Bostonista Loves: Tory Burch


1224855532She’s been a Bostonista favorite ever since her sleek ballerina flats and bohemian tunics evolved in the fashion world a few years ago, and after Tory Burch’s appearance Wednesday at Saks Fifth Avenue to support the Cambridge-based philanthropy New Profit Inc., we seriously love her.

Amidst chic Bostonians sipping minty cocktails, models presented Burch’s Holiday and Resort 2008 collection—two very different collections that are distinctly Burch. Her muse for the brightly colored Resort threads resulted after flipping through photos of her parents on tropical vacations in the 1970s. Filled with beachy tunics with unexpected embroideries (which could easily double as cover-ups), black espadrilles, and sundresses, the line had us itching to flee to the Bahamas.

For those searching for the perfect cocktail dress, Burch’s Holiday collection—inspired by Truman Capote’s 1966 Black and White ball—beamed with elegant little black dresses accented with fuchsia clutches, black booties with gold trimming, and beaded cardigans.

As a mother to three sons and three stepdaughters, Burch says her interest peaked for New Profit because of their initiatives to help children in urban communities by supplying resources for a healthy lifestyle. Briya Chordia of NP says having these events are important because they raise awareness among people who, in the current economic climate, still have the ability to give.

Despite her success, the blond designer is extremely modest and gracious. “Four years ago, I had no idea where I would be today,” she said. After opening a small boutique in NYC’s Nolita neighborhood, she now has 17 stores across the country. Her brother and stepdaughter are both Boston University graduates, and Burch’s frequent trips here led to an attachment to the city’s historical architecture and routine shopping on Newbury Street.

Emily A. Brown
Saks 5th Avenue, Prudential Center, 786 Boylston St., Boston, 617-262-8500, saksfifthavenue.com