When I was a teenager, the preppy trend was huge and the hot item for the “cool” girls was the Lilly Pulitzer® shift dress made famous by the Oprah of the day, Jackie Kennedy. The 60’s were a trans-formative fashion era as the prissy 50’s relaxed into the audacious 70’s. Rebellious color combinations were emerging and the designer at its roots was Lilly Pulitzer®. Recognized for her free spirit, she was, in her day, a fulcrum of feminism, stepping out of the status quo to offer the unexpected. Influenced by the world in which she lived, Palm Beach, Florida; she created a kaleidoscope of unique prints that defined her style and made Lilly collectors of her devoted followers. She was a free spirit who was not afraid to make a bold statement. Her designs became a mantle of unabashed feminine expression.
In the Hanky Panky showroom several months ago, when they asked me to look at a new collection that would be launching this week, it was not very difficult to identify the source. Printed directly on Hanky Panky’s signature lace were two vintage prints revived from the Lilly Pulitzer® archives: “Checking In and Luscious”. It was quite clear that a collaboration was in progress. What a vibrant partnership, the brand renowned for storied artwork and the company who originated the color plenty thong. Certainly, Hanky Panky has always embraced the fashionably eclectic. They continue to push lingerie boundaries, successfully liberating trends in shape, color, prints and seminal design partnerships. This one with Lilly Pulitzer® is so copacetic, I believe it will join the trove of Hanky Panky trophies.
“Style Isn’t Just About What You Wear, It’s About How You Live” ~Lilly Pulitzer
