CrOp by David Peck

CROP, which stands for creative opportunities, is a feminine & fun-spirited clothing line with a conscious, recently launched by American designer David Peck. But I bet you didn’t know that he actually earned a degree in classical cello before moving to Paris to study fashion design. Who would’ve guessed it? 

David’s designs are favourites among young stars including Taylor Swift and Lauren Conrad, due to the combination of design aesthetic (the refined elegance of Parisian style with American practicality) and commitment to the environment – all his collections are proudly manufactured in the U.S.

Each CROP collection stems from a collaboration with other creative professionals who value giving back; the ultimate aim being to develop a strong network of artists who generate even greater opportunities together.

David is also strongly committed to giving back to charitable causes, and has therefore decided to dedicate 10% of profits from each of his collections to the cause that is affiliated with his seasonal inspiration. Further goodness is that the collections are also made from a combination of certified organic, fair trade, and natural fabrics. So you can look great and FEEL great too.   

When I had a look at his s/s 2012 collection online, it felt like Christmas had come early. All of his designs are so beautiful, yet extremely wearable, and incorporate a strong use of colour and print. These clothes are made to be SEEN, and are fit for the playful girl who likes to have fun when it comes to fashion, doesn’t take herself too seriously, but also has a heart when it comes respecting our environment and our world. If that sounds like you, then CROP is a definite love match. 

I think the fact that there are designers out there like David – creating fashion with a conscience – restores my faith in the fashion industry, and makes me feel proud to be in it. If only the rest of the world knew just how important a simple choice like the clothes on their back actually is. I refuse to be the sort of designer who sells out, and contributes to the mass market as it stands today. This might put lots of money in their pockets, but it can’t be putting any happiness in their hearts; knowing that they are a part of a hideous greed-fuelled machine, where everything including the lives of our fellow men & women come second to profit margins. I believe that true happiness is being able to wake up and just know that this is what you wanted, and not what somebody else wanted. And what I want, more than anything, is to change things; and to have what I do create a positive domino effect on people’s lives. 

Remember: NO DREAM IS TOO BIG.