Innovation ~ Cass and Co.

September 12, 2011

Architecture that challenges perception has always been a source of creative inspiration for me. Last year, while traveling in New Mexico, I happened upon the Miraculous Staircase in the Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe. Built to solve the everyday problem of how to access the choir loft without interfering with the space in this tiny Gothic church, the carpenter accomplished a feat of engineering that boggles the imagination. Turning 360 degrees twice this construction has no central framework and no visible attachments to the wall. It is built without nails in wood not found anywhere in the local environment. Yet, it remains in place since 1880 carrying climbers aloft with no stress. Only an artist with an extraordinary grasp on the potential of his materials could have imagined such a concept into structural reality. This magnificent staircase seduces the eye, even as it performs.

Cass™and Company has been recognized since its inception for its artistic approach to shapewear product; the emphasis always focused on color and form. What fascinates me is how owner Susan Ledyard has infused her own creative insight into the research and technology of this functionally demanding Intimates fabric. Already known worldwide for their INVISIBELLAS® collection of shaping apparel pieces, Cass™, after much trial and error has discovered how to combine Susan’s exclusive artwork and yarns into the current “INVISUPPORT” patented patterns. As a result, they have introduced a technically innovative printing process to shapewear product without compromising vocation. Launched this fall as part of the Snake-Print collection, this procedure is introduced here in the best selling long cami silhouette. Developed in a breathable microfiber fabric and constructed in the Cass™ signature 360 degree seamless ultra-lift support, this style is functional year round, both as inner or outerwear. Design and performance combine to fashion a cutting edge body of work.