Anne Cate, a Cleveland based accessories manufacturer and brand, created by Kent State University School of Fashion alumna Anne Skoch, recently teamed up with New York-based fashion illustrator, (and fellow School of Fashion alumna) Deanna First. The new collection, Deanna First x Anne Cate, features First’s illustrations on Anne Cate’s signature Made in America accessories line.
Skoch (a 2018 graduate), and First (a 2012 graduate), each pursued entrepreneurial ventures after graduation. The designers teamed up to curate four unique illustrations that embodied adventure and simplicity that were then printed and sewn.
“Anne Cate is honored to print and produce renowned New York-based artist and fashion illustrator Deanna First's beautiful illustrations on our Made in America accessories line,” said Skoch. “Deanna and I worked together to curate four unique illustrations that were then printed and sewn at the Anne Cate studio.”
While the pandemic has changed much of Anne Cate’s industry, the boutique saw potential in the accessories market to bring to life feminine and beautiful statements through First’s illustrations. Having connected with First while studying away at the Kent State University New York City Fashion program, Skoch and First worked together to perfectly capture both First’s incredible illustrations and Anne Cate’s accessories. Deanna First x Anne Cate includes four illustrations printed and sewn on Anne Cate’s best-selling mini wallet and wristlet: City Chic, Just Peachy, Lady Liberty, and C H A N E L. The illustrations complement Anne Cate’s classic skyline designs. The boutique’s signature skyline accessories collection features 100+ hand designed skyline illustrations representing popular cities all over the world
The new collection by the Kent State alumnae can be viewed on the Anne Cate website. Every design was illustrated by Deanna First, then hand made in Cleveland, OH.