Martha Stewart American Made is an awards program that celebrates emerging artisans and artists who have channeled their passion for design or style into small businesses that are turning out well-crafted products. This year, there were 800 “finalists,” from which ten award winners will be chosen. Each winner will receive $10,000, the opportunity to be featured on MarthaStewart.com and in Martha Stewart Living, and marketing and PR assistance to develop their businesses.
Two of those finalists have businesses in southern Rhode Island: Jim Hamann of Duparquet and East Coast Tinning in East Greenwich; and Read McKendree of Huxter in Watch Hill. Jim’s nomination is in design/furniture and home accessories and Read’s is in style/fashion.
Inspired by New England’s marine motifs and outdoor sports, Read used the two-tone shading of his favorite long board to create a two-tone 100% cotton shirt. A nautical map of Watch Hill as well as the stripes on summer deck chairs became elbow patch or pocket accents for men’s and women’s oxford-styled shirts. Those cheery stripes also appear in heavy cotton “popovers” and fabric belts. Read has said that he wanted to combine luxury and utility in clothing that would be instantly recognized as linked to New England, where they are made and marketed.
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