Taylored to Perfection

Taylored to Perfection

Posted on Nov. 20, 2016

Fashion designer Rebecca Taylor recently unveiled LA VIE, her new casual collection inspired by Parisian street style, at Nordstrom UTC. The line features vintage wash jeans, ruffled blouses, and lace-trimmed tops for a look that is decidedly feminine and full of joie de vivre. “I always feel happy in Paris,” says the designer. “I wanted something that described life and living — clothes you can live in.” Indeed, the collection reflects how Taylor herself likes to dress on weekends and off-duty: cargo pants, Victorian lingerie worn as tops, striped sweaters, “anything that feels utilitarian or classic with twists on it.”  A New Zealand native, Taylor moved to New York City, where she launched her eponymous label 20 years ago. Her designs have been described as “modern romanticism.” “I think it’s always about femininity that’s been grounded,” she explains. “So I can have a really beautiful floral silk shirt but it’s with denim cut-offs. A sandal that looks a little bit clunky, but it has beading on it.” For whom does she design? “My girl is feminine and strong and smart and well-read,” says Taylor, who believes women no longer have to dress like men to prove themselves. “We can still show our femininity,” she says, “and kick ass.” rebeccataylor.com  ANDREA NAVERSEN