Some Locals stand out. They quickly become known for their own fashion sense. When these people truly have their own, original perspective, something others don't just ask about but wish to emulate, they may even start making or manufacturing pieces to offer to others. That is the case with the LUVly Leslie Dasch and her Dress for Cocktails' line of women's accessories.
Her latest offering is a line of hats, many featuring her trademark interchangeable bows. This being the hattiest -- yes, I just created a word -- time of the year, a Pop Up Shop was definitely in order. You can find her having one tomorrow, Saturday, April 24, 11 – 2, at Through the Looking Glass on Park Avenue. Yes, exactly one week til this year’s Kentucky Derby!
This week I asked Leslie how her aesthetic developed and Dress for Cocktails came to be.
“I’m a lover of pink champagne and pretty things,” she says. “And I’m passionate about creating ambiance – in decorating, dressing up and entertaining. Dress For Cocktails evolved out of all these things. I love to create a colorful space, a stunning tablescape, a fancy cocktail, a darling dress (yes, I do sew), and all this ultimately led to the creation of my original Cocktail Clutch! I wanted to create the perfect clutch for cocktail hour and beyond.”
While she has branched out to a variety of accessories, it all began with small bags and those big, beautiful and interchangeable bows.
“The Cocktail Clutch, and now my other handbags, comes in gorgeous fabrics and coordinates with interchangeable bows and flower adornments,” she says. “So one bag, or hat, has many looks. With so many bows, handbags and hats to choose from, it’s the most versatile line of accessories ever!”
With this week’s Pop Up Shop, I ask if it’s a first.
“I love to do pop ups and meet my clients,” she shares. “It’s so fun to help them choose the perfect combination. I love seeing the delight on their faces when they pop their favorite color bow on a darling cocktail clutch or fabulous sun hat.”
While the clutch bag started it all, the offerings continue to expand, with the newest bag taking on a name paying tribute to our main Local thoroughfare.
“Dress For Cocktails continues to expand,” she said, “and my newest bag is a shoulder bag called The Avenue… perfect for strolling along Park Avenue. It has both a coordinating fabric strap and a gorgeous acrylic and gold chain. So not only can you change the adornment, you can also choose your strap! We girls love options with our accessories. I also have a variety of earrings, belts, and bar accessories.”
No matter the specific type of accessory, the most common element throughout is her iconic bow.
“Everyone fell in love with my interchangeable bows. So it was a natural addition to bring hats into the line. What girl doesn’t love a hat with a bow! It’s been wonderful to see how well they’ve sold and how much they’re adored! I have a few surprises ahead – so stay tuned!”
Hats in focus for the next week, I ask if she has a favorite hat she’d like to spotlight.
“Oh, it’s so hard to choose!” she confesses. “It’s easy to have many favorites because there are so many pretty and colorful combinations. For the Derby I’m loving the Hepburn Hat, for its classic design and broad brim. But my new Vivien Hat is running a close second! It has a long sash that can be tied under the chin or behind the neck – again, lots of options. I’ll be debuting it at the Pop Up Saturday.”
LUVer of hats, I ask if she might also be a horse racing fan, given the direct tie-in.
“I love to watch the Derby!” she tells me. “For obvious reasons, my eyes are on the fabulous hats and gorgeous ensembles donned by the ladies. I must confess, I like to choose my horse by the color combination of the jockey’s silks… my money is typically placed on pink and green!”
Or, maybe if one would just wear a bow!
Join Leslie tomorrow, Saturday, from 11 – 2 at Through the Looking Glass to peruse the hats and the assortment of bows to go with it!