A Designer’s Rise to the Top By Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger
A big name on the runway at IMG/Mercedes-Benz Fall/Winter 2011 Fashion Week in New York was Elie Tahari. His story is inspirational to all those that hold a dream and a desire to succeed.
Elie was born in Jerusalem and after his discharge from serving in the Israeli Air Force as a mechanic, he decided to pursue his true ambition in the United States………in New York City. He held less than $100 in his pocket and slept on benches in Central Park. During the era of discos and Studio 54 in the 70’s, Tahari worked in the NY Garment District changing light bulbs by day and worked at a boutique in trendy Greenwich Village by night. His creativity took hold and he began designing flirty dance dresses as well as hot items such as the ever-popular tube top which he sold for $4. They were a huge hit. He was so well received that his label took off and he became one of the first fashion designers to open a boutique on Madison Avenue in 1974. He went on to give women the tailored suit in the 80’s and his style and design parlayed him to the top of his field.
Not only does Tahari design stylish and sophisticated women’s clothes, but in 2006 the company launched a full menswear line and expanded into accessories with a luxury shoe and bag collection and later moved forward with jewelry and leather accessories.
This latest Fall/Winter 2011 Collection was a wonderful example of fashion elegance. In the words of Elie Tahari, “The Collection unfolds with the cinematic movement of an Antique Music Box”.
Leather, wool, lace and chiffon made for a romantic and extremely desirable collection. Black, red and white dominated the runway in elegant dresses and gowns. A red chiffon and lace flowing dress with a thin red belt and red boots introduced us to femininity and flair on the runway. A black halter top gown with lace applique flowed seductively with every step that the model took.
Fabrics were combined in an elegant way. A fur jacket with a delicate long-sleeved shirt was paired with animal print pants.
Classic tailored looks were intertwined and included a white suit with long black leather gloves and white fur stole. Tailored pieces in wool were paired with smoky chiffon and lace blouses with lattice bell sleeves. A burnt-colored leather jacket could warm the winter snow worn with a velvet jacket in the same color.
An interesting capelet top in a lighter fabric with appliques was simply elegant shown with tight pants, boots and gloves.
This collection was a presentation of so many fabulous looks to choose from. Elie Tahari knows just what type of clothes a woman wants and needs to look beautiful and capture her particular style.
Tahari’s worldwide presence and brand are not only popular in the United States but can be found in Korea, Dubai, Greece and Mexico. His fashions only get bigger and better each season.
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