Click for more looks from NewbarK Spring/Summer 2014.

This year, the NewbarK designers decided to debut their 2014 spring collection in a modern white, empty art gallery. The pieces were shown on white plastic cube displays that provided contrast with the dark, conservative tones of the collection.

I spoke to half of the NewbarK duo, Maryam Malakpour, and explored the collection from the eyes of the designer. Malakpour explains that the concept came from the concoction of the inner-city vibe and the more easy-going culture that derives from the French Riviera.

Frankly, the idea of a casual culture juxtaposed with an uptown look is nothing new. It’s Lauren Conrad’s Paper Crown, it’s Topshop, it’s been done.

But what sets these sisters apart from the rest is their aim to truly make the put-together classic pieces something that is easy, not just to the eye, but even physically. The nautical style is derived from the French Riviera’s coastal culture; its classic stripes, blues, and white. The hints from the city are the reptile skin and the beautifully crafted pieces, clean and professional. The physical part that makes these pieces simple are the comfort of them and the fact that they are foldable flats, indeed easy to take anywhere, especially for a busy woman on-the-go.

Betwixt the murmur and the displays, a film installation plays in the background. It is a series of vignettes that depict the process of making the clothing, emphasizing that every piece is made in Los Angeles. Maryam Malakpour explains that she has been working with directors and other artists to make these short films, and that Los Angeles has played muse to her brand.

NewbarK is the epitome of style and ease, the classic theme of uptown/coastal combination is developed to satisfy the demands of a working woman’s need for comfort.

Zyanya Salazar is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].