the PIPELINE: Style on Tap

• Previous Morning Java: Male Wedges, Tea Service, and Aristocrat Chic
• Box Lunch: MGMT Inspires, Gareth Goes to Paris, and Free Ties for All Next

• June 26, 2008 11:50 AM
• Return to Sender

Return to Sender: Good-Guy Accessories That Still Feel Sort of Bad

By Gabriel Bell

We're all principled people here at the Refinery. Not to tip our hand, but we support a whole portfolio of humanitarian causes—Amnesty International included. Moreover, we're big fans of edgy jewelry with a point to make. Why then, are we so iffy about this new series of torture-inspired American Gulag accessories?

Featuring barbed wire bracelets (ouch!) and german shepherd necklaces, American Gulag's "Torture Series" not only brings attention to America's mistreatment of prisoners of war and torture suspects, helps bring donations to organizations that fight such abuses. Why then does the whole concept turn our precious stomachs?

Perhaps the project is meant to leave a bad taste for activist reasons. Perhaps it's a matter of poor taste. Until we plumb the depths of our subconscious, we're just going to stick to Pade Vavra's peaceful charms (lots to talk about in therapy this week).



If you dare, more information available at www.richterstudio.com.

More Posts: