Photograph by Tropico Photo
Like Warby Parker, Casper, and other millennial startups, East Fork pottery has built a devoted digital following that spawns wait lists for new releases. The firm’s origin story reads like a Portlandia script. In 2009, Alex Matisse (great-grandson of Henri) was launching his studio on an abandoned tobacco farm outside Asheville when he met his future wife and cofounder Connie Coady. At the time, she was milking goats and selling cheese at farmers markets. The couple boosted their brand three years ago when they added a gas kiln and ramped up social media. This winter, East Fork opened a retail store in Westside Provisions District. The minimalist stoneware boasts warm matte surfaces, earthy colors like morel and celery, and signature dark rims, with dishes starting at $22. East Fork enthusiasts also covet other offerings such as brass utensils, cookware, and glassware—even a brass glockenspiel “for the kids.”
Photograph courtesy of SCAD
The latest SCAD FASH exhibition, Cinematic Couture, hones in on the craft of period film and TV garment design, exploring five centuries of costumes created by the Oscar-winning London firm, Cosprop Ltd. Clothing and millinery on display comes from 24 films, including Titanic, Sense and Sensibility, and Out of Africa, as well as British television series like Pride and Prejudice, Downton Abbey, and Victoria. Cosprop maintains an extensive collection of original garments to make sure its costumes are historically accurate, using rich fabrics decorated with detailed embroidery and lace. Through March 3.
Photograph courtesy of Neva Opet
Handsomely crafted pieces from Atlanta’s small-batch leather handbag company Neva Opet—created by self-taught leather worker and former seamstress Rachael Riedinger—seem to be popping up everywhere. Founded in 2014, the brand can be found in local stores like Coco + Mischa, Young Blood Boutique, and Miko + Boone Home, as well as more than 50 stores nationwide. Without frills or unnecessary embellishments, the leather bags (which feel strong and buttery smooth to the touch) lean in on structure and lines. For example: backpacks with a single zipper that forms the shape of a tidy rectangle.
Photograph by Savanna Sturkie
Now open: Amour Vert
Known for ecofriendly fabrics made from natural materials like silk, beechwood, and cotton, San Francisco–based Amour Vert has opened its first East Coast locale in Ponce City Market. Stylish basics (black tees, cotton blazers, jumpsuits, wrap dresses), flattering patterns, and boho accessories make it easy to build a guilt-free wardrobe. Add cool footwear like fair-trade Veja sneakers made in Brazil or soft leather shoes with blocky wooden heels by Spanish maker Coclico.
This article appears in our February 2019 issue.
