The Little Black Dress That Could
The stark-white runway at New York Fashion Week has no shortage of androgynous couture and jigsaw puzzles of dramatic accessories.
Now available to the public, Bright Young Things' dress is made to order, cutting down on overstock and production waste. Photo: Amanda Wills, Earth911.com
It does, however, notoriously lack a connection with the general public – those outside of the five-foot-ten, legs-that-won’t-quit demographic.
That’s why we were pleasantly surprised at the Bright Young Things (BYT) collection on the last day of the GreenShows at the Metropolitan Pavilion.
While it had its moments of off-the-cuff flair (a Carey Mulligan-esque model sporting a sequined head brace, for example), BYT was all about one thing: staples.
Launched in June by Eliza Starbuck of the Uniform Project, BYT’s signature is its little black dress, which can be worn in more ways than we can recount here. It’s a true reuse adventure for any woman.
“I’ve seen so many women with closets full of clothes who say, ‘I haven’t got a thing to wear’. I’m giving them one dress that they can wear forwards, backwards, open, again and again, with anything they like,” Starbuck said.
Bright Young Things' collection also featured other spring staple pieces. Photo: Amanda Wills, Earth911.com
In fact, one blogger wore it for 365 days straight, inspiring literal dress wear-a-thons. And on Wednesday, we saw more variations of the black dress off the runway than actually on it, as several attendees were sporting their $185 purchase with an added personal flair.
Made from a mixture of cotton and Lycra, the dress is reversible, can button up, down or half-way. Its multifunctional design is flattering on just about any figure, and it has deep pockets to boot.
Throw on your favorite belt to accentuate your waist during the day, or add a sequined shawl and high heeled peep-toe booties for an easy transition to night.
Also part of BYT’s collection were seven other spring essentials including mid-waisted khaki shorts, cream-colored button skirt and lightweight, casual pants.
Manufactured locally in New York City, BYT’s little black dress is made to order and sold in limited quantities at Maryam Nassir Zadeh in the Lower East Side, at Norfolk and Rivington or online.
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