The line, available online and at high-end retailers such as Webster’s in Palm Springs, represents Harper’s dual inspirations: ballet discipline and rock ‘n’ roll renunciation. Her latest collection, Move With Abandon, celebrates movement with expressive prints, bold shoulders and oversized tailoring, inspired by icons such as David Bowie, Debbie Harry and Carole Armitage. “Our silk blouses are our hero items,” says Harper. “I can wear it to work, Go out with your girlfriends at night. ”
prints “Vivian,” inspired ‘Bauhaus’ by Vivienne Westwood, kaleidoscopic swirling geometric patterns add a playful irreverence to the lines, while meticulous tailoring reflects Harper’s precision as a dancer. The “discipline and sweat” it takes to be a successful dancer, combined with the “freedom and creativity of the art form,” give the clothes movement and whimsy.
Susan Stein, director of Fashion Week El Paseo, praises Harper for creating a line that combines high fashion glamor with wearability. Stein says her clothes are “feminine, elegant, hip and sophisticated.” Harper will present her collection at Fashion Week El Paseo on March 15, following presentations at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks. In Palm Desert.
Although her design business is based in Los Angeles, Harper considers Palm Springs her home and loves embedding her brand in the local community. A highlight for her was hosting the launch event at Webster, where she watched clients come out of their dressing rooms full of confidence. She says seeing real women wearing and loving her clothes was even more exciting than being on stage herself. “We hope that when they wear these clothes, it will help inspire their confidence and remind them of their core worth.”
Learn more about Fashion Week El Paseo and purchase tickets at fashionweekelpaseo.com.
