Halston
On Friday, May 14th, Netflix is launching a 5 part series about the iconic designer Roy Halston Frowick. This enthralling series, starring Ewan McGregor, discovers the man behind the brand, what made him tick, and why we credit him with changing the face of American fashion.
“Pants will be with us for many years to come. Probably forever, if you can make that statement in fashion.”
-Roy Halston Frowick
As the exclusive H Halston retailer in Australia and New Zealand, TVSN is thrilled to be celebrating the Netflix series launch. To commemorate, we take a look at some of the revolutionary fashion statements implemented by the designer that changed the way we dress today.
Founded in the 1960s, the Halston label took the fashion industry by storm. Known for his innovation in millinery, Halston used his signature materials of jersey, cashmere, and suede to reinvent the jumpsuit, the shirtdress, and the classic kaftan, permanently leaving his mark on fashion.
- Halston was a pivotal influence in the transition toward women wearing pants. He recognised that trousers granted women the freedom to move around, which they had never experienced before.
- The first designer to use ultra-suede in collections, Halston pioneered the use of this new versatile fabric. Thanks to Halston, the world discovered how easy it is to wear and care for ultra-suede.
- His most iconic design, the halter dress, was an instant hit. Women loved the elegant design that crafted a sexy, elongated silhouette.
- Mastering the knee-length wrap dress, made of draped rayon matte jersey, Halston sold over 40,000 copies of the original design.
- Halston loved to utilise the bias cut, allowing the fabric to fall naturally over the body, creating curves and soft drapes. The technique complimented his much-loved functional, elegant, fluid aesthetic.
- After the designer tied a sweater around his models’ shoulders, the look was adopted by fashionable women everywhere.
Dressing iconic women
In the 1970’s the Halston name became synonymous with both high fashion and high society. Stars of the times were often seen on his arm, wearing his designs. Liza Minelli was his best friend and confidant, quoting “his clothes danced with you.” Jackie Kennedy put Halston on the map when she wore his famous Pillbox Hat to the 1961 Inauguration of JFK. Bianca Jagger and Elizabeth Taylor were his muses and entourage. What's more, Halston even designed the classic uniforms worn by Braniff airlines flight staff.
