T. L. Blake
Terika Blake wanted to design a line of tops for “people who want something a little different ... with a little flavor.”
Blake, whose parents were antiques dealers, was inspired by vintage art and Americana to create a contemporary line of vintage silk-screen T-shirts called T. L. Blake in January 2003.
She describes her style as “very colorful.” This quality can be seen in her stained-glass and dichroic-glass jewelry designs as well as in her line of tanks and short- and long-sleeved Tshirts, which are available in solid and tie-dyed versions.
The line includes silk-screen vintage cigar prints that are stitched onto tops and finished with decorative threads. Some tops also bear Victorian-inspired beading, rhinestones, suede, embroidery and feather boas for a bit of glamour. Picasso, Audrey Hepburn and “the government” inspired other groups in the line, Blake said. The designer also offers separate mesh- and lace-insert groups in T-shirt and sweat-suit styles
Wholesale prices for tops range from $22 to $38, and pants are $39. Sizes range from S to XL. Macy’s Impulse Department, PE 101 in Aspen, Colo., and Boulmiche and Votre Nom in Beverly Hills, Calif., carry the line.
