In her Spring 2011 collection, Emily Christensen celebrates what designers and artists have ascribed to for centuries, the notion that there is beauty in simplicity. Her label Filly consists of simple, artfully crafted pieces, inspired by “moments when function was unexpectedly beautiful.”

Her minimalist designs are punctuated with ties, cuffs, and artistically placed seams, arousing interest and bringing a level of romanticism to otherwise straightforward garments. In addition to the array of sweet, feminine dresses and skirts that cinch and emphasize the waist, the collection includes more playful garments like rompers and jumpsuits. Filly’s palette is also simple, yet vibrant: mustard, a light, sky blue, white, and khaki.

The fabrics used in the collection include linen, organic cotton jersey, and cotton voile, and many garments feature more than one of the materials. Christensen states that the materials used are American-milled and sustainable whenever possible.

Filly has ties to many places: although the company is based in Portland, Oregon, it was founded by Emily Christensen, a native of Santa Cruz, California, and its clothing is manufactured (made to order) in the San Francisco Bay Area. The collection’s beautiful craftsmanship is undoubtedly a result of its ethical, local manufacturing.

Filly is available for purchase in American, Canadian, and Japanese boutiques as well as online.