Byron Lars has been a household name in the fashion industry for years, launching his eponymous collection in the 90s, then shifting gears in a new direction with his “Byron Lars Beauty Mark” line, and later a collaboration with boho retailer Anthropologie. This season, the style veteran launches an exclusive BYRON Byron Lars line with HSN for the chic women on-the-move and ESSENCE.com chats with the designer to get the details on his new collection.
ESSENCE.com: What was the catalyst for choosing HSN to collaborate with next and how is this collection different?
BYRON LARS: Although my collection for HSN is inspired by the very shirts and shirtdresses that I built my business with, it has a completely different sensibility than anything I’m doing for either Anthropologie or for my name sake collection.
My clothes for HSN are a return to clean American sportswear, but with body enhancing structure to keep it sexy. More than anything though, this collection is about effortless chic…being pulled together without looking like you’ve really tried.
ESSENCE.com: How does HSN line stay true to the Byron Lars aesthetic?
LARS: This collection stays true to the Byron Lars aesthetic through its signature draping, construction and stitch details.
ESSENCE.com: How have you translated your prices and sizes for the masses?
LARS: The thing that most excited me about an HSN collaboration was FINALLY being able to offer great clothes in sizes larger than 12, which is something I’ve wanted to do for many years now.
The readily accessible price point that we all worked so hard and were actually able to achieve (without diminishing integrity of product) ranked a very close second on my excitement scale.
ESSENCE.com: The pieces reflect closet staples almost all women own. Which would you say is that one key piece in the collection?
LARS: My fit and flare shirtdress is a must have because of its crisp lines, its comfort and its versatility.
ESSENCE.com: You’ve dressed everyone including First Lady Michelle Obama. Could you tell us who the Byron Lars woman is and which piece from your new collection could you see the First Lady wearing?
LARS: The Byron Lars for HSN woman is evolved and fully self-actualized. She’s very fashionable but, she’s got more lofty concerns than fashion itself. She needs clothes that function and that will allow her move freely throughout her busy life.
I could definitely see Mrs. Obama wearing this dress as a topper over a simple black shell and my power stretch skinny pant, with a wide, waist cinching belt.
Shop BYRON Byron Lars at HSN here!