Nothing better defines classic American style than Chaiken. As mother to the line, Julie Chaiken launched the namesake fashion house in 1994 with the hopes of providing the kind of clothes a sophisticated and chic New York/California girl would wear. In 1998 Chaiken acquired its current creative director Jeff Mahshie who brought the designer-wear to the next level, increasing the scope and diversity of the line that considers itself essential for any wardrobe. Mahshie, a graduate of Parsons, brings to Chaiken a sense of basic creativity and sensible style to a fashion house that was popularized by the trendy designer’s Mecca: Barney’s New York. Go to http://www.chaikenclothing.com for more.