Budget chic from New York to Canada
His luxurious creations have been worn by A-list stars and presidential wives, but with his latest fashion endeavour, Isaac Mizrahi is bringing his brand of affordable chic to the masses north of the border.
The legendary New Yorkbased designer was in Toronto recently in support of the Isaac Mizrahi Live! collection, available exclusively at The Shopping Channel in Canada, which includes apparel, accessories and footwear for women.
Launching his first collection in 1987, the colourful, curly-haired designer is well-known for his classic creations worn by notable names such as Rihanna, Oprah Winfrey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Hillary Clinton, Michelle Obama and the late Audrey Hepburn.
Partnering with U.S. retailer Target since 2003, Mizrahi is widely seen as one of the pioneers of designer collaborations. Mizrahi also embraced the “highlow” wardrobe concept when he presented pieces from his couture line with items from his Target range.
“Everything’s sort of democratized. And to me, it’s the most sort of interesting and most beautiful, in the right sense of the word,” said the affable Mizrahi, as he prepared for a live appearance on The Shopping Channel.
The mix-and-match mantra is one still maintained by the designer today with his Isaac Mizrahi Live! range, which is focused on the “urbane woman” in need of must-have items to add to her wardrobe, he said.
Items in the collection range from around $40 to $229, showcasing a vast array of dress styles including peplums, sheaths, pleated skirt-dresses, printed paisley numbers and ladylike looks mixing leather and lace. Perforated pencil skirts, flowing tunics,animal-print-adorned blazers and pants, plaid-patterned blazers and trenches are also featured, with riding boots, wristwatches, leather satchels and quilted bags in the line to accessorize ensembles.
Mizrahi said he’s reached the stage in his life and career where communicating with the person he is dressing is very important. This is why he values the feedback he receives when on air, discussing his brand with women.