Designer Kaorico Ago divides her time between Japan and the United States; Asheville in particular. Her line, Little Eagle is a global endeavor, sold between Western North Carolina and Kanagawa, Japan, that’s geared toward globe trekkers and the environmentally minded. Her flowing, oceanic-inspired pieces tend to wrap or drape rather than zip or hook. Natural dyes and fibers are used throughout the collection, along with recycled fabrics and body-conscious designs. The end result: pieces as comfortable as pajamas and as architectural as sculpture.
Recently, Ago put in appearances both at Lake Eden Arts Festival as a vendor, and at Rags Reborn Eco-Chic Boutique (1 West Walnut St., Asheville, 253-4488) hosting a trunk show and fitting (Rags Reborn carries Ago’s clothing). Xpress caught a glimpse of Little Eagle’s original offerings.
• [left] A vest of recycled knitwear and pieced fabrics with a tie and button closure.
• [right] Argyle and cable knit come together in this re-imagined fall sweater-coat.
• [left] Designer Kaorico Ago in a dress of her own design.
• [right] A fanciful patchwork jacket with tie closures is layered over a raw-edged, natural-fiber tunic.
Try this on
While most locals know that national catalog retailer J. Crew has an Asheville-based call center, the preppy outfitter’s local warehouse store is a well-kept secret. Located at 1 Clifford Way in Arden, the store sells J. Crew closeouts at bargain prices. For even better deals, hit the J. Crew tent sale on Saturday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: 687-3900.
