Make an entrance
FOUR-YEAR- OLD Hellessy is emerging as a label to watch, thanks to designer Sylvie Millstein’s dramatic yet unfussy approach to eveningwear. Hits from the fall collection include a sweeping hooded robe in kelly-green silk, balloon-sleeve blouses and swishy fringed maxiskirts. Here’s what the designer had to say about what it means to get dressed up in 2018. HOW HAS THE LINE CHANGED SINCE YOU LAUNCHED IT?
“I launched in 2012 with elevated basics, and now it has evolved into statement dressing. I saw that women really want pieces—like statement tops and pants—that can be mixed and matched into their existing wardrobes.” WHAT’S THE STORY BEHIND THE FALL COLLECTION?
“I took inspiration from Tony Duquette, a creator of film and theatre sets, costumes and movie-star mansions. I embraced Duquette’s theatrical blend of classical and modern styles and incorporated a sumptuous mix of statement silhouettes in bold fabrics to achieve a fresh take on more is more.” HAS THE IDEA OF GETTING DRESSED UP CHANGED?
“Of course! Women want evolved and modern formalwear. They want to feel empowered, not restricted. The new approach to formal dressing is a blazer dress with slashed sleeves or a silk top-andpants set. It’s about expanding beyond the concept of a traditional gown.”
“With any collaboration, I think it’s important to delve into their world as much as bring your world into theirs.” – MARY KATRANTZOU, who worked with Canadian outerwear label Moose Knuckles this season. The London designer brought her knack for kaleidoscopic prints to the brand’s coats, and the resulting collection is outrageously imaginative: A quilted parka is covered in an intricate jacquard, and a cropped bomber is made from tufted leather to resemble a chesterfield.