Fashion queen opens closet for sale
Cydney White started collecting designer labels in 1950s New York
Investigative reporter Cydney White has had a whirlwind life. She’s worked in numerous countries on various projects but one thing that’s remained constant is her love of designer fashion.
White began buying European designer labels in consignment stores in the 1950s when she worked in the press department at the United Nations in New York City. As her knowledge of global issues expanded so did her wardrobe.
“I was always in public. I needed something different each day that was the lifestyle.” So she would wear aHalston blazer during the day and slip into Christian Dior evening wear at night.
Now 80 and back in Toronto, White has a treasure trove of vintage finds — blazers, coats, evening gowns — as well as lingerie, bags, jewelry and shoes, tucked away. This weekend she is opening her closets to the public to put her favourite vintage finds back in circulation.
“These are classic pieces — Valentino, Bill Blass, Halston — this Tierry Mugler dress should be in a museum,” she says.
There are more than 200 items — clothing size 4 to 10 — priced to attract the young fashionable set, she says.
This is not the first time White has had held a clothing sale. She tried to empty her rolling racks about 10 years ago, but wasn’t quite ready to let it all go. Now it is time, she says. Most items run from $30 to $100.
Cydney White’s vintage clothing sale runs from noon to 8 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 at 360 Ridelle Ave. (Buzzer 352) For details, call 416-787-0592.