Five Fab Couture Connoisseurs

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As published this week on CincyChic.com...

Mo Moa!

JoAnne Gerwe is an artist who has worked with all types of mediums, everything from paints to clay, but when she dabbled in the medium of fiber, she found her niche

Gerwe — literally on a thread of inspiration and creativity — took her vision and began knitting. She founded http://www.wearmoa.com/index.htm, a site where she could sell her — as well as other artisans' — high-quality hand-knitted garments from some of the world's finest organic fibers such as Cashmere, Alpaca, Guanaco, Buffalo and hand-dyed wools. Eventually, Gerwe opened a retail space, Moa HandKnits, Artisan Boutique, in Madeira. There, you'll find Gerwe's handmade designs as well as the work of other artisans such as Daniel Storto Gloves, Gretchen Walker Jewelry, Indie Collective Couture, Feel handbags and more.

So, why should you visit Moa? "Everything is handcrafted by American Artisans," says Gerwe. "The quality of the items is exceptional and the designs are laid back, stylish, artistic and very wearable. At Moa Artisan Boutique, you will find luxurious yet laid back style in my label, Moa HandKnits. The collaboration of artists is fantastic and there is nothing like it in this region."

Another reason why everyone should shop Moa is the unbelievable customer service you'll receive from Gerwe, "The shopping experience is inspiring, relaxing and fun. Not to mention, I offer a high level of personal attention. I can create custom garments, and have a team of artists ready to collaborate at any given time. All of this enables me to be a master at resolving any style emergency."

And here's and insider scoop from Gerwe herself: Check out the "Feel Fall Collection" of handbags that just arrived. Gerwe collaborated with Indie Collective for wearables exclusive to Moa.

Neysa Ruhl Photography

Angora Web Series Wrap by Moa HandKnits, JoAnne Gerwe
Daniel Storto Gloves, Fuchsia Wool Jersey Gauntlets
Indie Collective Glitz Tankette and Silk Taffeta Skirt
Shoes: Morrison & Me, Cincinnati
Model: Lindsay Boggs.
Hair: Jonathan Alon