A few thoughts about fashion from Vogue's André Leon Talley

　　

　　

　　Kathy Schultz

　　Writer Kathy Schultz chatted with Vogue contributing editor André Leon Talley at the Fall 2010 Chanel fashion show held June 9 at the Novelty Hill Januik Winery in Woodinville.

　　One of the highlights of the Fall 2010 Chanel fashion show held Wednesday, June 9, at the Novelty Hill Januik Winery in Woodinville (see my recap here) was interviewing the legendary fashion icon André Leon Talley. A.L.T. (as Mr. Leon Talley is commonly known) has been one of the most influential people in fashion in the past few decades.

　　His career at Vogue began in 1983, and he held the position of editor-at-large for many years until recently, when he became a contributing editor. As one of his current endeavors, A.L.T. serves on the judging panel for Tyra Banks' popular reality TV show, "America's Next Top Model." For a deeper look into this fashion monolith's life and inspiration, check out his book, "A.L.T.: A Memoir."

　　I had a most gracious and welcoming reception by A.L.T. and a comment about my dress. "I love the fabric. Who is the designer?" he asked. I was wearing a silk brocade print dress by local designer Victoria Simons.

　　A.L.T. was only in town for a very short while. His first trip to Seattle, he said he was struck by the landscape, mountains and water, and enthralled with the renowned Rem Koolhaas-designed Seattle Public Library. He likened it to a "big faceted diamond."

　　Known for his dashiki-style tops, this evening A.L.T. wore a Chado Ralph Rucci design. The graphic was inspired by a Japanese Samurai warrior costumed in the 17th century style. "This is my uniform. I have many versions of the same thing. I can't just go into a store and buy things," he said, referencing his larger-than-average frame.

　　Though his figure is imposing, A.L.T.'s manner has a gentleness and kindness about him. But he also means business. I asked him about his thoughts on fashion and frivolity. "Frivolity is never used in fashion. Yes, a dress can have a quality of being frivolous, but fashion is not frivolous. Fashion is a serious subject." (I was reminded of the scene in "The Devil Wears Prada" where Meryl Streep explains the concept and value of fashion to her assistant, who thinks she's wearing "just a blue sweater.")

　　Most importantly, A.L.T. emphasizes individuality in style. I asked him what he saw as the most significant trends for fall. He responded, "I don't believe in them. A trend is something you determine." To him, style is all about individuality. "It's a comment on your own inner self. You can't buy it in a store."

　　But you can start with one piece. "Pick one important investment according to your budget," says A.L.T., "and adopt the style as your own by individualizing it." He pointed out some of the fabulous Chanel pieces available this fall to incorporate into a wardrobe. It could be a signature quilted Chanel bag in black, maroon or cerulean blue. Perhaps it's a sweater dress, or one of the stretchy jersey numbers. Or the long, faux fur Yeti boots -- you cannot mistake these for anything other than a statement of your own style when you pair them with skirts, dresses or pants.

　　Like personal style, A.L.T. is adamant about fashion for everyone. "There are many ways to be fashionable without a lot of money. Pick an accessory, a hat, necklace, cinched belt or handbag. It can be old or new. It's up to the individual to wear it in their own way."

　　Before we parted, I noticed A.L.T.'s shoes. They were custom-made by Roger Vivier in Paris. I asked if the embellished buckles were rhinestones? "Darling, these are diamantés!" he said, using the French-based fashion term for sparkly decorations. He paused and smiled. "That's rhinestones."

　　Here's an excerpt of our chat: