Tamara Mellon – Pre Spring/Summer 2016 Ready-To-Wear

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.