Houston: Designer Harris Reed unveiled a 1960s retro-inspired collection at Tootsies, attended by local style icons. The event highlighted Reed’s whimsical fabrics and celebrated the intersection of vintage fashion and contemporary celebrity culture, embracing the city’s unique fashion scene during Rodeo season.
Harris Reed, the designer at the forefront of vintage-inspired fashion, recently showcased his latest collection during an exclusive lunch event at Tootsies in Houston, highlighting a pronounced 1960s retro aesthetic. Known for his whimsical use of fabrics, Reed’s collection features abundant polka dots, organza, and chiffon, calling it “Very ’60s archival.” In attendance were approximately two dozen prominent local women, with 15 of them donning designs from Reed’s collection in a celebration of style and creativity.
Reed, who became the youngest creative director in Nina Ricci’s 91-year history when he assumed the position in September 2022 at the age of 28, is quickly establishing himself as a favourite among notable celebrities. His designs have been embraced by stars such as Beyoncé, Harry Styles, Demi Moore, Adele, and others, reflecting the influence of vintage fashion on contemporary celebrity wardrobes. As he mingled with attendees, Reed exhibited a warm demeanor, greeting guests with double-cheeked air kisses, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie.
The designer’s recent visit to Houston coincided with the Rodeo season, inspiring him to incorporate Western motifs into his ensemble. “The first of many,” he indicated regarding his purchase of a Western hat, expressing enthusiasm for the rodeo theme that has captivated fashion circles following Beyoncé’s recent Grammy triumph with “Cowboy Carter.” To enhance his look, publicist Whitney Khun Lawson presented Reed with a “R-O-D-E-O” necklace from the Christina Greene collection, complemented by multiple diamond rings on his fingers.
Reed, who shares residences in Paris and London with his husband Eitan Senerman, appreciated the unique fashion vibe in Houston during this visit—an occasion prompted by his CEO who recognised the city’s cultural significance. Notably, Tootsies is the sole retailer in Houston offering the complete collection of Reed’s designs, which often juxtapose ladylike silhouettes with elements of edginess.
The event featured models showcasing Reed’s designs, with black stockings and tights making a notable return to fashion, as confirmed by Reed himself. Attendees enjoyed a lavish lunch from A Fare Extraordinaire and admired the black and white Nina Ricci palette, which proved popular among those with sophisticated tastes. Guests such as Kuhn, Zinat Ahmed, Lauren Fertitta, and others were dressed in Nina Ricci style, with Tootsies’ creative fashion director Fady Armanious sporting an oversized bow tie and cummerbund from the collection.
This gathering exemplifies how vintage fashion continues to resonate in modern pop culture, influencing celebrity style and garnering attention from fashion historians and enthusiasts alike. As Reed expands his design ethos, he draws on influences from each city he visits, further blurring the lines between past and present in the realm of high fashion.
Source: Noah Wire Services
