Elie Tahari has built his business on sleek, not-too-trendy clothes for working women, which is all to say there’s a lot of black. Some New Yorkers only wear black, and it’s always a safe bet when you’re shopping for an event or a big interview. But it’s made his collections feel a bit serious and one-dimensional in the past. That’s why it was a surprise to find emerald green velvet joggers and a gold velvet bomber in his Resort lineup; they may not be office appropriate, but they’ll open the brand up to a new, more forward-thinking customer.
Tahari also channeled a youthful, party-going vibe with his super-embellished looks. Don’t forget: Resort ships just before the holidays, and that’s likely the only time you could get away with his silver-beaded sheer blouse with lace insets, bell sleeves, and extralong fringe. The collection could have used a bit of editing; “more is more” worked for a few seasons, but some of the embellishments here appeared heavy-handed. A printed lace tank with thick fringe and sheer paneling also had a lot going on, especially styled with black joggers. More successful were the looks that exhibited some restraint, like a charcoal sweater with beading and fringe details, which you could dress up or wear with jeans. If you’re going to make a statement, do it with outerwear; a dégradé leopard coat had the makings of a future heirloom.
