This holiday season — there’s a new spot to shop local in the Central West End! Two St. Louis-based designers, daph. fashion and lifestyle and KlarIty Lifestyle, have opened a Winter Pop-Up Shop at 314 N Euclid.
From handbags and dresses, to scarves and accessories, they’ve got you covered this holiday season. We recently caught up with daph. founder, Daphne Benzaquen, to learn more about her designs and what you can expect at their Pop-Up Shop.
Tell us about your Holiday Pop-Up Shop.
Our Holiday Pop-Up Boutique will feature my Peruvian-inspired handbags and new winter clothing line, along with KlarIty Lifestyle’s apparel line. Our shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Local artists will also be featured at the boutique and creating art most weekends, Thursday through Saturday.
How would you describe your women’s clothing line?
My new winter clothing collection was designed to go from leisure-to-evening, providing beautiful, versatile looks that are equally suited for daytime or a night out. The pieces of the line were also created to be complementary with other wardrobe staples and my handbag collection, making it simple to mix pieces together to create fashionable outfits.
Utilizing native Peruvian materials, including alpaca fleece and pima cotton, the clothing line uses traditional weaving and sewing techniques that have been passed down through generations to create durable, high-quality pieces that offer immense comfort and elegance. daph. is one of the only U.S. fashion and lifestyle brands dedicated to incorporating the unique Peruvian spirit, craftsmanship, and resources to create timeless and stand-out products.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your designs?
daph. began when I was getting my MBA from Washington University. I was having trouble finding a backpack that provided the durability and style that I was looking for, and during a trip to Peru (where my family is from), the inspiration for .daph was sparked. I realized the opportunity to design a handbag line utilizing Peruvian resources and craftsmanship to create handbags that are durable, unique, and stylish.
I work with manufacturers who adhere to environmentally safe practices, create minimal waste, and implement my brand’s creative designs to maximize the resources’ potential. My company also is committed to giving back by positively impacting the Peruvian communities where daph. clothing, handbags, and accessories are made. A portion of all sales goes to support children with special needs in Peru.
Holiday parties are right around the corner. What is one of your “must-have” items for someone who wants to make a statement?
The mosy. baby alpaca fur cloth bag is a statement piece for the holidays and beyond. This purse is so soft and beautiful, and catches attention!
What are some winter essentials that every woman needs in her closet?
Our jogger pants are essential for women, providing the ideal combination of warmth and comfort. With a tie-waist and a stylish ribbed trim around the waistline and ankles, daph. joggers pair perfectly with a cup of coffee and your favorite podcast, or can be dressed up for an evening out on the town. Also, our open front cardigan is an incredibly versatile, staple piece — suitable for the office or running errands.
Tell us about your Pop-Up Launch Party this evening (Nov. 7)?
Come join us tonight from 4-7 p.m. and shop both daph. and KlarIty Lifestyle collections! We’ll also have appetizers and drinks, and a local artist will be creating beautiful artwork during the event.
The Holiday Pop-Up Shop will be open through December 24.