Bold patterns, bright colors, timeless silhouettes — these are Elyce Arons’ love language. The fashion designer has become synonymous with these very elements, using them to launch two iconic brands: Kate Spade and Frances Valentine.
This month, Arons will be at the center of the Baptist Health Foundation’s annual Bolo Bash Reception and Luncheon. But first, she sat down with Soirée to talk new chapters, inspiration icons and the kind of joy only fashion can provide.
Frances Valentine is known for its joyful, playful use of colors. What role does color play in your own daily life and disposition?
EA: Wearing color has the ability to boost a person’s mood. I live in color both in my own home and what I wear. When you wear color, it can truly change how you are feeling. A few years ago, we made this incredible all-pink velvet suit, and every time I wear it, I get tons of compliments because it makes other people smile.
Tell me about the evolution of your personal style. Are there marked differences in how your tastes have changed over the years, or has it been more of a seamless journey?
EA: My personal style has changed so much over the years. When I was young, I remember coming to New York and buying a pair of purple parachute pants and green pointy-toed slouchy boots, which were very trendy at the time. Over the years, I have taken risks; some felt right and some did not. The things that have remained closet staples all this time are my vintage pieces. They evoke a nostalgic, but timeless and carefree feeling all at once.
Looking back at 10 years of Frances Valentine, how do you know when it’s time to launch something new? To start a new chapter?
EA: After founding Kate Spade with three partners and selling the business in 2006, Katy (Kate Spade) and I talked about how much we missed fashion and that we still had a deep love for creating. In 2016, we launched Frances Valentine, beginning once again with handbags and shoes. When you’re feeling that pull to start something new, you know it’s time.
A point you often reiterate is to wear what makes you happy. How do you tap into that when you’re feeling uninspired?
EA: Keep colorful, easy-to-wear pieces in your wardrobe. Have a go-to outfit that is a sure-fire winner that makes you feel confident. One of mine is a pair of pink wide-wale corduroys, a peter pan collared shirt and an embroidered sweater with loafers. Easy, put together and stylish.
Between colors, textures and silhouettes, do you have a favorite go-to formula or winning combo when putting together an outfit?
EA: Layering various prints and textures is a great go-to formula because it is always different when you add new pieces. I start with a palette of no more than three colors that are complementary. When an outfit feels like it’s missing something, I like to throw a sweater over my shoulders or add statement jewelry to complete the look.
Who is the one vintage style icon you can’t get enough of, and what do you love about them?
EA: There are so many, but right now, I go back to Mary Tyler Moore during the ’60s and ’70s when she played iconic roles as Laura Petrie on “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and Mary Richards on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Mary was confident, feminine and funny, and her style emulated her attitude.
What is your personal favorite piece of your latest launch and why?
EA: I can’t choose just one because they feel like all of my children. I adore the Modern Palm and the Kaleidoscope prints. These days I tend to always want a silhouette with a sleeve and to wear the longer styles rather than the shorter styles. Call me old-fashioned, but they just feel more appropriate to my age.
As more shoppers intentionally reject fast fashion, what have you learned about artistry and technique?
EA: What I have learned is to create something that lasts and that people will want to wear during their own lives and pass on to their daughters or grandchildren. We are the opposite of fast fashion. It feels so wasteful to me. Artistry, craft and technique take time, work and thought. Like they say, anything good is worth waiting for.
You’ve been open about the importance of mental health, particularly in speaking about Kate and especially vulnerably in your memoir. What does it mean to you to be part of this event supporting Baptist Health’s behavioral health services?
EA: I am grateful to be included in this event supporting Baptist Health’s behavior services. It was not that long ago that speaking about mental health challenges was taboo or embarrassing. It needs to be discussed openly so people suffering feel they can ask for the help they need. We have come so far, but have so much further to go.
Bolo bash, benefiting the baptist health foundation
Reception: April 21, 6 p.m. | The Capital Hotel
Luncheon: April 22, 10:30 a.m. | Little Rock Marriott
Info: bolobashluncheon.org