How Xanadu can a collection go without it feeling kitsch? Pretty far, as long as you forgo the roller skates. Tamara Mellon proved as much with her Resort collection, which was inspired by a "cosmic woman." Mellon showed a cold-shoulder blouse in the prettiest pale blue, a peach dress sequined with celestial bodies, and a peacock-printed tunic, all channeling the season s familiar 70s vibe but in an irresistible way. Along with the seasonal showpieces—including a jumpsuit dripping in fringe—Mellon brought back some of her signatures. A car-wash-fringe skirt, for instance, was rendered this time in a gray workwear wool. In accessories, the news was the cone heel, which Mellon said was designed with the season s muse in mind. It was of that era, sure, but it also looked modern attached to the bottom of a strappy sandal. As did a viscose-jersey gray-heather maxi dress, which was so soft and luxurious one might be willing to pay just to touch it.
It s been nearly two years since Mellon launched her namesake collection, and the designer is now opening her own shop—a pop-up in the Hamptons set to debut in July. She has also designed the uniforms for the Blade helicopter service, which offers trips out east and back. Sounds like a smart move. Mellon s customer does not seem like one to wait in Long Island Expressway traffic.
