Rachel Zoe is on cloud nine. With her newborn son and successfully launched clothing line, the celeb stylist and reality show star can’t believe the response her line has received.“It was this dream that I never thought would be reality because I was petrified — I was,” she recalled. “I feel so complete now becoming a designer and having my son. I’m that happiest that I’ve ever been in my life.”
At last check, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Intermix, Selfridges and Kirna Zabête have all purchased her label. Neiman Marcus alone is launching Zoe’s sportswear, handbags and shoes in July at all 41 locations plus online and at Bergdorf Goodman. WWD referred to the the Neiman’s rollout as ” a rare endorsement of a fledgling brand.”
But everyone seems to be on board at the retailer. “She is a real talent,” senior vice president Ken Downing said. “She understands the customer and she’s brought an effortless chic to the collection. The clothes are going to appeal to women of many ages. And, she’s got an amazing name.” Downing himself mentored the stylist as she was developing the brand, advising her “not to be afraid of color and prints” and to evaluate fabric weight and bulk, Zoe herself said.
“I really put myself into what he was saying, and I really listened, and I don’t listen to anyone,” she explained. “He said, ‘I get these really heavy coats, and they’re fabulous and luxurious for people that live in, like, Iceland or, like, Antarctica, but the reality is you really can only wear them for four weeks because the climates are so messed up.’ It’s hot everywhere.…We made some changes.” And if new motherhood and design ingenue weren’t enough on her plate, Zoe already has more big plans in the works, including fashion jewelry for fall 2012. “I wish it were for spring,” she said wistfully. “I am dying to do jewelry. I’m gagging.”
-Alia Rajput
Article and Photo Source: WWD
