardrobe. Lucky for all fashionistas, M641 has served up their Summer '09 lookbook...and ladies, it's chock-full of breezy, colorful pieces to pop your outfits, but not your budget!

Madras 641, or M641 in fashion shorthand, is the indie designer brand launched by BFFs Subu and Ina. Both partners believe that fashion should be the perfect blend of feminine, sexy and wearable, but most importantly, should be affordable. All pieces by M641 are made of sweetly soft cotton, and each season's collection includes a foundation of tunics, blouses, dresses and shirts. Uniquely identifiable by the beading, embroidery, bold patterns and some of the most unexpectedly ladylike necklines, M641 is designed to be dressed up or down, which makes their collections perfect for work, play or any unexpected invites.

Summer Simpatico is the name of M641's summer collection and every single piece is an example of the uncomplicated elegance of the brand. My favorite piece by far is the Simple Socialite. With an almost empire-like waist, this dress can easily be worn by any woman of any shape. The detailed straps are made of beaded Zari tape, and curve up around the shoulders behind the neck. A row of delicate buttons accent the back, and one simple ruffle layer finishes of the knee-length hem of the dress. The overall look is playfully uptown, and I can easily see wearing this to Bootsy's for cocktails, to the ballet, or paired with a light jacket, to work.




For a top that's not quite a tank, not quite a cami but 100% pretty, the Simple Excellence is perfect for adding a dash of girly-girl to a pair of jeans or slim cut pants. Alternating rows of coins and beads accent the cleavage, and three flirty ruffles extend down from the elasticized under-bust. Since I'm not a shorts kind of girl, I'd opt for jeans, or even a plain black straight-cut skirt and a jean jacket to wear this to work or to a casual outdoor party or a cookout.




I've highlighted only two out of the many fab pieces in the Summer Simpatico collection. For more information on the company, to download your own copy of the M641 Summer Lookbook, and to buy your very own stuff, visit M641's site and shop their online boutique. Locally, M641 has been spotted at Mustard Seed, and likely will appear at your favorite shop soon. Follow Ina on Twitter (@M641) to keep current on the happenings with this fast-growing brand.