Tucson’s Laura Tanzer Creates Sustainable Clothing for the Modern Woman
I first heard of the Laura Tanzer Designs brand when I was browsing through Phoenix Fashion Week’s social media pages in 2015. At the time, Laura was an emerging designer and had presented during Phoenix Fashion Week‘s annual runway festivities at Talking Stick Resort. Tanzer had showcased the “Les Rayures des Fleurs” collection- a stunning assortment of skirts, dresses, blouses, and jackets that were in an array of red, black, white, and navy blue hues. What also grabbed my attention were the floral prints, stripes, high-waist flared pants, maxi dress with dramatic low cut back, and asymmetrical jacket.
I immediately reached out to Laura, and have since been a fan of her brand, which is sustainably made in Tucson. The designer has been creating clothing ever since the tender age of seven. She, alongside her grandmother, would make clothing for her Barbies. The clothing creating continued throughout the years, as she made wearables for herself, her sister; then her friends, and finally- clients! Along with the impeccable construction of the clothing and passion for what she does, she also credits getting her inspiration comes from anywhere and everywhere. For example, the collection that will be unveiled during Phoenix Fashion Week on the 14th…”The inspiration for my current collection combines my love of modern form, contrappunto, and my travels to places with water – Venice, the Outer Banks off North Carolina, the Pacific Ocean.” I have seen some of the teasers on her Instagram, I can only predict that Spring 2017 will be sophisticated and elegant.
This month marks the three year anniversary of her official launch (October 2013). She now has a charming Atelier in the historic train depot in downtown Tucson, where she works and where clients can come in, browse, and buy. I’ve had the pleasure of stopping by the atelier a few times, not only to finally meet Laura in person, but to also see, feel, and try on the clothing. Let me tell you, the fit of her clothing was amazing! It was refreshing getting a one-on-one ‘fitting consultation’ with her, as she’ll explain the fit and have suggestions on tailoring or how to wear the pieces. It was also fun to see the room where she and her small staff construct the samples and put together the collections. I’m loving that the clothing is made with the highest quality fabrics, right there in Tucson, and with the utmost care and sustainability.
Speaking of sustainability, Laura also believes in not only creating sustainable clothing, but also, a sustainable lifestyle. “I want to contribute to the local economy, create jobs, build my business by respecting the environment and our natural resources. Our Sustainability Series occurs the fourth Wednesday of every month. We host specialists in various areas of sustainable practice/knowledge, such as water, air, toxins, social behavior, etc. It is always entertaining, and always inspirational! My co-sponsors are: Mrs. Green’s World, Green Living Magazine, Local First Arizona, Delectables Restaurant and Borderlands Brewery,” Laura explained further.
If you are local to Tucson, I suggest taking a trip to visit the Atelier. If not local, you can shop Laura Tanzer online. Be sure to also follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google +, and Youtube.
In the photos below, I am wearing select pieces from the “Les Rayures des Fleurs” collection.
Black and White Striped Maxi Dress (call (520) 981-9891 for ordering info)
** Above images by Sofia Emm **
Navy Blue and White Striped Hi Waist Flare Leg Pant + Navy Blue Top (call (520) 981-9891 for ordering info)
** Above image by Julie Stanley **
Yep! :)