After a gorgeous presentation at last week's fall '10 fashion week, designer Vivienne Tam is already looking toward the future. Having decided to market her sleek, artfully tailored designs to a wider market, Tam has teamed up with Republic Clothing Group to create a new brand, Vivienne Vivienne Tam, a better-priced collection of knitwear and separates that will hit stores next fall. With an emphasis on mostly knit pieces, the line includes asymmetric and architectural shapes in cardigans, sweaters, dresses and leggings; Tam's well known use of print and sophisticated textures will also be emphasized, using bouclé, cabling, ruching and other novelty knits. And though the new line will resonate with many of Tam's signature touches, it will wholesale from $29 to $99 and is priced two-thirds less than Tam’s contemporary sportswear line, which ranges from $100 to $300.
“Vivienne was the perfect name to bring to the better market,” said
Steven Sall, chief executive officer of Republic Clothing. “It has a
contemporary updated flair that’s Asian influenced and very
sophisticated.” Tam herself is enthusiastic about the partnership as well, having licensed her name to Republic. “My collection is more woven-driven. I have always looked for someone
who does sweaters well. It’s an enhancement of my collection at a
better price point,” she said. Despite Republic's manufacturing and distribution rights, Tam is working closely with its design, production and sales teams.When Vivienne Vivienne Tam hits stores in August, it will be delivered
monthly and will offer six seasons: fall one and two, holiday, resort,
spring and summer transitional. Michael Warner, president of Republic, noted they are currently shopping the line to retailers such as Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Dillard’s and Macy’s and has hopes for the eventual Vivienne Vivienne Tam freestanding store. For now, it has been confirmed that the line will be
available in Tam’s own SoHo store in New York, as well as Tam stores
throughout Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore.
Article and Photo Source: WWD
-Alia Rajput
