Selma Blair and Isaac Mizrahi Launch Accessible Fashion Collection: A Real Dream Come True
Actress Selma Blair and designer Isaac Mizrahi are launching an accessible clothing collection with QVC called Isaac Mizrahi Live! x Selma Blair. The collection was inspired by Blair's experience living with multiple sclerosis and includes adaptive features.
Selma Blair, known for her acting, advocacy work, and authorship, has now ventured into the world of fashion design. Teaming up with her longtime friend Isaac Mizrahi, Blair is launching a clothing collection with QVC called Isaac Mizrahi Live! x Selma Blair. This collection has been a longtime aspiration for Blair, especially since being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2018 and facing the challenges that come with it, including mobility issues.
The idea for the collaboration came about when Blair ran into Mizrahi at a restaurant in New York City shortly after her diagnosis. She expressed her desire to collaborate on a collection that would be accessible for people with disabilities as well as those without. Mizrahi was immediately on board, and now their vision has become a reality.
Blair and Mizrahi have a longstanding relationship, having worked together on various red carpet looks throughout the years. One of their most memorable collaborations was for The Sweetest Thing premiere in 2002, where Mizrahi designed Blair's dress. They also worked together for the CFDA Awards in 2004, with Mizrahi creating a stunning color-blocked dress that served as inspiration for their current collection.
Mizrahi was particularly inspired by Blair's resilience in the face of her MS diagnosis and felt compelled to create adaptive pieces that would cater to a wider audience. He believes in democratizing fashion and making it accessible to all, and QVC was the perfect partner for this venture due to their affordability and accessibility.
The collection was developed in collaboration with the disability community and incorporates features such as easy open necklines, magnetic closures, stretch fabrics, and flat seams, all based on universal design principles. There are 15 styles available, including shirts, sweaters, jackets, pants, and accessories, with prices ranging from $49 to $129.
Blair personally loves the silky blouses and jackets from the collection, which she wears herself. She finds them reminiscent of YSL seventies fashion and finds the magnetic button plackets to be both functional and stylish. As someone who has always appreciated high-end jackets, Blair is thrilled to have washable options that still exude a luxurious look.
Both Blair and Mizrahi have high standards when it comes to fashion, and they wanted their collection to reflect their sense of style. Mizrahi emphasizes the importance of cuteness in clothing, and he believes that Blair could make anything look stylish. Seeing Blair in their collection was an emotional experience for him, as he felt it provided her with a sense of relief.
Designing the collection was a learning process for both Blair and Mizrahi. They had to consider the comfort of individuals who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility. Blair discovered that white clothing is not ideal for wheelchair users, as it can get caught in the tires and leave marks. They also had to be mindful of fabrics and seams that could become uncomfortable over time. They consulted with people in the disability community and learned from their experiences.
QVC is proud to be a part of this inclusive clothing launch. Rachal Ungaro, GMM and VP of Fashion Merchandising for QVC, highlights the extraordinary relationship between Blair and Mizrahi and their shared passion for style and design. The collection embodies inclusivity and accessibility, and QVC is excited for customers to fall in love with it.
For Blair, this entire process has been a dream come true. She never imagined herself stepping into the role of a creative director or designer, but she has gained a newfound respect for those in the industry. She believes that every woman should feel as chic as she does in Isaac Mizrahi's designs.
Looking ahead, Blair hopes to continue collaborating with Mizrahi and potentially expand the collection to include menswear or unisex items. She wants to fill the gap in the market for chic basics that are accessible to all genders and cater to various clothing needs.
The Isaac Mizrahi Live! x Selma Blair collection will premiere live on QVC on October 6 at 1PM ET, and customers can shop the collection on QVC's website. This collection represents a significant step towards making fashion more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
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