Hannah.M Plans L.A. Opening

The Russian Navy clock keeping time inside and the metal mesh sculptures attached to the awning of the new Hannah.M store/showroom in Los Angeles are big clues to designer Hannah Michelson’s mix-and-match strategy.

Her Summer 2004 collection features V-neck tanks, Moroccanstyle dresses, kimono blouses and jackets crafted out of unconventional materials, including upholstery fabric. Mixed in are natural fibers such as linen mesh and silk, unique buttons, and trims made from materials such as hand-carved wood and mother-of-pearl.

Michelson’s signature look stresses the soft and ethereal. The designer crafted much of the collection from raw silk, satin and cotton organdy and gave many of the pieces a hand-crinkled finish.

She opened her 800-square-foot shop and showroom, just a few blocks east of the Beverly Center, with her husband, Jacob, to showcase an undiluted experience of Hannah.M designs. The space, which costs $2,000 monthly, was financed by the Michelsons.

Michelson’s background includes designing costumes for “Cirque du Soleil” performer Olga Pikhienko and launching Fellini, a Tel Aviv, Israel–based label that shipped to 80 boutiques worldwide.

The Michelsons moved to Los Angeles in 1989 to grow their company and learn American business style. Diagnosed with breast cancer after the birth of her third child, Max, in 2000, Michelson made her therapy designing the most creative clothes she could. “If you’re communicating what you’re meant to be, it’s the best help. Now I don’t have time to be sick,” Michelson said.

The Hannah.M store officially opens with a party on Jan. 7. For more information, call (310) 395-2454 or (818) 509-7886.

Andrew Asch