Style Watch: Rescued Clothing

After screen printing T-shirts, jackets and other assorted articles of clothing for many years, Chicago artist Dolan Geiman www.dolangeiman.com began to approach fashion as he would his paintings and collages.

Incorporating the materials, fabrics, colors and patterns of his collage work with the pop and folk imagery used in his paintings, a fashion concept soon emerged.

In March 2005, with the launch of his new website www.dolangeimanartist.com, introduced his clothing line and design service Rescued Clothing.

The term Rescued defines the philosophy behind the process, encouraging patrons to revitalize a garment instead of discarding it or buying something new.

Dolan's goal is not to add to an overwhelming array of designers and manufactures, but to provide a consumer-savvy alternative for those with stocked closets.

Rescued Clothing gives those garments you love to wear a second chance, and gives the fashionably chic a new adventure.

For a flat rate per garment ($60 to $150), Dolan will Rescue any article of clothing shipped to him for customization.

Hand printed and stitched patches are added in an appliqué style to most garments.

Others receive further embellishment through decorative stitching and blocks of printed patterns and images.

Rich in color and emotion, the screen printed images are inspired by back road billboards, roadside fruit stands, withered farmer's almanacs and heroines of American folk and cinema traditions.

Fading product lettering from cane sugar sacks is transformed into a jacket's monograms; a tired cardigan is rejuvenated with a soft, nostalgic screen printed patch.

It is not the goal of Rescued Clothing to alter or tailor a garment, but instead to perform a fashion makeover for garments in need of visual flavor.

Clients surrender their clothing to the creative process and let Dolan do the rest.

It is these elements of surprise and curiosity that make Rescued Clothing a fun and personal exchange with the artist.

RESCUED CLOTHING FEATUREDON ABC 7: