BIRDIE COLLECTION
I'm delighted to share our new collection, inspired by and named after my grandmother, Roberta, or as those closest to her called her, Birdie. The collection is a celebration of her impeccable sense of style, her boundless creativity, and the stories she shared about life growing up in Brooklyn.
My grandmother sparked my interest in fashion from a young age. Some of my favorite afternoons were spent together in her attic, sorting through what I considered to be 'wearable art' and trying on shoes that I refused to accept were too big or high for my seven-year-old feet.
As I modeled each look, she would describe what detail she loved most, what fabulous department store she found it in, or what classy party she wore it to. For me, it was a magical mix of story-telling and dress-up that still inspires me to this day.
Her style was classic and very chic, always with a hint of unexpected detail or whimsical flair. She often wore a brooch, usually a blossoming organza peony in whatever color felt just right for the day. Even though she was likely the most fashionable woman most of us around her knew, she was always modest, kind and full of grace.
Birdie often expressed the importance of buying less but spending more on a few key wardrobe pieces, ones that were produced locally, well-made and would last a lifetime. She didn't always buy less, and sometimes spent more, but her message resonated with me and is likely what inspired my commitment to producing beautifully-constructed, heirloom-quality pieces in NYC's Garment District.
For this collection, we chose fabrications and details that felt nostalgic yet fresh, and we balanced structure with romantic draping and ethereal textures. Along with our signature buttery silks, we constructed pieces in luminous sheer organza, delicate chantilly lace and wispy tulle. The embroidery placement is playful, yet refined and sculptural to reflect my grandmother's love for floral arranging. We re-created the fabric flower brooch Birdie would often wear so our brides can add their own whimsical touch to their wedding gown or any ensemble that feels just right.
Today, I live not too far from where my grandmother grew up and often pass her old street when visiting Prospect Park, a place she treasured and where we shot our editorial for this collection. It was so special spending the day at the boathouse along the lake and styling the lookbook with some of her favorite accessories; a dainty straw hat with lace applique and an assortment of rings and earrings embellished with pearls. Though Birdie passed away this past February, my memories of her and our days spent in her attic will live on through this collection.
xo Alexandra
