Elie Tahari is one of the many brands on my radar that I haven't been able to weave into various articles, largely because it's consistently at an even keel, providing customers with excellent quality at an affordable price. I can't even stalk their sales because by the time items hit the rack, they've been scooped up. They're really great with color and texture -- case in point, a purple v-neck sweater that I've been lusting after.
So when the offer came to preview the new men's collection, I couldn't resist. I had to fit it into a very tight week. I also didn't have the energy for the CFDA nods this time around (the event was in the same time slot). So I'm looking at this as an opportunity to provide the brand with much deserved digital ink.
This is my second time in their space. Four years ago, when I was a wide-eyed newbie fashion writer, I followed friends to the swank offices across from Bryant Park. They've stayed consistent ever since. A chandelier greets you above the reception desk. The designer is obsessed with a clean ascetic and black-and-white photography; so, along one corridor you see old photos of the TWA terminal designed by Eero Saarinen and Associates (it's now out of commission and the façade takes you to JetBlue). We share an unhealthy obsession with Richard Avedon and Helmut Newton. There are famous pictures that litter the office of models long gone, yet who've left their impression on the way we view the industry.
I pulled a model from the cue, and we took pictures in the hallway and in their posh lounge.
Chatting with creative director Kobi Halperin, I find out that a military blanket from the forties is the inspiration for the new mens' line. I'm really fascinated by a leather coat with zippers. Insulation is provided by air pockets while the zippers run stylishly down the front. The house makes their own fabric and tightly controls production. Tailored wool, cashmere, suede and cotton are always the running palate. Leather accents also replace collars. Some of my favorite pants are made from a fabric combining both cotton and metal. Kobi aims to "spoil my customer."
The brand has 11 boutiques and is sold in almost all major department stores. Prices range from $55 to $475. A while back, one of my best friends was having a birthday. We went shopping at Macy's, and I had to coerce her into finally getting an Elie Tahari cocktail dress for the party later that evening. She accused me of making her look "grown up." She got nothing but compliments.
The brand is a multimillion dollar operation, but unlike other houses with minimal sales they don't scream "notice me." Instead, they focus on product and the customer experience through the clothing they create.
The reason I like the brand so much is because they provide value for the customer. If you buy something in their stores, it won't fall apart in two weeks and you'll want to wear the garment over and over again. There's nothing sexier then that.