I had no idea what to expect when I booked a photo shoot in Emeryville for "an organic cotton clothing line, and a new line of scarves". I'm still seeking agency representation and with bills to pay and shoes to buy, I was just thrilled to get paid work. You can imagine my surprise--and delight--when I stumbled upon an indie fashion gold mine. In addition to working with some incredible people, I discovered a shopworthy online store that only sells independent designer clothing, retro yet chic scarves that are sure to be the next big thing with the indie crowd (and remind me of pretty spaghetti), and an array of uber comfortable halters, T-shirts, dresses and leggings designed by--of course--a San Francisco born-and-raised team of best friends.
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When I arrived at the studio, I met the photographer, Jay(accompanied by his stunningly adorable daughter, Ava Blue) and Moxsie merchandiser, Diana Valencia. The purpose of today's shoot, Diana explained, is to showcase the two new clothing lines available on Moxsie.com. Moxsie only features apparel from independent designers that have been handpicked for quality, originality, and the concept behind the brand. Not to mention that you're shopping for a good cause, since Moxsie donates a portion of your purchase to the charity of your choice. Moxsie.com may not exactly be Forever-21 cheap, you do get your money's worth; a unique look catered to your individual taste, and clothing that lasts.

SUST Hot House Halter $80
The first brand I had the privilege of wearing was Tristan Gribbin and Marion McKnee's San Francisco born and inspired brand, SUST.
According to its original site, getsust.com, its name comes from "sustainable", the term for "human economic activity and culture that does not lead to environmental degradation", and "sussed", the British term for "well-informed, streetwise, 'cool'". SUST prides itself in its material; sustainable high-quality organic cotton, and also its practices; pesticide-free, ethical farming and fair trade labor straight out of California. Yet SUST's sleek style makes it desirable to even the less conscientious, more fashion obsessed shoppers; subtly sexy streetwear soft enough to wear to bed. If American Apparel and C&C California had an affair, SUST would surely look like its child.
I spent the remainder of the shoot ducking in and out of Necklush, the trendy spaghetti scarves by Stephano Diaz and Troy Mattison Hicks, whose wearable
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art first made its appearance in New York City. But now their urbanesque Necklush is rockin' its way across the web, thanks to the Internet (art appreciative sites like etsy.com and moxsie.com, no duh.) Their solid-colored and design-spangled neck accessory can be styled like a choker or worn long like flowing necklace strands (reminiscent of Italian dinners), and come in colors ranging from creamy alfredo to speckled orange-and-red-Nerf candy. Yum.
For Sust, Necklush, more pictures from my shoot and of course, even more memorable independent designers, check out Moxsie.com. Underground trends headed up your alley.
Necklush Lush Oranges and Red $65