Boston - July 07, 2006

Good Natured

NaturevsFuture Clothing

Every month, the lists appear. What’s in, what’s out. And the same glossy page that just recently persuaded you to purchase a metallic jumpsuit now pronounces it firmly “out.” 

Further proof of the immutable fashion fact: Style is not always sustainable.

One splendid exception to the rule? NaturevsFuture, the brainchild of Brooklyn-based designer Nina Valenti. Her distinctive creations say “ultramodern,” not “Summer 2006.”

Taking sustainability one step further, Valenti crafts every piece from ecoconscious materials — organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, soy, and Ingeo (a fiber woven from corn) — minus the usual hippie frump. Asymmetrical paneling on a cool denim shirtdress verges on architectural. A knit top’s shirred sleeves are decidedly romantic. Blouses, short-sleeved blazers, skirts, and shifts have almost inexplicably sexy cutouts.

Earthy, yet urban. Structured, yet soft.

In. Never, ever out.

Available at Turtle, 619 Tremont Street, South End (617-266-2610 or turtleboston.com).