Amy Zerner's Fashion Sense: Fashion Inspired by Fairy Tales
Some great designer couture runway shows recently included very inspiring fantasy creations, displaying ornate outfits that you might encounter in a fairy tale realm. I am one who has always included magic and meaning in my choices of art to wear. If you want some inspiration and guidance, check out some of the beautiful fairy tale art.
Pagan goddesses, Arabian nights, fairy godmothers, ethereal sheer fabrics and hooded capes are just some of the looks that can transform your persona. Adorn yourself with fairy tale flora and fauna prints, delicate embroidery or appliqué. There are lots of ways to bring a hint of folklore. Daydream a little!
Think of adding a little sparkle, golden textures—both matte and shimmery. You can really have fun accessorizing your ensemble with anything dainty and leafy or anything that reminds you of a discovered treasure. Try an embellished headband, some tassels or celestial earrings.
My mother Jessie Zerner was a children’s book illustrator—she collected fairy tale books, and always read them to me when I was a child. I grew up with these sensibilities. As an art student and hippie in the ’60s, my friends and I scoured thrift shops for velvet coats from the ’30s, chiffon flapper dresses and other vintage adornments that we could dress up in.
When I was in my early 20s, I had the pleasure of working with the actress Julie Christie. She gave me this George Barbier print (illustrated above). Barbier’s artwork depicted Paris couture and the fashionable activities of the elite at the beginning of the 1920s. His illustrations had a marvelous fairy tale quality. I treasure this one.
Now, as a designer for Bergdorf’s, my fashion designs have the flavor and fantasy of bygone eras, mixed with a touch of new-age chic.
Amy Zerner is the Hamptons number one fashion blogger and fashion designer.
You can find her creations at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC or at The Enchanted World Emporium, 8 Main Street, East Hampton, next to Rowdy Hall Restaurant 631-324-7695.